The bare tool for owners of Ryobi 40V batteries who dig fence posts and planting holes. Others should buy the kit.
Ryobi $369The Ryobi 40V HP Earth Auger RY40701BTL and the Earthquake 60V Earth Auger 44977 are evenly matched, rated 4.4 and 4.3. The Ryobi 40V HP Earth Auger RY40701BTL costs $33.23 less ($369 vs $402.23).
A complete battery kit for buyers who want to skip gas and keep a five-year warranty. It suits fence posts and planting up to 8 in.
Amazon $402.23Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every battery earth auger; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Ryobi 40V HP Earth Auger RY40701BTL | Earthquake 60V Earth Auger 44977 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 91 $46.12 per inch of bit ($369, the 8 in bit in the box; largest not published) | 86 $50.28 per inch of bit ($402.23, with batteries, the 8 in bit in the box; largest not published) |
| Torque 15% | 50 torque not published (neutral score used) | 50 torque not published (neutral score used) |
| Reverse 15% | 100 reverse to free a stuck bit | 100 reverse to free a stuck bit |
| Weight 15% | 50 weight not published (neutral score used) | 50 weight not published (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 25% | 100 5-year warranty for home use | 100 5-year warranty for home use |
Specifications
| Ryobi 40V HP Earth Auger RY40701BTL | Earthquake 60V Earth Auger 44977 | |
|---|---|---|
| Drilling | ||
| Power | 40 V battery | 60 V battery |
| Battery included | No | Yes |
| Batteries in the kit | - | 4 Ah |
| Bit included | 8 in | 8 in |
| Reverse | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Operators | 1 | 1 |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
