Ryobi 18 V One+ Hybrid Led Panel Light

As someone who has spent countless hours on various jobsites and DIY projects, having reliable, versatile lighting is non-negotiable. I recently had the opportunity to put the Ryobi 18V One+ Hybrid LED Panel Light (PCL631B) to the test, and it has quickly become an indispensable part of my toolkit.

One of the standout features of this light is its hybrid power capability. The ability to switch between an 18V battery and an AC power source provides unparalleled flexibility. When working in areas without easy access to power outlets, the battery option is a lifesaver. Conversely, for extended projects where continuous light is required, plugging the light into an outlet ensures that you never run out of illumination. This dual-power feature is a game-changer, especially for those who frequently transition between indoor and outdoor workspaces.

The light itself is impressively bright, offering up to 3,000 lumens. This level of brightness is more than sufficient for most tasks, whether you're working on a car, setting up a campsite, or dealing with a power outage. The three brightness settings (high, medium, low) allow for customizable lighting based on the task at hand. On high, the light is akin to daylight (5000K), which is perfect for detailed work. The medium and low settings are useful for less intensive tasks or when you need to conserve battery life.

What truly sets this light apart is its design. The 360° rotating side panels and the 150° pivoting front panel provide exceptional control over light direction. This means you can easily illuminate a wide area or focus the light on a specific spot without having to constantly reposition the unit. The side panels can be adjusted independently, allowing for a tailored lighting setup that can cover an entire room or focus on multiple areas simultaneously. This flexibility is a significant advantage over traditional work lights that often have limited adjustability.

The light is also designed with portability and convenience in mind. It features a pass-through handle that makes it easy to carry around, and it folds up compactly for storage. This is particularly useful for those who need to transport their tools frequently. The integrated keyholes and tripod mounting capability add to its versatility, allowing you to set it up hands-free. While Ryobi doesn't provide a dedicated tripod, I found that it fits well on standard camera tripods, which is a practical workaround.

One minor drawback I encountered is the lack of rubber feet on the bottom of the unit. Without them, the light can slide around on smooth surfaces, especially when connected to a heavy extension cord. This could be easily remedied with some DIY modifications, but it's something to be aware of if you plan to use the light on slick surfaces.

Another point of contention is the strain relief for the power cord. The unit only accepts single-end cords, and without a built-in strain relief, the cord can sometimes come loose if the light is moved around frequently. This can be frustrating on a busy jobsite where mobility is key. I found myself wrapping the cord around the handle to keep it secure, which is a bit of a workaround but not ideal.

Despite these minor issues, the Ryobi Hybrid LED Panel Light excels in terms of durability and performance. The LED lights stay cool even after prolonged use, which is a significant safety feature. Traditional work lights can become extremely hot and pose a burn risk, but this unit remains safe to handle. The build quality is robust, and it feels like a tool that can withstand the rigors of a jobsite.

Battery life is another highlight. On a fully charged 4Ah battery, the light can run for several hours on high, and even longer on the lower settings. This is particularly impressive given the brightness it delivers. The light also provides a low-battery warning by flashing a few times, giving you ample time to switch to a fresh battery or plug it into an outlet.

In terms of practical applications, the Ryobi Hybrid LED Panel Light shines (pun intended) in various scenarios. During a recent power outage, it provided ample light for an entire room, making it easy to continue with normal activities. For outdoor projects, such as setting up a campsite or working on a fence, the light's portability and brightness were invaluable. It even proved useful for indoor tasks like painting, where its adjustable panels allowed for optimal light distribution without casting harsh shadows.

In conclusion, the Ryobi 18V One+ Hybrid LED Panel Light is a remarkably versatile and powerful tool. Its hybrid power capability, adjustable panels, and robust design make it suitable for a wide range of applications. While it has a few minor shortcomings, such as the lack of rubber feet and strain relief, these are outweighed by its many strengths. If you're in need of a reliable, flexible light source that can adapt to various situations, I highly recommend adding this light to your toolkit. It has certainly earned its place in mine.