Which kit is better for a beginner setting up a first tool set?

The Ryobi kit. Eight tools and three batteries cover more first projects, and the ONE+ platform lets you add tools later on the same batteries. The Skil kit is better once you know you mostly drill and drive.

Which has the more powerful impact driver?

The Skil. It is rated at 220 ft-lbs fastening torque and 260 ft-lbs breakaway torque with a brushless motor. Ryobi does not publish a torque figure for its impact driver in this kit.

The Skil has the edge on paper: brushless motors and a 5-year warranty against Ryobi's brushed motors and 3-year warranty. Ryobi's batteries stay useful across 300-plus ONE+ tools, which extends the kit's life in a different way.

Is the Ryobi worth $2 less than the Skil?

Yes, if you want more tools. At $399.00 at The Home Depot versus $401.00 at Walmart for the Skil, both as of November 3, 2026, the Ryobi gives two more tools and one more battery for less money. Pay the extra $2 for the Skil only if brushless motors and the longer warranty matter more.

Do both kits include a circular saw?

Yes. Skil includes a 6-1/2-inch saw with a 2-1/4-inch cutting depth and an LED shadow line. Ryobi includes a 5-1/2-inch circular saw, which is smaller.

Can I use the batteries across other brands' tools?

No. Skil batteries fit PWRCORE 20 tools only, and Ryobi batteries fit ONE+ tools only. The Ryobi platform is much larger, with over 300 products.

Skil PWRCORE 20 Brushless 6-tool Kit vs Ryobi 18V ONE+ 8-Tool Combo Kit

Buy the Skil PWRCORE 20 kit if you want brushless motors, a 5-year warranty and the strongest drill and impact driver of the two. Buy the Ryobi ONE+ 8-tool kit if you want the widest spread of tools, including a jig saw, multi-tool and sander. Prices are close: $401.00 at Walmart for the Skil and $399.00 at The Home Depot for the Ryobi, both as of November 3, 2026.

Today the Ryobi 18V ONE+ 8-Tool Combo Kit costs $219.00 less at its best price.

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