NEW: Festool SYSLITE LED accu lamp

[jmbfestool]

what other lights are out there in the same form factor? it sounds expensive but i have paid more than that for my surefire.

flashlight people are even crazier than festoolies....

http://www.surefire.com/M6LT?utm_source=surefire&utm_medium=surefire&utm_campaign=flashlights_M6LT

this is currently US $575, but was released at US$750 or so, and did so well that they dropped their price the
first month....

CREE makes about the best led's, but since the japanese disaster, there has been a lot of price fluctuations
on all sorts of items......

This is my Torch I bought for my mums Birthday the other week!
http://www.flashaholics.co.uk/jetbeam/jetbeam-rrt3.html

Is your mum a constable or SAS member?

No just a Dog walker! lol    

Im gutted cus they have just brought out this one  Newer Version RRT3Newer Version RRT3!  and its pretty much the same price!  I feel like seeing if I can send the one I got back get the newer version! The thing is the guy said when the newer model comes out it would cost alot more and I was pretty much at the limit on what I wanted to spend on my mum so decided to not wait for the newer model [mad] but it aint a lot more  [mad]!

Also noticed this one Nitcore Tm11 which is smaller and more powerfull as my mum did tell me she wish I had brought her a smaller light and it had a battery indicator as she said it just turns of with out warning when the batteries run out which she says it a little annoying!  

Gutted now!  

JMB

 

[Ken Nagrod]

I'm surprised you didn't get her one of those Festool headlamps.

[attachimg=1]

 

[jmbfestool]

I'm surprised you didn't get her one of those Festool headlamps.

[attachimg=1]

I did and its a its an absolute pile of crap!  IF I can find it ill give it to some one who wants it for free they just pay for the posting!

JMB

 

[Ken Nagrod]

Does it come with the styrofoam head?

 

[jmbfestool]

Does it come with the styrofoam head?

Im afraid not!

Might not even come with the strap if I cant find it lol!

 

[jmbfestool]

[tongue] My jetbeam hand torchs looks like it lights up a room the same OR more than the Festool syslite and it only has 1 LED  the Syslite as 6 what gives?!?!?! lol [tongue] [tongue]

JetBeam

 

[redbird]

Any update on the syslite when and if it will make it to the US [thumbs up]

 

[Kev]

I got to play with it in the dark recently ...

My expectations were very high and I must admit - they just weren't met.

Festool as a design and engineering company do some great stuff and the Syslite form factor, durability and the fact that it takes their batteries is great. ... Couldn't do that with the job site radio could you Festool ??

Price particularly in Oz is very high.

I've had a lot of experience with high performance bicycle lighting (on and off road) - the light coming from the syslite would really impress someone that's only been exposed to reasonable quality torches ... but if you're expecting something like the light you get from say a video camera recording light or similar - that's not the type of experience you will have. That said, the spread of the beam is good and it illuminates a broad area. Light intensity 1 metre form you work is very good.

So, good but not great. LED technology is the limiting factor.

The fact that it's compact, leverages your existing Festool batteries and could probably be fitted to the same tripod you use for a laser level are all pluses. Probably perfect for working inside a cabinet or in other tight spaces.

Woud I get one ? There's a lot of things on the "must have" list - the syslite sits on the "maybe" list ... unlike sanding (you go straight to Festool), if I need portable lighting I would shop about for options.

Something most people already know, LED's aren't all the same. Festool are obviously using high quality LED's.

 

[jmbfestool]

I got to play with it in the dark recently ...

My expectations were very high and I must admit - they just weren't met.

Festool as a design and engineering company do some great stuff and the Syslite form factor, durability and the fact that it takes their batteries is great. ... Couldn't do that with the job site radio could you Festool ??

Price particularly in Oz is very high.

I've had a lot of experience with high performance bicycle lighting (on and off road) - the light coming from the syslite would really impress someone that's only been exposed to reasonable quality torches ... but if you're expecting something like the light you get from say a video camera recording light or similar - that's not the type of experience you will have. That said, the spread of the beam is good and it illuminates a broad area. Light intensity 1 metre form you work is very good.

So, good but not great. LED technology is the limiting factor.

The fact that it's compact, leverages your existing Festool batteries and could probably be fitted to the same tripod you use for a laser level are all pluses. Probably perfect for working inside a cabinet or in other tight spaces.

Woud I get one ? There's a lot of things on the "must have" list - the syslite sits on the "maybe" list ... unlike sanding (you go straight to Festool), if I need portable lighting I would shop about for options.

Something most people already know, LED's aren't all the same. Festool are obviously using high quality LED's.

Just out of curiosity cus you say you would shop around!  I own TWO Festool Syslites have had them for a bit now and love them and I cant find an alternative any where.  So I am assuming you know of lights which are as good or better?!  Because be honest I cant find ANYTHING which comes close.     

I gotta add just to save confusing!  These other lights which might be a competitor to Syslites need to be:

1. Portable
2. Durable
3. Mains AND battery operated
4. Ability to attach external batteries
5. Bright (with decent spread)

With them 5 main pointers I cant find any other lights which meet them needs. (3year warrenty is also a bonus)

If there is any I would like to know cus I know festool aint the be all end all and if their is something better I would like to keep it in mind.

JMB

 

[Tinker]

I have permanent over head lites in three locations in my shop.  Two are recessed.  I also have two clamp to the overhead floor joists that can be moved around but the cords get in the way now. I need more light to add to specific locations.  With the spaghetti of cords around my boom-arm, I do not need more cords to hang myself on.  I have been talking to my electrician about adding more lights.  that means more wiring to be installed plus more outlet boxes.  When i saw that demo of the Syslite, i was quite amazed as it appears to give better spread than either of my recessed lites.  By the time i have wiring done and outlet boxes for lighting, I am sure the cost would be far in excess of $200 +/-.  With my overhead joists being at only 6-8, i could save lots of $$$ by installing hooks to hang a lantern (Syslite) at only point needed at any particular time.  If the light is as good as it appeared in the video, i think it would be a very good deal for my situation.  If i had a shop with good lighting and more reflective wall and ceiling surfaces to provide better distribution of the existing liting, it would probably be a waste of money.

Translated: I have a relative (wife's nephew) who has told me he could get any Festoys I needed.  I have not taken advantage of his offer for any of the corded toys, but something like this might be a good plan.  I do know when it will become available in NA.  As soon as i get the electrician in here to install new wiring and outlets.  [scared] [unsure] [sad]
Tinker

 

[Holzhacker]

I've been using my Syslite for going on 3 months now and am still very pleased with it. Glad I bought it. Very convenient, good light and battery. My other major light is a Streamlight firebox, the Syslite stands up to it very well. No, neither are the cheapest lights around but they aren't supposed to be.
I really don't understand why this is a NAINA product. If Festool is concerned about the US price point they could consider eliminating the bag. Great little bag for the light and chargers, however I haven't used my bag since I put the lite into service. The lite is usually in a Systainer or hanging from my pants. At some point I'll probably repurpose the bag for something else.
One other nice feature, when the battery gets low the lite switches from high to low instead of just going OFF. Very helpful and good forethought on the part of Festool designers. Thanks

 

[EWTHeckman]

Because be honest I cant find ANYTHING which comes close.     

I gotta add just to save confusing!  These other lights which might be a competitor to Syslites need to be:

1. Portable
2. Durable
3. Mains AND battery operated
4. Ability to attach external batteries
5. Bright (with decent spread)

When I was at Lowe's today, I noticed that DeWalt has something somewhat similar:

DC020 Cordless/Corded Work Light

Apparently it does not have an internal battery, but it can run off either mains or a battery for cordless tools. I also doubt that it's as durable as the Syslite since it's florescent, but there it is.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

When I was at Lowe's today, I noticed that DeWalt has something somewhat similar:

DC020 Cordless/Corded Work Light

Apparently it does not have an internal battery, but it can run off either mains or a battery for cordless tools. I also doubt that it's as durable as the Syslite since it's florescent, but there it is.

Absolutely not similar. I have used one of these.

- Nowhere even close to the same brightness, you'd be better off using your lighter  [tongue]
- Not rugged and durable, feels like a toy, flimsy
- Absolutely huge in comparison, not good for small spaces or to be hand held, it's about 12x12x6" roughly
- The light was still very focused
- $20 a pop every time you have to replace the bulb, LEDs last forever
- No internal battery, requires an external battery or AC power
- I seem to recall there's no way to hang it but there is a kickstand that pops out of the back to prop it at an angle
- The clear plastic lenses is very thin and prone to damage
- Did I mention it's not nearly as bright?

For the money, you'll want the SysLite instead. Hold off.  [wink]

 

[Kev]

I got to play with it in the dark recently ...

My expectations were very high and I must admit - they just weren't met.

Festool as a design and engineering company do some great stuff and the Syslite form factor, durability and the fact that it takes their batteries is great. ... Couldn't do that with the job site radio could you Festool ??

Price particularly in Oz is very high.

I've had a lot of experience with high performance bicycle lighting (on and off road) - the light coming from the syslite would really impress someone that's only been exposed to reasonable quality torches ... but if you're expecting something like the light you get from say a video camera recording light or similar - that's not the type of experience you will have. That said, the spread of the beam is good and it illuminates a broad area. Light intensity 1 metre form you work is very good.

So, good but not great. LED technology is the limiting factor.

The fact that it's compact, leverages your existing Festool batteries and could probably be fitted to the same tripod you use for a laser level are all pluses. Probably perfect for working inside a cabinet or in other tight spaces.

Woud I get one ? There's a lot of things on the "must have" list - the syslite sits on the "maybe" list ... unlike sanding (you go straight to Festool), if I need portable lighting I would shop about for options.

Something most people already know, LED's aren't all the same. Festool are obviously using high quality LED's.

Just out of curiosity cus you say you would shop around!   I own TWO Festool Syslites have had them for a bit now and love them and I cant find an alternative any where.  So I am assuming you know of lights which are as good or better?!  Because be honest I cant find ANYTHING which comes close.     

I gotta add just to save confusing!  These other lights which might be a competitor to Syslites need to be:

1. Portable
2. Durable
3. Mains AND battery operated
4. Ability to attach external batteries
5. Bright (with decent spread)

With them 5 main pointers I cant find any other lights which meet them needs. (3year warrenty is also a bonus)

If there is any I would like to know cus I know festool aint the be all end all and if their is something better I would like to keep it in mind.

JMB

I was writing a really long reply and ran out of juice ... ironic!

For some strange reason local (in Oz) Festool pricing has got quite silly $AU299 for the Syslite - that's over 200 pounds at the moment.

I don't typically buy just on price, Festool tools are unique in a lot of ways ... take the Domino ... (but again at $AU1,975 ... that's about 1,330 pounds for the XL).

Anyway - my point is, if I find the need for this sort of lighting I (personally) would look into other options (yes, after rationalising needs and features I could still end up with one or more Syslites). My guess would be that Festool may bring out a laser level soon ... Imagine a nice Sys1 with two Syslites, a 4V1H self levelling laser and three flexible clamps with mounts ... oohhh, I'd be really tempted - but in that space I'd still shop about.

The Syslite IS good - two lighting output levels is very handy as well as everything else you mentioned.

For an ideal Festool based lighting setup, I would want 3 Syslites, two tripods and at least two extra batteries ... here that's about $1,300+, so I would look at what else I could get first (I'd want two set on tripods to fill a space with light and reduce shadow, then one hanging up close for cutting, measuring, etc)

There are many outside work lights made up with various configurations of 3 watt LED's - this is probably where I'd start looking. I could easily adapt these sorts of lights to run off a cheap transformer or even Festool batteries. This would cater for the "fill" lighting ... then I'd need something slightly different for the up close work.

To date, most power tool companies offering work lights have been making torches or lanterns. There are many portable work lights available that are based on large arrays of cheap LEDs. Right now the Syslite may be unique. It's certainly the only one that takes Festool batteries! (Apart from the Protool light)

You're evil JMB  [mad]  if I go out and buy a Syslite now it'll be you're fault ...

 

[fezza]

Kev, it hurts to hand over the cash for this little light, but once you've got one, you'll be gutted you never got one sooner. Couldn't be without one, it gets used all the time, so its given us great value.

 

[Kev]

Kev, it hurts to hand over the cash for this little light, but once you've got one, you'll be gutted you never got one sooner. Couldn't be without one, it gets used all the time, so its given us great value.

Yeh - a hook outside near the barbecue is all it needs to justify one [big grin]

I'll probably get just one for in close work anyway - but I'm not going to replace all of my lighting with them without researching alternatives.

 

[fezza]

I love the Aussie view of the world, i bet half your tools have been "justified" by your barbeque area. Can't drink in the dark. Drive a 2 inch nail in by the barbie, takes all the pain away from handing over $200 for a little work light.

 

[Tinker]

Hey, Why not get a halogen light for out by the barbeque.  You would then have light and enough heat to the "Q"'ing all with the same unit.  :
Tinker

 

[rxe]

I also have two Syslites, and am pretty happy with them.

My experiences with other torches suggests that the price is not that far out of line.

I started with Maglites - too big, weedy bulbs.  With an LED upgrade they are acceptable, but then you're looking at a £70 torch that is heavy,  very directional and impossible to position.

I had a Sealey hand held lithium ion vehicle inspection torch for a while - pretty good, but not cheap at £80.  It died after 13 months. 

I had one of those DeWalt combined battery charger and area light things - very good, but the first one caught fire (at least the circuit board did), and replacement of the board was £200 (more than the £160 cost of the light).  So I bought another one, and that has already gone flaky (won't charge batteries unless you flick the light on and off).

The syslites are good lights - very "positionable", good illumination and so far, tough.  The 3 year warranty will be handy.    My only gripe is that the warning of "low battery" is too short.  I was in the Attic doing some wiring with all the power off in the house.  The syslite goes dim - time to get out.  About 20 seconds later it went out completely.    Getting out of the attic...was interesting.    A 10 minute warning (perhaps some flashes) would be better.

 

[L.J]

When I was at Lowe's today, I noticed that DeWalt has something somewhat similar:

DC020 Cordless/Corded Work Light

Apparently it does not have an internal battery, but it can run off either mains or a battery for cordless tools. I also doubt that it's as durable as the Syslite since it's florescent, but there it is.

Absolutely not similar. I have used one of these.

- Nowhere even close to the same brightness, you'd be better off using your lighter  [tongue]
- Not rugged and durable, feels like a toy, flimsy
- Absolutely huge in comparison, not good for small spaces or to be hand held, it's about 12x12x6" roughly
- The light was still very focused
- $20 a pop every time you have to replace the bulb, LEDs last forever
- No internal battery, requires an external battery or AC power
- I seem to recall there's no way to hang it but there is a kickstand that pops out of the back to prop it at an angle
- The clear plastic lenses is very thin and prone to damage
- Did I mention it's not nearly as bright?

For the money, you'll want the SysLite instead. Hold off.  [wink]

I don't know whether you're talking from experience or just assuming but this light is quite durable and the brightness is quite good. I wouldn't compare it directly to the Festool because it was around way before then. I have the first version from Dewalt that charges 2 Batteries and also has GFI receptacles built into it. I grab this light quite frequently and have done so over the past 4 yrs or so and haven't replaced the lamp yet so that is some testiomony to the longevity of it.