Choosing the Best Work Light

LED lights have a greater efficacy than the other three bulbs. LEDs contain a small driver that maintains a steady electrical current to the bulb, resulting in a bright light that can shine into even the darkest corners. LEDs have a higher initial cost but pay for themselves over time due to their longevity and energy savings.

When we think of the traditional light bulb, incandescent bulbs are what come to mind. Its familiar design and low cost make it a common choice for work lights, especially clamp or handheld designs. Incandescents are inexpensive compared to other bulbs but are more fragile and susceptible to breaking if the work light is dropped or falls.

Halogen light bulbs produce a bright white light making them ideal for use in work lights. These bulbs are basically a better version of the standard incandescents, with better efficacy and longer life. Halogens are sensitive to oils in the skin, so using a cloth or nitrile gloves when changing out the bulb is essential.

Fluorescent bulbs are usually long glass tubes, rather than a bulb shape. This enables them to shine a high-intensity light over larger spaces or give fluorescent light to smaller areas. Many of today’s fluorescent lights are Compact Fluorescent Lights, or CFLs. They have a much longer life than regular bulbs and only use about a third of the energy.

If you are working on a project that will be time-consuming, then a plug-in work light should be the choice. Electric work lights alleviate the need to change out and recharge batteries. A drawback is that they need to be near an outlet or need the proper extension cords to operate. Plug-in work lights can also be bulky and awkward to move. Some models are rated for outdoor use and wet location use.

With the popularity of cordless tools, cordless work lights have been a welcome addition to the lineup. Without the need of a power cord, the ability to position the light where needed is an advantage. Although these lights are not suited for long periods of use, having multiple batteries to swap can help here. These lights are also better suited for outdoor use as again, the need for a power cord is not necessary.

Dual-power work lights offer the best of both power options. They combine the long-lasting power of a plug-in light with the portability of a cordless unit. These lights are perfect for the job site, working at home, or on your next camping trip. These lights come in freestanding and handheld styles.

Portable work lights can be a valuable addition to both the Pro and DIY toolbox. With the combination of small size and big light capabilities, these lights are rated for both indoor and outdoor usage, along with some also being rated for wet conditions. The most popular portable lights are LED and are plug-in models. Other types are battery-operated with fluorescent lights. Some models also are able to fold flat when not in use for easy carrying and storage.

Stand work lights offer the advantage of being able to adjust the light direction and height. Usually mounted to a tripod, stand lights come in one or two-light versions, making them capable of lighting a large work area, such as painting or hanging sheetrock. Most stand lights are LED and do need an electrical outlet to work. The stand will collapse for storage and transportation.

String work lights are unique in that they are individual lights combined to make a string, or as a continuous string of work lights that can be joined with more strings to provide light over a larger area than stand lights can provide. String work lights are rated for indoor and outdoor use and are usually LED with light covers to protect against moisture and dust. Many feature an included hook or carabiner to aid in hanging them along barns, attics, warehouses, even on a patio as utility party lighting.

Hanging work lights are great to have due to their ability to illuminate dark and cramped work areas where larger work lights won’t fit. These lights can provide a concentrated spotlight or up to 360° of light to fully cover your work area. You can choose between a singular work light or others that have the option of being able to be strung together for light in a wider area. Hanging work lights are great for small areas like attics and crawlspaces.

When work lights are mentioned, many people might think of the old metal cage incandescent work light that their parents may have used when working on the family car. While that light is still around, modern technology has brought us smaller, brighter handheld work lights that have tilting heads and adjustable light intensity. With many models being battery-operated, you can have freedom of movement without needing a power cord, making them great for work spaces or a camping tent. The classic design is still available for working on cars and trucks or lighting a small area like under the kitchen sink.