Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hybrid LED Tripod Stand Light

If you’re searching for a versatile and reliable lighting solution for your workspace, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hybrid LED Tripod Stand Light (P782) might just be what you need. This hybrid light offers a combination of battery-powered and AC-powered operation, providing flexibility for various job site conditions. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to put this tool through its paces, and here’s my comprehensive take on it.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about the Ryobi tripod light is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just 7.2 lbs, it’s easy to carry and maneuver. The light collapses down to a mere 22 inches, making it incredibly convenient to store and transport. This is a particularly useful feature for those who need to move between job sites frequently or have limited storage space.

Setting up the light is straightforward. The tripod extends to a maximum height of 5 feet, and the telescoping sections lock securely into place. However, I did notice that the clamps needed a bit of tightening out of the box to hold the pole firmly. Once adjusted, the stability was much improved, although it still felt a bit wobbly when fully extended. This is something to keep in mind if you’re planning to use it in areas where it might get knocked over.

Lighting Performance

When it comes to brightness, the Ryobi tripod light does not disappoint. With a maximum output of 2,700 lumens on the high setting, it effectively illuminates large areas. There’s also a lower setting that outputs 700 lumens, which is perfect for tasks that don’t require as much light. The 310° pivoting head allows for versatile light direction, making it easy to focus light exactly where you need it.

One of the standout features is its dual power options. You can run the light on any Ryobi 18V ONE+ battery, which is great for portability, or plug it into an AC extension cord for continuous use. This hybrid functionality adds a layer of convenience that’s hard to beat. During my testing, the light ran for nearly 10 hours on a fully charged 9Ah battery on the low setting, which is impressive.

Usability

The Ryobi tripod light is user-friendly, but it does have a few quirks. The power button is located near the base of the tripod, which means you have to bend down to turn it on or off. This may not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but it’s something to consider, especially if you have back issues or find it inconvenient to bend frequently.

Another minor gripe is the lack of a protective barrier around the LED panel. While the light itself is sturdy, the LED panel feels somewhat exposed and could potentially get damaged during transport if not handled carefully. On a positive note, the light has a handy feature where it blinks to warn you when the battery is running low, giving you ample time to switch it out or plug it in.

Practical Applications

This light has proven to be incredibly useful in a variety of settings. Whether I was working in my poorly lit garage, setting up a temporary workspace in the backyard, or even using it during a power outage, the Ryobi tripod light delivered consistent and reliable performance. Its ability to fold flat and the inclusion of a carry handle make it easy to take along wherever you go.

The light’s brightness and adjustable height make it ideal for a range of tasks, from automotive repairs to construction projects. I particularly appreciated its performance during a late-night repair job on my car. The high setting provided ample illumination, and the adjustable head allowed me to focus the light precisely where I needed it.

Durability and Maintenance

While the Ryobi tripod light is generally well-built, it’s not without its flaws. The plastic components, particularly the clasps and adjustment levers, feel somewhat flimsy. During my testing, I found that the telescoping sections occasionally needed a bit of lubricant to extend and retract smoothly. This isn’t a major issue, but it does suggest that the light may require some maintenance over time to keep it functioning optimally.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Hybrid LED Tripod Stand Light is a solid addition to any DIYer’s toolkit. Its combination of portability, brightness, and dual power options make it a versatile and practical lighting solution. While it does have a few minor drawbacks, such as the placement of the power button and the somewhat flimsy plastic components, these are outweighed by its many strengths.

I would recommend this light to anyone who needs a reliable and flexible lighting solution for their workspace. Its ability to run on both battery and AC power, coupled with its bright and adjustable light output, make it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications. Just be prepared to tighten a few screws and perhaps give it a bit of maintenance now and then to keep it in top shape.