Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series 730 CFM Review

The Ryobi 40V dealt outstanding performance in our power, ergonomics, and noise tests and earned itself a place at the top of the list of our favorite leaf blowers. This Ryobi does suffer from two downsides. The first is that the standard four amp-hour battery run time is subpar. Fortunately, larger battery sizes are available to purchase with the Ryobi 40V, so run time can be easily remedied. The second downside is that the Ryobi's high power and performance demand an equally high price point. There are other models that perform just as well for much less. However, if you're a fan of Ryobi tools and already have some large capacity 40V Ryobi batteries, this is a powerful blower that is up to any task.

Performance Comparison

Power

Our power metric is the most important and represents a sizable chunk of each product's total score. Using specialized equipment, we measured and rated each model's airflow in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and air velocity in miles per hour (mph). These two metrics are standard in the industry and frequently seen when manufacturers market and brand their models. Then, we conducted real-world testing where we timed each blower's ability to clear a grassy area, moving leaves 16 feet into a target zone to simulate clearing your yard into a single pile of leaves, either at the curb or ready for bagging.

The Ryobi 40V scored at the top of the pack for its airflow measurements; on turbo mode, at five inches from our pitot tube, we recorded a whopping 1,168 CFM. The airflow was only slightly less on high, measuring at 880 CFM at a distance of five inches. Its airspeed was equally impressive, hitting speeds of up to 158 mph on turbo mode and 118 mph on high. A fresh battery is critical for the Ryobi's performance levels. We noticed a distinct drop in air volume and airspeed at lower battery levels.

The Ryobi 40V HP Brushless 730 CFM also led the pack in our real-world testing. This battery-powered leaf blower cleared a large pile of leaves from our yard, and into a target area, in only 44 seconds. That is almost seven seconds faster than the next-best model. Even on turbo mode, the Ryobi felt perfectly balanced and under control, and we could focus on our task instead of controlling the blower. Additionally, despite its high power output, we found the focused nozzle of the Ryobi 40V helped to not spray leaves and debris all over the place.

Battery

After our multifaceted power tests, we evaluated and compared the battery system of each cordless blower. Points were awarded based on the runtime of each leaf blower with a fully charged battery and how long it took to recharge a dead battery. The Ryobi performed below average in the runtime test and on par for recharge time. However, it is important to note that larger batteries can be purchased individually, which will greatly increase the run time of this powerful product.

The Ryobi 40V performed below average with the four amp-hour battery we used for testing. Its overall runtime was the lowest of any model we tested, lasting just 12 minutes and 42 seconds on high power. A larger capacity battery, or several batteries, would significantly increase the attractiveness of this option.

Fortunately, the included four amp-hour battery charges are on par with other options. The included charger took just 60 minutes to reach a full charge, starting from completely drained. This is quite good because some brands took over two hours to charge one battery.

Ergonomics

While power and battery life are incredibly important, blower ergonomics and ease of use are important to make yard chores a little more bearable. To score our ergonomics metric, we assessed the overall weight of each model and common features like turbo mode and cruise-control options. We also evaluated the comfort of using each model, looking at factors like balance, vibration, and grip. The Ryobi 40V was delightfully easy to use and scored highly across most of our ergonomics tests.

The Ryobi 40V has an average grip design but maintains a solid balance and nozzle angle when in use and under turbo mode — not something that can be said for all models. The Ryobi 40V also comes with a detachable rubber nozzle tip that can be added to the end to focus and enhance the air stream. This feature was very helpful in increasing its air velocity.

The Ryobi 40V is one of the larger models we tested and one of the heaviest, weighing 9.4 pounds with the battery installed.

This cordless leaf blower has a dial interface to control the speed, as well as a variable speed squeeze trigger. The adjustable trigger speed is helpful for not over-blowing leaves or working around delicate yard features. Although the cruise-control dial is designed for right-handed users, the Ryobi is easy to switch between hands to adjust the dial and get back to work. The turbo mode button is also centrally placed, enabling it to be fully ambidextrous.

Noise

Our final test used an SPL meter to measure the decibels each leaf blower produced at the operator's ear height under the highest power setting. The Ryobi 40V is one of the quietest models we tested.

Despite producing the most power overall, the accurately named Ryobi Whisper Series measured in at only 72 decibels, the lowest of any model we tested, and had a very pleasant sound with no aggravating whines.

Should You Buy the Ryobi 40V HP Brushless Whisper Series 730 CFM?

The Ryobi 40V Whisper Series is a powerful cordless leaf blower that blows away the competition and the leaves. While it is packed with excellent performance and ergonomic features, it also demands a high price point and a higher-capacity battery. This model is well-suited for anyone who loves Ryobi tools and does not mind purchasing a larger battery to extend the overall run time and performance.

What Other Cordless Leaf Blowers Should You Consider?

If you're looking for a more budget-conscious option that is equally high performing, consider the EGO Power+ 615 CFM Blower, which scored highly across the board and costs significantly less. It also comes with a longer-lasting battery. If you are more interested in multi-tool compatibility, the Makita 36V LXT Brushless Blower Kit runs on two 18V Makita batteries that are compatible with Makita's robust lineup of 18V tools.