Milwaukee USB Stick Light with Magnet

The Milwaukee USB Stick Light with Magnet, model 2128-21, is a tool that has found a permanent spot in my toolbox. This compact and versatile light is designed to meet the needs of professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, offering a range of features that make it a worthy investment.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that caught my attention was its robust build. Made from polycarbonate, this light is both lightweight and durable. Weighing just 0.74 pounds and measuring 7.5 inches in length, it’s easy to handle and store. The IP54 rating for dust and water resistance, along with its impact resistance up to six feet, ensures that it can withstand the rigors of a tough work environment. The chemical resistance to common shop chemicals is a thoughtful addition, making it suitable for a variety of workspaces.

Lighting Performance

The Milwaukee USB Stick Light offers a high-definition output of 550 lumens, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. It features four output modes: front, back, dual panel, and inspection light. This versatility allows you to adapt the lighting to your specific needs, whether you’re working in a confined space or need a focused beam for inspection tasks.

The light head rotates 220° vertically, providing flexibility in directing the light where it’s needed most. However, one limitation is that the head only pivots up and down, not left to right. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, having the ability to pivot in all directions would have been a nice addition.

Battery and Charging

One of the standout features of this light is its USB-C charging port. It's about time USB-C became the standard, and Milwaukee has done well to incorporate it here. The light comes with a magnetic charging base that is both convenient and secure. The base has screw holes for mounting, adding to its versatility. However, it’s worth noting that the magnetic base is designed specifically for this flashlight, so if you’re looking to use it with other Milwaukee lights, you might be out of luck.

The light offers two hours of runtime on high with one battery, which is decent but not exceptional. If you’re planning to use it for extended periods, having additional batteries on hand is advisable. The magnetic base is strong, making it easy to mount the light on any metal surface. However, I found myself wishing for another strong magnet on the light itself to allow for more versatile mounting options.

Usability

In terms of usability, this light excels. The separate buttons for power and brightness level are intuitive and user-friendly. The memory feature, which resumes the last mode after a power cycle, is particularly useful. The light also comes with a hook for hanging, adding to its versatility.

One of the most significant advantages of this light is its compact size. It’s small enough to fit into tight spaces, making it ideal for tasks like working under a car hood or inside a utility closet. The dual-sided light is incredibly versatile, and the LEDs are bright enough for most tasks. The magnetic charging base is a game-changer, making it easy to recharge the light without fiddling with cables.

Durability

Durability is a mixed bag with this light. While the build quality is generally excellent, some users have reported issues with the light failing after a few months of use. In my experience, the light has held up well, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re planning to rely on it heavily. The magnetic base is strong and reliable, and the light has survived a few accidental drops without any issues.

Value for Money

At a price point of around $100-$150, the Milwaukee USB Stick Light is not cheap. However, considering its features and build quality, I believe it offers good value for money. The ability to charge via USB-C, the strong magnetic base, and the versatile lighting modes make it a worthwhile investment. However, if you’re on a tight budget, there are other options available that might offer similar performance at a lower cost.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee USB Stick Light with Magnet is a solid addition to any toolbox. Its compact size, versatile lighting modes, and robust build make it a valuable tool for a variety of tasks. While it does have some limitations, such as the lack of left-to-right pivoting and the occasional durability issues, these are relatively minor drawbacks in the grand scheme of things.

I would recommend this light to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile work light. Its compact design and strong magnetic base make it particularly useful for working in confined spaces. The USB-C charging port and the magnetic charging base add to its convenience, making it a tool you’ll reach for time and time again. While it’s not perfect, the Milwaukee USB Stick Light offers a great balance of performance, durability, and convenience, making it a worthy investment for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.