Milwaukee Work Light

The Milwaukee Work Light, specifically the 2735-20 model, is a tool that I've had the chance to incorporate into various projects, both small and large. This work light is part of Milwaukee's M18 line, which is well-regarded for its robust performance and reliability in the cordless tool market. Here’s an in-depth look at how this tool has fared in my experience.

Design and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Milwaukee Work Light feels sturdy and well-constructed. The aluminum head is reassuringly solid, and the overall build exudes durability. One of the standout features is the impact-resistant lens, which has held up well in various work environments, including dusty and slightly wet conditions. The inclusion of a hook for hands-free use is a thoughtful addition that has proven quite handy during tasks that require both hands.

The light’s head rotates 90 degrees, allowing for focused illumination exactly where you need it. This feature has been particularly useful when working in tight, awkward spaces where holding a flashlight would be impractical.

Performance and Battery Life

Powered by Milwaukee's M18 REDLITHIUM batteries, this work light offers extended run time. On a full charge with a 5.0 Ah battery, it can run up to 29 hours. This long battery life has been a game-changer on several occasions, especially during prolonged power outages or when working in remote locations without easy access to charging facilities.

The work light emits 100 Lumens of TRUEVIEW™ High Definition Output. While this is sufficient for close-up work or as a supplementary light source, it doesn't quite pack the punch to illuminate larger areas effectively. For detailed or larger-scale projects, I found myself wishing for a bit more brightness. A feature to adjust the light's brightness would have made a significant difference here, offering more versatility to suit different tasks.

Usability and Comfort

Weighing in at just over 1 pound (with the battery attached), the Milwaukee Work Light is lightweight and easy to maneuver. Its compact size (8.5 inches in length) makes it convenient to carry around in a tool bag or even in a pocket for quick access. The handle is ergonomically designed, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods without any strain.

The hook integrated into the handle is another practical feature. It allows you to hang the light from a variety of surfaces, providing hands-free operation. This has been especially useful during plumbing tasks or under-sink repairs where I needed to focus on the work without worrying about holding the light.

Durability and Reliability

One aspect where the Milwaukee Work Light truly shines is its durability. The aluminum head and impact-resistant lens have taken their fair share of knocks and drops without any noticeable damage or performance issues. The tool’s weather resistance also adds a layer of reliability when working in less-than-ideal conditions.

However, it's worth noting that while the LEDs come with a limited lifetime warranty, a few users have reported issues with the LEDs dimming over time. In my personal experience, I haven’t encountered this problem, but it's something to be mindful of. Milwaukee's customer service is generally responsive, and they stand by their warranties, which is reassuring.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, the Milwaukee Work Light isn't without its shortcomings. The most significant area for improvement is its brightness. At 100 Lumens, it falls short for tasks that require more intensive lighting. Incorporating multiple brightness settings would significantly enhance its versatility, catering to both small, detailed jobs and larger, more demanding projects.

Another point of contention is the color temperature of the light. While I haven't personally experienced it, some users have reported variations in the light color, with some units emitting a bluish tint instead of the expected white light. Ensuring consistency in light color would improve user satisfaction across the board.

Lastly, the lack of easy-to-find replacement parts, specifically the LED panel, is a downside. Although the LEDs are designed to last, having the option to replace them easily would extend the tool’s lifespan and offer better value for money.

Conclusion

The Milwaukee Work Light (2735-20) is a solid addition to the M18 family, offering a reliable and durable lighting solution for various tasks. Its long battery life, robust build, and practical design features make it a valuable tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. However, its relatively low brightness and lack of adjustable settings limit its versatility to some extent.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, but with reservations. If you’re already invested in the Milwaukee M18 platform and need a dependable work light for close-up tasks, this model is a good fit. It’s particularly useful for situations where you need prolonged light without frequent battery changes. However, if you require a more powerful light source or one with adjustable brightness settings, you might want to explore other options.

In summary, the Milwaukee Work Light excels in durability and usability but could benefit from enhancements in brightness and versatility. For most users, though, it serves as a dependable and long-lasting tool that complements the rest of the M18 range well.