RYOBI P208 vs P271 Drill Drivers – Which is Best?

Ryobi’s P208 and P271 Drill/Driver models can both prove to be great additions to your personal toolbox at home. Ryobi serves its users with an innovative design as well as the convenience during operation with these two drills.

DIY-ers would find them the perfect tools for their projects, offering the desirable power and speed at an affordable price.

Take a quick look at the features of both these products and the differences between them.

Quick Review of the Ryobi P208

Founded in 1943, in Japan, Ryobi Limited is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of power tools and outdoor tools that are easily affordable by the average homeowner.

The Ryobi P208 ONE+ Drill/Driver operates on the ONE+ Lithium-Ion batteries to deliver a maximum no-load speed of 1,600 RPM. Its two-speed transmission gearbox allows you to vary the drill’s speed according to your needs.

This cordless drill/driver has a clutch with 24 torque options and a ½” single-sleeve, keyless chuck allowing for tool-less bit changing which makes the process of switching between drill settings and driver bits less time-consuming and more efficient.

A magnetic holder for the bits and LED lighting system further increase user convenience by improving accessibility and visibility.

The P208 was designed to work well in tight spaces as it has a compact design, is lightweight and has a comfortable rubber grip for hassle-free handling.

It makes DIY projects easier to execute within a short timeframe and has proven to be a reliable tool for homeowners.

Special Features

• Two-Speed Gearbox offering variable speed settings from 0 to 440 RPM or 0 to 1,600 RPM
• 24 Position Clutch allows the user to adjust the torque and have greater control over the drill, preventing damage and making a wide range of applications possible
• Keyless Chuck with automatic spindle lock makes bit changing easy and tool-free, saving time and energy, as you simply need to place the bit into the chuck, grip it and activate the drill to lock
• MagTray: Magnetized platform built into the drill base allows for convenient storage of extra bits and fasteners on the tool itself so they can be accessed easily while working
• LED lighting illuminates the work surface when the drill is turned on, allowing for increased visibility even in dim conditions
• Rubberized overgrip on the handle provides for increased comfort while using the drill by increasing friction between the tool and hand, making it just as easy to use in slippery conditions too

Limitations

• Slightly bulky
• LED light doesn’t have any delay after trigger release
• Only two speed settings
• Battery and charger have to be purchased separately
• Customers report that chuck doesn’t provide a tight grip

Although the Ryobi P208 is advertised as a heavy-duty drill/driver, it is more suitable for occasional work around the house or for use in small hobby work.

The homeowner as well as the DIY-enthusiast would find this tool extremely valuable as it delivers all the basic features and ease of use at a very economical price.

 

Quick Review of the Ryobi P271

Ryobi’s P271 ONE+ Cordless Drill/Driver features varying speed settings of 440 RPM to 1,600 RPM due to the presence of a two-speed gearbox.

It is compatible with the Lithium-Ion batteries of the Ryobi ONE+ system and has a 24-position clutch delivering torque of up to 350 in. lbs.

Like the P208, this drill/driver also has a ½” single-sleeve, keyless chuck with tool-free bit changing designed to save time while working and a magnetic holder for storing extra bits so they are easily accessible.

The P271 is built for portability and use in small, enclosed spaces. The rubberized overgrip upon its pistol-style handle helps provide a better hold over the tool which makes it easier to drill accurately.

Special Features

• Two-Speed Gearbox offering variable speed settings from 0 to 440 RPM or 0 to 1,600 RPM
• 24 Position Clutch allows the user to adjust the torque and have greater control over the drill, preventing damage and making a wide range of applications possible
• Keyless Chuck with automatic spindle lock makes bit changing easy and tool-free, saving time and energy, as you simply need to place the bit into the chuck, grip it and activate the drill to lock
  MagTray: Magnetized platform built into the drill base allows for convenient storage of extra bits and fasteners on the tool itself so they can be accessed easily while working
• Rubberized Overgrip on the handle provides for increased comfort while using the drill by increasing friction between the tool and hand, making it just as easy to use in slippery conditions too

Limitations

• Does not have LED lighting
• Battery and charger have to be purchased separately
• Only two-speed settings

The Ryobi P271 is ideal for those who are beginners at woodworking or for the homeowner who prefers to do small jobs and repair work around the house by himself.

Reliable and boasting of a compact design, it is perfect for executing basic drilling tasks quickly and smoothly.

 

Key Differences

Both the P208 and the P271 are compact, lightweight drill/drivers with identical features and similar performance.

The only notable difference between the two is whether or not an LED lighting system is included in the tool.

Let’s go over their specifications for a quick analysis of these products – 

Summary

For some light drilling, Ryobi’s P208 and P271 are two great tools, available at a cheap price and with significantly similar designs.

Yet, the P271, with its smaller dimensions, beats the P208 in terms of comfort but the P208’s innovative LED light system still makes this model an attractive option.

The decision of choosing between one or the other, then, comes down to you weighing the scales for yourself.