Review: Is the Updated Sonic Tools LED Pen Light Worth It?

I was chatting with the folks over at Sonic Tools USA about screwdrivers, and they mentioned the LED Pen Light with genuine enthusiasm. My first thought was… It’s a pen light; what’s the big deal? My second thought was… It’s Sonic; they don’t get excited about “meh” tools. So, I got my hands on one to see if this $55 pen light is worth the hype.

Sonic LED Pen Flashlight Basics

Specifications

• Power Source: Integrated lithium battery
• Runtime: 2.5 hours (tip and main low), 1.5 hours (main high)
• Charge Time: 2 hours
• Output: 100 lumens (tip and main low), 220 lumens (main high)
• Ingress Rating: IP44
• Length: 6.4 inches
• Weight: 58g/2.0 ounces

Key Features

• 3 Modes: Traditional pen light tip plus high and low main light on the side
• Pocket Clip: Extra-long pocket clip keeps the light in your pocket securely
• Magnet: Stick the light on ferrous surfaces
• Aluminum Housing: Improves durability and makes the light easier to clean off

Using the Sonic Pen Light

Physical Characteristics

When I picked up this pen light for the first time, I immediately noticed how lightweight it was. Of course, pen lights shouldn’t weigh much, but this one features a metal housing, so it wasn’t a given. It weighed just 2.0 ounces on my scale, so I was pleased. The last thing I want is for my precision detail light to feel heavy in my hand.

The housing has an elliptical shape that won’t roll away when you set it down. Many of the models I’ve used are round, but the pocket clip prevents them from rolling too far. Still, knowing I can set this one down and it’s going to stay exactly where I put it is nice, especially around the edges of what I’m working on.

There’s no overmold to add cushioning, though I don’t think that’s something pen lights always need. Just wipe any grease off your hand before using it, and your grip should be fine.

To turn the light on and off, click the side button. Clicking it multiple times cycles through the three modes. Those modes are part of what sets this model apart. On the front, you have a typical 100-lumen pen light. On the side, there’s a second light that produces 100 or 220 lumens. There’s also a deep pocket clip with a magnet on top.

Applications

That combination of side light, magnets, and clip makes Sonic’s design much more versatile than most pen lights. The throw is broad, offering an excellent view of your work area even when you’re tight against it. Being able to stick it to a ferrous surface, like an electrical box or most vehicle hoods, makes it easier to get light where you want it while leaving both hands free. Even if you can’t use the magnet, you can clip the light to your shirt and light up the area in front of you.

I was able to inspect the well of my boat for corrosion issues and get a clearer picture deep into my truck’s engine bay. Thanks to the magnets, I also got a hands-free diagnostic look at my breaker box and the wiring on a clothes washer. There’s simply a lot more you can do that a standard pen light can’t.

The light quality is another highlight. It has a slightly blue color temperature that makes colors pop cleanly. Lights with a warmer hue tend to make yellow and green difficult for my eyes to distinguish (usually on wiring), but I didn’t have any issues keeping them straight while using this one.

If you’re a true flashlight aficionado, note that neither light casts a perfect beam. The outer edge (spill) shifts away from the slightly cool center to a pretty warm tone, and you can make out the shapes of the LED chips. That’s being awfully nitpicky for a pen light, though.

Should You Buy It?

Even for Pros, pen lights aren’t the most feature-rich work lights you’ll use. They’re designed to help you get up close and personal in tight, potentially messy situations. Still, Sonic nails the basics while adding genuinely meaningful upgrades that make this mode better than other pen lights I’ve used.

When it comes to suitability, it’s an excellent choice for any tradesman who uses a pen light, not just the mechanics Sonic usually caters to. The addition of the side light and magnet solidifies its place in virtually any tool bag.

Keep in mind that while the side light is super-helpful, the runtime is somewhat limited, and you need a couple of hours to recharge. If your job calls for multiple hours of use with that style, a magnetic light with a larger and/or replaceable lithium battery may be a better bet.

Also, if you frequently use your mouth to hold your light (I know you’re not supposed to, but needs must, as the British say), you may want something with some overmold around the tail to protect your teeth.

If you like what you see, you can order it directly from Sonic Tools USA for $55.