Ryobi 18V ONE+ Workshop Light

Lighting up a workspace efficiently can be a game-changer, and Ryobi’s 18V ONE+ Workshop Light (model P780) aims to be the versatile solution for various lighting needs. As someone who frequently works in dimly lit areas, I was eager to see if this light could meet my expectations.

First off, the compatibility with all 18V ONE+ batteries is a significant plus. If you’re already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem, this light integrates seamlessly with existing tools and batteries. The fact that it can also be plugged into an AC outlet offers flexibility, making it useful in both battery-only scenarios and more prolonged tasks where continuous power is required.

When I first powered on the light, I was impressed by the high-intensity LED output. At 130 lumens, it’s bright enough to illuminate a decent-sized workspace. The frosted lens does a good job of reducing glare, which is a thoughtful touch since harsh lighting can be a strain on the eyes during prolonged use.

One of the standout features is the dual power source capability. I found this particularly useful during a basement renovation project, where I had to turn off the main power. Relying solely on battery power, the light lasted nearly two hours on a 1.5 Ah battery. While this might not seem long, it’s important to note that larger capacity batteries, like the 4 Ah, can extend this runtime significantly. Additionally, the light signals when the battery is low by blinking, which is a handy feature to prevent unexpected darkness.

The light is also lightweight, tipping the scales at just 0.86 lbs. This makes it incredibly portable and easy to carry around. The on-board handle further enhances its mobility, allowing for quick repositioning as needed. However, the stand design could use some improvement. It tends to tip over more easily than I’d like, especially when using heavier batteries. This can be frustrating when working in tight spaces where stability is crucial.

In terms of build quality, the light feels sturdy, predominantly made of hard plastic. While this keeps it lightweight, it doesn’t compromise on durability. I’ve accidentally knocked it over a couple of times, and it’s held up without any issues. The light also remains cool to the touch, even after extended use, which is a significant safety advantage over traditional incandescent work lights.

One area where the light could improve is its mounting options. While it can be clamped onto a 2x4 or hung using the built-in hook, a tripod mount would add a lot of versatility. As it stands, the 1/4" hole in the base is not very practical due to its thickness, making it difficult to secure properly to standard tripods.

The high and low brightness settings offer some flexibility depending on the task at hand. The high setting is blindingly bright, perfect for detailed work, while the low setting extends battery life and is sufficient for general illumination. However, I do wish there was a medium setting for situations where high is too intense and low is too dim.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the 18V ONE+ Workshop Light has proven to be a reliable companion in various scenarios. From emergency lighting during power outages to providing illumination in remote work areas, its versatility is commendable. The light’s ability to run on both AC and battery power ensures that I’m never left in the dark, no matter the situation.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Workshop Light to anyone already within the Ryobi ONE+ ecosystem or those in need of a flexible and portable lighting solution. Its dual power capability, high-intensity LED, and lightweight design make it a valuable addition to any toolkit. While there are a few areas where it could improve, such as the stand stability and mounting options, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of its overall performance and utility.