Ryobi 18V ONE+ LED Light

The Ryobi 18V ONE+ LED Light, model PCL660B, has quickly become one of my go-to tools for various lighting needs. As someone who already owns a variety of Ryobi tools, integrating this LED light into my collection was seamless. Utilizing the same 18V ONE+ battery system that powers my other Ryobi devices, this light offers convenience and consistency without the need for additional batteries or chargers.

Right out of the box, the first thing that struck me was the build quality. The light feels robust and well-constructed, with a rubberized handle that provides a comfortable grip. It's evident that Ryobi has put thought into making this a durable tool, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, albeit in dry conditions. The light is not waterproof, which is a limitation to be mindful of if you plan to use it in environments where it might get wet.

The LED bulb is a significant upgrade from older incandescent flashlights. Producing 280 lumens, this light is impressively bright for its size. It easily illuminates objects and pathways up to 500 feet away, making it ideal for nighttime walks, camping trips, or emergency situations. The beam is concentrated with a bright center and a slightly dimmer periphery, which I found to be quite effective for most tasks. However, it's worth noting that this light has a more focused beam, making it more of a spotlight than a floodlight. For broader area illumination, you might want to look at other options within the Ryobi lineup.

One of the standout features of this LED light is the 130° pivoting head. This allows for adjustable beam direction, which is incredibly handy when you need to set the light down and focus it on a specific area. Whether I'm working under the hood of a car or setting up camp, being able to adjust the light angle without having to hold it constantly is a huge plus. The light can be placed on a flat surface, and the pivoting head makes it easy to direct the beam precisely where needed.

Battery life is another area where this light excels. Even with a 2AH battery, I found that the light runs for an extended period, often lasting through multiple uses over several days without needing a recharge. This longevity is particularly useful for camping trips or power outages, where reliable lighting is crucial. The LED technology ensures that the battery is used efficiently, unlike older incandescent bulbs that tend to drain batteries quickly.

One minor drawback is the size and weight of the light, especially when paired with a larger 18V battery. The base is designed to accommodate these batteries, making the light somewhat bulky. While this adds stability when the light is set down, it can be a bit cumbersome for handheld use over extended periods. Despite this, the light remains relatively lightweight and easy to carry, which offsets the bulkiness to some extent.

Operating the light is straightforward, with a simple on/off trigger switch. There are no multiple brightness settings, which I actually appreciate for its simplicity and efficiency. This makes the light quick to use, especially in situations where you need immediate illumination without fiddling with different modes.

In terms of versatility, this LED light shines (pun intended). It's a great addition to any tool chest, car trunk, or emergency kit. The ability to use any Ryobi 18V battery means that you'll always have a power source ready if you already own other Ryobi tools. The light also has a screw hole for an optional belt clip and a loop for hanging, adding to its convenience and portability.

One area for potential improvement is the packaging. Like many products, the light comes in a welded plastic clamshell package, which can be frustrating to open. I had to use a sharp tool to cut through the tough plastic, which isn't the most user-friendly experience. While this doesn't affect the performance of the light itself, it's an aspect that Ryobi might want to reconsider for future iterations.

Another consideration is the lack of water resistance. While the light is durable and well-made, it's not designed for use in wet conditions. This limits its utility in certain outdoor scenarios, such as rainy weather or near bodies of water. Given that Ryobi produces other waterproof tools, it would be beneficial to see a future version of this light with enhanced water resistance.

Overall, I highly recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ LED Light for anyone in need of a reliable, bright, and long-lasting flashlight. Its integration with the ONE+ system, adjustable head, and impressive battery life make it a versatile tool for a variety of applications. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as bulkiness and lack of waterproofing, these are outweighed by its many advantages. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast, camper, or just someone looking for a dependable light source, this LED light is a solid choice that won't disappoint.