Milwaukee REDLITHIUM USB 400L Neck Light

As someone who frequently finds themselves in need of reliable, hands-free lighting, I was particularly intrigued by Milwaukee's REDLITHIUM USB 400L Neck Light. This tool promised a lot, from high-definition output to ergonomic comfort, and I was eager to put it to the test in a variety of scenarios, from home repairs to outdoor activities.

First off, let's talk about the design and comfort. The neck light features an ergonomic, sweat-resistant band that fits comfortably around the neck. One of the standout features is its ability to stay in place without feeling restrictive or uncomfortable, even during extended use. The unit weighs just half a pound, which is light enough that I often forgot I was wearing it. This is a significant improvement over traditional headlamps, which can become uncomfortable over time, especially if you're sweating.

The neck light's adjustability is another major plus. Each of the two LED lights can be rotated independently, offering 130° of vertical rotation. This flexibility allows you to direct light exactly where you need it, whether you're working on a project right in front of you or need to illuminate a larger area. The lights provide a wide beam, which is excellent for general area lighting. However, it's worth noting that the light is most effective for tasks within a 10-foot range. Beyond that, the light starts to fall off, so for tasks requiring illumination at a greater distance, a more focused flashlight or headlamp might be necessary.

One of the key features of this neck light is its high-definition output, providing up to 400 lumens. The light has two modes—high and low—which can be easily toggled by holding down the power button. The high mode offers a bright, intense light for up to 2.5 hours, while the low mode provides a more moderate light for up to 8 hours. This dual setting is quite useful, allowing you to manage battery life effectively based on your needs.

Speaking of battery life, the neck light uses a REDLITHIUM USB rechargeable battery, which is both a blessing and a curse. On the positive side, the battery is swappable, meaning you can keep a spare charged and ready to go, minimizing downtime. The neck light charges via a USB-C port, which is convenient given the ubiquity of USB-C chargers. However, the battery is proprietary, which means you can't just use any standard rechargeable batteries. This could be a drawback if you're in a pinch and don't have a spare REDLITHIUM battery on hand.

Durability is another area where this neck light excels. It's IP54 rated for dust and water resistance, making it suitable for various work environments. It's also impact-rated to withstand drops from up to 6 feet, which adds to its ruggedness. I found this particularly reassuring when using the light in less-than-ideal conditions, such as during a winter rainstorm or in a dusty attic.

One minor gripe I have is with the placement of the charging port and the battery compartment. Both are located on the top side of the unit, which makes me question how water-resistant the light will be if exposed to significant rain. While I haven't had any issues so far, it's something to keep in mind if you plan on using the light in very wet conditions.

In terms of practical applications, this neck light has proven to be incredibly versatile. Whether I was setting up a tent, cooking at a campsite, or crawling through a tight crawlspace, the neck light provided ample illumination while keeping my hands free. It's also been a game-changer for home repairs, such as accessing a shed with a combination padlock on a stormy night. The ability to use both hands while having a well-lit work area made tasks much more manageable.

However, the neck light isn't without its flaws. For extremely close work, such as reading or working on something right in front of your face, the light can create shadows due to the position of your hands. In these cases, a forehead-mounted light might be more effective. Additionally, the lack of a dim setting for more delicate tasks, like reading in bed, is a notable omission. The light can be too bright for such activities, which limits its versatility somewhat.

In conclusion, Milwaukee's REDLITHIUM USB 400L Neck Light is a well-designed, rugged, and highly functional tool that excels in providing hands-free illumination for a variety of tasks. Its ergonomic design, adjustable light heads, and long battery life make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While it has a few minor drawbacks, such as the proprietary battery and the lack of a dim setting, these are outweighed by its many advantages.

I would highly recommend this neck light to anyone in need of a reliable, hands-free lighting solution. Whether you're a professional tradesperson, a DIY enthusiast, or someone who enjoys outdoor activities, this neck light is likely to become an indispensable part of your gear. Its combination of comfort, durability, and high-quality illumination makes it a standout product in its category.