RYOBI 18V Drill Set Lithium-Ion or RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill/Driver Kit? Which RYOBI Model to Buy
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
When you compare the ryobi 18v drill set lithium ion vs one 18v drill driver kit, you are looking at two solid entry-level options. Both use 18V power and include a battery and charger. They share the ONE+ ecosystem, meaning your batteries work with over 250 tools. The main difference lies in what comes in the box. One kit focuses on a compact setup with a tool bag, while the other emphasizes a larger bit set and a holster for convenience.
Key differences
| Aspect | Ryobi 18V ONE+ Drill Driver Kit with Bits and Bag | Ryobi 18V 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Chuck Size | not listed | 3/8 in. |
| Bit Set Size | multipurpose set | 20-piece set |
| Carrying Solution | BUHO Tool Bag | BUHO Holster |
| Model Number | BND-EMK1-001 | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Ryobi 18V ONE+ Drill Driver Kit with Bits and Bag if
- You need a dedicated bag for storing the drill and bits together.
- You prefer a compact battery for tight spaces.
- You want a specific model number for replacement parts.
Choose Ryobi 18V 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit if
- You want a larger 20-piece bit set included.
- You need a 3/8-inch chuck for standard bits.
- You prefer a holster for quick access to the tool.
Verdict: Choose the first kit if you value a protective bag for transport and storage. Pick the second kit if you need a larger bit collection and a holster for immediate access. Both provide the same 18V power source for general home projects.
Specs: Bits, Chuck, and Ecosystem
Included accessories
Product A includes a BUHO tool bag along with its drill bits, giving you a soft case for storage and transport. Product B provides a BUHO holster, which is a rigid holder for the drill itself, rather than a bag for all items. While Product A’s bag helps keep bits and the drill together, Product B’s holster allows for quick, one-handed carry of the drill. If you prefer a container for multiple small items, Product A’s bag is more versatile. If you want to carry just the drill easily, Product B’s holster is the practical choice.
Chuck size
Product B explicitly lists a 3/8-inch chuck size in its key specifications. This is the standard size for most household drill driver kits, accepting a wide range of drill and driver bits. Product A does not specify the chuck size in the provided data, though it includes a multipurpose drill bit set. For users who need to know the exact capacity for larger bits, Product B’s stated 3/8-inch dimension offers clarity. Without that specific detail for Product A, you cannot confirm if it matches the same standard or offers a different capacity for specialized tasks.
Battery compatibility
Both tools belong to the RYOBI ONE+ ecosystem, which is a significant advantage for future expansion. Product A’s data explicitly states that RYOBI batteries are compatible with over 250 different tools. This means your 18V battery can power saws, sanders, and more from the same brand. Product B also uses the 18V ONE+ platform, implying the same broad compatibility, though the specific count of 250 tools is only confirmed in Product A’s features. For long-term value, owning ONE+ batteries ensures they work across a massive range of future purchases.
Power source
Both products are cordless and operate on 18V lithium-ion power. Product A is described as an 18V Drill/Driver with a Lithium-Ion battery. Product B is listed as an 18V Cordless Drill Driver. The voltage rating is identical, suggesting similar potential torque and runtime for comparable battery capacities. Since both rely on the same 18V standard, neither has a technical advantage in raw power source type. You will get the same cordless freedom and battery interchangeability between the two, making the choice dependent on accessories rather than the motor’s power source.
Kit contents
Product A comes with a drill/driver, a drill bit set, a charger, and a BUHO tool bag. Product B includes a drill driver, a 20-piece drill and drive kit, a charger, and a BUHO holster. Both kits provide the essential drill, bits, and charging equipment. The main difference is the storage method: a bag versus a holster. Product A’s bag may protect the bits better during travel, while Product B’s holster keeps the drill secure and accessible. Both are complete starter kits, so you do not need to buy a battery or charger separately for either option.
Which RYOBI 18V Drill Kit Fits You
Users needing portable storage for bits
Product A includes a BUHO tool bag alongside its drill bit set. This soft case helps you organize and transport your bits securely. If you prefer carrying your accessories in a dedicated bag rather than loose in pockets or a toolbox, this kit provides that specific storage solution for your drill driver.
Users wanting a drill holster for quick access
Product B comes with a BUHO holster. This rigid holder attaches to your belt or tool belt, keeping the drill driver close at hand. If you value having your tool readily available without digging through a bag, the included holster offers better accessibility and organization for your 18V drill during projects.
Users prioritizing specific chuck size clarity
Product B explicitly lists a 3/8 inch chuck size in its key specifications. This detail helps you confirm compatibility with standard bits. If knowing the exact chuck dimension is important for your specific bit collection, this clear specification in Product B removes any guesswork about what sizes fit directly into the tool.
The products compared
Ryobi 18V ONE+ Drill Driver Kit with Bits and Bag
Best for: users wanting a complete kit with bag
- Power Source
- 18V ONE+ Cordless
- Voltage
- 18V
- Battery Included
- Battery and charger included
- Included Tools
- Drill/driver, drill bit set, tool bag
View on Amazon: Ryobi 18V ONE+ Drill Driver Kit with Bits and Bag Affiliate link
This RYOBI 18V Drill Set includes a cordless drill/driver, an 18V ONE+ compact lithium-ion battery, and a charger. It comes with a multipurpose drill bit set and a BUHO tool bag. The 18V power source works with over 250 different tools in the RYOBI ecosystem. This kit is designed for users who need a complete, ready-to-use setup for general drilling and driving tasks around the home.
Pros
- Includes 18V ONE+ compact lithium-ion battery and charger
- Comes with a multipurpose drill bit set
- Includes a BUHO tool bag for storage
- Battery is compatible with over 250 tools
Cons
- Battery is the compact size, which may have lower capacity than standard batteries
- No holster included in the package
- Drill bit set is multipurpose, not specialized for heavy-duty materials
Good fit if
- You want a complete kit with battery, charger, bits, and bag
- You already own or plan to buy other 18V ONE+ tools
- You need a portable solution with a storage bag
Skip if
- You require a high-capacity standard battery for extended runtime
- You need a holster for immediate tool access
- You are looking for a specialized bit set for specific materials
Verdict: RYOBI 18V Drill Set with Lithium-Ion Battery is a practical choice for homeowners who value convenience and ecosystem compatibility. It fits users who want a single purchase that provides the drill, battery, charger, bits, and a bag for storage.
Ryobi 18V 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit
Best for: basic home repairs and furniture assembly
- Power Source
- ONE+ 18V
- Voltage
- 18V
- Chuck Size
- 3/8 in.
- Included Tools
- Drill Driver
View on Amazon: Ryobi 18V 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit Affiliate link
This RYOBI ONE+ kit includes an 18V cordless drill driver with a 3/8-inch chuck. It comes with one battery, a charger, a 20-piece bit set, and a holster. The 18V power source handles common home tasks. You get a complete setup for drilling and driving screws. This bundle suits users who want a ready-to-use tool for basic repairs and furniture assembly.
Pros
- Includes 18V cordless drill driver
- 3/8-inch keyless chuck
- Comes with one 18V battery and charger
- Includes 20-piece drill and drive bit set
- Features a Buho holster for storage
Cons
- Only one battery included in the kit
- 3/8-inch chuck is smaller than 1/2-inch professional models
- No LED light mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a complete kit for light home repairs
- You want a single battery system for basic tasks
- You prefer a tool with a holster for easy access
Skip if
- You require a 1/2-inch chuck for large masonry bits
- You need multiple batteries for continuous work
- You are looking for a hammer drill function
Verdict: RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill/Driver Kit is a solid entry-level choice for homeowners. It fits users who need a basic drill for furniture assembly and light fastening jobs without needing heavy-duty power.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Ryobi 18V ONE+ Drill Driver Kit with Bits and Bag | Ryobi 18V 3/8-Inch Drill Driver Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 18V ONE+ Cordless | ONE+ 18V |
| Voltage | 18V | 18V |
| Chuck Size | not stated | 3/8 in. |
| Battery Included | Battery and charger included | not stated |
| Included Tools | Drill/driver, drill bit set, tool bag | Drill Driver |
| Color | Clear | Yellow/Green and Black |
| Model | BND-EMK1-001 | not stated |
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between the RYOBI 18V Drill Set and the ONE+ Drill/Driver Kit?
The primary difference lies in the included accessories. The Drill Set features a BUHO tool bag for storing bits and accessories. The ONE+ Kit provides a BUHO holster for holding the drill itself. Both systems use the same 18V ONE+ ecosystem, ensuring battery compatibility across tools.
Does the RYOBI 18V Drill Set Lithium-Ion come with a carrying case?
Yes, this model includes a BUHO tool bag. This soft case is designed to hold the drill bits and other small accessories securely. It offers a convenient way to transport and organize your additional tools alongside the drill driver.
Is the RYOBI ONE+ 18V Drill/Driver Kit suitable for furniture assembly?
Yes, it is a solid entry-level choice for this task. The kit provides sufficient power for light fastening jobs and assembling furniture. It is designed for homeowners who need a basic drill without requiring heavy-duty industrial power for demanding construction work.
What type of holster does the RYOBI ONE+ Drill/Driver Kit include?
It includes a BUHO holster. This rigid holder is designed to attach to your belt or tool belt for quick access to the drill. Unlike the tool bag in the other kit, this holster focuses on carrying the drill rather than loose bits.
Are the batteries interchangeable between these two RYOBI models?
Yes, both drills belong to the ONE+ ecosystem. This means you can use the same 18V battery in either drill driver. You can also share batteries with other tools in the RYOBI ONE+ line, providing flexibility and reducing the need for multiple battery types.
Which kit is better for users who want portable storage for bits?
The RYOBI 18V Drill Set is the better option. It includes a BUHO tool bag that keeps your drill bits organized and protected. This soft case allows you to carry your accessories securely, making it easier to transport your setup to different job sites or home projects.

