Three cordless work lights from Milwaukee, DEWALT and Makita list between 2,500 and 4000 lumens on their highest setting, so a battery light can now cover a dark winter jobsite without a generator. The makers publish their numbers in different ways, so here is what each official page actually says.
Which cordless work light is brightest?
DEWALT lists up to 4000 lumens for the 20V MAX DCL079B tripod light, but its page does not give lumens for each of the three settings. Makita lists 3,000 lm on high for the 18V LXT DML811. Milwaukee lists 2,500 lumens on high for the M18 ROCKET Dual Power Tower Light 2131-20.
| Light | Battery platform | High | Medium | Low | Weather rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 2131-20 | M18 | 2,500 | 1,100 | 700 | Not listed |
| DEWALT DCL079B | 20V MAX | up to 4000 | Not listed | Not listed | IP-55 |
| Makita DML811 | 18V LXT | 3,000 | 1,500 | 750 | IP65 |
Highest setting brightness in lumens as listed by each maker. DEWALT states “up to” for its top setting.
DEWALT notes that 20V MAX is a maximum initial voltage of 20 V with a nominal voltage of 18 V, so its battery sits in the same class as an 18V pack.
How long does each light run?
Runtime claims use different batteries and settings, so treat them as a guide and not a race. Milwaukee says up to 13 hours with an M18 REDLITHIUM XC 5.0 battery pack and does not name the setting on its page. DEWALT says over 11 hours on its low setting with the DCB206 battery. Makita’s spec table lists 3, 7 and 13 hours on high, medium and low, and its description cites 11 hours on low with a 5.0Ah battery.
DEWALT and Makita attach their longest figures to the low setting. Makita’s 3 hours on high is the only high setting runtime figure among the three pages, so a crew that needs full output should plan on swapping batteries.
Can it run from a wall outlet?
Milwaukee’s dual power tower light can be powered by an extension cord, although the page lists no cord specifications. Makita says the DML811 runs on battery or AC power and includes an AC adapter. The DEWALT page lists the DCL079B as light only with the battery sold separately and does not mention a corded option.
What do the sizes and warranties say?
Milwaukee’s light head extends from 4 to 7 feet, and the page gives a limited lifetime warranty for the LEDs but no tool warranty. DEWALT’s telescoping pole extends the head to 7 feet, and the tool carries a 3 Year Limited Warranty, 1 Year Free Service and 90 Days Satisfaction Guaranteed. Makita lists 10.4 lbs with a battery, which is sold separately, and a 3-year limited warranty. DEWALT rates the DCL079B IP-55 and Makita rates the DML811 IP65, while the Milwaukee page shows no rating.
Who it suits
- Professional tradesperson on M18: the 2131-20 lists three settings from 700 to 2,500 lumens. Check which battery you will use, since the 13 hour figure is quoted for an XC 5.0 pack.
- Crew on 20V MAX: the DCL079B has the highest brightness claim and an IP-55 rating. Buy the battery separately, and note that the 4000 lumen figure is described as “up to”.
- Crew on 18V LXT: the DML811 lists every setting, a corded option and the only high setting runtime of the three. Check the 10.4 lbs weight with the battery before carrying it up stairs.
- Homeowner on a budget: none of the three pages lists a Canadian price, so compare current prices at Canadian retailers and pick the light that matches the batteries you already own.
- First time buyer: choose by battery platform first. A light that needs a new battery type costs more than the sticker price suggests.
- Fleet buyer: compare the warranty terms above, since Milwaukee’s page names the LED warranty only.
What should you check next?
Open the Milwaukee, DEWALT and Makita product pages for the current kit and bare tool options, then compare prices at Canadian retailers before the early winter dark arrives.
