A work light is an incredibly versatile tool that can be used in a wide range of settings. Whether you’re working indoors or outdoors, on a professional job site or at home, a reliable work light delivers instant lighting with the simplicity of a single button press.
Beyond its impressive illumination capabilities, a work light offers unparalleled task versatility.
You can use it to illuminate your workspace, whether that’s an industrial setting, a DIY project in your garage, or a camping trip in the great outdoors. It’s also perfect for home renovations, car repairs, or any other situation where you need a powerful and portable lighting solution.
As versatile as they are, work lights are equally well-suited to a variety of settings.
You can take them with you on the road, using them in your car, RV, truck, or van, and even at camp sites or other outdoor gatherings. In fact, it’s hard to imagine a toolbox, camping gear, or survival kit that wouldn’t benefit from having a trusty work light by its side.
The 10 Best Work Lights
When it comes to selecting a work light, several options are available on the market. Some popular choices include the VonHaus Two-Head Work Light, HOMCOM Tripod Work Lights, Ustellar Work Light, In360Light LED Work Light, Bosch FL12 Work Light, and DEWALT DCL510 Work Light. However, our top pick is the DEWALT DCL050 Handheld Work Light, which offers a combination of portability and power.
For those who require a more specialized solution, Ullman Devices RT-48LT Magnetic Work Light provides magnetic attachment for added convenience. Additionally, Snap-on Work Light and HYPERLITE LED Work Light are also worth considering.
Our Top Pick for the Best Work Light
When it comes to selecting the best work light for your needs, our top recommendation is the DEWALT DCL050 Handheld Work Light. This impressive tool from DEWALT boasts an array of features that make it a valuable addition to any professional or DIY workspace. Notably, its durable design, compact size, and lightweight construction enable easy portability and maneuverability, while its pivoting head and 360° rotating hook provide unparalleled flexibility and adaptability.
Additionally, the DCL050 offers excellent battery life, as well as a triple LED light with two brightness settings, ensuring that you can illuminate even the darkest workspaces with ease. Whether working indoors or outdoors, this powerful work light casts a brilliant beam of bright white light that effectively dispels darkness and enhances visibility. Check out the current price on Amazon for more information.
How to Choose the Best Work Light
Discovering the perfect work light is a breeze, thanks to the diverse range of options available. From traditional corded-electric models to innovative cordless battery-operated designs, you’ll find a plethora of choices that cater to your specific project or lifestyle needs.
Whether you’re looking for tripod-mounted lights, handheld options, stand-based illuminators, magnetic fixtures, or temporary bay lighting solutions for ceiling installations, there’s something for everyone in this vast array of work light possibilities.
Tripod Work Lights
Tripod work lights like the VonHaus Two-Head Work Light boast dual lights that deliver extremely powerful floodlight illumination. One of their standout features is the ability to easily set them up and get started or adjust the tripod to suit specific tasks, providing a high level of flexibility.
While there are some limitations to using this type of light – it requires an electric outlet or portable generator for power and has storage requirements – many tripods are surprisingly compact and easy to store, minimizing any potential drawbacks.
Handheld Work Light
When it comes to portable lighting solutions, handheld work lights like the DEWALT DCL050 offer unparalleled convenience. These cordless lights typically run on lithium-ion batteries or standard AA alkaline cells, providing a reliable source of super bright illumination. To ensure uninterrupted use, it’s crucial to keep the battery fully charged or have spare fresh batteries readily available.
Work Light with a Stand
When it comes to choosing a work light, consider one that offers flexibility and versatility. A model with both a stand and handle, like the Ustellar Work Light or Snap-on Work Light, provides hands-free illumination and effortless movement around your workspace. This set-up allows you to position the light exactly where you need it, whether on a stable surface or held in place by its handle.
Additionally, many work lights of this type are also available in cordless formats, such as the Bosch FL12 Work Light and DEWALT DCL510 Work Light, offering greater portability and convenience.
Magnetic Work Light
When it comes to magnetic work lights, there are several options available that can be attached to various surfaces. The Bosch FL12 and Ullman Devices RT-48LT Magnetic Work Light are two examples of reliable models that can be stuck onto any ferrous metal surface, including metal studs or under a car’s bonnet, providing ample lighting for various tasks.
Temporary Bay Work Light
Industrial-strength lighting solutions like the HYPERLITE Work Light are designed to illuminate large areas such as garages or warehouses. These powerful lights are easy to install, either on the ceiling or from rafters in a barn, and can be used for short-term or long-term purposes. While they may come with a higher price tag, bay work lights offer flexible solutions for space illumination needs.
LED Brightness
The incandescent light bulb, once the go-to choice for illuminating spaces, is slowly being phased out in favor of its superior LED counterpart. LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, offer a brighter, more efficient lighting solution that can fill even the largest rooms and outdoor areas with ease. Their longevity is also impressive, lasting up to 10,000, 30,000, or even 50,000 hours depending on the specific model.
When it comes to measuring the power of LED work lights, manufacturers often use wattages like 20, 30, 53, or 100-watts. However, most LEDs are actually measured in lumens, with higher values indicating greater brightness. Furthermore, multiple LED bulbs within a single work light can produce a wider beam angle, effectively illuminating large areas with a soft, diffused glow.
Another notable advantage of LEDs is their low energy output, which keeps them cool to the touch and makes them significantly more energy-efficient than halogen lights.
Cool or Warm LED Lights
When evaluating LED bulbs, it’s crucial to consider their temperature or tint, often measured in Kelvin (K). Some options have a cool white 5000K daylight glow that closely mimics natural light, while others offer a warm daylight glow around 3000-4000K. A cooler daylight bulb can enhance visibility in dark indoor or outdoor spaces, but the brightness can be overwhelming for the eyes.
In contrast, warmer LEDs are more gentle on the eyes and suitable for various settings, though they may not provide optimal illumination for tasks requiring fine detail.
Adjustable Work Lights
The flexibility of adjusting your light to meet your specific requirements can significantly enhance your overall experience, whether it’s tackling tasks at home or socializing with friends. A work light equipped with a versatile tripod or pivoting head allows you to precisely direct the light, effortlessly switching between a 90° vertical adjustment and a full 360° rotation for comprehensive illumination and unparalleled control.
Light Settings
Unlike standard work lights that typically only offer an on/off function, certain models, like the DEWALT DCL050, provide users with more flexibility by featuring multiple settings. This added control enables you to fine-tune the level of lighting to suit your specific needs and preferences.
10 Best Work Lights – Reviews
VonHaus Two-Head Work Light
Transform night into day with the VonHaus Two-Head Work Light, a powerful and efficient corded-electric solution. This innovative tool features long-lasting dual 20-watts LED bulbs that produce an impressive 4000 lumens, casting a super bright floodlight beam over a 15-square-feet area. The nice, bright-white color temperature of 5000K mimics natural daylight, making it ideal for illuminating poorly-lit areas and improving visibility.
You’ll be able to spot small details and vivid colors, which is particularly useful for tasks that require precision, such as electrical wiring. Designed with outdoor use in mind, the VonHaus Two-Head Work Light boasts a heavy-duty tripod with a durable and waterproof aluminum housing, and impact-resistant glass lenses. Although it can also be used indoors, take care when doing so, as the lights are extremely dazzling.
For ultimate flexibility, the sturdy telescopic legs are fully extendable up to a maximum height of 82.6-inches, allowing you to accurately project the wide beam to suit any project or activity. The detachable rotary headlamps can be fully adjusted from 30° down to 90° up, giving you complete control over the lighting. The work light’s safety features include no on/off switch, requiring you to turn it on and off at the power outlet, and energy-efficient lights that stay cool to the touch.
The quick-release mechanism ensures fast set-up or pack-down, while the generous 8.2-feet power cord provides ample flexibility. Available with either 4000 or 10000 lumen LED bulbs, the VonHaus Two-Head Work Light is backed by a one-year warranty and offers great value for money. While it may not have some of the bells and whistles, its high-quality construction, long-lasting performance, and versatility make it an excellent choice for many users.
HOMCOM Tripod Work Lights
The HOMCOM Tripod Work Lights boast a robust design, equipped with two exceptionally bright LED lights that provide superior floodlighting capabilities for both indoor and outdoor applications. The powder-coated steel stand is engineered to withstand rough work conditions, featuring securely locking tripod legs and weather-resistant glass lenses designed to repel dust and moisture.
With its telescoping design, the stand is height adjustable up to 6-feet, allowing for flexibility and precision lighting. The upper part of the frame can be removed and used independently with the handle, providing versatility in application. Each LED bulb delivers an impressive 5,000 lumens and lasts up to 50,000 hours, producing a crisp, white daylight beam that illuminates a large work area with ease.
Adjustable knobs enable 270° vertical tilt and 360° individual rotation of each light, allowing for precise placement and focus. When detached, the lights can be used in cramped spaces such as crawlspaces. The tripod is ETL-certified and features lights that remain cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns. Weighing just 13.57lbs, this work light is remarkably lightweight, with a foldable design and an extra-long 10-foot power cord for effortless movement around your workspace.
Ustellar Work Light
The Ustellar Work Light is a reliable and versatile solution for any project that requires illumination. Its industrial-style design features a 60-watt LED bulb that produces an impressive 6000 lumens, making it perfect for DIY renovations or car repairs. The light’s energy-efficient design ensures you’ll save 80% on your electricity bill compared to traditional lighting solutions.
The light itself is built with durability in mind, featuring a sturdy aluminum frame that’s both lightweight and waterproof (IP65 rating). The adjustable angle knobs allow for easy tilting of the light, providing up to 180° movement vertically and 360° horizontally. Additionally, the extra-long 16.4-foot power cord provides ample maneuverability around your workspace.
When it comes to portability, the work light features a sturdy padded handle that makes it easy to move around or hang for close-up work. The LED light itself stays cool to the touch due to its even heat dissipation, and the sealed on/off switch ensures safe use in outdoor environments. While there are some limitations to this product – such as being non-dimmable and not ideal for lighting large areas – the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
With a three-year limited warranty from Ustellar, you can be confident in your purchase. Overall, the Ustellar Work Light is an excellent value for its price, offering high-quality performance for indoor and outdoor use.
In360Light LED Work Light
The In360Light LED Work Light is an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable illumination for various tasks. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a garage owner, or someone hosting a garden party, this corded-electric work light provides exceptional lighting for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Despite its lightweight 3.5-pound design, the unit’s IP64 water-resistant Tritan copolyester resin housing is surprisingly durable and resistant to impacts.
This, combined with rubber feet and shock absorption bumpers, ensures stability on any surface. The BigBright work light features 162 low-energy consumption LED bulbs that last for an impressive 10,000 hours, producing a powerful 6,000 lumens of ultra-bright daylight white light. The light’s simple rocker-style switch allows for easy activation, and its frosted surface eliminates harsh shadows by providing a 360-degree diffused light beam.
With a long 7-foot power cord, hanging strap, and the ability to be placed on the floor or attached to a tripod, this work light offers great task versatility. Additionally, it features an internal cooling fan for safe operation. In360Light stands behind their product with a limited lifetime warranty, although the bulb lifespan is not included in the coverage.
Overall, the work light’s high quality, great value, and affordability make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable illumination. Some users may find it slightly pricey or smaller than expected, but its numerous benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks.
Bosch FL12 Work Light
The Bosch FL12 Work Light is an exceptional illumination tool designed for DIY renovators, mechanics, and outdoor enthusiasts. This compact work light boasts a hands-free design and best-in-class brightness, thanks to its 10 high-intensity LED bulbs that emit an impressive 300 lumens. The device offers adjustable lighting levels, ranging from intense power-saving settings to dimmer options by simply holding down the power button.
The FL12’s durable yet lightweight 11.
2-ounce reinforced housing is perfect for rugged worksites. Its sturdy plastic stand features an adjustable bracket and 200° articulation, allowing for customizable lighting angles. The work light runs up to 6 hours on a 12-volt 2.0 Ah battery or 12 hours on a 4.0 Ah battery, ensuring extended working periods.
This versatile tool offers unparalleled flexibility with its two powerful magnets, enabling attachment to any ferrous surface, as well as a handy carabiner clip for securing the light to your belt. The device also features a standard tripod compatibility via its ¼-inch screw thread and a nail hook for wall mounting to illuminate specific workspaces.
Bosch backs this product with a comprehensive 1-year warranty, providing added peace of mind.
While the work light may carry a higher price tag than some alternatives, its exceptional quality, value, and performance make it an excellent choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.
DEWALT DCL510 Work Light
The DEWALT DCL510 Work Light is an indispensable addition to any toolbox. Its versatility, durability, and portability make it perfect for various applications, from DIY repairs to emergency lighting situations. The rugged yellow/black splash-proof plastic housing can withstand rough handling, while its pivoting head rotates 360° for unparalleled illumination flexibility. With a bright 130 lumens LED bulb, this cordless work light illuminates small spaces with ease.
The DCL510’s magnets allow it to be attached to metal studs or under vehicle bonnets, and the sturdy kickstand lets you position it anywhere around your workspace. For added convenience, it works seamlessly with any DEWALT 12-volt MAX battery, providing a respectable 4.5-hour runtime. When the light is running low, it flashes twice every 30 seconds as a gentle reminder to recharge. The on/off button is easily accessible and can be operated with gloves.
Weighing in at just 8 ounces, this compact work light is lightweight enough to carry anywhere. You can either attach it to your fridge or use the belt clip for quick accessibility. DEWALT offers a comprehensive package of support, including a 90-day money-back guarantee, a three-year limited warranty, and a one-year free service contract. Some notable pros include its high-quality construction, great value for money, strong and durable plastic, and compact size.
It’s perfect for small workspaces, DIY renovations, electrical work, car repairs, or emergency lighting situations. The cordless freedom, bright LED output, sturdy kickstand, and pivoting head make it an excellent choice.
DEWALT DCL050 Handheld Work Light
The DEWALT DCL050 Handheld Work Light stands out with its exceptional illumination capabilities, thanks to three ultra-bright LEDs that produce a powerful 250 lumens of light. The work light offers two brightness settings: 500 lumens for maximum output or 200 lumens for extended run-time. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for tasks in dark spaces, such as crawlspace repairs or electrical wiring fixes.
The pivoting head provides flexibility when lighting various surfaces, while the built-in rotating hook allows for easy hanging from a structure. Constructed with a durable and robust yellow/black plastic housing, the work light features an over-molded lens for added durability. An ergonomic trigger-style handle ensures comfortable use throughout the day, and the on/off button is conveniently located on the front of the trigger.
The non-marring surface belt-hook enables safe transportation during tasks, and the tool’s lightweight 1.7lbs design makes it compact and portable. The DCL050 can be powered by a DEWALT 20-volt lithium-ion battery or used with DEWALT’s 180+ fast-growing tool system. Runtime is excellent, ranging from 4 to 17 hours depending on the chosen light setting, and charging takes only 60 minutes.
Additionally, DEWALT offers a comprehensive warranty package, including a 90-day money-back guarantee, three-year limited warranty, and one-year free service. Overall, this work light boasts numerous advantages, including high quality, great value for money, strong durability, and impressive runtime.
Ullman Devices RT-48LT Magnetic Work Light
Snap-on Work Light
The Snap-on Work Light stands out as a versatile and portable option for any job site or home workspace. Its 46 long-lasting LED bulbs generate an impressive 2000 lumens, producing a bright cool white light that effectively illuminates indoor and outdoor spaces. One of its most appealing features is the ability to adjust the angle knobs, allowing users to tilt the light to suit their needs.
When directed upwards, the light effectively diffuses throughout a room, making it ideal for photography, video, construction, automotive repairs, sports, or any other project that requires high-quality lighting. The work light’s lightweight design weighs in at just 4lbs, with an ergonomic padded handle that makes it easy to lift and carry.
The durable metalwork is not only rugged but also features a safety sealed toggle-style on/off switch, ensuring the lights remain cool to the touch during operation. A 6-foot power cord with a grounded 3-prong plug rounds out the package, making it easy to use the work light anywhere. Plus, Snap-on’s limited lifetime warranty provides added peace of mind.
Some notable pros include its high quality, excellent value for money, and industrial-style design that can be used in both professional and home settings. The light’s incredibly bright and long-lasting LED bulbs make it an ideal choice for indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, the safety toggle-style sealed on/off switch and adjustable angle knobs allow for easy tilting of the light.
The only notable con is the lack of lighting settings, although some users have reported discrepancies in Snap-on’s warranty honor. Nevertheless, the work light remains a top-notch option for anyone seeking a reliable and efficient lighting solution.
HYPERLITE LED Work Light
The HYPERLITE LED Work Light is an exceptional choice for providing reliable and efficient lighting in various settings, including barns, workshops, warehouses, and basements. Its unique design features a low-profile circular shape measuring 12.1 x 12.1 x 7.5 inches, making it both stylish and functional. The light’s beam has a dimmable angle of 120°, and an optional acrylic reflector cover can boost the already impressive lighting output by up to 20% in dark environments.
The HYPERLITE boasts a cutting-edge LED bulb that delivers an astonishing 14,000 lumens while being energy-efficient. With a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, this light ensures prolonged usage and reduced maintenance. The corded-electric design allows for seamless integration into existing infrastructure, providing ample visibility in any space.
The work light’s construction is robust and durable, featuring a commercial-grade UL/DCL certified build that can withstand temperatures ranging from -104°F to 122°F. The pure aluminum cold-forged housing enables exceptional thermal transfer, minimizing damage and promoting optimal heat dissipation. This ensures the light will continue to perform exceptionally over an extended period. Installation is surprisingly quick and easy, taking only three minutes to complete.
The package includes a free American hook, five-foot power cord, safety rope, and 110-volt standard American plug for effortless power sourcing. To top it all off, HYPERLITE offers a 30-day replacement guarantee and a comprehensive five-year warranty on the work light. The product is available with various LED bulb options, including 100-watt, 150-watt, 200-watt, and 250-watt choices, as well as 4000K warm daylight and 5000K cool-light daylight bulbs.
While the initial investment may be higher than some alternatives, the long-term benefits of this reliable work light make it a worthwhile investment.
Our Top Pick for the Best Work Light
Our top pick for a reliable work light is the DEWALT DCL050 Handheld Work Light, an exceptional choice that boasts a plethora of impressive features. This compact and lightweight device is built to withstand the demands of professional job sites or home projects, offering a pivoting head, 360° rotating hook, and excellent battery life.
The triple LED light with two brightness settings provides unparalleled illumination, capable of casting a powerful beam of bright white light that can dispel even the darkest work areas. Whether working indoors or outdoors, this versatile work light is an indispensable tool for any professional or DIY enthusiast.
