Harbor Freight Icon Slim Light vs Braun Slim Light

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  • čas přidán 20. 06. 2024
  • Harbor Freight Icon Slim Light vs Braun - What's the Difference?
    Icon Light: tinyurl.com/yrvbdpqs
    Braun Light: tinyurl.com/2kr7qlej
    Thanks to HF for sending this for review.
    Walking by in the store and looking at these you might be shocked to think that Harbor Freight is offering the exact same light under two different brands but the reality is although similar there are some significant differences so we're going to take a look at those plus show you how to hack your icon light in under 5 minutes
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  • Jak na to + styl

Komentáře • 196

  • @brentwalker4297
    @brentwalker4297 Před 8 dny +41

    Now I dont know if you mentioned this feature BUT here it is: The ICON will remember the last setting used and when you turn it on again Sometimes that can be usefull!

    • @staseghrrhgesats1946
      @staseghrrhgesats1946 Před 8 dny +4

      Yes. I just came here to say that. Also after ot has been on a bit it only takes 1 hit of the button to turn it off. You don't have to toggle through everything to shut it down. Nice feature. Don't know what the braun does.

    • @dancearoundtheworld5360
      @dancearoundtheworld5360 Před 8 dny

      COB headlamps do that and its smart

    • @terryschleicher8511
      @terryschleicher8511 Před 7 dny +1

      My Braun tools have never let me down.

    • @donaldhollums3278
      @donaldhollums3278 Před 7 dny +2

      It was a toss up for me between the Braun and the ICON. I went with the Braun mainly for the way the light folds over either way. In fact I have two now because I thought to have lost the first light so I bought another one and…voila…the first one appears when I wasn’t looking for it; go figure! I have thought about the ICON version for in case I need something brighter. I have the Braun and ICON “puck” lights the lumen difference is noticeable. The ICON “puck” light doesn’t get as hot as fast as the Braun version.

    • @frednitney5831
      @frednitney5831 Před 7 dny

      You can have my Maglite when you pry it from my cold, dead hands! Bite me CCP!
      ;-)

  • @rustyabernathy7381
    @rustyabernathy7381 Před 8 dny +37

    I own a small winery and use the Braun when I need to look into barrels. The ability to change the battery is huge; I have a few 18650 batteries in a charger and just swap them if the one in the flashlight dies. For me, that makes the Braun better than the Icon.

    • @nickm9102
      @nickm9102 Před 6 dny

      having a single charger for the batteries does create a cleaner charging point over the collection of cables for a charging station.

    • @mattatwar
      @mattatwar Před 6 dny

      And you can get larger than the stock 2200mah batteries, I have a few 3400mah 18650s

    • @jackphillips3512
      @jackphillips3512 Před 3 dny

      Exactly on the 18650 battery. I keep an extra battery in my hunting pack and in my truck. No charger handy? No problem. Just pop another 18650 that is already charged in there.

  • @michaellitscher9456
    @michaellitscher9456 Před 8 dny +4

    I got the Braun. I love it. It's in my glovebox. During the recent 10 days of deals, I picked up the Icon for less than I paid for the Braun, and it is in my tool box. I love them both, I don't think you could go wrong with either one. If the Icon had the Braun's double-hinge and easily replaceable battery, the Icon would be the winner.

  • @bleigh8172
    @bleigh8172 Před 8 dny +9

    I am a plumber and the Icon light is hands down better for my situation. It puts out plenty of light in those spaces where light is very limited.

  • @norm5785
    @norm5785 Před 8 dny +1

    Thank you for sharing your evaluation of these two work lights. What a hard choice it is to decide which is best. Everyone stay safe, warm, happy and healthy. Last one out turn the lights out.

  • @sbraudrick
    @sbraudrick Před 8 dny +7

    Have and love the ICON... I do low voltage service & installs, primarily in commercial buildings. Currently installing security cameras in a warehouse, stick this thing to the rafters all the time to see what I'm doing and couldn't ask for more. (motion activated lights are great until you're stationary on a lift 20+ ft up... bring your own light!). The ICON lives nicely in my "go pouch" for service also... 10/10 in my opinion.

  • @jaydee9968
    @jaydee9968 Před 8 dny +13

    Got the Icon for $19.99 on one of those crazy coupons a couple of months ago. My store was sold out, but they gave me a rain check.

    • @tsl7881
      @tsl7881 Před 7 dny +1

      Most of the employees there don't know what a rain check is and you'll need to go to the manager.

    • @scrambler350
      @scrambler350 Před 7 dny +2

      I got THREE of them when they were on sale; one for the garage, two for work, and got the extended warranty on ONE of them 😆😎.
      ...

  • @BigLapua
    @BigLapua Před 8 dny +5

    The green light isn’t a light indicator on the Braun. It is a battery indication. It goes red when you need to recharge.

  • @camt2626
    @camt2626 Před 8 dny +14

    Icon was a steel on the ten days of deals.

  • @robertault5730
    @robertault5730 Před 7 dny

    Bear I love your views. I wish you did more but I know you got a family but once again out of the park review great job.

  • @bobwiley6221
    @bobwiley6221 Před 5 dny

    I have 2 Brauns and 3 Icons and love them both. I got 2 Icons when they had a super sale and they were 1/2 off. Can't beat that deal. I put one in my truck and love the rechargeable feature. It seems your flashlight always is dead when you need it. Not anymore! Love the channel.

  • @del8704
    @del8704 Před 7 dny +1

    I have both, the Icon and the Braun. I love both of them. I also have an original Braun from about 10 years ago. First, let me say the original Braun light is still working like new as far as the battery life goes. I have given the OG all kinds of abuse, I have even left the light underneath on of my customers Mustang. I couldn't for the life of me remember where I put it. When I finally realized where I left it 2 weeks later I called the customer knowing it was gone forever. They drive the car daily and sure enough it was still there. It still works like new but the hinge is now broken and the screws need occasional tightening it is awesome. the Icon has a better switch to turn it on and off, the Braun is easy to accidentally turn it off because of the protruding switch.I love both of them.

  • @user-zp6sy8hb5r
    @user-zp6sy8hb5r Před 8 dny +1

    I own both and use them daily. I restore old vintage Mustangs and love both of the lights. When under the car, I prefer the Braun light over the Icon. When working in limited spaces, you think the Icon would be better but not always. The Swivel head on the Braun is awesome. Can't go wrong with either light.

  • @StardustADV
    @StardustADV Před 7 dny

    I legitamately have been want to get one of these lights, so this is exactly the video I needed.
    I think I want the icon, love the slimmer design.

  • @Panotaker
    @Panotaker Před 7 dny +1

    I have the Braun flashlight. The replaceable battery is a game changer. Plus I have worn out those batteries before on my older Braun flashlights. With extra batteries, you can use the light at full power, and just change out the battery when it dies. The swiveling feature is so that when you fold the flashlight, you can have the power button facing towards the light, so you don’t accidentally turn it on. Or you can swivel it so the power button faces out.

  • @GCrocker662
    @GCrocker662 Před 8 dny

    I'm a maintenance tech and got the Icon light for fathers day. Only used it a couple times but I really like it. It's small enough to fit my belt pouch and is bright enough to see what I'm doing under sinks.

  • @scrambler350
    @scrambler350 Před 7 dny +1

    4:45 -- should have used the 'ICON Locking Flex Head Ratchet and Bit Set' to do the mod -- that's what I did.

  • @cueball981
    @cueball981 Před 8 dny +1

    I've owned 2 original Braun, which doesn't articulate as much as the new version, for 7 years without any issues. Both still work aa good as new even after being dropped and abused! Best $60 I've spent at HF!

  • @Raven5763
    @Raven5763 Před 7 dny

    The Braun has served me well. I have picked them up on sale, and given them as gifts. The magnetic end cap makes it so useful for working on vehicles, and it is the first thing I grab when looking for items inside a dimly lit vehicle. I don't think I would spend the extra for the Icon.

  • @Flyboy160
    @Flyboy160 Před 8 dny

    I have two of the Icons and got them both on sale. They both work great and I love them. I’m a diy guy, borderline pro mechanic. I can direct light exactly where I need it. I’m also an A&P mechanic. The magnetic part on both lights will be pretty useless when working on aircraft for obvious reasons.

  • @Flexin010
    @Flexin010 Před 8 dny

    Loved these things when i use to work on atms in the middle of the night

  • @jeffking
    @jeffking Před 8 dny +1

    I have both. I use the Braun as a dedicated light on my drill press. It's fantastic for that. Easy to point at the work, magnet attaches directly to the table. I found the Icon works great to carry around. I've used it for a raking light when sanding drywall mud. Works great for that.

    • @dand3975
      @dand3975 Před 3 dny

      Drill press light is a cool idea, nice.

  • @stanley8574
    @stanley8574 Před 7 dny

    I went to HF to get the braun one when it was on sale last but they were out so i saw the icon one on sale for around 27 dollars so i got it. Just a few dollars more and i needed it, so far been pleased with the icon. I glad to know the battery can be changed.

  • @davidedwards9157
    @davidedwards9157 Před 8 dny

    I got the Icon. AMA firefighter, the stronger magnet is great for when I have to stick it on a car door frame when working a patient after a car collision (car interior lights often don't provide great illumination when it comes to trying to do medical stuff). I 3d-printed a little bracket that lets it snap onto my radio strap, and the big-light-out is actually useful for me.

  • @danocinci
    @danocinci Před 6 dny

    I do appliance repair, my tools live in a Veto tool backpack. I chose the Braun because I can fold the light bar over to protect the switch. It's been a great light, I've had it for the better part of a year and have had no problems other than a couple loose screws that i retightened and haven't been a problem since. I also like that the light will function with a charger attached, I don't know whether or not the Icon does.

  • @enriquerodriguez9590
    @enriquerodriguez9590 Před 15 hodinami

    the swivel on the braun is helpful so that if you decide to fold the light backwards so that the light is pointing outward while folded, you can cover the button with the light bar without having the light pointing into the handle.

  • @kilocharlie6830
    @kilocharlie6830 Před 8 dny

    Thanks for another helpful video! I choose both .. sour of. Luv the ICON, and picked up the very cheap BRAUN 300 Lumen Magnetic Pocket Work Light as a 2ndary. At $6.99 the 300lums Braun is great for another light's back light option. Cheers

  • @pmr413
    @pmr413 Před 8 dny

    That is a great modification! I have both now. I bought the Icon on sale for $23.00 and hate the fact that I can't adjust the main light bar down at an angle. I will be modifying mine this weekend. I like the fact that the Braun swivels. I set mine so when folded the light bar protects the switch from accidentally being switched "on" when in a carry bag.

  • @spartanreece9908
    @spartanreece9908 Před 8 dny

    I couldn't decide in the store so I bought both. I find myself using the Braun when working on cars. The swivel function comes in handy when i need to lay my light down and have it at a specific angle.

  • @michaellindsay8934
    @michaellindsay8934 Před 7 dny

    I think I would buy the Braun mainly because I have about 25 Braun lights in the cars, shop, service box's and house. I have had good luck with all of them.
    Great review

  • @wingman8447
    @wingman8447 Před 8 dny

    I have the first version of the Braun, it doesn’t fold flat but other than that it’s the same. $17.99 sale. I have the version of the Braun you have also. The fold flat both ways is handy sometimes. The light is about 1” shorter. $19.99 sale. I work the heck out of both. They work well. Good video

  • @aaronsapp3407
    @aaronsapp3407 Před 7 dny

    I’ve had both of them. The first Icon I got had a bad port and wouldn’t charge, but I loved the light output when I was installing a charger in my garage. When I returned it they were out of stock so I got the Braun. A few days later I brought it with me when trying to locate someone who had shown up on the motion camera and I felt like it didn’t have quite the brightness I wanted. So I took it back and kept checking till the Icon was back in stock.

  • @jz422
    @jz422 Před 6 dny

    I have several Icons, I've found myself using little light on the end the most (the one I thought most useless!) Also putting it in my shirt pocket with the light folded on the outside makes a great handsfree work light.

  • @lukedavis3657
    @lukedavis3657 Před 7 dny

    I have both and the swivel on the Braun is nice if you have it in a tight spot and need to get to the power button or have it plugged in while working so it doesn't die

  • @megafatshady
    @megafatshady Před 8 dny

    I just got the (what I think is expensive) hexagonal Icon light on the 4 Icon for 25% off deal and that was one of my 4 I picked from. I love that one as I stick my Brauns of the same style on my tractor as the on tractor lighting is pretty bad, and now I want another of the same style.

  • @txvet7738
    @txvet7738 Před 8 dny

    Thanks for the Icon hack… will be doing that to mine next week! This is off topic but how to you like that Wera tool check plus?

  • @nathanclaytor4083
    @nathanclaytor4083 Před 7 dny

    Picked up the Icon on the 10 day deal,glad I did it’s a good light at that price, 20 bucks.I rarely pay for the extended warranty on mechanical items however on items with electronics and circuit boards I will consider it,this item was covered for two years for $3.50. A bargain in my opinion,electronics fail often I have found. Good review. Thanks for the tip on the light bar reversal.

  • @rlunzer
    @rlunzer Před 5 dny

    I am a DIYer. I am not afraid to do large complex auto repairs that may take me hours. I have several 3500 mah batteries, changing the battery is something I do several times a repair. I have never had any issues with the USB cover on the Braun but I feel charging by USB is almost completely useless as the battery can be changed. The swivel function is awesome because it allows the power button to be positioned so I don't shine it directly into my eyes every time I turn it on and it allows the button to be protected when the light is off in my bag. For me, the Icon lacks every useable function that I need.

  • @patrickcayton3072
    @patrickcayton3072 Před 7 dny

    I currently have 2 of the original Braun lights ( the micro USB style). Work perfectly after 3 plus years. Have purchased and returned 3 of the current style. Both the hinge mechanism and the tip light has broken on all of them. I have 2 of the icons and love them. Only weird part is the smaller light is on the folding side.

  • @nmill005
    @nmill005 Před 8 dny +5

    I just bought the Braun last week. With coupon, it was 25ish bucks. Didn't see enough of a difference with the Icon to spring for the extra $15. Braun worked great while I was digging into the dashboard to replace a blend door actuator.

  • @pctatc66
    @pctatc66 Před 8 dny

    I picked up the Icon for $20 when it was on sale a couple months back. This light exceeded all my expectations. I primarily use the light to shine a raking light down wood to judge sanding or finishing of my wood projects.

    • @pctatc66
      @pctatc66 Před 8 dny +1

      The one negative on the Icon is the Power Button. I am frequently hunting for it with my fingers as it sits flush to the case. I think in this case a little bump out would make it so much easier to use.

  • @chrisreibold1634
    @chrisreibold1634 Před 7 dny

    I have the original Braun version. Bought it when it was first on sale for like '$18.00 I think. That's been 5-6 years ago. Use it weekly atleast. Sometimes more often. I'm an electrician. Works great for illuminating panels, transformers, above suspended ceilings...basically anywhere it's dark. A hack for any magnetic light of this type is to attach a 4"square cover to the magnet, then the light can sit on not magnetic surfaces easier.

  • @kordoliver
    @kordoliver Před 8 dny

    Hello, the braun is my pick for that I can change out the battery that I carry extra of when I use the light working under the hood of cars or detailing

  • @DAS-Videos
    @DAS-Videos Před 8 dny

    I have a few of the Braun lights that I got almost 6 years ago when they were $19.95. I use them almost every day. What happened is, the blue 18650s don't hold a charge like they did when new. So I have a stand alone charger that I charge the batteries with, and when my light dies I pop out the battery and put in a freshly charged battery. So based on that I would pick the Braun because it is easy to pop in a fresh battery.

  • @charlesperry1051
    @charlesperry1051 Před 7 dny

    I prefer the Braun. I have used it under my truck, under sinks, doing an electrical panel swap, etc. I have not had issues with the magnet. I like the easy to replace battery. I suppose you could source a battery for the Icon with the leads and plug already in place. I know most battery shops will NOT weld tabs onto Li-Ion cells. I have both the new fold flat Baun and the older one that does not fold flat. Both have been great. I carry the fold flat one in my electrical tools bags.

  • @theUntouchables96
    @theUntouchables96 Před 7 dny

    Just bought the Icon today as a 4th option with the Icon sale!

  • @leeb4607
    @leeb4607 Před 2 dny

    I have the Icon at work and I love it. And if you buy it I don’t think you would be disappointed. I haven’t tried the Braun it may be a great light also.

  • @nickm9102
    @nickm9102 Před 6 dny

    I think I understand why the Icon has the main light exposed.
    1. It allows you to put it in a shirt pocket leaving the light out and relatively hands free.
    2. You don't need to open the light to use it.
    That said I have two of the Icon as I got them during that $19.99 coupon but if the Braun double hinge laid a bit better that would definitely be the better choice to me.

  • @perrymahnke886
    @perrymahnke886 Před dnem

    I'm a DIY guy & purchased the Icon before the release of your video because of the compact feeling when in my hand & when folded, also there was a sale price on the Icon. After watching your video I'm not sure if I would buy another Icon or if I would buy the Braun, since I plan on buying 2-3 more for my truck, UTV, & motorcycles. I wonder if Harbor Freight ever thought about selling items like this in multi packs at a savings to the consumer, I would definitely be interested because of having multiple vehicles & multiple sons. lol Thank you for all the great reviews & price notifications especially with the rising cost of so many items.

  • @piqua793
    @piqua793 Před 8 dny

    Own them both, I prefer the Braun. I really like the Braun under hood light!

  • @wordwalker3
    @wordwalker3 Před 7 dny

    I would tend to go with the Icon because it's less bulky. I like the hack and will probably do that when I get one. I do see the ability to change batteries as a definite advantage, allowing you to swap batteries and continue working without having to wait for the light to charge or having a second light. If Icon were to make that change that would cinch it for me hands down.

  • @toecutterjenkins
    @toecutterjenkins Před 8 dny +1

    I'm in pest control , I'll go for brightness. I have an 800 luman hypertough that's rechargeable. I think I paid 25 dollars for it it's my goto . I love that light. I'm always looking for good lights. Thanks

  • @tom_schroeder
    @tom_schroeder Před 8 dny

    I have had the Braun for over a year now. Use it for car detailing and general lighting situations. It works just fine. The Icon seems so similar that I am not inclined to buy it, unless there is sale where they are $20. I have a lot of other lights of various sizes, smaller and larger, including the Milwaukee Rover, and it’s just not that pressing to add another light to my collection. If I was choosing again, I would pick up whichever seemed nicer to have. I love Icon, so would probably lean towards it.

  • @BattleChemist
    @BattleChemist Před 8 dny +4

    Easy choice: ICON
    Icon starts with the lower power and you can increase the brightness, so you can NOT blind yourself right off the bat. The Braun starts with the brightest and comes down, which is great for a weapon light or EDC "defensive" pocket light, but not a work light.

  • @Breezer56
    @Breezer56 Před 8 dny

    I have 2 Brauns and love them. Also, I purchased a couple extra batteries and a dual battery charger so I have plenty of backup waiting! Go Braun!

  • @seamasrigh2162
    @seamasrigh2162 Před 8 dny

    I have both, 3 Brauns and 1 Icon. The mag on the Icon does seem to hold better. I have replaced 2 of the Braun batteries as they would not hold charge after about 2 years use. I got Olight cells for them. I like all 3 but I kinda give the edge to the Braun - I just like it better. They have all been handy for me.

  • @Blakehx
    @Blakehx Před 7 dny

    I bought the Braun a while back… battery life wasn’t too good (fast self-discharge) but easily upgraded battery!👌🏼

  • @jkurkoski
    @jkurkoski Před 8 dny

    I like the swivel on the Braun so I can cover the power switch when its in my tool bag it doesn't get turned on accidentally, I like the price and versatility of the Braun, use as handyman for HVAC and washers and dryers... Love the Braun but it does seem a little bulky.

  • @s2meister
    @s2meister Před 8 dny +2

    The swivel is so you can position the power button either out of the way or right under your thumb if you have to change between the lights.

    • @ZeoCyberG
      @ZeoCyberG Před 7 dny

      Nope, since that would also change the direction of the light, it's just the handle that twists from the head that the light, switch, and USB port assembly, but that can be useful if it's clamped. Since, the magnet won't work on all surfaces and you'll sometimes need another way to mount it but still need to move the light angle position without changing the clamp each time.
      The swivel can also sometimes help with the USB charging port in cases where the position shifts during use but is still connected for prolonged (or use while still charging) situations. Preventing putting too much accidental load/twisting on the port.

  • @garymiller5937
    @garymiller5937 Před 7 dny

    Thanks for the comparison, Jeff. I'd have a hard time choosing without comparing side by side myself, but I'm not spending $70 just so I can return one. I do like the stronger magnet, but $10 worth? I just don't know. 🙂🙂🙂❤❤❤

  • @LJ-ft1ic
    @LJ-ft1ic Před 8 dny

    I have had one of the Brauns for around 18 months. I prefer the ability to swap batteries, and I always keep a couple of extra 18650's ready to use. (I typically use an external quick charger for all my 18650 batteries, as I have a lot of flashlights that use them).
    I too have noted that the Braun light is top heavy, and the magnetic base will release if bumped, especially when attached to surfaces that are not horizontal. Mine has taken several falls, but except for a few scratches, still functions well.
    Another advantage of having the battery removeable is the ability to install the battery 'backwards' when you need to pack the flashlight for travel. That will ensure that the battery will not drain if the on switch is depressed during transit.
    ( I learned this 'hack' more than 50 years ago, in the Boy Scouts...)

  • @G34RH34D
    @G34RH34D Před 7 dny

    I have two of the older Braun slim lights that only has one hinge. Love them. Plus, I rather be able to replace the battery. I got them both on a sale at their time. The older one, the batter doesn't last as long as it used to. I'm sure eventually I will need to replace that battery. I also used the older one to stick it under the frame of my truck when I was removing the gas tank a few years back. It works great for automotive as well. I remember seeing same exact one in Lowes years ago under the Craftsman brand. But it took one or two AA batteries. Yeah, I don't think so...

  • @EfficientRVer
    @EfficientRVer Před 8 dny +7

    Jeff, you should make two more separate videos of your disassembly/reassembly of the Icon light. One with a title like "ICON slim bar light modification" and the other with a title like "ICON slim bar light DIY battery replacement". If you keep them short and sweet, 2 minutes each, over the years every person who buys one, will eventually watch one or both of the videos as a how-to. People needing to replace the battery probably won't click on an old comparison video just hoping to find disassembly/reassembly instructions.
    Because you'd have to do it again rather than just reuse your existing clip, to show your soldering iron prowess and procedure, you might as well do a more exacting job of showing them how to identify and lay out each screw to not get them mixed up.
    Then in one video, show "replacing" the battery by actually de-soldering it from the wires, re-soldering it (or a specific actual replacement battery, complete with Amazon affiliate link, lol) and then reassembling and showing it works.
    In both videos, show the reassembly, including using the scheme of keeping the screws correct. If you show reassembly using a different battery, due to using the same reassembly clip in both videos, it lets you plug "Ignore the fact that the battery here is different, unless you need to replace the battery, see link above for my video of doing that."

  • @76Starship
    @76Starship Před 8 dny

    I have 3 old style Brauns and haven't killed 'em yet. I like being able to swap the batteries. The Icon is good too, but I'll only consider it when on a deep sale.

  • @georgebock8890
    @georgebock8890 Před 8 dny

    I like the Braun, because I can change the battery easier and it is pretty dependable

  • @DKWalser
    @DKWalser Před 8 dny

    I have the prior version of the Braun (before the double hinge). I also have the Icon. I believe each cost me about $19. (The Icon was an Inside Track Club special. The Braun was on clearance when the were switching to the new version.) I like both, but I found I was using the Braun more than the Icon. The reason was I preferred the way the main light was facing. In my shop, I often use the light at my work bench. For that use, I want the light to shine down onto my work. If I use the magnet to attach the light to the work bench, the Icon cannot shine the light down. (I have to use the lower power light on the back of the light bar.)

  • @davidstewart3868
    @davidstewart3868 Před 7 dny

    I have both flashlights and the Icon is overall a brighter and more streamlined unit. Bought both with discount coupons. If I had to pick only one the Icon is the best overall. Wait for a coupon and get the Icon.
    They both take a long time to fully charge.

  • @jaywhite1850
    @jaywhite1850 Před 8 dny

    I have the Husky that’s really close to the Braun. Didn’t even know Braun updated to the double-swing hinge. The Icon may be better built but I can’t imagine not being able to swing the light in any direction.

  • @donnie017
    @donnie017 Před 8 dny

    DIYer. I got the Icon when it was on sale for $19.99 the one day during the 10 days of sales last month or so. It’s the only Icon light I have, I do have several different Braun lights and they work well. The first ever Braun light I bought I did have to return and swap out after about a month. It was a different style work light with a flashlight style tip light that went out. That had me worried about the brand quality but ever since that incident that replacement light and the other style Braun lights that I’ve bought have all performed flawlessly.

  • @keltecshooter
    @keltecshooter Před 7 dny

    I'vetaken apart several of the Braun lights when they start to fail and found the solder joints on the spring for the battery contact breaks , easy repair but not as reliable as the icon.
    Also over time the end cap loosens and is quite annoying.
    The head rotation is too position the light so the switch is less affected by accidental bumps in tight spots.
    Lastly I prefer the more robust usb c port

  • @mpshay
    @mpshay Před 8 dny

    I went with the icon

  • @jimtownsend7899
    @jimtownsend7899 Před 7 dny

    I have a hack for choosing which one to own. Do what I did- Own both! I even have the 1st gen Braun, which doesn’t close all the way. They all work well, so it’s usually not an issue. I just grab whichever. Shine On! (Pun intended)

  • @F0XD1E
    @F0XD1E Před 8 dny

    Being able to replace the battery would be nice since you can upgrade it. The 2600mah on the icon isn't terrible but the 2200mah in the Braun is relatively weak if that's what it came with. You can get a 3000mah+ cell to get better life. Also of course just to be able to change it when the battery wears out. I've made an effort to avoid lights with integral batteries.

  • @grayman5271
    @grayman5271 Před 7 dny

    Replaceable batteries is big deal for someone like me who doesn't always remember to put their tools back on the chargers. Plus I've taken apart a few old rechargeable battery packs and salvaged the good 18650 batteries. So I have plenty of extras laying around😁👍

  • @mandujanogo
    @mandujanogo Před 7 dny

    The icon has a little memory feature. Where it uses the last setting you used before turning it off. I’ve had mine for two years use it almost every day at work. I reach for it more than my strap on lights

  • @chuckmckee2741
    @chuckmckee2741 Před 8 dny

    The swivel is so you can set or jam the light handle in a tight place to hold it, hands free. Then Just swivel the light to where you want it.

  • @blueridge8992
    @blueridge8992 Před 7 dny

    We have a handful of the previous generation Bauers that only fold 90°, and they were getting toolnapped so often our at shop that we picked up 15 of the new version. They’ve held up to 40 hour work weeks for the past few years without a single issue so I’d say we got our money’s worth.
    I didn’t even look twice at the Icon lights. You asked who would need to change the battery on a rechargeable flashlight and the answer is a mechanic that has a light go dead halfway through a job while all the other lights are being used or dead, or hidden in a tool box because “I’m tired of starting the day with a dead light! Those other idiots always sit these NEXT to the charger without plugging them in.”
    We also bought some of the $70 Dewalt lights for the mobile trucks but no one wants to use them because they occupy 20v batteries and put unnecessary wear and tear on them. I end up finding the Bauers in the truck boxes every single week after they sneak out of the shop. I’d say that’s a pretty good endorsement!

  • @BayCreeper1
    @BayCreeper1 Před 8 dny

    Bought 2 ICONS for 20$ each a month ago during the sale.
    Used it under my truck flawless

  • @weldingjunkie
    @weldingjunkie Před 7 dny

    I see you watched the toolbox tour where he mentioned turning light bar around.

  • @joelcopeland3018
    @joelcopeland3018 Před 7 dny

    I have a Braun that is an earlier version. The light doesn't fold down flat. I use mine as lighting on my Smokers, Grills and Griddle.

  • @ItsProbablyFine
    @ItsProbablyFine Před 7 dny

    I don't know if the Braun lights are any better, but when they first came out I went through at least 4 of them before I found one that didn't constantly flicker or shut off and HF would give you a hard time on returns. I finally just bought an Astro and still use it regularly. My bad experience with the Braun lights have prevented me from considering the Icon.

  • @allenrussell6135
    @allenrussell6135 Před 5 dny

    The mac tools truck sells a nearly identical one to braun but its battery is a 18650 that charges by itself (has a cradle). It lacks usb , no "internal" charging and is 5x the price.
    I should mention this was 2 years ago. They may have changed it by now.

  • @justavillain
    @justavillain Před 8 dny +3

    I did this and there was a pin I had to cut on the plastic housing. Not sure if it was a for the mold or assembly reasons. But I couldn’t reassemble it without snipping it with my icon flush cuts

    • @danlang75
      @danlang75 Před 7 dny +1

      Mine is the same...it's not a mirror image that you can just flip easily. Maybe it's just poor Chinese tolerances, but the pins/holes are different on each side.

  • @EfficientRVer
    @EfficientRVer Před 8 dny

    I got the Braun for $20 last December, and $20ea for the limit of 3 Icons during the "different coupon item each day" craziness. My store in Keene had 3 in stock the minute the store opened. I had already asked the other guy waiting for the store to open what he was there bright and early to buy, and it wasn't the light. So I gave him a coupon for a free magnet bar with any purchase, and took all the lights myself.
    Slight preference for the Icon. I'm not an Icon fanboy on most stuff, almost always going cheaper with Quinn, Doyle, or Bremen (or stuff from Amazon) on hand tools instead, and US General on boxes. But in this case where an Icon sale matched the price of the Braun I had gotten on sale, I scooped some up.

  • @mikejarves7611
    @mikejarves7611 Před 8 dny

    Can you do a review on the new scroll saw and also the new mini lathes.

  • @KameraShy
    @KameraShy Před 7 dny

    I have the original Braun that is stuck at 90 deg. I really like it, use it frequently for at home stuff, excellent build quality, always worked great, but all that time sure wished the light bar would fold all the way over. Makes storage very awkward and could not understand why they did not make it that way in the first place.

  • @antonino34
    @antonino34 Před 8 dny

    I have both lights. I lean towards the Braun because it has more heft and the flexibility of the head. I'm just a driveway mechanic and own a 50 year old Ford that needs constant attention. They basically perform the same, in my opinion.

  • @randyarock
    @randyarock Před 7 dny

    I have both and use them interchangeably.
    But I have since grabbed a set of Astro 525L lights that charge on a pad (that also charges my iPhone 😊) and I use them more and more. But as to these? I would likely replace the Braun, should it die in action, with an Icon.

  • @jonathanwade46
    @jonathanwade46 Před 8 dny

    Braun swivell allows you do the hack feature icon without 5aking it apart. We love our Braun lights alot.

  • @mikejones5358
    @mikejones5358 Před 6 dny

    I’m a mechanic and I have both of them I go for the icon

  • @rmckee334
    @rmckee334 Před 8 dny

    I have both, at less then a year old I had to replace the battery in the Icon. Maybe they would have warrantied it I 'm not sure.

  • @brentwalker4297
    @brentwalker4297 Před 8 dny

    I have 2 of the Braun Just got the Icon on sale $19.99.. I can tell you without a doubt!!! ICON wins HANDS DOWN.

  • @mpd42781
    @mpd42781 Před 4 dny

    I only chose the ICON over the BRAUN because I got it during that recent 10-items, each for 1-day only sale, where it was only $20. I actually picked up two of them so if one breaks, I'll have another for dirt cheap.

  • @fryeguy9939
    @fryeguy9939 Před 8 dny

    Because they are so similar.... I would go with the cheaper one.. I have two of the Brauns already....

  • @whiskeyfamily6717
    @whiskeyfamily6717 Před 8 dny +1

    The Braun I like the fact that it shows that the light is on cause my others I leave the pin light on and go to use it and it’s dead

  • @garyhalk5430
    @garyhalk5430 Před 8 dny +1

    I am a professional mechanic and I brought the Braun about three or four years ago and the first time I dropped it the plastic hinge exploded I don't know if the icon is metal or not

  • @DasGonz13
    @DasGonz13 Před 7 dny

    I have a Braun 3 in 1. It comes with a typical flashlight, light bar, and pin light. You just change it out to what you need. I don't like how easy it is to activate the switch. I could accidentally come on in its carry case.

  • @davidscott7005
    @davidscott7005 Před 8 dny

    3 Braun's for me (basement, garage and truck. $19.95 during Black Friday sales. I have extra 18650's and a charger.

  • @Blkchevelle
    @Blkchevelle Před 7 dny +1

    Braun you can replace the battery with a recharged one and be left in the dark in the middle of a project

  • @search_eternal
    @search_eternal Před 6 dny

    I have the Walmart Hyper Tough one that is like these. 600 lumens. It's pretty nice and the battery can be replaced if need be. Cost $15.