Milwaukee ROVER Dual Power Flood Light

As a professional who often finds myself in dimly lit environments, having a reliable and powerful light source is non-negotiable. Recently, I had the chance to put the Milwaukee ROVER Dual Power Flood Light (model 2360-20) to the test, and it has quickly become an indispensable part of my toolkit. Here’s a comprehensive look at what this flood light brings to the table.

Brightness and Modes

First and foremost, the ROVER Flood Light delivers an impressive 3000 lumens of high-definition output. This level of brightness is more than sufficient for illuminating large work areas, whether it’s a construction site, a dark basement, or an outdoor space at night. The light offers three output modes—high, medium, and low—allowing for flexibility depending on your needs. On high, the light is almost blindingly bright, which is fantastic for detailed work. The medium and low settings are great for conserving battery life while still providing ample illumination.

Battery Life and Dual Power Options

One of the standout features of this light is its dual power capability. It can operate either on Milwaukee’s M18 batteries or be plugged into an AC outlet via an extension cord. This flexibility is incredibly convenient. For instance, when there’s no power source nearby, the battery option is a lifesaver. On a fully charged XC5.0 battery, the light runs for about 2 hours on high, 4 hours on medium, and up to 9 hours on low. I typically use an 8.0 High Output battery, which extends the runtime even further, often lasting a full workday without needing a swap.

Design and Durability

Milwaukee has clearly put thought into the design of the ROVER Flood Light. The light head rotates 240 degrees, which means you can direct the light exactly where you need it without having to move the entire unit. This feature has proven invaluable in tight spaces where repositioning the light isn’t practical. The integrated keyhole allows for easy hanging, and the onboard handles make it a breeze to transport.

Durability is another strong suit of this light. The robust roll cage design protects it from the inevitable bumps and drops that happen on job sites. I’ve accidentally dropped it from a height of about five feet onto a concrete floor, and it came away with just a few minor scuffs. The light also seems to handle outdoor conditions well, including rain, although I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out in a storm.

Practical Applications

In my line of work, I’ve found countless uses for this flood light. It’s perfect for construction sites without power, working in crawl spaces, or even for outdoor activities like camping. The light’s color temperature is balanced, providing a natural and even illumination without hot spots or weird shadows, which is crucial for tasks that require attention to detail.

I also used it recently while doing some photography and videography work. The high-definition output and the ability to adjust the brightness levels made it an excellent light source for creating well-lit scenes.

Areas for Improvement

While the ROVER Flood Light is impressive, it’s not without its minor drawbacks. For one, it would be great if the light could charge the battery while plugged into an AC outlet. This feature would have been particularly useful during a recent job where we were switching the power on and off frequently. Another area for improvement is the inclusion of a built-in rafter or ladder hook, which would make positioning the light in various environments easier. Lastly, the light does get quite warm after prolonged use, which can be a bit uncomfortable if you’re working close to it.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Milwaukee ROVER Dual Power Flood Light is a stellar tool that combines power, versatility, and durability. Its ability to run on both batteries and AC power offers unmatched flexibility, and its robust design ensures it can withstand the rigors of any job site. The light’s high lumen output and adjustable modes make it suitable for a wide range of applications, from professional construction work to recreational outdoor activities.

I highly recommend this flood light to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful lighting solution. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson, a DIY enthusiast, or someone who simply needs a dependable light source, the ROVER Flood Light is a worthy investment. Its few minor flaws are easily overshadowed by its numerous strengths, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.