Ryobi P277 Drill/Driver Review

P277 Drill/Driver Product Image

Editor Rating: 4.6/5

Excellent

P277 Drill/Driver Review

Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson

Published on: January 15, 2019

Last modified:

January 15, 2019 @ 1:05 pm

 

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Ryobi P277 Drill/Driver Review Summary:

Without a doubt, this is one of Ryobi’s higher grade units. It is a durable model that will prevail no matter how many IKEA cabinets you put it through. As it is the case with most Ryobi products, this tool is very easy to use and load. It is really an excellent drill for the money.

The sturdy design protects it well from drops and other potentially damaging accidents. The P277 has a powerful engine that will effortlessly drive in heavy-duty screws. It is as if the manufacturer noted the drawbacks of the previous models and put in a bit of extra effort to improve them.

When compared to previous, similar drills of the same brand, the improvements are quite noticeable. The extra features are neat, just like the product overall, but there are still a couple of things that could be better. Nevertheless, the P277 is worth the money.

P277 Specifications:

  • Weight – 3.1 lbs
  • Dimensions – 9.2″ x 7.5″ x 4.2″
  • Speed – 1600 RPM
  • Voltage – 18V
  • Battery – Not included; Li-ion

P277 Drill/Driver – The Basics


The P277 Drill/Driver excels at many tasks, not just making holes. It’s 1/2″ chuck can be used with many different bits and attachments for your drill – from hole cutters to sanding pads. The 2-speed transmission and 24-setting clutch allow for excellent control over the torque. The low gear goes up to 440 RPM, while the high one goes up to 1600 RPN (with no load).

Its soft-grip handle makes all the difference as it feels great in one’s hand and makes the drill nicely balanced. Weighing 3.1 lbs, it cannot even be compared to your standard corded drill. Its light weight makes it great for prolonged use.

A couple of thoughtful features are also included for the user’s convenience. It is equipped with a driver bit with two ends that is tucked into a slot at the base of the handle. The mag-tray helps you keep track while you are working as you can use it to store screws

Ryobi P277 Features


Design


The P277 possesses all the characteristics you would want to see in a cordless driver/drill.  Without the battery, it weighs just 3.1 lbs. The battery does add a bit more weight, but that won’t prevent you from using it all day long if needed.

It is as compact as a powertool can be. The design makes the drill great for use in narrow spaces. The grip is molded with notched rubber that ensures excellent control over the unit. This makes it great for both indoor and outdoor use, as it is impervious to nasty weather.

Since the grip reduces friction so well, it ought to save you a lot of time when you’re on the job. In case an accident does happen, and you let it go, the case is strong enough to withstand stronger impacts.

Battery compatibility


Although you have to purchase the batteries separately, once you buy them you won’t be disappointed. Just like with most other new Ryobi units, this driver/drill is compatible with new One+ Li-ion cells. It is also compatible with Ryobi P100 to P108 battery models.

If you already have some Ryobi cells lying around your garage, chances are they are suitable. The unit is compatible with some older NiCads from the same manufacturer. If you don’t have a battery, the fact that the one you purchase will be compatible with most other Ryobi units is indeed consoling.

Power


The clutch comes with 24 settings that allow you to control the torque easily. It is paired with a two-speed gearbox which makes the unit great for many different applications that require driving fasteners and drilling holes.

With the higher gear that goes up to 1600 RPM (no load) and the lower one that goes up to 440 RPM, you will probably have sufficient power for your home repair or DIY work.

Extras


The little details are what this brand is well-known for. You’ll find a magnetic tray at the base of the handle. That way you can be more efficient and use the mag-tray to store screws and metal bits while you focus on your task.

There is also the 1/2″ keyless chuck that is excellent for quick bit switches. You will seldom have to put the unit down once you start working.

Pros:

N

Light, One+ Compatibility

N

Compatible with older Ryobi NiCads

N

Powerful

N

Excellent grip

N

Durable

N

Easy bit changes

N

Convenient magnetic tray

Cons:

N

Mag-tray not so great with bigger screws

N

Occasional minor sparking near the motor

N

Batteries not included

R

Things we liked about it

Of all of its aspects, the design is most worthy of praise. It is excellent for first-time hobbyists and homeowners as it doesn’t require much getting used to. It is very easy to handle, and you can use it for a long time without getting tired.

Ryobi’s GRIPZONE handles make the job go much faster and prevent frustration. The unit is small enough to be used in tight spaces without any problems.

The keyless chuck for quick bit switches and the mag-tray make the job go even faster. With the P277, you’ll be able to stay in the moment for a while, perhaps even until you finish your task.

Q

Things we didn’t like

The impressive battery compatibility is great and all, but it would be way better if batteries were included in the package. Some might choose not to purchase the product just for that. But if you already have a Ryobi unit or two, you’ll be fine since it is probably compatible with the batteries you already have.

The mag-tray is much appreciated, but some users have complained that it doesn’t always hold larger bits. There have also been some reports about the annoying, occasional sparking near the motor, but it doesn’t really affect performance and is a common occurrence with many drills.

General User Impressions Of The Ryobi P277 Drill/Driver


A great piece of equipment for both newbies and experienced hobbyists. If you have some urgent work around the house you need to take care of, you can count on the p277. Just don’t forget about the batteries.

Conclusion


When it comes to convenient and pocket-friendly products, Ryobi is the way to go. The P277 driver/drill is of great help when it comes to basic DIY project and home repairs. Pros might not be able to rely on it all the times, but they will appreciate its durability.

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