Ryobi Vs Craftsman Pressure Washer (Best Analysis)

ryobi vs craftsman pressure washer

Ryobi and Craftsman are two leading pressure washer brands that have been in the industry for more than half a century.

They produce extremely efficient and durable machines that serve all needs whether residential or commercial.

Each brand is great and gets the job done. But one will meet your requirements more than the other, depending on what you want in a pressure washer.

That’s why I’m going to compare these two leading brands in all aspects; price, efficiency, features, and durability. This will make it easier for you to choose the brand and model that suits your needs from the recommended products.

Is Ryobi a Good Pressure Washer?

Ryobi is a leading manufacturer of power tools and lawn and garden equipment. Initially, the company was involved in die casting manufacturing when it was formed in Japan in 1943. It moved to the manufacture of power tools in 1968. And later expanded its business to North American and Europe in 2000.

Ryobi is owned and operated by its parent company Techtronic Industries (TTI). TTI is one of the global tool industry behemoths with several other brands of power and home cleaning equipment under its name. Some of these brands include AEG, Milwaukee, Dirt Devil, Homelite, Vax, and Hoover US.

The company’s product line up includes power tools  and lawn and garden equipment like mowers, chain saws, trimmers, pressure washers, snowblowers, and chemical sprayers.

The high efficiency of Ryobi products makes them a top choice. They, however, cost a little more than similar products from other brands. The higher price translates to better quality.

Ryobi‘s pressure washer line up consists of gas and electric pressure washers marketed towards homeowners, residential users, and hobbyists.

Related: Best Pressure Washers Under $600

Ryobi Electric Pressure Washers

Their electric pressure washers are the cheapest options with prices ranging from $90 up to $300. Ryobi’s electric pressure washers are best suited for residential use. They come with lower PSI and GPM, which means that they won’t be effective at cleaning tough stains. Like other electric pressure washers from other brands, Ryobi’s are easy to maintain. You won’t have to worry about buying gas or oil with this option. They also operate quietly and are easier to move around.

Overall, Ryobi’s electric pressure washers are the best options to go for if you’re looking for a pressure washer that operates quietly and can efficiently clean your car, boat, pool area, or grill.

While Ryobi’s electric pressure wahsers have a good number of perks, they come with their flaws. Like every other electric washer out there, you shouldn’t expect their product to last you for a decade. Unlike gas-powered washers, electric washers will have to be replaced every few years. In addition, movement is limited with these washers.

Electric pressure washers come with a power cord that could limit how far you can go with the pressure washer. In some pressure washers, the power cord could be 30 feet long while others are shorter at 20 feet. 

Ryobi Gas Pressure Washers

Gas-powered washers are more like the opposite of electric washers. Ryobi gas pressure washers are very durable and, with proper maintenance, will last for many years. Their gas pressure washers are mostly suited for commercial cleaning. They come with higher pressure that makes for higher cleaning power.

With this brand, you can find gas pressure washers with 3,600 PSI and 2.5 GPM. Gas pressure washers are best suited for heavy-duty cleanings like graffiti removal, cleaning driveways, and paint stripping.

Are Craftsman Pressure Washers Any Good?

Craftsman is another leading brand that has been in the tools industry for long. The company was established in 1927. It was owned and operated by Sears but was later acquired by Stanley Black & Decker. Although, Sears retained a limited license for Craftsman products.

Craftsman has built a reputation for itself as a quality manufacturer of power tools and outdoor equipment over the years. In 2009, it was named the favorite brand of hand tools by the readers of Popular Mechanics in their Reader’s Choice Awards. The company is currently the official tool brand of the DIY Network and NASCAR.

Like every other brand, Craftsman’s pressure washer product lineup consists of gas and electric pressure washers.

Craftsman Electric Pressure Washers

Craftsman electric pressure washers are similar to those of other top brands. They come with lower PSI and GPM but have several outstanding features that cannot be overlooked.

First, they feature long power cords. As long as 30 feet and even longer. Its CMEPW1900 model that features a MAX PSI of 1900 comes with a cord of 35 feet. This allows you to do more with the washer, especially if you want to clean your fence.

Just like Ryobi, Craftsman’s electric washers come in different designs. They’re mostly light but some models feature a roll cage and sturdy tires for easy movement. A roll cage is a convenient feature that helps for easy storage of the hose and the power cord.

There are other models that feature the same sturdy tires but come without the roll cage. These options are often cheaper even though they have higher PSI and GPM.

Craftsman Gas Pressure Washers

Unlike Ryobi, Craftsman gas pressure washers are fitted with powerful Briggs and Stratton engines. Briggs and Stratton engines can be found in most gas pressure washers from top brands. This is because they are durable and efficient when it comes to power delivery and fuel economization.

Their engines come with PSI ranging from 2,000 to 3,600. A good engine may produce a higher pressure but it also makes the washer heavier. Most brands solve this weight problem by including large tires for easy movement.

However, not all washers are easy to move around. With Craftsman, you’ll find movement extremely easy. Its gas-powered pressure washers are fitted with two 10-inch sturdy tires and an ergonomic handle designed for proper weight distribution. All you need to do to get the machine moving is to grab on the handle and pull or push it.

Craftsman gas washers also feature a reasonable hose length of 30 feet but they may not be as flexible as you want. You can easily purchase a longer rubber synthetic hose of 50 feet to replace the hose that comes with the machine.

Related: How Does a Pressure Washer Unloader Valve Work? (Answered)

Ryobi Pressure Washer Reviews

Ryobi RY141900 2,000-PSI 1.2 GPM Electric Pressure Washer

Check the Price on Amazon

If you’re looking for a pressure washer to clean your car, boat, pool area, or grill, then you may need to get the Ryobi RY141900. At 2000 PSI and 1.2 GPM, this pressure washer is just perfect for small “around the house” cleanup.

Its removable soap tank and high water pressure will help you to get rid of tough stains. The Ryobi RY141900 is incredibly light, so moving it shouldn’t be much of a hassle. And it comes with a rugged roll cage that allows for easy movement. This feature is just perfect for those that will find its 32 pounds of weight too much to bear.

The Ryobi RY141900 doesn’t come with many nozzle options. It features 3 quick-connect nozzles: 15­0, soap, and turbo. These options are perfect for residential cleaning purposes.

While this unit has many impressive features, it does have a few downsides that have left many of its users in a rage. However, some of these downsides are due to user error rather than manufacturer error.

One common issue users encounter is a water leak. This can easily be corrected by cleaning and lubricating the O-rings joints in the pressure connection with oil every time they are connected. 

Pros

  • Noiseless operation
  • 3-year warranty
  • Effectively cleans surfaces

Cons

  • Requires constant maintenance

Ryobi RY141612 1,600-PSI 1.2-GPM Electric Pressure Washer

Check the Price on Amazon

The first thing you will notice about the Ryobi RY141612 is that it doesn’t come with a roll cage. Now, I’ve hammered a lot on the importance of the roll cage and how it makes things easier for you, so why am I recommending a product without one? 

Unlike other electric washers that weigh more than 30 pounds, the Ryobi RY141612 just weighs about 17 pounds. This electric washer is lightweight and portable, making it easier to move around and store. You will have to carry it at the handle to move it around. This can be achieved with one or both hands depending on your energy level.

At 1600 PSI, this washer is just powerful enough for most residential cleaning needs. Its high water pressure could clean your deck efficiently without needing soap or any cleaning liquid. It comes with a soap tank and three nozzle options.

Impressively, the Ryobi RY141612 features a good hose length and power cord length. At 25 feet, the hose is just long enough for all small cleaning needs without you having to move the machine around. Its 35-feet power cord comes with GCFI protection.

Pros

  • Lightweight portable pressure washer
  • Noiseless operation
  • Perfect for residential cleaning needs

Cons

  • Build material feels cheap

Ryobi 2,300 PSI 1.2 GPM High Performance Electric Pressure Washer

Check the Price on Amazon

The Ryobi 2300 pressure washer can be described as an electric washer at its best. It comes with that high-pressure water capability you’ll need to get rid of tough stains, dirt, and rust on your car, patio, and driveway. Although most electric washers are mostly suitable for residential uses, this washer can also serve other heavy-duty cleaning needs like graffiti removal and paint stripping.

While the Ryobi 2300 operates at a higher pressure than most electric washers, it is still considerably quiet during operation.

Unfortunately, this pressure washer may not be perfect for more challenging cleaning needs if you’re not willing to spend more after the initial purchase.

The unit comes with a 25-foot hose that is very limiting. You can easily solve this by getting a 50-foot hose to replace it. This will cost you extra but it is totally worth it.

Overall, the machine is the perfect option for you if you’re looking for a pressure washer that delivers more pressure, but costs considerably lesser and doesn’t require much maintenance.

Pros

  • 35-foot power cord
  • Effectively cleans most surfaces
  • Comes with relevant accessories
  • Noiseless operation

Cons

  • Hose length could be improved

Ryobi RY14122 1700 PSI 1.2 GPM High Pressure Electric Power Washer

Check the Price on Amazon

If you’re not looking to handle much cleanup or maybe you just want to get some dirt off your car, grill, or patio, then getting this pressure washer could be the wisest shopping decision you’ve ever made.

The Ryobi RY14122 is a budget-friendly electric washer that can handle most residential cleaning needs. If you’re looking to handle tough stains, this washer might disappoint you. At 1700 PSI, it is just powerful enough to wash your driveway, car, boat, and grill. While it may handle your garage flow and wooden deck, it may take a lot of time to get it sparkling clean.

It is quite light at 30 pounds but it has a roll cage and sturdy tires that allow for easy movement.

The Ryobi RY14122 comes with a 25-foot hose. In most cases, this hose length would be considered too short. But the washer will serve pretty well since it is designed for residential use. Like all other Ryobi products, it comes with 3 nozzles including 150, soap, and turbo.

Pros

  • High-performance washer
  • Lightweight and durable design
  • Easy to maintain

Cons

  • Could take a lot longer to clean tougher surfaces like wooden decks and garage floors

Craftsman Pressure Washer Reviews

Craftsman 2800 PSI Gas Pressure Washer

Check the Price on Amazon

The Craftsman 2800 PSI washer comes with a powerful and highly efficient 163cc Briggs and Stratton engine. A powerful engine is one of the reasons why gas pressure washers come with a higher PSI than electric washers.

At 2800 PSI, this washer is perfect for all residential cleaning needs. It can clean your car, patio, driveway, vinyl fence, grill, and wooden deck. Doing this will normally take some time and you may be worried about how much gas it consumes. Luckily, the Craftsman 2800 PSI washer doesn’t suck up your fuel thanks to its highly efficient engine.

Unlike Ryobi pressure washers that come with 3 nozzle options, the Craftsman 2800 PSI Washer comes with 4: 0o, 15o, 40o, and soap. This extra feature will help you to clean more surfaces and make for faster cleaning time.

You might be disappointed by its length when it comes to the hose. For a gas pressure washer of this capacity, the hose length is considerably short at 25 feet. Although a shorter hose length makes for easy storage and fewer kinks while cleaning, it will limit your usage. You can remedy this by purchasing a longer hose.

Pros

  • Powerful engine
  • Easy to start
  • Multiple quick-connect spray tips
  • Washes a wider variety of surfaces than electric washers

Cons

  • Hose length could be improved
  • Noisy during operation

Craftsman 3000 MAX PSI at 2.1 GPM Gas Pressure Washer

Check the Price on Amazon

The Craftsman 3000 PSI pressure washer is what you need if you’re looking for a high-pressure gas pressure washer to handle your tough commercial cleaning needs. It features 3000 PSI at 2.1 GPM. This will get rid of the toughest stains and handle heavy-duty commercial cleaning.

The Craftsman 3000 PSI pressure washer is fitted with a powerful and efficient Briggs and Stratton engine through which it provides its high cleaning power.

Design-wise, there is no problem with this washer. As a heavy washer of 65 pounds, it comes with a roll cage and heavy-duty sturdy tires that allow for easy movement. In addition, the unit is quieter than most gas pressure washers on the market. This is as a result of the idle down technology that reduces the noise it produces by 40 percent while in operation.

Unfortunately, this unit still features the same 25 feet hose that may be useless to some people with extreme cleaning needs. For a 3000 PSI washer, it should have a longer hose length since it serves more cleaning purposes. If you want to take the machine farther to do more cleanup, then I suggest you get a longer hose.

Pros

  • Powerful 190cc Briggs and Stratton engine
  • Easy to maintain
  • Quieter than most gas-powered pressure washers

Cons

  • Hose length could be improved

How to Use a Ryobi Pressure Washer

Below are the steps to follow when using a gas or electric pressure washer from Ryobi.

How to Use a Ryobi Gas Pressure Washer

  • Choose your nozzle: For every cleaning job, there is a particular nozzle. Choose and attach the right nozzle for the job to the spray wand.
  • Check the oil and fuel: Check to make sure that there is gas and clean oil at the correct level in its tanks before using a gas-powered pressure washer.
  • Attach the hose: Securely fasten the high-pressure hose to the pressure washer’s pump. Also, attach your garden hose to the pump.
  • Start the engine: Check to ensure that the fuel valve is on the ON position before you turn on the engine. Then, set your choke level and pull the starter grip. Allow the engine to run for some seconds before returning the choke to the RUN position.
  • Start Cleaning: To start cleaning, press the trigger on the spray wand to let the water out.

How to Use a Ryobi Electric Pressure Washer

You won’t have to check for fuel or oil level with an electric pressure washer, but you’d have to connect the power cord to a power source before you can use the washer.

How to Use a Craftsman Pressure Washer

A craftsman pressure washer can be operated just like pressure washers from other brands.

How to Use a Craftsman Gas Pressure Washer

You can literally follow the tips on how to use a Ryobi gas pressure washer and still get the same result. Note that if you’re adding soap to your pressure washer, you should read the manual carefully as pressure washers operate differently with soaps.

  • Check to make sure you have adequate fuel and oil in the machine before turning it on
  • Next, attach the pressure hose and the garden hose to the pressure washer’s pump
  • After that, turn on the washer and press on the trigger to start cleaning

How to Use a Craftsman Electric Pressure Washer

Use the following procedures to use a Craftsman electric washer.

  • Set it – Take the electric washer from storage and set it on a flat surface. Make sure it’s balanced before letting go
  • Connect it to a Power Source – Connect the power cord to the power source
  • Attach the Hose – Next, attach the hoses to the pressure washer’s pump
  • Turn it on – Turn on the electric washer by pressing the On/Off switch

Final Verdict

Craftsman and Ryobi are two reputable brands with high-quality products. There is not much difference in terms of quality, price, and efficiency between the two brands. Pressure washers from both brands are durable and would last for few years.

The big difference between products from both brands is in their gas-powered pressure washers. Specifically, in their engines. While Ryobi makes use of Honda engines, Craftsman goes for Briggs and Stratton engines.

If you’re to make a choice, you might want to consider Craftsman. They have been in the industry for a longer time and are considered as one of the most reputable brands in the tools industry. 

Overall, whichever one you choose is great.

Check Out Similar Posts

Ryobi Vs Craftsman Pressure Washer (Best Analysis)
Scroll to top