Ridgid Sub-Compact - Small & Mighty, or just Small???

[@IMPACT-NATION]

I agree 100% buddy. It’s hard to beat the feel of a metabo hpt driver. Right up there with Makita in ergonomics.

[@TinkerWithTools]

It’s numbers suck in this group almost but it keeps impressing. I was down on it before the first video and honesty it’s not bad!

[@abisaiduran1653]

Got this as a Christmas gift last year been using it everyday for metal stud framing hasn't let me down

[@TinkerWithTools]

Thanks for sharing!

[@coltonbriley8956]

I can’t believe another company hasn’t copied ridgid’s LSA. Free batteries and repairs for life is unbeatable. That’s what pushed me to ridgid tools.

[@TinkerWithTools]

There are others that have elements of it but I am guessing it just comes down to cost control. Ridgid built their platform on it and if they ever tried to take it away it would kill them. But you have the founders warranty from Flex that doesn't give lifetime batteries but it does do three replacements. That was only supposed to be the first few months it was available but so far it's been extended every year.

[@SouthFLTools]

I picked up this 2-tool subcompact kit at the end of last year. The trigger lag on the drill used to bother me at first, but has grown on me over time. I actually find the drill to be very powerful for its small size and it seems to perform better each time that I use it. The 3-mode impact driver is also excellent and slightly more powerful than the prior Gen. It’s definitely not as fast as the Gen 3 M12 Fuel impact driver, which is fine. I like the fact that you can select speed 1 to drive in small fasteners and not have to worry about cam out. Overall, it’s a great value for me as a DIYer, especially with the LSA.

[@TinkerWithTools]

All good points. I assume the trigger would grow on me with time especially if I am not comparing it back to back with other tools.

[@nicko5945]

Excellent video as always and I do love seeing all those numbers side by side. Keep up the great work!

[@TinkerWithTools]

Thanks. I appreciate the feedback!

[@DiligentDave1966]

I just wanted to update everybody. I have gotten into the Ridgid lineup because of the black Friday hacks. I have found that the high torque hammer drill performs very well, especially with the eight amp battery. The full size 4 mode impact driver is also really strong. I also got the subcompact combo, and I think it’s actually pretty good. Since the eight amp battery was one of the free options with the full size combo, I got it. I tried the subcompact drill with the same battery that’s in this video, and it was nothing special. However, when I grabbed one of the max output, batteries from the full size combo, the subcompact drill really came to life. It actually surprised me how much difference the battery makes. I drove a 1 inch spade bit through a 2 x 4 with ease with the subcompact drill when I put the max output battery on it.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Glad you found something that you like.

[@DiligentDave1966]

@@TinkerWithTools The eight amp EXP battery comes to about $75 with the hack, and the full size combo comes to $180. The subcompact combo comes to $77 with the free battery hack. Since the battery that comes free with the subcompact combo, isn’t that much less expensive than the eight amp EXP battery, I will return the battery that came with the subcompact combo, and keep the eight amp battery Because it’s superior. That makes the total for both combos, and the eight amp battery, a little over $300. That is pretty hard to beat. I actually like the soft start of the subcompact drill and the subcompact impact driver. They will be great for the majority of my tasks. I will use the full-size version when I need the power.

[@jtl101577]

I would be curious how the ridgid would run with the max output batteries. Those batteries are noticeably lacking power compared to the max output or octane. I realize that they don't come with max output but I'm sure it would make quite the difference

[@TinkerWithTools]

I’m sure on a bigger battery especially like the 4ah Max Ouput you would notice performance gains but I would expect the same for the Metabo HPT and the Flex as well. I don’t think it would close the gap much if they were all running a more premium battery. I could be wrong though. Maybe I’ll run some shorts later in the week.

[@michaela3330]

I got the previous generation Ridgid drill driver, i love this tool, to small and light, very comfy and also quiet! I always pick it up even next to the 12v lines like dewalt and m12.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I like the size of it but the slow ramp up of the RPM really annoyed me for some reason.

[@michaela3330]

@@TinkerWithTools i actually like it, feels smooth and high tech, and when i start to drill, i don’t need manually temper the trigger to start slower.

[@GarenP]

Thanks for the review, I got the 1st gen combo kit on sale some years ago for about $100 during a holiday deal, which was a killer deal for two tools and batteries. The head size of the impact driver is what first caught my eye, and it being so small and light. I was surprised to see that the 2nd gen driver actually got BIGGER! No complaints so far in about 4 years of use with my 1st gen unit, but even though it's "subcompact" the battery size can sometimes get in the way. That unit and my M12 Surge (stick battery, woo!) are what I use most of the time. After working on a project, I don't remember losing seconds in time spent driving fasteners, but I DO remember if it is super loud, my arm/wrists/elbows/shoulder hurt after prolonged use, which don't happen so much with these smaller tools that aren't super loud and torquey. Also, even nicer with a hydraulic impact-- NO ear protection necessary.

[@TinkerWithTools]

It's all a balancing act between power, ergonomics etc... and it's up to the individual user to decide which is most important. Glad you found something that works well for you.

[@downright6541]

The delay from the Ridgid is EXACTLY the first thing I noticed, it drives me completely nuts tbh. I'm actually returning it because of that. I can't stand the 'ramp up' or split second delay to full power

[@TinkerWithTools]

It’s annoying to me as well. I wish it were different.

[@engineer_alv]

That Metabo HPT is sweeet. I owned the previous Ridgid and came unimpressed, the new ones don't seem to set the bar much higher in performance. Is there any way you could test the 1st and 2nd gen together?

[@TinkerWithTools]

I’ll do some shorts in the coming week with it. I don’t have the impact just the drill.

[@steveg7000]

Would really like to get into Ridgid, but do they even have a single standout product these days? SKIL seems to be doing a lot more innovation.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I’m not a huge fan of the subcompact drill or impact but it’s more personal preference than anything. Their high torque hammer drill is right up there with the best. And they have modern batteries coming out. So while I don’t know if they have a standout product they are competitive in a lot of segments and the LSA is still a differentiator.

[@MrKnnthc93]

Wish you would have compared to m12 fuel kit

[@TinkerWithTools]

Perhaps that can be a future video.

[@danmargo2561]

Which battery were you using in the Rigid?

[@TinkerWithTools]

I used the battery that comes with the kits. It’s the standard 2ah

[@robez.]

Ahh been looking for another review on the subcompacts

[@TinkerWithTools]

Glad I had one for you.

[@DicklessHertz]

You put up "impact driver test" right before testing the drills, which was confusing.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Mistake in the editing. Thanks for catching it.

[@kenc9162]

Fair assessment. I think people sleep on Metabo, good stuff. Overall 3 nice kits. I like my M12 stuff but I’m reminded of cell phones 15 years ago that competed to get ridiculously tiny. I like just carrying one battery platform and any of these 3 kits are compact enough for many. Suggestion…the graphs are a bit visually misleading when you arbitrarily start the vertical scale at a number other than zero. The visual % difference doesn’t match the true numeric % difference between the tools. If the specs (claimed or actual) are so close as to be indistinguishable, that’s probably better know, especially in real world use. We’re seeing smaller gaps between entry level and higher end stuff then ever, good times for tool buyers. Great video.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Thanks. I appreciate the feedback.

[@steveg7000]

Maybd it would be beneficial to lower the volume during the drilling. I try to watch on my smart TV but it is understandably unbearable fior others not so interested. Jist a suggestion and thank you for the content.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I normally will reduce the volumne on impacting by at least 5db in editing and something slighlty less on drilling. This has been a while since I made this video so I can't remember exactly what was done but I appreciate you mentioning.

[@steveg7000]

@TinkerWithTools You're doing great stuff. Look forward to it.

[@donaldstepp4850]

Just bought a cheap metabo to get started into my third line of tools . DeWalt, Milwaukee and metabo

[@TinkerWithTools]

Not a bad three lines to be on.

[@louisd95714]

As for me, I could not recommend the RIdgid, because at the same price, a Milwaukee M18 conbo kit can be purchased. Not sure how the RIdgid can sell well.

[@TinkerWithTools]

If you do the tool hack you can get the combo Ridgid sub compact for $77 if you don’t need the batteries. That makes it really compelling. But if you aren’t wanting to do the hacks then yes I would just go with the Milwaukee. It’s a great set.

[@tobylester6476]

I bought this kit a few days ago. Both units are not refined…the chuck, when tightened down without a bit, pops and cracks…the trigger “wiggles” back and forth….they vibrate like they do not have good tolerances. Very disappointing.

[@TinkerWithTools]

The vibration i felt and chuck on the drill is lower quality than the other two. I don’t think it’s the worst I’ve seen by any means but I get what you are saying.

[@Kreacher1974]

I'm in the market for a new drill driver and impact driver set. I've watched dozens of videos on all the compact size, I'm not in construction I need it for scrap metal and little jobs. 10 different testers will say different things about which is best. I wish there was a general agreement for which is a little better than others. To each is own I guess. For what I need it for, Rigid might do the trick. The problem I see is I see 20 videos testing these tools and there are 20 different inch pounds or foot pounds for each tool.

[@TinkerWithTools]

When it comes down to it, most of the name brands at this point produce a drill that work well for what you describe. There are differences between them and loads of different models, that might lead to some of the confusion about the different videos. If you have questions about specific models, I would be happy to provide my input.

[@Kreacher1974]

@@TinkerWithTools since I'm not a contractor and only use the power tools for scrapping and small projects around the house, should I get the brushed model opposed to the brushless?

[@TinkerWithTools]

I typically advise avoiding brushed tools at this point. It’s not that they are bad tools it’s just that typically brushless motors are more efficient which smaller batters last longer. Additionally they can be smaller I size which usually means less weight. All good things. If brushless is all you can afford that it will still do the job but I find that a lot of companies put less quality chucks on entry level tools. Ryobi has a $50 drill that has a bad chuck is known to drop bits in use. For just a few bucks more you can get other drills that will not have that issue and be brushless. It’s all a balancing act if what you need against what is overkill or over budget.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I started with a brushed Hitatchi drill on old nicad batteries but ultimately first upgraded to a Ridgid brushless drill that was smaller and just better in every way.

[@Kreacher1974]

@@TinkerWithTools what are your thoughts on newer Rigid

[@DiligentDave1966]

From what I’ve seen, Ridgid drills tend to weak. Their impact drivers and impact wrenches tend to be pretty strong, though. What I don’t like about the Metabo subcompact set is the lack of rubber on the grip.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Yeah they grip is pretty good on the new set.

[@DiligentDave1966]

@@TinkerWithTools The set they carry at Lowe’s has no rubber on the grip below the trigger. It’s just smooth plastic.

[@exceldrivr]

All the testing was done using the absolute worst battery Rigid makes. If the standard 4 amp Max Output was used the numbers would have been much better and if the new 4 amp Max Output EXP was used (I know it was not available a year ago) in a new showdown, the Rigid may just have the best numbers.

[@TinkerWithTools]

You are right that a larger or more modern battery like the EXP battery you mention would likely produce an improvement in times and performance for the Ridgid but the same would also hold true for Flex and the Metabo HPT. Using each tool on entry level included batteries doesn’t make the test invalid, it just makes it the test you don’t want. The Ridgid isn’t a terrible tool by any means. It has a couple of quirks that I don’t prefer especially compared to the other two drills, but if it’s your drill of choice then I think you have made the right choice for you.

[@trevorchuchmuch9369]

Put that 4ah on the ridgid

[@varga13zsolt]

Ridgid and flex has belt clip lol, but overall I like the metabo hpt

[@TinkerWithTools]

The metabo should have come with a belt clip as well. If yours didn’t I would reach out to Metabo HPT directly and see if they can help.

[@Techprep23]

Come on team Orange.... Bummer. I'll keep my 1st gen subcompact impact. Thanks for the video.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I’ll do further testing after more of a break in period and see if it gets any better.

[@Techprep23]

@@TinkerWithTools that's how I felt about the 1st gen. Wasn't impressed with it at first. Then it grew on me as I wore it in and it's one of my go tos for most stuff. My only thought for the drill drivers slow ramp up would be that it gives enough time for the bit to grab so it doesn't walk. not everybody pushes down with the same pressure. Maybe an overlooked "feature" even Ridgid didn't think about 🤷

[@TinkerWithTools]

Yeah I think for the mainly wood drilling I do it’s not as impactful but maybe if you were drilling more in metal i could see it being nicer.

[@lukas______]

I picked up the stronger version of these. Don't care about speed but hoping to use the impact to remove my cars lug nuts with 2400in lbs of torque

[@donaldstepp4850]

Well put why get a 12v in some cases when a smaller 18v will do the job.

[@eljiricolumanse]

Sir help me .. need tools to make house but i have no money to buy from Philippines...

[@snakesonn]

id like to gift you 1 million dollar

[@UncleIvan1]

ill give you all my tools, just send me your address

[@eljiricolumanse]

Are you sure sir.

[@eljiricolumanse]

Your new subscriber sir

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have a giveaway coming soon but that will likely be US only for logistical reasons. I’ll let you know if I come across any that could potentially help you.

[@harlanborders943]

Hitachi always made a good tool for the money.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I agree. The impact seemed like a dud on paper but the more I use it the more I love it. I kind of want to run it up against the DEWALT DCF840 to see how different r they are. So far I have only been comparing it to these smaller impacts.

[@DiligentDave1966]

I think if I was to start over with what is available on the market now, I might really consider Flex or Metabo. I think Metabo underestimates their own tools because several of the Metabo tools far outperform their specs. Flex just seems like a brute. If you follow Impact Nation, he uses and abuses his Flex tools in a real world environment on a regular basis.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Both are great tools. The flex won't be my first choice but that's not because it's not strong and powerful and from what I can tell so far, pretty durable.

[@DiligentDave1966]

@@TinkerWithTools As for Flex durability, you should check out Impact Nation and Tools and Tactics. Flex seems to be damn near indestructible.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I've seen it. Impact nation is a good friend and I have seen much of what he puts them through.

[@DiligentDave1966]

@@TinkerWithTools If I could find a good deal on the 36v Metabo, it might be a different story. Lowe’s is having a great deal on the Flex right now.

[@TinkerWithTools]

Yeah, they had a bunch of sales a few months ago, but recently it's been quiet on the 36v front.

[@IMPACT-NATION]

🤘🔥🤘🔥🤘

[@ProxyFinal]

Happy Father’s Day. Metabo gives you anti kickback.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I have never gotten to to actually kick in like you see in other tools. Maybe it just work when the bit binds up

[@ProxyFinal]

@@TinkerWithTools yea, that’s how the RFC works. When it senses heavy load, it shuts off. It’s not as sensitive as the other brands where anti kickback can even be turned on with no load by simply flicking it with your wrist.

[@TinkerWithTools]

It’s not nearly as noticeable as other brands. I didn’t mention it because there was nothing I could really do to make it seem like it was actually working.

[@ThePixel-Man]

Hard to beat kit at $77

[@SouthFLTools]

Absolutely! Between the $77 price and the LSA, buyers are getting incredible value with this kit 👍

[@TinkerWithTools]

I am guessing that the $77 kit you are mentioning is if you return the free battery with purchase? Am I correct?

[@ThePixel-Man]

@@TinkerWithTools yes sir

[@devonboyer626]

New non fuel Milwaukee just dropped!

[@TinkerWithTools]

I know. Can wait to get them and test them out.

[@UncleIvan1]

riding it small ? 🤣

[@TinkerWithTools]

Stupid autocorrect. It’s fixed. Glad you go to see it though.

[@IMPACT-NATION]

He must be referring to shreks……🌭😂😂😂

[@UncleIvan1]

@@IMPACT-NATION hahaha good one

[@UncleIvan1]

@@TinkerWithTools just teasing boss, I knew it wasnt intentional. Just wanted to jump on it before it got fixed :)

[@ivangergi6993]

Ridge Does not run well an small batteries

[@TinkerWithTools]

Most brands don’t run their best on the smaller batteries.

[@jakearmstrong4563]

The drill is decent is nothing to complain about I appreciate the much lower rpm’s It offers Compared to R861152 I have Excellent Time in the attic or one time I had to reach behind a bathtub and in a stud cavity To Strap something… Lol I’m a plumber I wouldn’t fucking know Ridgid makes wrenches that have lasted Years, just The fact that they are the reason Plumbers can Tap threads onto Pipe with a handheld Electric threader, and are also not owned by TTI unlike RYOBI, Milwaukee, DeWalt and that means they can Offer a lifetime Service agreement. I’m 21 and I have 5 drills And they are strong enough to Do whatever I want and If they break I don’t even have to pay to ship em in. Whatever though, Joe Biden is our president… we’re all fucked

[@TinkerWithTools]

Just to make it clear to other viewers, TTI does own the power tool side of Ridgid (not the plumbing tool side) as they use AEG tools (global brand) with the naming rights for Ridgid. Dewalt is actually owned by Standley black and decker. I don't think this changes the overall point you were trying to make, but just wanted to clarify. The LSA is a great feature or selling point of the Ridgid brand and one that offers value to your purchase.

[@mike_t_007]

Hey guys! Thanks for this review. Love it. Just finished the RIDGID version of the M18 Frankenstein using this same 4 mode Impact Driver. RIDGID MINI TORQUE custom Impact Wrench! Removing Lug nuts at 100 foot lbs!🏋🏾‍♂️ kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZS3d2CFg96Eq80

[@ericeastman2427]

Ridgid has went down hill it's sad those octane batteries where badass they may not have been the strongest but they where durable they lasted surprisingly long life it's frustrating that they did that. And there impacts are not great in the mid to high impact range. Ridgid used to high quality now there bland not sexy and weak I wish they would come back with a vengeance and prove me wrong it's sad really.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I feel like owning ridgid is a bit like riding a wave. The Octane era was a high point, followed by a weak couple of years and over the last 1 or 2 years, they seem to be finding their footing again with some nice releases. And now they have announced a tabless cell 4ah battery that should be something superior to Octane. Hopefully it comes true.

[@mr_killjoy4205]

doesn't matter how compact or 'sub compact' you make a tool, when you have a car battery hanging off the bottom of it. Milwaukee M12 just makes so much sense because it has the power and quality whilst placing some of the batteries (or all of them) up into the handle, effectively reducing the weight hanging off the bottom of the tool. better balanced. the idea of a compact tool, isn't always being able to fit just the motor area (of the tool) in a tight space but the entire tool itself. 18V 'compact' tools make little to no sense.

[@TinkerWithTools]

I agree the battery will still be smaller on 12v but for those that only want to be on one platform it’s nice to have compact options in the 18v tools as well.

[@mr_killjoy4205]

@@TinkerWithTools I'll agree with that, but it would be even more nice if TTI realized that Rigid has pretty good market share and a decent backing, that it wouldn't be such a bad idea to introduce a 12v platform for more compact tools, from rigid. alas, one can dream.