Ryobi RROS18-0 18V ONE+ Cordless Random Orbit Sander Review

Ryobi’s RROS18-0 proves that cordless sanders don’t have to feel like compromises. It’s lightweight, capable, and if you’re already locked into the ONE+ battery system, it’s an easy grab that makes sanding more fluid and less of a chore.

Key Specs & Features

Type: Cordless (bare tool, ONE+ 18V battery required)
Orbit Diameter: 2.5mm random action
Pad Size: 5-inch hook-and-loop attachment
Speed: Fixed ~10,000 OPM
Weight: ~3.0 lbs without battery
Dust Control: Integrated dust bag + vacuum port adaptor
Dimensions: 23.5 x 14 x 15.5 cm

Ryobi kept this tool simple: one speed, one orbit size, one purpose — make sanding easier without a cord. While it doesn’t offer the fancy variable speed dial of pricier models, the straightforward design works well for most DIY jobs.

Performance & Usability

Cordless tools live or die by how much power they can pack, and the RROS18-0 feels surprisingly strong. On a 4.0Ah battery, it chews through material at a pace not far off from corded mid-range sanders.

Ergonomics are excellent — the palm-style grip and compact body keep fatigue low. Noise and vibration levels are noticeably tamer than some corded competitors, which makes extended sanding sessions more tolerable.

Runtime depends on battery size: expect around 25–30 minutes on a 4.0Ah pack, more than enough for small projects, though heavy stock removal will eat into that.

Unique Test / Real-World Use

I tested it on oak panel scraps next to a corded Bosch orbital. To my surprise, the Ryobi kept up respectably — not quite as aggressive, but plenty capable for smoothing surfaces and prep work.

Dust collection really impressed me. The bag actually works, pulling in a good chunk of the dust, and with a vac hooked up, the sander stayed nearly dust-free. That makes it way more workshop-friendly than most cordless sanders I’ve tried.

Only hiccup: the fixed speed sometimes feels limiting when working on softer woods or fine finishes. Still, it nails the “grab-and-go” factor for quick jobs.

Value & Context

At around $69 bare tool, this Ryobi is a steal for ONE+ users. No cords, decent runtime, and a genuinely strong performance for the price point. If you’re already in the battery ecosystem, adding this sander costs way less than switching brands.

It’s not trying to dethrone pro models like Makita’s XOB01, but it comes surprisingly close for a fraction of the cost — and Ryobi’s quality has clearly leveled up in recent years.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi RROS18-0 is a cordless sander that feels like it belongs in a serious workshop, not just a DIY garage. It’s comfortable, effective, and surprisingly refined for its price.

If you’re invested in the ONE+ battery system, this is an easy yes. While the fixed speed and reliance on batteries hold it back slightly from pro-level work, for everyday projects and refinishing tasks, it’s one of the best cordless sanding options under $100.