Ridgid Hybrid LED Panel Light

As someone who's spent a fair amount of time working in various environments, from dimly lit basements to expansive outdoor spaces, having a reliable light source is absolutely crucial. The Ridgid Hybrid LED Panel Light (model R8698B) has been a game-changer in many of my projects, offering a blend of portability, versatility, and sheer brightness that’s hard to beat.

One of the standout features of this light is its hybrid nature. It can be powered either by an 18V battery or plugged into an extension cord. This dual power option is incredibly convenient, especially in situations where you might not have easy access to an electrical outlet. The ability to switch between battery and corded power means you’re not left in the dark if one power source fails you.

The brightness of this light is impressive, maxing out at 3,500 lumens. This level of brightness is more than enough to illuminate large areas, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The light has three brightness settings, which are easily adjustable by pressing the on button multiple times. This allows for flexibility depending on the task at hand, whether you need full brightness for detailed work or a lower setting for more general illumination.

The design of the light is another highlight. The folding panel design is not only innovative but also highly functional. It allows for area lighting, spreading the light more evenly across a space. The panels can pivot 270°, rotate 225°, and the base itself can pivot up to 115°. This range of motion means you can position the light exactly where you need it, without having to move the entire unit around constantly. The carrying handle and various mounting options add to its portability and ease of use.

However, no tool is without its drawbacks, and the Ridgid Hybrid LED Panel Light is no exception. One of the most frequently mentioned issues is its battery life, particularly on the highest brightness setting. While the light can run for up to 14 hours on a 6.0 Ah battery at the lowest setting, the runtime significantly decreases on the highest setting. This is somewhat expected given the high lumen output, but it can be a limiting factor if you rely heavily on battery power. It’s worth noting that using a higher capacity battery can help mitigate this issue, but it’s still something to consider if you’re planning on long, uninterrupted use.

On the topic of batteries, another point of concern is the impact on battery longevity. Some users have reported that the battery life diminishes over time, especially with frequent use on the highest setting. This is something to keep in mind if you’re planning on using this light extensively. It may be beneficial to have multiple batteries on hand or to rely more on the corded option when possible.

Despite these battery-related concerns, the overall build quality of the light is solid. It feels sturdy and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of a worksite. The light is also relatively lightweight, making it easy to transport from one location to another. The articulating side panels and the ability to pivot the entire unit add to its versatility, allowing you to direct light exactly where it’s needed.

One minor issue I encountered was with the registration process for the lifetime warranty. The model number caused some confusion, leading to errors during registration. However, a quick call to Ridgid’s support team resolved the issue. It’s a small hiccup, but something to be aware of if you’re planning on registering your product.

In terms of practical use, this light excels in a variety of situations. Whether you’re working under a vehicle, in a dark attic, or even using it for outdoor activities like camping or backyard games, the Ridgid Hybrid LED Panel Light provides reliable and adjustable illumination. The ability to spread the light out and adjust the panels means you’re not limited to a single beam, making it more versatile than many other work lights on the market.

So, would I recommend the Ridgid Hybrid LED Panel Light? Absolutely, with a few caveats. If you’re looking for a highly portable, versatile light with excellent brightness, this is a fantastic option. The hybrid power capability and adjustable design make it suitable for a wide range of applications. However, if you rely heavily on battery power and need long runtimes on the highest setting, you might find the battery life limiting. In that case, having extra batteries or using the corded option would be advisable.

Overall, the Ridgid Hybrid LED Panel Light is a robust and versatile tool that can significantly enhance your work environment. Its combination of brightness, adjustability, and dual power options make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. Despite some concerns about battery life, its benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone in need of reliable, portable lighting.