Milwaukee REDLITHIUM USB Stick Light with Magnet & Charging Dock

As a professional who often finds myself working in tight spaces and diverse environments, having reliable lighting is crucial. The REDLITHIUM USB Stick Light with Magnet & Charging Dock from Milwaukee quickly found its way into my toolkit, and it's easy to see why. This compact and versatile light offers several features designed to meet the demands of various tasks, from general inspections to detailed mechanical work.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things that struck me about this stick light is its robust build. It boasts a polycarbonate exterior that feels sturdy and capable of withstanding significant wear and tear. Milwaukee claims it is impact-resistant up to six feet, a feature I was able to appreciate when I accidentally knocked it off a high shelf. True to its promise, the light remained unscathed.

The light is compact, measuring 7.5 inches in length and about 2 inches in height and width. This small footprint makes it incredibly easy to handle and maneuver into tight spots. The slim design and rotational light head are particularly useful for getting into tricky areas, such as the engine bays of vehicles or behind large appliances.

Lighting Performance

The lighting capabilities of this tool are quite impressive. It offers up to 550 lumens of high-definition output, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. The light features four different output modes: front, back, dual panel, and an inspection light. I found this flexibility invaluable when working on projects that required different lighting angles and intensities.

Switching between modes is seamless, and the light maintains the last-used setting thanks to its memory function. This might seem like a small detail, but it saves time and hassle, especially when you frequently adjust lighting settings.

One standout feature is the rotating head, which can pivot 220° vertically. While this allows for a broad range of light positioning, I did find myself wishing it could also swivel horizontally. The ability to pivot in both directions would have made this light even more versatile.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery performance is often a make-or-break factor for portable lights, and Milwaukee’s REDLITHIUM USB Stick Light does not disappoint—mostly. It runs on a REDLITHIUM USB 3.0 battery, providing around two hours of runtime on the high setting, which is generally adequate for most tasks. However, the battery life can be a bit of a letdown for those who need extended periods of continuous light.

The USB-C charging capability is a welcome upgrade. It’s about time this standard was embraced, as it simplifies charging and makes it easier to use with other devices. The magnetic charging dock is another excellent feature. It allows for convenient, hands-free charging and even has space to charge a spare battery simultaneously. I found this particularly useful, as it ensures you always have a backup ready to go.

However, it’s worth noting that a few users have reported issues with the charging dock not lasting long. While my experience has been positive so far, this potential downside is something to keep in mind.

Mounting and Convenience

Speaking of magnets, the magnetic base on this light is incredibly strong. It holds the light securely to any steel surface, allowing for hands-free operation. The built-in hook is also a nice touch, providing additional mounting options. However, I couldn’t help but feel that an additional magnet on the light itself would have been beneficial. There were instances where having another point of attachment would have made positioning the light much easier.

Durability and Resilience

Durability is clearly a priority for Milwaukee. The light is rated IP54 for dust and water resistance, making it suitable for use in various environments, including workshops, outdoor sites, and mechanical rooms. It’s also chemical resistant to common shop chemicals, which adds to its longevity.

That being said, some users have noted issues with the light’s durability over time. Reports of the light failing to turn on or charging inconsistencies are concerning, especially for a tool that commands a higher price point. While my unit has performed reliably, these accounts suggest that there may be some variability in quality.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Compact and robust design
- Versatile lighting modes
- Strong magnetic base and built-in hook
- USB-C charging with a magnetic dock
- IP54 rated for dust and water resistance

Cons:
- Limited horizontal pivoting
- Battery life could be longer
- Some durability concerns with the charging dock and light functionality
- High price point

Conclusion

In conclusion, the REDLITHIUM USB Stick Light with Magnet & Charging Dock by Milwaukee is a solid addition to any toolkit, offering impressive lighting flexibility, robust build quality, and convenient charging options. Its compact design and strong magnetic base make it particularly useful for working in tight, tricky spaces.

However, the light is not without its drawbacks. The inability to pivot horizontally can be limiting, and there are some concerns about long-term durability, especially with the charging dock. Also, the battery life, while generally adequate, might not meet the needs of those requiring extended use.

Would I recommend this tool? For most professionals, the answer is yes. Its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, and it offers a level of convenience and functionality that can significantly enhance your workflow. However, if you require exceptionally long battery life or have concerns about potential durability issues, you might want to weigh these factors carefully before making a purchase.