The Ryobi P237 and P238 are impressive impact drivers that excel at driving screws quickly and efficiently. These tools are designed to provide more power and higher efficiency compared to traditional drills. While they may be overkill for occasional users, they are well-suited for those who frequently tackle demanding tasks. Assuming you are already familiar with the benefits of impact drivers, let’s dive into the details of the P237 and P238 by Ryobi.
Price
As prices tend to vary frequently, I’m unable to provide exact figures at the moment. However, you can easily check the current prices by following the links provided below.
Ryobi P237
Ryobi P238
The P238 stands out as an excellent impact driver with upgraded features such as a brushless motor system, greater IPM value, less vibration, and more power. Its higher price point is reasonable considering its capabilities.
In comparison, the P237 comes at a lower cost but is not able to deliver the same level of efficiency and power as the P238. Therefore, it is recommended to invest the extra $50 and opt for the P238 which can significantly enhance your work experience.
Motor Type
The Ryobi P237 operates with a brushed motor system, while the P238 features a brushless motor.
Being the latest version of the ONE+ series impact driver, Ryobi has made significant improvements to the motor system in the P238. The brushless motor in the P238 enhances the efficiency of the tool, resulting in a longer run time and impressive wear resistance.
The P237 impact driver comes with a brushed motor, which is not as efficient as the brushless motor found in the P238. Brushed motors tend to lose a lot of energy, which can reduce the efficiency of the tool. Therefore, the P238 has the upper hand in terms of the motor mechanism.
Vibration
There is a significant difference in vibration between these two tools. The brushed P237 generates an enormous amount of vibration that can cause stress to your arms, particularly for those who have to use the tool for extended periods.
In contrast, the brushless P238 produces minimal vibration, making it a clear winner in terms of reducing rattling and preventing vibration from transferring to your arms.
Weight
The Ryobi P237 has a weight of approximately 2.75 pounds, while the P238 weighs slightly more at 3.1 pounds. When you add batteries, the weight may increase by about a pound or half, depending on the batteries used.
Despite the slight difference in weight, both impact drivers are lightweight and easy to work with. They can be used all day long without causing fatigue, as they are much lighter than traditional drills.
Impacts per Minute
The Ryobi P237 has a lower impact per minute (IPM) value of 3200, while the P238 generates 4350 IPM. Although the P237 still has an impressive 3200 IPM with 1800in/lb of torque, it may not perform as fast as the P238.
With 4350 IPM and 2000in/lbs of torque, the P238 takes the lead in terms of speed and power. A higher IPM value allows an impact driver to work faster, making the P238 the winner in this category.
Speed Control
Both the Ryobi P237 and P238 are equipped with a 3-speed control function, which can be found near the rear of the tool. This feature makes it easy to switch between speeds while working and allows you to customize the tool’s performance based on your specific job requirements. Overall, having a 3-speed control is a great advantage for any tool.
Power Source
Both the Ryobi P237 and P238 are cordless impact drivers that operate on battery power.
They are compatible with all batteries from Ryobi’s ONE+ series, providing users with multiple options for battery capacity. The battery’s capacity will determine the runtime of the tool, so it’s important to use a high-capacity battery for demanding tasks.
Read Also: Ryobi p325 vs p326
Final Verdict
It’s obvious that the P238 outperforms the P237 in every aspect. As an upgraded version of the P237, the P238 comes equipped with a brushless motor system, produces minimal vibrations, and provides higher efficiency. It’s safe to say that the P238 is everything we hoped for in an impact driver.
