Tripod lights have been on the market for quite some time from a variety of brands. However, with recent advancements in battery technology, we’ve witnessed cordless jobsite lighting solutions that offer true corded performance and impressive runtimes. Metabo’s latest 18V lighting entry features a cordless tripod design, marking it the brand’s first. I’m shedding some light on this model to help you understand how it can brighten up your jobsite.
Metabo 18V Cordless Tripod Light: Overview
- Model: Metabo BSA 18 LED 5000 DUO-S
- Weight: 4.8 lbs (bare)
- Max brightness: 5000 lumens
- Two light panels
- Two brightness settings
- Max height: 6.5 ft
- Folds down to 36 inches for easy transport
While Metabo has quite a few cordless jobsite lighting options in its repertoire, this model is the brand’s first tripod light. It features two individual panels that each reach brightness levels of up to 5000 lumens. Both panels can be turned up to 360° to target illumination in any direction.
Its tripod design also allows you to set its height from 3 feet when compressed to 6.5 feet when fully extended. Metabo claims this light’s setup takes only seconds. All it takes is folding down the tripod legs, inserting the battery, and turning the power switch to your desired setting.
When you’re done working, it’s just as easy to break the light down for transport and storage. There’s also a convenient carrying handle on the side to help you move it between areas when the light is folded. Without the battery, it weighs just 4.8 pounds, which is plenty easy for most people to carry with one arm.
This light features two brightness modes. There’s a single power switch that toggles between off, 50% brightness, and full brightness.
For runtimes, Metabo estimates up to 8 hours on low using an 18V 10.0Ah battery, or up to 4 hours on high. It’s compatible with Metabo 18V batteries or any 18V battery from a Cordless Alliance System brand.
I do wish that the design team had gone with a hybrid power function for those who prefer corded power. However, as with any tool, you can supplement your runtime with additional batteries.
Metabo 18V Cordless Tripod Light Price
This light retails for $293 at Acme Tools for the bare tool. Be sure to pick up a Metabo 18V battery and charger if you’re not already on this platform. Metabo backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.
Should You Buy It?
Tripod lights make for a nice upgrade to most jobsites, especially for tradesmen and contractors who often work in dark areas into the evening or on overnight shifts. They’re convenient and throw light much further than standard work lights, and in the case of this Metabo tripod light, the adjustable panels allow for light customization.
However, at almost $300 for the bare tool, it’s not as friendly on the wallet as some models. Value-minded pros may be better off with something like the Ryobi TriPower Tripod Light, which is listed at $169 at the time of writing. That model runs on Ryobi 18V or 40V batteries, or you can connect a cord for all-day runtime. The trade-off with that model is brightness, as Metabo’s version achieves 1200 more lumens than Ryobi’s.
If you’re on Metabo’s 18V platform and don’t want to invest in another system, this one should serve you well. Plus, Metabo’s 3-year warranty is the icing on the cake, with no registration required.
