No. It uses a brushed motor, which is less efficient but keeps the cost low.

It’s designed for driving, but with the right bits, it can handle light drilling.

Ryobi P235A Review: Budget Impact Driver That Packs a Punch

Q: Is the Ryobi P235A good for beginners?

Yes! It’s simple, affordable, and powerful enough for most home projects.

Q: Can it drive lag bolts?

Yes, it handled 4" and 6" lag bolts in tests with ease.

Q: How does it compare to the P235?

The P235A offers slightly more torque and RPM, with improved ergonomics.

Q: Is it suitable for automotive work?

For basic tasks like removing lug nuts torqued to 100 ft-lbs, yes—but don’t expect it to replace a high-torque impact wrench.

Q: Does it come with a battery?

No. It’s sold as a bare tool, but compatible with all Ryobi ONE+ 18V batteries.

Q: Is it good for deck building?

Absolutely. It drove 3" and even 6" screws into wood with confidence.

Q: Does it have variable speed?

Yes, but only via trigger control—no dedicated speed switch.

Q: What’s the warranty?

Ryobi offers a 3-year limited warranty on the tool.

If you’re looking for a no-frills impact driver that won’t break the bank but still delivers solid performance, the Ryobi P235A deserves your attention. As an updated version of the popular P235, this 18V tool is part of Ryobi’s ONE+ system, offering compatibility, convenience, and surprising torque for its price.

Let’s dive into the specs, strengths, and shortcomings of this budget-friendly beast.

Key Features

Voltage: 18V ONE+ system
Torque: 1,900 in-lbs
Speed: Up to 3,400 RPM
Impacts per Minute (IPM): 3,200
Chuck Size: 1/4-inch quick-connect hex
Weight: Approx. 2.75 lbs
Design: Ergonomic grip with magnetic tray
LED Light: Yes
Battery Compatibility: All Ryobi ONE+ 18V batteries
Warranty: 3-year limited

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Voltage	18V
Max Torque	1,900 in-lbs
Speed	Up to 3,400 RPM
IPM	3,200
Chuck Type	1/4-inch quick-connect
Weight	~2.75 lbs
LED Light	Yes
Battery System	ONE+ 18V
Warranty	3 years

✅ What We Love

Excellent Value: Often priced under $60, it’s one of the best bang-for-buck impact drivers on the market.
Surprising Power: 1,900 in-lbs of torque is more than enough for most DIY and light-duty tasks.
Compact & Lightweight: Easy to maneuver and perfect for overhead or tight-space work.
Magnetic Tray: Handy for holding screws and bits while you work.
LED Light: Illuminates your workspace—essential for low-light conditions.

❌ Where It Falls Short

Brushed Motor: Less efficient and durable than brushless alternatives.
No Speed Selector: Relies on trigger sensitivity for speed control.
Bare Tool Only: Batteries and charger sold separately.
Limited for Heavy-Duty Use: Not ideal for masonry or industrial-grade fastening.

💡 Interesting Fact

The Ryobi ONE+ battery system works across more than 260 tools—from drills and saws to fans and radios. One battery, endless possibilities.

🤯 Lesser-Known Insight

The P235A performs noticeably better with newer 3Ah batteries using 21700 cells, delivering smoother power and longer runtime.

Ryobi P235A FAQ

Is the Ryobi P235A good for beginners?

Can it drive lag bolts?

How does it compare to the P235?

Is it suitable for automotive work?

Does it come with a battery?

Is it good for deck building?

Does it have variable speed?

Is it brushless?

Can it drill holes?

What’s the warranty?

Final Verdict

The Ryobi P235A is a budget-friendly impact driver that punches above its weight. While it lacks the finesse and efficiency of brushless models, it delivers solid torque, smart design, and excellent value for casual users and DIYers.

If you’re building a deck, assembling furniture, or just need a reliable tool for weekend projects, this one’s a winner.

Further Read

Your Turn!

Have you used the Ryobi P235A? Share your experience in the comments—what did it handle well, and where did it struggle? And if this review helped you, share it on social media to help others find the right tool for their needs!