DIYers are obsessed with Ryobi’s smallest cordless tools

Published Oct 7, 2026, 6:30 PM EDT Cory Gunther is a senior author and Newsletter Editor at Valnet, covering cutting-edge tech, Android, and more for How-To Geek. He's covered Android, cars, and technology for over a decade. When he's not reviewing the latest gadget, you can find him off-roading in his Toyota truck, fixing said truck, or doing something outdoors with friends and family. He's covered CES, SEMA, and MWC and reviewed countless phones, TVs, speakers, EVs, e-bikes, and more. Before Valnet, Cory worked for GottaBeMobile. His writing has also appeared on SlashGear, InputMag, and AndroidCentral. He's written over 9,000 articles. Ryobi power tools are among the most popular options at Home Depot, and people everywhere love them. And while they're a big hit with homeowners and DIYers, Ryobi's smallest cordless tools are quickly catching up. I'm talking about the Ryobi USB Lithium platform, which runs on small USB-C rechargeable batteries and offers tools for repairs, projects, crafts, cleaning, and hobbies. You probably own several Ryobi 18V/40V tools for around the house, but those who want something more compact and affordable are reaching for USB Lithium. The first small USB Lithium tools began arriving in 2022, and the lineup has since expanded into an excellent arsenal. Here's what you need to know. All powered by interchangeable USB-C battery packs Ryobi's newer USB Lithium tools are smaller than your average drill or impact wrench, yet they still offer capable tools like a powerful 3-in-1 electric screwdriver, rotary cutters, and ratchets. More importantly, they come with the same promise as anything from Ryobi: the same little USB-C battery will work in every tool. The company explains the USB Lithium line as rechargeable tools for everyday situations. Every tool runs on a small 4V 2Ah or 3Ah battery pack that you can quickly recharge with a dedicated charger or a USB-C cable, and that's part of the allure. So far, the Ryobi USB Lithium line offers about 40 compact tools for around-the-house use. Get everything from screwdrivers and flashlights to power cutters, pruning shears for the garden, bike pumps, hot glue guns, power scrubbers for the kitchen or patio furniture, vacuums, tire inflators, nail guns, fans, and even lighting solutions. As you can see, that's a wide variety of items that any homeowner or DIYer would want to own. The idea is simple: small, affordable tools with USB-C rechargeable battery packs that can power every tool on the platform. Each USB Lithium 2Ah or 3Ah battery has a USB-C charging port and an onboard LED charging indicator, which Ryobi calls a "fuel gauge," that users can press to view the remaining level and status. Whether you charge it via USB-C or a dedicated charger, once it's green, slide it into any USB Lithium tool and get to work. It's almost like a giant AA battery, only better, and it powers all sorts of tools for home repairs, building furniture, cutting boxes or carpet, gluing crafts, or staying cool while out on a walk. Each battery is under $20 at Home Depot, ensuring you can get to work without breaking the bank. Versatile new tools are arriving all the time Credit: Ryobi Upon its initial release, Ryobi's USB Lithium platform of tools was extremely limited. At first, there were fewer than 15 items to buy, which didn't make it all that compelling. However, since arriving in 2022, we've seen it expand to over 40 tools, accessories, or products perfect for DIYers. From my personal experience, combined with feedback from fans across Reddit, it's clear that the USB Lithium platform is quickly becoming a popular option for DIYers who need simple tools at affordable prices. More importantly, the wide variety of items designed specifically for household tasks helps. Credit: Ryobi Considering you can get one battery that'll power small tools for repairs, hobby and craft products, and lawn and garden maintenance tools, it certainly has its perks. I use the power cutter for boxes and plastic, and the glue gun is perfect for installing Christmas lights on my house's bricks. Affordable and readily available DIYers love budget-friendly tools What makes Ryobi's USB Lithium tools a great option is the affordability and availability. If I want to do a quick job but don't have the right tool, I don't need to spend $200 or wait for something cheaper that I ordered online to ship. Instead, DIYers and homeowners can run to a nearby Home Depot, grab a tool and battery for $50–60, and be home in a matter of minutes to tackle the job. The USB Lithium line is affordable, easy to use, and features a built-in USB-C port for charging, offering a few small niche items you won't find on the bigger 18V or 40V platforms. Plus, you can use that USB Lithium battery and a USB-C cable to top off your phone during an emergency power outage, as it doubles as a power bank, and that's pretty neat. Ryobi USB Lithium Multi-Head Screwdriver Kit Looking for a compact yet highly capable electric screwdriver for DIY jobs around the house? Look no further than Ryobi's 3-in-1 kit with a USB-C rechargeable lithium battery. Little tools for jobs big and small Obviously, not every USB Lithium tool will be worth adding to your collection, and there will still be bigger jobs or tough projects where you might need a full-size Ryobi 18V tool. That said, for dozens of small repairs, home maintenance, arts, crafts, or DIY projects, there's probably a Ryobi USB Lithium tool up to the task.