Milwaukee ROCKET Tower Light/Charger

Lighting up a large area efficiently and effectively can be a challenge on any job site or during outdoor events. Enter the Milwaukee ROCKET Tower Light/Charger, a versatile and powerful solution designed to meet those needs. Having had the chance to work with this impressive piece of equipment, I can provide an honest and detailed review based on my firsthand experience.

Design and Build Quality

Milwaukee has built a reputation for designing rugged, reliable tools, and the Tower Light/Charger is no exception. At first glance, its robust construction stands out. The light tower weighs in at 108 lbs, making it a substantial piece of equipment, but its thoughtful design mitigates any inconvenience this might cause. The integrated 8-inch all-terrain wheels and multiple grab handles make it surprisingly easy to maneuver. Whether you're rolling it across a construction site or positioning it for an outdoor event, the mobility features work exceptionally well.

Setting up the light tower is straightforward. The four legs deploy and retract with ease, providing a stable base even on uneven ground. Each leg locks securely in place, ensuring the tower remains steady, even in windy conditions. The adjustable legs also make it easier to level the unit, which is crucial for consistent lighting.

Lighting Performance

The ROCKET Tower Light/Charger is all about delivering exceptional lighting performance. The four adjustable LED light heads can be independently aimed, offering versatile lighting configurations. The mast extends up to 10 feet, providing a wide coverage area. Whether you need focused task lighting or broad area illumination, this unit delivers.

The light offers three brightness settings: low, medium, and high. At its highest setting, it provides an impressive 27,000 lumens when connected to an AC power source. On battery power, it delivers up to 20,000 lumens, which is still remarkably bright. This flexibility allows you to tailor the lighting to your specific needs, whether you're working up close or lighting up an entire site.

Battery and Power Options

One of the standout features of this light tower is its dual power capability. The included high-output XC406 battery offers substantial runtime, with up to 3 hours on the highest setting and up to 12 hours on the lowest. Charging the battery takes about an hour, making it relatively quick to get back to full power.

The unit also accepts a 120-volt extension cord, allowing you to run the light on AC power while charging the battery. This dual power option is incredibly useful, particularly if you need extended runtime or want to ensure the battery is always ready to go.

Usability and Convenience

Using the Tower Light/Charger is a breeze. The control panel is intuitive, displaying battery status, brightness setting, and power source. However, one minor drawback is that the buttons to raise and lower the mast are located on the front of the unit, which can be a bit awkward to access. A more convenient placement would improve usability, especially when working in low-light conditions.

The battery compartment is secure and features a lockable door to prevent theft. Opening the compartment can be a bit tricky, but it's a small price to pay for the added security. Additionally, the unit's ONE-KEY compatibility allows you to track and manage the light tower using Milwaukee's cloud-based tool management system, adding an extra layer of convenience and security.

Durability and Reliability

Durability is a critical factor for any job site equipment, and the ROCKET Tower Light/Charger does not disappoint. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The light heads are shatterproof, and the entire unit is rated for outdoor use, making it suitable for various environments and weather conditions.

During my testing, the light performed reliably, even in adverse conditions. The mast is sturdy, although it does have a bit of play, which can create some minor shadow movement in high winds. However, this did not significantly impact its overall performance.

Areas for Improvement

While the Tower Light/Charger is an impressive piece of equipment, there are a few areas where it could be improved:

1. Button Placement: As mentioned earlier, relocating the mast control buttons to a more accessible location would enhance usability.
2. Battery Compartment Design: Making the battery compartment easier to open would improve the user experience.
3. Wheel Durability: The plastic wheels, while functional, could be upgraded to a more durable material to ensure long-term reliability.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee ROCKET Tower Light/Charger is a powerful and versatile lighting solution that excels in a variety of applications. Its impressive lighting performance, robust build quality, and dual power options make it a valuable addition to any job site or outdoor event setup.

I would highly recommend this tool to professionals who need reliable, high-output lighting in challenging environments. While it has a few minor drawbacks, the benefits far outweigh these issues. The combination of battery and AC power, adjustable light heads, and sturdy construction make it a worthwhile investment. Whether you're a contractor, event organizer, or simply need a dependable lighting solution, the Milwaukee ROCKET Tower Light/Charger is a top-tier choice.