Craftsman Rechargeable Articulating Worklight

Craftsman has always been a brand I associate with reliability and innovation, and their Rechargeable Articulating Worklight, model CMMT25165, is no exception. This compact, portable worklight is designed to be a versatile companion for a variety of tasks—whether it’s in a workshop, during an automotive repair, for emergency use, or just around the house. As someone who’s constantly tinkering in the garage and often finds themselves in need of a good, reliable light source, I was eager to put this worklight to the test.

First things first, the design of this worklight is quite impressive. It’s lightweight at just 0.7 pounds and compact enough to be easily stored or transported. The articulating design is a standout feature, allowing the light to be adjusted into various positions, which is incredibly handy when you’re working in tight or awkward spaces. The extendable clamp-style base, magnet, and hang hook add to its versatility, enabling hands-free use in virtually any situation.

One of the features I appreciated the most was the rechargeable battery. The light charges via a USB-C port, which is much more convenient than older models that require proprietary chargers. A full charge provides up to 3 hours of runtime, which is generally sufficient for most tasks. However, for more extended projects, you might find yourself needing to recharge it before you’re done. The recharge time is around two hours, which isn’t too bad, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning on using it for longer periods without access to a charging source.

The worklight offers three lighting modes: flood, top light, and flashlight. The floodlight mode is perfect for illuminating large areas, while the top light is more focused and great for detailed work. The flashlight mode is a good all-round option, casting a bright, even light that’s ideal for navigating dark spaces. I found the lighting to be very bright and effective, with the 35 LEDs providing ample illumination for most tasks. The light distribution is even, and it does a good job of reducing shadows, which is crucial when you’re working on something intricate.

One minor issue I encountered was with the magnet. While it’s a great concept that allows for hands-free use, the magnet could be stronger. I found that it sometimes struggled to hold the light in place, especially on vertical surfaces or when the light was positioned at an awkward angle. This wasn’t a deal-breaker for me, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re planning on relying heavily on the magnetic mount.

Durability-wise, the worklight feels robust and well-made. It’s clear that Craftsman has put thought into creating a tool that can withstand the rigors of regular use. I’ve dropped it a couple of times, and it’s held up without any issues. The build quality gives me confidence that it will last for a long time, which is reassuring when you’re investing in a tool.

Storage is another area where this worklight shines. Its compact size means it doesn’t take up much space, and the articulating design allows it to be folded into a small footprint. This is particularly useful if you’re working in a cluttered environment or need to transport it between different locations. I also appreciated the built-in hook, which allows you to hang it up when not in use, keeping it easily accessible and out of the way.

In terms of ease of use, the worklight excels. The controls are straightforward, with a simple button to cycle through the different lighting modes. The USB-C charging port is a welcome feature, as it’s a standard that most people will already have cables for, eliminating the need to carry a separate charger. The light is comfortable to hold, and the articulating design makes it easy to position exactly where you need it.

One of the standout aspects of this worklight is its versatility. Whether you’re working under a car, in a dimly lit workshop, or even using it during a power outage, it performs admirably. The different lighting modes provide flexibility, and the hands-free options (magnet, hook, and clamp) mean you can use it in a variety of situations without needing to hold it in place. This makes it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

Overall, I’m very impressed with the Craftsman Rechargeable Articulating Worklight. It’s a well-designed, versatile tool that offers excellent illumination and a range of features that make it suitable for a wide variety of tasks. The rechargeable battery is convenient, the lighting modes are effective, and the build quality is robust. While the magnet could be a bit stronger, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise excellent product.

I would definitely recommend this worklight to anyone in need of a reliable, versatile lighting solution. Its compact size, ease of use, and the convenience of being cordless make it a standout choice. Whether you’re a professional mechanic, a DIY enthusiast, or just need a good light for emergencies, the Craftsman Rechargeable Articulating Worklight is a tool that’s well worth considering.