Ryobi P660 Cordless PEX Tubing Clamp Tool Review Best 18 Volt Power Tool

Description

Design and Portability of the Cordless PEX Tubing Clamp Tool

The RYOBI 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion Cordless PEX Tubing Clamp Tool (Tool Only) P660 impressed me right out of the gate with its sleek, compact design and lightweight feel. Weighing just under 5 pounds, it fits comfortably in one hand, which made a noticeable difference during extended use on my recent plumbing projects. The plastic handle offers a decent grip, though it’s not the softest material I’ve handled, so if you have sweaty palms, a quick wipe might be necessary. The inclusion of a belt clip is a thoughtful touch, especially for those of us who like to keep tools handy without constantly juggling them.

The cordless nature of this tool eliminates the hassle of tangled cords and limited range, giving me freedom to move around the workspace without interruption. Plus, the dual LED lights do a solid job illuminating the work area, which came in handy for those dimly lit corners behind my basement pipes. This feature alone makes it stand out compared to older manual clamp tools I’ve used, where visibility was always a challenge.

Performance and Clamping Efficiency

Testing the clamp tool on various PEX clamp ring sizes, from 3/8 inch to 1 inch, I found it exceptionally versatile. The powered pinch clamp system truly delivers consistent and precise clamping pressure every time. I was able to complete clamps with a simple one-button activation, and the tool’s LED indicator confirmed when each clamp cycle was successfully finished. This feature reduced any guesswork, especially during a busy job where efficiency matters.

It’s advertised to handle up to 400 clamps per charge with a fully loaded P108 battery, which aligns well with my experience. While I didn’t hit that exact number, I used it extensively without noticing significant power drop-offs. The cordless convenience combined with reliable battery life means fewer interruptions and less fatigue, which I appreciated deeply during a particularly demanding bathroom installation.

Ease of Use and User Experience

Operating this tool felt natural almost instantly. The single-touch button means you don’t have to fiddle with complex settings or multiple controls. I could easily perform one-handed operation, which is crucial when balancing pipes or holding tubing in place. The tool’s weight and balance also contribute to comfortable handling, though it’s worth mentioning that my wife, who tried it out, noted the grip could be a bit slippery if her hands were wet or oily.

One quirky moment came when my coworker tried using it without reading the instructions—he struggled a bit with the Go/No-Go gauge included. This gauge is essential to ensure proper clamp placement, but it took a quick demonstration to fully get the hang of it. Once you understand its purpose, it becomes a valuable addition that helps maintain consistent quality and safety in your plumbing work.

Highlights – What I Liked Most

• Industry’s first powered PEX pinch clamp tool, which truly sets it apart from manual counterparts.
• Fits all PEX clamps ring sizes, which means no need for multiple tools or adapters.
• Dual LED lights that brighten up tight, dark spaces, making work easier and reducing mistakes.
• Simple one-button activation streamlines the clamping process and reduces user fatigue.
• The cordless design offering excellent portability and flexibility on any job site.

Having tested various other PEX clamp tools, this one stands out for its balance of power and user-friendly operation. It feels like an upgrade from the traditional handheld clampers that require brute force and multiple attempts to get right.

Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

• The tool is sold as a bare tool, meaning you must purchase the battery and charger separately. This adds to the initial investment and might catch some buyers off guard.
• Although the plastic handle is durable, it’s not the most ergonomic or cushioned, which could impact comfort during long jobs.
• The Go/No-Go gauge, while useful, has a slight learning curve that might frustrate first-time users.
• The unit’s weight, though manageable, might still feel a bit heavy for those used to lighter, manual tools.
• Limited to RYOBI ONE+ 18V batteries, so if you don’t already own compatible batteries, that’s an extra purchase on top.

Despite these caveats, the tool performs well overall but requires some upfront preparation and investment.

Competing Products in the Market

Comparing this powered clamp tool to other options, the Milwaukee M12 PEX Clamp Tool and the SharkBite PEX Clamp Tool come to mind. Milwaukee’s model is praised for its compact size and speed, but it operates on a smaller 12V battery system, which might limit runtime compared to the P660’s 18V platform. The SharkBite tool is more manual but extremely affordable, making it ideal for occasional use rather than heavy-duty plumbing.

Where the Ryobi tool shines is its battery compatibility with over 225 ONE+ tools, offering great ecosystem value if you already own Ryobi products. The dual LED lighting and powered clamp mechanism are also superior to many manual or semi-automatic versions. However, competitors sometimes offer lighter designs or include batteries in the package, which can make the initial purchase more straightforward.

Price to Quality Ratio

Balancing the tool’s features and capabilities against its price, the investment seems reasonable, especially for professionals or serious DIYers who frequently work with PEX tubing. The cordless convenience and high clamp count per charge provide tangible value that manual tools can’t match.

That said, the need to buy batteries and chargers separately bumps the total cost, so casual users might hesitate. If you already have compatible batteries, it’s a smart purchase. Otherwise, the overall cost-effectiveness depends on how often you plan to use it. The tool’s durability and versatility suggest that it will hold up well over time, offering worth every penny for those committed to maintaining or installing PEX plumbing systems regularly.

Versatility and Additional Features

One standout aspect is the tool’s ability to work with multiple surface recommendations and all PEX clamp sizes, making it adaptable across different projects. The rectangular alloy steel blade is robust and precise, ensuring clean, secure clamps without damaging the tubing.

The LED indicators not only illuminate but also signal when a clamp is fully secured, reducing errors and rework. This kind of feedback loop is rare in tools at this price point. I also appreciate the limited warranty, which gives some peace of mind for what is mainly an investment in efficiency and ease of use.

Overall, the P660 fits a broad range of tasks, from professional plumbing jobs to serious DIY home renovations, proving its versatility beyond just a niche tool.

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