Ryobi Expands the 18V LED Lineup with a Hybrid Magnetic Task Light
It’s hard to keep track of how many Ryobi lights we’ve reviewed over the years. Nevertheless, the brand continues to put out new models that solve key problems. Such is the case with the Ryobi 18V Hybrid Task Light, which adds some welcome design improvements over previous models. I got my hands on one to help you decide if it deserves a spot in your workshop or garage.
Note: Check out some of our favorite LED work lights here!
Ryobi 18V Hybrid Task Light Performance
- Model: Ryobi PCL635
- Max brightness: 1500 lumens
- 3 brightness settings
- Up to 48 hours of runtime (with 6.0Ah 18V battery)
- All-day runtime with AC extension cord
The Ryobi PCL635 light features a hybrid design that lets you power it using either an 18V One+ battery or an extension cord. Hybrid tools like this are useful in tons of applications, giving you the choice between all-day runtime and the convenience of portability.
This light has an output of up to 1500 lumens, with 3 brightness modes to choose from.
- High: 1500 lumens
- Medium: 800 lumens
- Low: 200 lumens
With a 6.0Ah High Performance battery (sold separately), it can run for up to 48 hours straight on the lowest brightness setting.
Lighting Characteristics
1500 lumens is a lot of light for such a small source. But the way it delivers that light is also important.
The Ryobi 18V Hybrid Task light casts a fairly wide beam for a light of this size. I was able to light up a whole wall in the highest brightness setting, but it’s also suited for detail work in medium and low, like tinkering under the hood of your car or truck.
The light temperature is more on the neutral side, not leaning blue or yellow in any notable way. White lights are better for seeing true colors, so I usually prefer that design over more yellow or blue options.
Ryobi 18V Hybrid Task Light Design
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Magnetic base
- 360° panel rotation
- 180° panel pivot
- Charge mobile devices with USB-C port
- 2-by metal hanging hook
The PCL635 allows for up to 360° panel rotation and a pivot angle of up to 180°, letting you aim the light in virtually any direction.
This light weighs just 2 pounds as a bare tool. One of its more unique features is its magnetic base that lets you attach it to metal surfaces. While it’s a concept we’ve seen before in Ryobi’s USB Lithium tools, as well as lights from other brands, the PCL635 is the first 18V light in Ryobi’s lineup to have this feature.
If you don’t have a steel surface handy, you can also use the built-in 2x hanging hook for at-height lighting.
Finally, this light is equipped with a USB-C port for charging your mobile devices while you work. However, if you’re using an 18V battery, it goes without saying (but I’m going to say it anyway) that this will affect your overall runtime.
Ryobi 18V Hybrid Task Light Price
This light retails for $79.97 as a bare tool, and there are currently no kit options. Like all Ryobi tools, you can find it at The Home Depot. Ryobi backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.
Should You Buy It?
While Ryobi has literally dozens of work light options, it’s hard not to make the case for the PSC635 task light. Between its hybrid power options, strong magnetic base, and long runtimes, this light is a compelling pick for those looking to elevate their lighting game. While there are more budget-friendly models in the 18V One+ lineup, this model’s upgraded feature set makes it one of the most versatile for those on Ryobi’s 18V platform.
