Ryobi LED Clamp Light

Finding the right work light can be a game-changer, especially for those of us who often find ourselves working in poorly lit conditions. After spending some quality time with the Ryobi LED Clamp Light, model PCL663B, I have to say, it’s a standout in its category. This light isn’t just another tool in the shed; it’s a versatile, reliable, and powerful addition that can cater to various lighting needs.

One of the first things that struck me about this light is its impressive 900 lumens output on the high setting. Whether I was under the hood of my car or working in the attic, the brightness was more than sufficient to illuminate my workspace thoroughly. The low setting, which outputs 250 lumens, is still quite bright and perfect for less demanding tasks or when you want to conserve battery life.

Speaking of battery life, the LED Clamp Light boasts over 32 hours of runtime on the low setting. This is particularly useful for extended projects or during power outages. I found that even with a 1.5 Ah battery, the light lasted several hours on high before needing a recharge. The light also features a handy indicator that flashes when the battery is running low, giving you ample time to swap it out.

The clamp mechanism is another feature that sets this light apart. It can grip materials up to 1-3/4 inches thick, making it incredibly versatile. I clamped it onto 2x4s, pipes, and even the edge of my workbench without any issues. The clamp is robust and holds the light securely in place, even with the added weight of a battery. This allows for hands-free operation, which is a massive advantage when you’re in the middle of a task and need both hands.

The pivoting head and rotating base offer excellent adjustability. I could easily direct the light exactly where I needed it, whether it was straight ahead, downwards, or at an angle. This flexibility is crucial for precision work, and it’s something that many other work lights lack. The light head rotates 360 degrees horizontally and vertically, allowing for a wide range of lighting angles.

One of the few downsides I noticed is that the clamp can leave small indentations on wood surfaces. While this isn’t a deal-breaker, it’s something to be mindful of if you’re clamping onto finished surfaces. Additionally, the light is not weatherproof, so using it in the rain is not advisable. However, for indoor use or dry outdoor conditions, it performs admirably.

Another point worth mentioning is that this is a bare tool, meaning it doesn’t come with a battery or charger. If you’re already invested in the Ryobi ONE+ system, this won’t be an issue since you can use the batteries from your other tools. However, if you’re new to the Ryobi ecosystem, you’ll need to factor in the additional cost of a battery and charger.

The build quality of the Ryobi LED Clamp Light is solid. It feels durable and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of a busy workshop or job site. Despite its sturdy build, it’s relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport and store. I also appreciated the recessed handle on the head, which made it convenient to carry around.

In terms of usability, the light is straightforward to operate. The on/off switch cycles between the two brightness settings, and the clamp and head adjustments are intuitive. Even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy, you’ll find this light easy to use right out of the box.

One of the standout features for me is the light’s versatility. It’s not just a work light; it’s a multipurpose tool that can be used in various scenarios. I’ve used it for everything from home improvement projects to camping trips. Its ability to provide bright, focused light in different settings makes it a valuable addition to any tool collection.

In conclusion, the Ryobi LED Clamp Light is a fantastic tool that offers excellent performance, versatility, and reliability. Its bright LED output, long battery life, and robust clamp make it suitable for a wide range of tasks. While it has a couple of minor drawbacks, such as the potential for clamp marks and the lack of weatherproofing, these are easily outweighed by its numerous benefits.

I highly recommend this light to anyone in need of a dependable and versatile lighting solution. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a professional tradesperson, or someone who simply needs a reliable light for emergencies, the Ryobi LED Clamp Light is a worthy investment. Its compatibility with the Ryobi ONE+ system is an added bonus, making it a seamless addition to your existing tool lineup.