Milwaukee USB Rechargeable 800L Compact Flashlight

Flashlights are a staple in any toolkit, and the Milwaukee USB Rechargeable 800L Compact Flashlight has garnered a lot of attention due to its powerful output and versatile design. At first glance, the flashlight boasts several impressive features, but its real-world performance is what truly matters.

The first thing that struck me about this compact flashlight was its sheer brightness. With an output of 800 lumens on the high setting, this little device can light up an entire room or provide a clear beam across a substantial distance. The bulls-eye beam design, which combines both spotlight and floodlight capabilities, offers versatility in various scenarios. Whether you need to inspect a tight space or illuminate a broader area, the Milwaukee flashlight does so effectively.

The build quality is another aspect where this flashlight shines. Constructed from aluminum, it feels robust and ready to handle tough conditions. It’s rated for 4-meter drops and has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning it can withstand being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep. This makes it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures or work in damp environments.

One of the standout features is its rechargeable nature. It comes with a RedLithium USB 3.0 battery, which is a significant advantage for those who are tired of constantly replacing traditional batteries. The flashlight charges via a USB-C port, a modern touch that ensures faster and more convenient charging. I found the battery life to be quite satisfactory, with the high mode providing around 2.5 hours of use and the low mode extending to about 11 hours. This makes it suitable for both short tasks and prolonged use.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing with this flashlight. One of the noticeable issues is the heat generation. When used continuously on the high setting, the flashlight gets quite warm. In some cases, it became too hot to handle comfortably, and I even noticed some melting on the lens after prolonged use. This is a significant drawback, especially for those who intend to use it for extended periods.

Another concern is the power button. Although it’s conveniently located, it’s quite sensitive and prone to accidental activation. On several occasions, I found the flashlight turned on in my pocket or bag, which drained the battery unexpectedly. A lockout feature or a more resistant button would be a welcome improvement to prevent this issue.

The flashlight’s fixed focus is another point of contention. While the bulls-eye beam is versatile, the inability to adjust the focus can be limiting. In various situations, a focusable beam would provide better control over the lighting, especially for tasks that require concentrated illumination.

Despite these drawbacks, the Milwaukee flashlight has some redeeming qualities. The light output is impressive, and the color accuracy is commendable. The TrueView LED technology ensures that colors are rendered accurately, which is particularly useful for detailed inspections or work that requires precision.

The flashlight also features a removable clip, making it easy to attach to a belt or pocket. This adds to its portability, though the clip itself could be more robust. It felt a bit flimsy and sharp-edged, which was uncomfortable at times.

In terms of battery management, the flashlight does a decent job. The power button indicates the battery status, which is handy for keeping track of the remaining charge. However, having to turn on the flashlight to check the battery level is not the most convenient design choice.

Overall, the Milwaukee USB Rechargeable 800L Compact Flashlight is a mixed bag. It excels in terms of brightness, build quality, and battery convenience but falls short due to heat issues, a sensitive power button, and lack of focus adjustment. For those who need a powerful and durable flashlight for short bursts of use, it’s a solid option. However, if your work requires prolonged use or more control over the beam, you might want to consider other alternatives.

Would I recommend this flashlight? It depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a bright, durable flashlight for occasional use and appreciate the convenience of USB recharging, then this could be a good fit. However, if you need something that can handle long periods of use without overheating or accidental activation, you might be better off looking elsewhere. The Milwaukee flashlight has potential, but it needs a few tweaks to truly shine.