Don't Buy a Power Station Until You Try This with Your Tool Batteries

Why It Matters

Repurposing tool batteries cuts emergency‑power costs and reduces redundant charging infrastructure, offering homeowners a budget‑friendly backup solution.

Key Takeaways

• Ryobi 150W source costs $49, far cheaper than power stations
• Uses existing ONE+ batteries, eliminating need for separate charger
• Provides AC outlet, two USB‑A ports, and built‑in LED
• Limited to 150 W; cannot run high‑draw appliances
• Ideal for outages, job sites, and light camping power

Pulse Analysis

The portable power station market has exploded as consumers seek off‑grid resilience, but most units bundle a high‑capacity battery with an inverter, inflating prices. Manufacturers such as Jackery and EcoFlow charge a premium for the battery component, which can represent up to 70% of the retail cost. Ryobi’s approach sidesteps this by selling a bare‑bones inverter that leverages batteries users already own for their power tools, delivering comparable short‑term power at a fraction of the price.

Technically, the Ryobi 150 W power source clips onto any 18 V ONE+ battery, providing a single 120 V AC outlet, two USB‑A ports, and an integrated LED. Real‑world testing shows a 4 Ah battery can charge a smartphone multiple times and run a small fan for over an hour, while larger 6 Ah or 9 Ah packs extend runtime to roughly 90 minutes for modest loads. The modified‑sine‑wave output is sufficient for most consumer electronics, but the 150 W limit excludes high‑draw devices like space heaters or refrigerators, and the lack of USB‑C may require adapters for newer gadgets.

For homeowners and contractors already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem, the financial upside is clear: a $49 inverter replaces a $200‑$400 power station, and the batteries serve dual purposes, reducing clutter and charging cycles. This model could prompt other tool brands to offer similar inverter accessories, reshaping the backup‑power landscape toward modular, battery‑centric solutions. The key takeaway for buyers is to audit existing tool batteries before splurging on a dedicated power station, as the hidden capacity often meets everyday emergency needs.