Ryobi USB Lithium LED Compact Area Light Kit

Exploring the world of portable lighting solutions, I recently had the opportunity to test out Ryobi's USB Lithium LED Compact Area Light Kit, model FVL59K. This compact and versatile light piqued my interest with its promise of high brightness, long battery life, and rugged design. Here’s my hands-on experience with this innovative tool.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this light is its robust build quality. Ryobi has clearly put thought into making this a durable tool that can withstand the rigors of various work environments. The light features a folding metal hanging hook and a carabiner, which are both practical additions for hands-free operation. The IP54 dust and water resistance rating further assures that this light can handle rough conditions, making it a reliable companion for outdoor tasks or challenging indoor environments.

One of the standout features is the magnetic base. The magnet is impressively strong, allowing the light to attach securely to metal surfaces. This is particularly useful when working on vehicles or in workshops where you need both hands free. However, I did find that the light tends to topple over when placed on non-metal surfaces, especially if it's extended in an "L" shape. This could be a design flaw for those who need a stable light on various surfaces.

Performance and Usability

In terms of brightness, the light does not disappoint. It offers up to 300 lumens on the highest setting, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. There are four light modes to choose from: high, medium, low, and strobe. This range of settings allows for flexibility depending on the task at hand. For instance, the high setting is perfect for illuminating a large area, while the low setting is ideal for conserving battery life during extended use.

Speaking of battery life, the USB Lithium battery is another highlight. On the low setting, the light can run for up to 52 hours, which is impressive. The battery is a 2Ah unit operating at 4V, and it charges via a 21-inch USB cable. I found the charging process to be straightforward and quick, making it easy to keep the light ready for action.

The light head rotates 180 degrees, which adds to its versatility. This feature allows you to direct the light exactly where you need it, even when the base is fixed in one position. The pocket clip is also a nice touch, providing a convenient way to carry the light when not in use.

Practical Applications

During my testing, I found several practical applications for this compact light. It excelled in inspection tasks, particularly when checking paint or other surfaces. The white color temperature of the light is conducive to spotting imperfections, making it a valuable tool for detailed inspections.

I also used the light during a garage door installation, and it performed admirably. Despite being knocked off an 8-foot ladder multiple times onto a cement floor, the light remained unscathed and continued to function perfectly. This durability is a testament to its build quality.

Another scenario where the light proved useful was in dark, confined spaces. The strong magnetic base allowed me to attach the light to metal surfaces in tight areas, providing ample illumination without needing to hold the light. This was particularly beneficial for electrical and HVAC work, where having both hands free is essential.

Areas for Improvement

While the Ryobi USB Lithium LED Compact Area Light Kit has many strengths, there are a few areas where it could be improved. The most notable issue is its stability on non-metal surfaces. As mentioned earlier, the light tends to fall over when not attached to a metal surface. This limits its versatility in certain scenarios, such as using it on a desk or other flat surfaces where magnetism isn't an option.

Another point of contention is the design of the light switch. When the light is folded, the switch becomes inaccessible, which can be inconvenient. A redesign to make the switch accessible in all positions would enhance the user experience.

Additionally, while the light is bright, some users might find that it could be even brighter. Including a higher capacity battery, such as a 3Ah unit, could address this and provide even longer runtimes.

Conclusion

In summary, the Ryobi USB Lithium LED Compact Area Light Kit is a versatile and robust tool that excels in many areas. Its high brightness, long battery life, and durable construction make it a reliable choice for a wide range of tasks. The magnetic base and rotating head add to its practicality, making it a valuable addition to any toolkit.

However, the light's tendency to topple over on non-metal surfaces and the design of the switch are areas that could use improvement. Despite these minor drawbacks, the light's overall performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, especially for those who frequently work in environments where a magnetic base can be utilized. The light's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a useful and reliable tool for both professional and DIY applications.