Milwaukee M18 ROCKET Dual Pack Tower Light with ONE-KEY

When I first got my hands on the M18 ROCKET Dual Pack Tower Light with ONE-KEY from Milwaukee, I had high expectations given the brand's reputation for quality and innovation. After putting it through its paces on several job sites, I can confidently say this tool lives up to its promise and then some. Here’s my comprehensive take on this portable lighting solution.

Setup and Portability

One of the standout features of this tower light is its ease of setup. With a height extension of 5 feet 5 inches and the ability to set up in just 7 seconds, it’s incredibly user-friendly. The light collapses down to a compact 22 inches, making it convenient to store and transport. Weighing in at around 24 lbs, it is on the heavier side, but this weight adds to its stability, especially when deployed in less-than-ideal conditions.

The unit features multiple handles and a shoulder strap, making it surprisingly easy to carry despite its weight. The three-leg base is adjustable, allowing for various deployment options, which is particularly useful on uneven terrain.

Light Output and Battery Life

The light output is nothing short of impressive. At 5400 lumens, it can turn night into day, providing ample illumination for any job site. The light head rotates and pivots, allowing you to direct the light exactly where you need it. Whether I was working in a dark basement or an outdoor site at night, this light provided consistent, bright illumination.

Battery life is another strong point. The dual battery design allows for up to 26 hours of runtime, depending on the brightness setting. The unit operates on one battery at a time, switching to the second battery automatically when the first one is depleted. This feature is particularly useful for extended work sessions. The ONE-KEY app adds another layer of convenience by allowing you to monitor battery levels and estimated run time, as well as control the brightness remotely.

Durability and Build Quality

Milwaukee has built this tower light to withstand tough conditions. With an IP67 rating, it’s both waterproof and dustproof. I left it out in the rain on multiple occasions and even used it in dusty environments without any issues. The batteries are housed in a sealed compartment, adding an extra layer of protection against the elements.

The construction is solid, using a dense, rigid plastic that feels robust and capable of handling rough treatment. The legs and extension mechanism are sturdy, and the entire unit feels well-balanced when fully extended.

Usability and Features

The M18 ROCKET Tower Light is packed with features that enhance its usability. The ONE-KEY capability allows for tracking and managing the tool, which is a boon for those who need to keep tabs on multiple units. The app also offers full-range dimmability, which is more precise than the three-range dimming available on the unit itself.

However, there are a few areas where the design could be improved. The handle options for picking up the unit can sometimes cause the light head to fall down, which can be annoying. Additionally, the GPS unit tends to drain the battery when the light is in storage, and there’s no external battery life indicator, requiring you to open the battery compartment to check levels.

Performance in Real-World Scenarios

I’ve used this light in a variety of scenarios, from emergency power outages to routine construction tasks, and it has consistently performed well. In one instance, I used it in a convenience store that had its power cut due to a water leak. The tower light provided more than enough illumination to safely navigate and work in the darkened space. On another occasion, it was a lifesaver during a basement renovation, providing bright, consistent light for several hours while the power was off.

The ability to control the light remotely via the ONE-KEY app is a game-changer. Not only can you adjust the brightness, but you can also lock the light to prevent unauthorized use. This feature adds an extra layer of security, especially on job sites where tools can easily go missing.

Value for Money

This light is undoubtedly on the pricier side, but you get what you pay for. The combination of high lumens, long battery life, and robust build quality makes it a valuable addition to any professional’s toolkit. While the cost might be a barrier for some, the features and performance justify the investment, particularly for those who frequently work in dark or challenging environments.

Final Thoughts

The M18 ROCKET Dual Pack Tower Light with ONE-KEY is a powerful, versatile, and durable lighting solution that excels in a variety of settings. Its ease of setup, impressive light output, and long battery life make it a reliable tool for any professional. The added features of the ONE-KEY app enhance its usability and security, making it a standout product in its category.

While there are minor areas for improvement, such as the handle design and the lack of an external battery life indicator, these are small drawbacks in an otherwise excellent tool. If you need a robust, high-performance portable light, I highly recommend the M18 ROCKET Tower Light. It’s a worthwhile investment that will serve you well in a multitude of scenarios.