Milwaukee Trouble Light with USB Charging

Milwaukee's Trouble Light with USB Charging (Model 2362-20) has been an essential addition to my toolkit. As a versatile, compact light source, it offers a lot more than just illumination, making it an invaluable tool for various tasks, whether you're working in an automotive shop, under the sink, or even dealing with a power outage.

Design and Build Quality

One of the standout features of this light is its robust design. Weighing in at just 1.0 lbs and measuring 10.6 inches in length, it’s portable yet sturdy. Milwaukee’s typical high build quality is evident here, and it feels solid in hand. The light is constructed to withstand the usual wear and tear of a busy work environment. The rotating collar provides an adjustable light angle, which is crucial for those hard-to-reach spots. The two stainless steel hooks add to its versatility by allowing you to hang it in various positions.

Performance and Battery Life

The light offers four modes: High (400 lumens), Medium (200 lumens), Low (40 lumens), and Strobe (400 lumens). The 400 lumens output in High mode is impressive for its size, and it’s more than sufficient for most close-up tasks. For broader lighting needs, the wide flood style lighting does an excellent job of illuminating larger areas, making it perfect for lighting up a crawl space or attic.

Battery life is another area where this light excels. With an M12 4.0Ah battery, you can expect up to 8 hours of run time on High, 15 hours on Medium, and an incredible 67 hours on Low. This extended run time ensures that you won't be left in the dark during long tasks. I found that pairing it with an M12 XC5.0 battery allows the light to last all night, making it ideal for overnight shifts or extended projects.

Magnetic Strength and Stability

The tool features a strong magnet on the back, which is designed to hold the light securely in place on metal surfaces. I found the magnet to be quite effective when using smaller batteries like the 2.0Ah. However, larger batteries tend to compromise the magnet’s strength, causing the light to slide or fall if not positioned carefully. This can be a bit frustrating, especially if you need extended battery life for longer tasks. Despite this minor issue, the magnet generally performs well, sticking firmly to most metal surfaces and even to the side of a work truck.

USB Charging Port

One of the most convenient features of this trouble light is the built-in 2.1A USB port for charging electronic devices. This is particularly useful when you’re working in areas without easy access to power outlets. I’ve used it to keep my phone charged during long work sessions, and it’s proven to be a lifesaver. While it charges devices a bit slowly, the convenience it offers outweighs this minor drawback.

Versatility

This light is designed with versatility in mind. The pivoting head allows you to direct light exactly where you need it, and the combination of the magnet, hooks, and ability to stand on its own makes it adaptable to various working conditions. Whether you’re under a car, in an attic, or working on a darkened job site, this light can be positioned to provide optimal illumination.

Durability

Durability is a mixed bag with this light. While the build quality is generally good, it’s not invincible. Some users have reported that the light can be prone to breakage if dropped frequently. In my experience, it has held up well under normal use, but I can see how repeated drops could cause issues. It’s a good idea to handle it with care, especially in rough environments.

Lighting Quality

The light’s “true-view” color rendition is another highlight. The slightly yellowish hue (around 3000K) is easier on the eyes compared to the harsh blue light emitted by some LEDs. This makes it more comfortable to work under for extended periods, reducing eye strain.

Price

While the Milwaukee Trouble Light isn’t the cheapest option on the market, its performance and versatility justify the price. You get what you pay for, and in this case, you’re getting a reliable, high-quality tool that will likely become a staple in your toolkit.

Final Thoughts

After using the Milwaukee Trouble Light with USB Charging, I can confidently say that it’s a tool worth having. Its combination of powerful illumination, long battery life, and versatile mounting options make it suitable for a wide range of tasks. The added convenience of the USB charging port is the cherry on top, making it even more useful in various scenarios.

The only real downside is the magnet’s occasional struggle with larger batteries and the potential durability issues if dropped frequently. However, these are relatively minor concerns in the grand scheme of things. The light’s overall performance and utility far outweigh these drawbacks.

I highly recommend this light for anyone in need of a reliable, versatile lighting solution. Whether you’re a professional tradesperson or a DIY enthusiast, this tool will serve you well in a multitude of situations.