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Whether you’re searching for a table saw, the best hammer drill, or any other power tool, your choices boil down to the products made by a handful of brands. That’s why you’re inevitably going to face the choice between Ryobi vs Makita power tools while searching for the new equipment for your workshop.
Although both of these brands come from Japan, the difference in the quality of the tools they offer is substantial, as Makita’s products are famous for their high-performance capabilities and steep price. In contrast, Ryobi’s power tools are known to be affordable but less durable than their competitors.
Our Ryobi vs Makita power tools comparison will provide you information about the equipment these two brands manufacture and help you decide which one to choose.
Main Differences Between Ryobi vs Makita Power Tools
The main differences between Ryobi vs Makita power tools are:
- Ryobi was founded in 1943, whereas Makita Corporation was founded in 1915
- Ryobi’s power tools are usually inexpensive, while Makita power tools are expensive
- Ryobi’s power tools are better suited for novice and experienced DIYers, whereas Makita manufactures power tools for professional use
- Ryobi’s power tools entered the global market in the early 2000s, whereas Makita has been establishing global distribution centers since the 1970s
- Ryobi has never been considered a front-runner on the power tool market, whereas Makita invented several power tools
Key specifications
| Ryobi | Makita | |
| Product range | All types of power tools | All types of power tools |
| Product quality | Average | Excellent |
| Power tool price range | Low to medium | Medium to high |
| Durability | Moderate | Excellent |
| Warranty | 3-year limited warranty | 3-year limited warranty |
| Country of origin | Japan, but products are manufactured in China | Japan |
| Latest prices | Check latest prices | Check latest prices |
Examining the features of Ryobi and Makita power tools
Ryobi power tools
In the early years of its existence, the Ryobi brand was manufacturing die-cast and plastic cast products. By the 1960s, the brand started producing door closing mechanisms and fishing equipment, and by the end of the decade, it released its first power tool.
The first and until this day only Ryobi’s manufacturing facility in the United States is based in Shelbyville, Indiana, and it was opened in the mid-1980s. Still, the company hasn’t managed to secure a foothold on the international market until the early 2000s.
Ryobi Power Tools and Ryobi Outdoor Power Equipment are owned by Techronic Industries, a parent company that also owns Milwaukee and several other power tool brands. The vast majority of Ryobi power tools are manufactured in China and then distributed in North American and other markets.
In the United States, Ryobi power tools can be found at Home Depot, although at one point, the brand was distributed at Sears department stores.
Ryobi specializes in making pro-featured power tools and outdoor products truly affordable. It is the brand of choice for millions of homeowners.
Key features
- Good performance at an affordable price
- Ryobi manufactures all types of power tools
- Most power tools have a recognizable design
- All power tools have a 3-year limited warranty
- The brand offers a broad spectrum of power tool kits
- Most power tool models are manufactured in China
- Excellent selection of cordless drills, impact drivers, and saws
- Great for DIY projects
Functionality and design
Green, gray and black colors characterize the visual appearance of Ryobi’s power tools. The brand manufactures power tools from the following categories:
- Benchtop & Stationary
- Cleaning tools
- Inflators and compressors
- Woodworking tools
- Tile tools
- Combo kits
- Nailers & Staplers
- Metalworking tools
Each of these categories contains a large number of subcategories, which makes it easier to find a bench sander or an angle grinder. The brand’s combo kits are perhaps the most interesting option for homeowners and DIYers as they contain almost all the tools required to complete a home renovation project.
All of Ryobi’s power tools are easy to use, although it takes quite a bit of practice to start feeling comfortable with woodworking or metalworking tools if you haven’t used them before.
However, in the right hands, Ryobi’s power tools can provide a high functionality level and complete even the most challenging tasks.
Power output and usability
Going through the list of specifications of a power tool manufactured by Ryobi will help you understand how well that particular model can perform. The brand produces power tools with brushless or brushed motors, and you can choose between corded and cordless models.
For instance, the Ryobi P262 impact wrench is powered by a brushless motor that can deliver 600 ft/lbs of breakaway torque and 450ft/lbs of fastening torque. It’s worth noting that the cordless power tools manufactured by Ryobi utilize the brand’s 18V ONE+ Systems that ensure fairly long battery life.
Consequently, they are a great choice if you need a portable power tool you can use at job sites that don’t have access to the power grid. Also, most of the brand’s models are compact and lightweight and they won’t occupy too much space in your workshop.
This combo kit from Ryobi is designed for discerning users. From the impact driver to the circular saw, you can expect this product to be exceptional in more ways than one.
Please go through our impact driver vs impact wrench comparison to learn more about these power tools’ differences.
Other noteworthy features
The craftsmanship is a major downside of Ryobi power tools, as the materials from which their internal components are made are often flimsy and prone to breaking down. When compared to the power tools manufactured by Makita, Ryobi’s power tools lack the artisanship offered by the competing brand.
Ryobi’s power tools are rarely utilized in professional settings since, in most cases, they can’t handle prolonged heavy-duty usage. However, a Ryobi impact driver, a miter saw, or a rotary cutter can tackle most tasks you have to perform on a home renovation project.
Reliability
The impressive power output provided by Ryobi power tools is almost surprising at such a low price. Most power tools produced by this brand won’t have any problems driving a fastener into a hard surface or cutting through different wood or metal types.
Moreover, the manufacturer offers a 3-year limited warranty that covers all structural failures of the power tool’s components. You won’t have to spend more than $200 on most of Ryobi’s power tools, which makes them a great investment even if they break down soon after the warranty period expires.
As so many products are manufactured in China, Ryobi power tools are not as sturdy and durable as the models produced by industry-leading brands.
Makita power tools
There are very few power tool manufacturers with such a strong reputation as Makita. The Japanese brand has been dominating the global power tool market for more than half a century and is currently one of the world’s best-known power tool manufacturers.
Electric hand planers, nickel-cadmium battery tools, or cordless impact drivers with brushless motors are among the company’s innovations over the years. Makita offers a versatile portfolio of power tool products that are designed using the latest technologies that maximize their efficiency.
The majority of the company’s products are manufactured in Japan in an effort to minimize outsourcing and maintain high production standards.
As a result, Makita’s power tools are an excellent choice for homeowners who want to drive screws efficiently or professionals in need of tools that can quickly drill through concrete.
The Makita Power Tools are necessary to do gardening, cleaning, carpentry, and drilling jobs rapidly. Each tool is used for a different purpose. 
Key features
- A versatile portfolio of power tools
- Cordless power tools run on Lithium-Ion batteries
- 3-year limited warranty
- Made from high-quality materials
- Recognizable design
- Most power tool models utilize innovative technologies
- Great for challenging tasks performed in professional settings
- More expensive than most power tool manufacturers
Functionality and design
Anyone who favors quality over price should at least consider getting a Makita power tool. The company has a long tradition of producing power tools designed with the user’s comfort in mind.
Hence, the cordless and corded drills, saws, or metalworking tools usually have ergonomic grips and excellent anti-vibration systems. Makita currently produces more than sixty different types of cordless power tools that can be powered by 12V, 18V, and 36V systems, but most models run on 18V batteries.
The number of power tools the company produces increases significantly when corded and pneumatic tools are factored in. However, each model performs the task for which it was designed efficiently, and it minimizes the effort a user has to invest in order to complete that task.
All Makita’s power tools are easily recognizable by their distinctive light green color and their functional design.
Power output and usability
The maximum power output of Makita power tools depends on the tool type and the model, as the company offers products aimed at different performance levels.
Hence, you don’t necessarily have to get the most powerful Makita impact driver if you just want to install a new bookshelf in your living room. The company produces models powered by both brushed and brushless motors so that you can decide if you want more torque or better control over the power output.
All cordless power tools run on the brand’s battery systems that enable you to use them continually for hours before having to recharge the battery.
The pioneering technologies, long run time, or impressive power outputs are some of the reasons why professionals and hobbyists opt to use Makita power tools on their woodworking and metalworking projects.
Also, most of Makita’s power tools are lightweight so you’re unlikely to feel fatigued even if you’re using them for a few hours.
Other noteworthy features
The high attention to detail is what sets Makita apart from other power tool manufacturers. The cordless impact drivers or metal cutting saws are built from durable materials that don’t wear out quickly even if you’re using them for demanding applications.
The robust casing protects the tool’s motor from damages caused by impact or dust particles while the comfortable grip dampens the vibrations and enables the user to have a firm grip on the tool.
As a result, cutting tiles or driving nails with Makita power tools is an easy process that doesn’t require a lot of effort. Makita’s power tools are available in department stores across the United States, as well as from a large number of licensed online retailers.
The Makita XDT042 18V LXT lithium-Ion cordless impact driver kit comes with the impact driver, an excellent thirty-minute battery charger, a 3.0 amp hour battery, and a case, all for a very feasible price. This impact driver, although small, contains enough power to help you with all sorts of tasks, around the house, in your woodshop, or at a construction site.
Reliability
Each component of a Makita power tool is made to match or exceed the industry standards which makes each miter saw, jigsaw, or any other model more reliable than most of its competitors. However, the high level of craftsmanship, durability, and reliability come at a price.
Makita’s power tools are significantly more expensive than Ryobi’s models although they tend to last longer and they don’t break down easily.
You’ll get a 3-year limited warranty if you purchase any of Makita’s power tool models, but you can expect to continue using the tool long after the warranty period expires.
Ryobi power tools – Pros and Cons
Pros
- A broad spectrum of power tool products
- Brushed and brushless motors generate high amounts of torque
- Moderate pricing across the power tool portfolio
- Suitable for most DIY projects
Cons
- Questionable durability
- Relatively short battery life
Makita power tools – Pros and Cons
Pros
- Functional and ergonomic design
- Most Makita power tools utilize innovative technologies
- Impressive performance capabilities
- Durable and reliable
Cons
- More expensive than most power tools on the market
- Short warranty period
The best alternatives to Ryobi vs Makita power tools
You don’t necessarily have to opt for either of these Japanese power tool manufacturers, since brands like DeWalt, Craftsman, or Stanley are just a few among numerous brands that manufacture equipment that can be used in professional and DIY settings.
We’ve shortlisted several of the best alternatives to Ryobi and Makita power tools, so let’s take a look at what these brands have to offer.
DeWalt power tools
Consumers in the United States have voted DeWalt power tools as the most popular power tool brand. The company’s versatile portfolio features tools like air compressors, die & straight grinders as well as trimmers, routers, or planners.
Most of DeWalt’s models run on 20V MAX batteries which makes them a great choice for outdoor use, although their maximum runtime on a single charge is limited. Besides the 20V MAX system, the brand’s products can be powered by a FLEXVOLT® battery system that can have either 20V or 60V.
DeWalt power tools are more expensive than the models manufactured by Ryobi, and you should only opt for them if the performance is more important to you than the cost. Check out our DeWalt DCF887 impact driver review to learn more about what this tool has to offer.
Dewalt offers a full range of corded and cordless drills to meet every drilling need. Designed to withstand the toughest jobsite conditions.
Milwaukee power tools
Despite the fact that the Milwaukee power tools can get pricy, the high cost is justified by remarkable performance capability. The brand manufactures both corded and cordless power tools that utilize brushed or brushless motors.
Milwaukee offers a broad spectrum of power tools, so you won’t have much trouble finding a hammer drill or a table saw that will meet all your requirements. Cordless power tools produced by Milwaukee can run on M12 and M18 cordless tool systems or MX Fuel cordless equipment systems.
Each of the brand’s models is made of sturdy materials, so you’re unlikely to damage them while performing demanding tasks. Go through our guide to the best Milwaukee impact drivers for more information about these power tools.
Complete each job with greater efficiency using the right Milwaukee tools. Shop Milwaukee drill sets, cordless tools, kits and more at Hardware World.
Bosch power tools
Models manufactured by Makita and a handful of other brands can match the performance capabilities of Bosch power tools. Whether you’re looking for a cutoff machine or a large angle grinder, Bosch’s models should be at the top of your list.
Like all industry-leading power tool manufacturers, Bosch offers both cordless and corded models, so that you can find an option that emphasizes power output over portability or the other way around.
You should keep in mind that Bosch’s power tools might not be a good option for you if you’re on a budget.
The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is the world market leader for power tools and power tool accessories. They are engineered for excellence. 
Frequently Asked Questions about Ryobi vs Makita Power Tools
Answer: Yes, the brand produces a broad range of drill bits, saw blades, and other accessories you may need while using a Ryobi power tool.
Answer: Ryobi’s combo kits can contain between two and six different power tools as well as chargers, batteries, and other accessories. They are usually inexpensive so you’ll get a good set of tools at a reasonable price.
Answer: Yes, it does. You can return any Makita power tool within a 30-day period and the manufacture will offer you a replacement option or full refund.
Answer: Although the brand only offers a limited 3-year warranty for its power tool products, most homeowners, DIYers, and professionals use Makita power tools for much longer than 3 years.
Our verdict: Getting the Right Power Tools for Your Workshop
The power tool portfolios of Makita vs Ryobi brands are nearly identical and there isn’t too much difference between them in this regard. Also, both companies offer 30-day return policies and 3-year limited warranties for their power tool products.
Choosing between Makita and Ryobi power tools is all about deciding if you need an affordable tool with decent performance capabilities or an expensive tool that is designed to withstand even the most challenging applications.
We recommend choosing a combo kit like the Ryobi P1819 if you need power tools that can help you complete a kitchen renovation idea and similar types of lightweight DIY projects.
The Makita XT706 combo kit or any of the brand’s power tools are better suited for experienced hobbyists and professionals that want to have reliable tools and don’t mind their high cost.
Was this Makita vs Ryobi power tools comparison useful? Let us know in the comments or continue reading our Bosch vs Makita power tools comparison to find out more about the similarities and differences between these two brands.
