I'm also on the Ryobi 18V system, and probably for the same reason as everyone: HD pushes them. The batteries and chargers pretty much lock you into the platform after the first tool. In that regard, the old NiCad Ryobi batteries were useless. But the lithiums are durable and hold a good, long charge. And Ryobi is unbelievably good about compatibility. Not only do the 18V's run all their small tools, the lithiums are direct replacements for the older NiCads, so the investment in tools wasn't wasted.

I suspect that I could find a better tool from a different vendor for any given category, but the Ryobi system is unusually complete. I have the drill/driver the impact gun, the tire pump, the circular saw, the reciprocating saw, the flashlight, the dustbuster, and the latest addition is the 10" chain saw. The drill has lasted a dozen years under very hard use, as has the impact gun. The resiprocating saw is garbage, but the circular saw is a very handy thing for light work. I have to say that the little chainsaw works great for what it is. You won't get too far on a battery, but if I bring a bucket of four batteries with me, I can spend the whole afternoon in the woods. So not much different from toting a gallon of gas and a balky two cycle saw. I'm considering buying the full size 40V saw, but that's a decision point because I'd need a new collection of batteries.

It's almost embarrassing to admit having such a large collection of cheap crap and being happy with it, but there it is, I've said it. In my defense, I have corded tools from Porter Cable, which used to be a great name.