I've had the Ryobi RBL26G for almost a year, and it has performed quite well in that time. From day 1 it has been difficult to start, and that has not gotten any better as time goes on.

Once running, it is quite a good blower - quite powerful, high airspeed. It can be converted into a vacuum as well with an additional purchase of a kit, although I haven't needed this function. I do like the 'cruise control' - stupid name, but great feature. Basically, instead of holding the throttle on, you can lock it in place with a seperate lever.

Overall, good but not great. At $200 though it is a good buy.