USB Rechargeable EDC Light

[TXBK]

What is out there in regards to USB rechargeable EDC flashlights? I EDC a Surefire EB1 and have no issue with it, but I am looking for replacement options that are similar in size and operation with USB (mini USB) rechargeable batteries. Hi/Lo momentary/constant is all that I want with my switch (no strobe), and I’d prefer no programmable switch to get it. I prefer the clip to be attached to the light similar to the Surefire rather than snap-on like a Streamlight. The features that I am looking for are what lead me away from what I’m pretty sure I know of Streamlight, but I’m not completely against considering them.

[Willard]

What is out there in regards to USB rechargeable EDC flashlights? I EDC a Surefire EB1 and have no issue with it, but I am looking for replacement options that are similar in size and operation with USB (mini USB) rechargeable batteries. Hi/Lo momentary/constant is all that I want with my switch (no strobe), and I’d prefer no programmable switch to get it. I prefer the clip to be attached to the light similar to the Surefire rather than snap-on like a Streamlight. The features that I am looking for are what lead me away from what I’m pretty sure I know of Streamlight, but I’m not completely against considering them.

I have been testing a sidekick for several months and bought one for my wife and daughters as well. EDC on key chain. Holds a charge well and gets banged around a lot...tossed in and out of drawers, etc. Hardly have to charge and very handy. YMMV. If it works out, I may try a larger version. I THINK you can change it from low / med / high to opposite. Once you actuate it, you can go through the settings and then off. If you don't go through settings and leave it say, on low, next phase is off (hope that makes sense). I'll wait for another year or so before I make a determination.

[2xAGM114]

I just bought a Streamlight "Microstream" about a month ago and really like it.

https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/microstream-usb#

Pros:

- Small, around 4" in length, easily fits in a front pocket.
- USB recharges in less than an hour.
- $30, inexpensive enough to replace.
- Has the clip which doubles as a hat brim attachment as well.

Cons:

- 120 Lumens, not enough for major searches

[Gater]

The only USB-rechargeable I have is a Streamlight Microstream version. The clip is very solid on mine. Switching between the two modes requires a bit of experimentation, but once you figure it out, you're good. You can pick a version that comes on in high or low first according to your preference.

[Cypher]

I've had really good luck with my Fenix UC35. This is the upgraded version.

https://youtu.be/Z8YCFdBkYgE

[TXBK]

I carry my EDC light (rearward) and folder knife in front of that in my right hand pocket for the most part. I carry this way a lot of the time without a firearm, and when I am carrying a firearm with a WML. When I go to town with no WML, I carry the light in my left hand pocket.

I need an EDC light with a sturdy clip. I am looking for something in the 1-cr123 size.

[BobM]

Surefire Stilleto. I really like the flattened form. There's a lengthy thread here somewhere

[Gray222]

Had streamlight protac hl USB which I really liked and did a review on it - https://www.vdmsr.com/2019/06/streamlight-protac-hl-usb.html

Now have a nightstick lights 558xl 900lm - https://www.baycoproducts.com/product/usb-rechargeable-flashlights/item/usb-558xl


Smaller form factor than the streamlight, charges faster, better hotspot beam and color. Definitely an upgrade.

[Cypher]

https://i.postimg.cc/59FbQtz6/20190928_001046.jpg (https://postimg.cc/9zVvvCJh)

This is my everyday light. It is a Fenix RC05SE. Apparently the SE is a special order for REI. It has the tail cap switch as opposed to a button on the side. It also remembers the last brightness setting that you used.

It's 4 inches long, just a little bit more than 5/8 in outer diameter. It has a clip but I can't really speak one way or the other about it because I never use it I just carry it in my pocket.

This is what Fenix has to say about it


The Fenix RC05 SE (Special Edition) rechargeable flashlight is built off the popular Fenix RC05. This special edition adds a tactical rear switch for on/off and momentary use. By adding the rear switch it transforms the light into our more popular two switch system, allowing the user to turn on from the rear switch and choose mode from side switch. All the other attractive features of the RC05 were kept like the innovative magnetic charging port. From a single 14500 rechargeable Li-ion battery (included), this flashlight emits a maximum 300 lumens a distance of almost 300 feet. This compact flashlight is very small and light weight, and its two-position clip allows you to easily clip it to your gear or onto your hat for hands-free use. The IP68 rating, which means it is both waterproof to 2m and dust proof, allows you to have light even in the harshest of environments. Small, lightweight and rechargeable, the Fenix RC05SE rechargeable flashlight will be your go-to flashlight for camping, backpacking or every day use.

The only issue that I have with it is that it's not strictly speaking usb-rechargeable.

https://i.postimg.cc/QxGsQrgS/20190928_001023.jpg (https://postimg.cc/bdTKPWB2)

It recharges was a USB cord but that little copper thing on the side is a magnetic port that you just set the cord on and it recharges. The issue with that is that you have to use their cord.

However I carry this light at work every night I use it every night it's actually the main light I use at work and I've never had it died on me at work. I just put it on the charger when I get home.

[TGS]

I'm using the Streamlight ProTac 2L-X USB. I very much like the programming from Max-Strobe-Low and was a significant decision making point.

It's also somewhat affordable. I'm not into that game of paying for high end lights. To be honest, the reason I got it is because I liked my issued Streamlight Protac 2L but wanted the USB recharge feature....I didn't really feel a need to look around that much, YMMV.

[revchuck38]

I just bought a Streamlight "Microstream" about a month ago and really like it.

https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/microstream-usb#

Pros:

- Small, around 4" in length, easily fits in a front pocket.
- USB recharges in less than an hour.
- $30, inexpensive enough to replace.
- Has the clip which doubles as a hat brim attachment as well.

Cons:

- 120 Lumens, not enough for major searches


The only USB-rechargeable I have is a Streamlight Microstream version. The clip is very solid on mine. Switching between the two modes requires a bit of experimentation, but once you figure it out, you're good. You can pick a version that comes on in high or low first according to your preference.

I've also got a Microstream and really like it. I got the version that comes on high first (bronze color) and love how it fits in my pocket. The clip hasn't moved since I started using it. While it's not enough for "major searches", it's fine for use with a pistol in the dark the way you'd use any other light. I've even used the clip on my hat brim so I could see to lube the chain on my bike the night before a pre-sunrise bike ride.

I've got a Sidekick. It's fine for use as a light by itself but too awkward to use to illuminate something with a pistol in your other hand, especially if you have your keys dangling off it.

[Hambo]

The best part about the Microstream is that it's thin enough that I really do EDC it, as in everywhere, all the time.

[Darth_Uno]

Another vote for the Stiletto. The flat profile carries very well. That’s my first “good” flashlight so I don’t have anything to compare it to, but I’d recommend it.

[rob_s]

I just bought a Streamlight "Microstream" about a month ago and really like it.

https://www.streamlight.com/en/products/detail/index/microstream-usb#

Pros:

- Small, around 4" in length, easily fits in a front pocket.
- USB recharges in less than an hour.
- $30, inexpensive enough to replace.
- Has the clip which doubles as a hat brim attachment as well.

Cons:

- 120 Lumens, not enough for major searches

That’s my go to as well

[Blades]

What is out there in regards to USB rechargeable EDC flashlights? I EDC a Surefire EB1 and have no issue with it, but I am looking for replacement options that are similar in size and operation with USB (mini USB) rechargeable batteries. Hi/Lo momentary/constant is all that I want with my switch (no strobe), and I’d prefer no programmable switch to get it. I prefer the clip to be attached to the light similar to the Surefire rather than snap-on like a Streamlight. The features that I am looking for are what lead me away from what I’m pretty sure I know of Streamlight, but I’m not completely against considering them.


Have you considered the rechargeable batteries Surefire (https://www.surefire.com/batteries/2-pack-lfp123-rechargeable-batteries.html) sells?

[TXBK]

I’ll pick up a Microstream for that price, but I’ve never carried a Streamlight very long. Has anyone had issues with tailcap being activated in your pocket? I use a Scout tailcap with the shroud on my E1B for this reason, and the raised section of the shroud keeps a hair band in place. I hold the light in my teeth a lot. Almost every other light I’ve looked at has a straight OD at the end.

I got the rechargeable 123’s from Surefire and tried those in the E1B a couple years ago, but if I recall correctly the output was affected too much and they didn’t hold a charge very long. That whole process was a pain. The main reason I want micro usb is due to me have quite a few different devices that use it and I already have charging cables everywhere that I may need them. I may try a Fenix light some time, but for now the special cable earns it a pass.

I’m probably going to try out the Stiletto. I’ll go check out that thread to see if it answers my questions.

[APS-PF]

The microstream usb's button is pretty stiff and mine has not come on in my pocket.

[revchuck38]

The microstream usb's button is pretty stiff and mine has not come on in my pocket.

Same here. I clip it onto the pocket opening rather than let it sit on the bottom of the pocket.

[2xAGM114]

Same here. I clip it onto the pocket opening rather than let it sit on the bottom of the pocket.

Same. For $30 it's a great little light.

[TXBK]

I appreciate all of the responses and recommendations. I’ll give the Microstream and Stiletto a go. I may just carry them both at the same time for a period of time to see which one I tend to use.

I read the Stiletto thread and it seems that most owners either love it or hate it (have issues or not), and I’ll definitely be paying attention to it turning on in my pocket. I’ll probably have to carry it on the left so it doesn’t interfere with my knife and make it more difficult for me to reach into my pocket. I typically only carry my keys in my left pocket so maybe they won’t activate it.

Does anyone have any experience with Olight?

[APS-PF]

I found the side-button olights too difficult to turn on in the dark without fiddling and they will turn on if you carry them in the bottom of your pocket. For me the thing keeping the Stiletto from being a great EDC light is a more usable medium power. Low is too low and medium is too bright. The light runs down too quickly using 250lms for utility tasks.
After I got over my 'I'll get kilt in the streetz if I have less than 500lms' the streamlight usb has been great. If I want more of a spotlight I will augment with a 1l-1aa or 2L-x.

[2xAGM114]

The Microstream is actually 250 Lumens, not 120 as previously stated.

[MolonLabe416]

My wife and I both carry the bronze Miscrostream. We also have one on the dog’s leash. All my Surefire handheld lights are now retired.

[Hambo]

I'm using the Streamlight ProTac 2L-X USB. I very much like the programming from Max-Strobe-Low and was a significant decision making point.

It's also somewhat affordable. I'm not into that game of paying for high end lights. To be honest, the reason I got it is because I liked my issued Streamlight Protac 2L but wanted the USB recharge feature....I didn't really feel a need to look around that much, YMMV.

I bought one of these over the weekend because TGS. It's small enough that I'd carry it all day if I didn't have the Microstream. Great for taking the dogs out, and my life likes it enough that I ordered one for her. She wants hers programmed for high only. Currently running mine in low-high, which I would like better as high-low. May go back to the original H-S-L programming.

[Keebsley]

I EDC a Klarus XT2CR. I was originally a Surefire/Streamlight carrier but did some reading when I needed to replace my battered Streamlight. Heard and read a good amount of info regarding Klarus and I had Amazon credit so I picked one up. Has a "tactical" setting and an outdoor setting. 2 modes of activation. Push button and pedal type. Push for momentary, click for constant, momentary can cycle through modes from ultra, high, medium, low etc. Tactical changes things to ultra on push/click and strobe with the pedal. Not your thing but the outdoor mode is something to look at and is the default setting on the flashlight. It also has a SOS feature that runs for 2 hours. Just throwing my .02 cents in.

[Larry T]

43244 Fenix PD35 TAC or Fenix TK15UE with a Thyrm Switchback. Both lights are 1000 lumens. Fenix has a few 1600 lumens lights suitable for EDC.

[Erik]

Bringing this back up. Any newer USB rechargeable EDC lights on the market that people like or are these still the recommendations? Thanks.

[Larry T]

Bringing this back up. Any newer USB rechargeable EDC lights on the market that people like or are these still the recommendations? Thanks.

I have Surefire, Olight, and Fenix. My new EDC and favorite is the Fenix TK16 v2.0. It may be a little bigger than some want to EDC but if I'm carrying one light this is the one. 3100 lumens (turbo) and 380 meter throw (36,100 candela). Dual tail cap switches for one-handed operation. https://www.fenix-store.com/fenix-tk16-v2-0-tactical-flashlight-3100-lumens/

77579

[Clusterfrack]

I got a Klarus E1 for Mrs. CF. Very compact and bright.

https://amazon.com/dp/B07W93D3XZ/

[TGS]

Bringing this back up. Any newer USB rechargeable EDC lights on the market that people like or are these still the recommendations? Thanks.

Streamlight Macrostream.

Great size in between the Microstream (too small IMO) and the Streamlight 2L-X USB, which is doable for EDC but definitely on the large size for me. It's just less intrusive feeling. Came out earlier this year, maybe late last year.

You don't have to remove the battery to charge, either. The head slides forward which exposes a charging port. Just *that* much more convenient.

[Erik]

Thanks guys! I'll check those out. Much appreciated.

[rob_s]

Thought I'd bump this.

Find myself wanting a new Microstream but also finding most of my devices going USB-C and not wanting to get myself stuck with a legacy connector.

I already have a Macrostream, and eventually will probably want to replace that too but for now I'm focused on the Microstream, which for me rides in my sling bag and in a pocket.

Basically I want EXACTLY a Microstream but with a USB-C connector instead of the micro-usb it comes with.

Fine to exceed the battery length or brightness but not looking to be any larger or heavier, and not any less bright or shorter runtime





117313

[Joe S]

Not what you asked for, but a solution: https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-Convert-Connector-Compatible-Receiver/dp/B07TLBTXXJ/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=1TNZ73UJBO552&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.i-OZjHrpcZ5oi07ZMBor7vlNhYuWvOyNHmdD_Hzkh_Y9k-e12_gNSsLhyjT0X8G8au8L2cRyFta0qVbOUoHl70QF17na-lSe5qJD0cZMN1s8QErl3XJXOhIqcVWtJW0wTlcI2xlXzNs_IK1 gkhUQXvQuYTpRJ5oiwjqr8YPJNpJoKehmMqDoe0HT3mdaFlC5s lS5GDrfxfBiOOFiYopqXQ.aGHeBKDRfxBI_iO8Zt6V6mWZ2Pwq dyOOVCI_WJRTjZE&dib_tag=se&keywords=usb+c+to+mini+usb&qid=1713192511&sprefix=usb+c+to+mini%2Caps%2C108&sr=8-4

[Mirolynmonbro]

The cloud defense chicro light is USB C

[Chuck Whitlock]

Find myself wanting a new Microstream but also finding most of my devices going USB-C and not wanting to get myself stuck with a legacy connector.

I already have a Macrostream, and eventually will probably want to replace that too but for now I'm focused on the Microstream, which for me rides in my sling bag and in a pocket.

Basically I want EXACTLY a Microstream but with a USB-C connector instead of the micro-usb it comes with.

Fine to exceed the battery length or brightness but not looking to be any larger or heavier, and not any less bright or shorter runtime





117313

A little larger form factor, but I'm digging mine:

https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/wedge-xt

[rob_s]

A little larger form factor, but I'm digging mine:

https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/wedge-xt

Thanks for that!

I had no idea they had come out with a new version that fixed some of the issues with the OG.

(Or if I did, I forgot).

[Coyotesfan97]

My Mind Has Been Changed…Mostly (https://booksbikesboomsticks.blogspot.com/2024/04/my-mind-has-been-changed-mostly.html)

Tam’s take on the EDCL1

[GJM]

The cloud defense chicro light is USB C

My copies continue to have poor longevity. I would go Streamlight.

[rob_s]

The cloud defense chicro light is USB C


My copies continue to have poor longevity. I would go Streamlight.

the reviews do seem spotty on the CD, to include it being rumored to just be a re-branded something else.

[Chuck Whitlock]

Thanks for that!

I had no idea they had come out with a new version that fixed some of the issues with the OG.

(Or if I did, I forgot).

You are welcome. I find that I need to use the lockout feature to keep it from going off in my pocket, but it sounds like it will suit your use case(s).

[CDFIII]

117811
I’ve been running SF’s new Stilleto Pro for a few months and like it a lot. The light has been great so far and the charge seems to last longer than my old Streamlight did. The switch placement is decent and I can switch between an admin light to full power when needed. Being flat vs. round also helps at least in my mind when carrying it in my pocket as well. At first glance I was worried about the size but once I started carrying it it’s been a non issue.

[DamonL]

I just saw an ad for the Nitecore EDC25. Its a rechargeable, similar to the Stilleto but it costs less. No experience but it looks interesting.

https://www.nitecorestore.com/EDC25-3000-Lumen-Rechargeable-Flat-Flashlight-p/fl-nite-edc25.htm

[Blades]

I saw this new Nitecore light on Amazon and bought one to try. It's the Nitecore MT1C Pro EDC (https://www.nitecorestore.com/MT1C-Pro-1000-Lumen-Rechargeable-EDC-Flashlight-p/fl-nite-mt1cpro.htm).
Specs from Nitecore's website:
"LED: UHi 20 LED
Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 393 yards
Peak Beam Intensity: 32500 cd
Dimensions L-3.46" x W-1.06" x H-0.84"
Weight (with battery) 2.82 oz"

" Multiple Power Options
Powering the MT1C Pro is flexible, as it can operate with the included USB-C rechargeable Nitecore NL1816R battery, a CR123 non-rechargeable battery, or a rechargeable RCR123 battery. When powered by the NL1816R battery, the MT1C Pro can run for up to 16 hours on its lowest mode before requiring a recharge."

Some photos I took off the back porch of this VRBO cabin. We are in Cosby, TN and it's pitch black up on this mountain.
120680

A photo from my Malkoff Bodyguard:
120681

A few comparison photos:
120682
120683
120684

[msstate56]

I just saw an ad for the Nitecore EDC25. Its a rechargeable, similar to the Stilleto but it costs less. No experience but it looks interesting.

https://www.nitecorestore.com/EDC25-3000-Lumen-Rechargeable-Flat-Flashlight-p/fl-nite-edc25.htm

I've been using one of these for about 3 months of EDC. I really like it. It carries great in the pocket and puts out a LOT of light on 3,000 lumens. However it gets hot very quickly using the turbo mode. The multiple lighting levels are very handy for general lighting use. I like the battery level indicator. I've dropped it on concrete several times with nothing but minor cosmetic damage.

[Mirolynmonbro]

I saw this new Nitecore light on Amazon and bought one to try. It's the Nitecore MT1C Pro EDC (https://www.nitecorestore.com/MT1C-Pro-1000-Lumen-Rechargeable-EDC-Flashlight-p/fl-nite-mt1cpro.htm).
Specs from Nitecore's website:
"LED: UHi 20 LED
Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 393 yards
Peak Beam Intensity: 32500 cd
Dimensions L-3.46" x W-1.06" x H-0.84"
Weight (with battery) 2.82 oz"

" Multiple Power Options
Powering the MT1C Pro is flexible, as it can operate with the included USB-C rechargeable Nitecore NL1816R battery, a CR123 non-rechargeable battery, or a rechargeable RCR123 battery. When powered by the NL1816R battery, the MT1C Pro can run for up to 16 hours on its lowest mode before requiring a recharge."

Some photos I took off the back porch of this VRBO cabin. We are in Cosby, TN and it's pitch black up on this mountain.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]120680[/ATACH]

A photo from my Malkoff Bodyguard:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]120681[/ATACH]

A few comparison photos:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]120682[/TTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]120683[/ATACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]120684[/ATACH]

I like that beam. I have a bodyguard and it doesn't get a lot of use, mostly because it turns on it my pocket. Someone sent me a fix but I haven't tried it yet. I like how the button is enclosed on the nitecore. Wish the low setting was lower

[Blades]

I like that beam. I have a bodyguard and it doesn't get a lot of use, mostly because it turns on it my pocket. Someone sent me a fix but I haven't tried it yet. I like how the button is enclosed on the nitecore. Wish the low setting was lower

I carry my Bodyguard from a beltloop and every now and then it's on. I know why the button is easy to access but I like the recessed button on the Nitecore better. I attached the photo I took using the low mode. It doesn't show much of the backyard but works for up close illumination.
120903

What's the fix for the Bodyguard switch?

[rob_s]

Thought I'd bump this.

Find myself wanting a new Microstream but also finding most of my devices going USB-C and not wanting to get myself stuck with a legacy connector.

I already have a Macrostream, and eventually will probably want to replace that too but for now I'm focused on the Microstream, which for me rides in my sling bag and in a pocket.

Basically I want EXACTLY a Microstream but with a USB-C connector instead of the micro-usb it comes with.

Fine to exceed the battery length or brightness but not looking to be any larger or heavier, and not any less bright or shorter runtime





117313

Decided to take a shot on this
ThruNite EDC Flashlight Archer Mini, 405 Lumens Tail Switch LED Flashlight, USB C Rechargeable Little Pocket Penlight for Camping, Outdoor, and Emergency - Orange Cool White
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,793 ratings | Search this page
$25.99 with 28 percent savings
List Price: $35.99 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3RD5R4D/ref=syn_sd_onsite_desktop_0?ie=UTF8&pd_rd_plhdr=t&aref=vqWWFDugEa&th=1)

Comparing specs
121200

[rob_s]

Decided to take a shot on this
ThruNite EDC Flashlight Archer Mini, 405 Lumens Tail Switch LED Flashlight, USB C Rechargeable Little Pocket Penlight for Camping, Outdoor, and Emergency - Orange Cool White
4.4 4.4 out of 5 stars 2,793 ratings | Search this page
$25.99 with 28 percent savings
List Price: $35.99 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C3RD5R4D/ref=syn_sd_onsite_desktop_0?ie=UTF8&pd_rd_plhdr=t&aref=vqWWFDugEa&th=1)

Comparing specs
121200

This is, predictably, but as nice but it should do.

Main quality difference is the tailcap/button isn’t as good on the new one.

The bezel does unscrew to access the charging port vs simply sliding on the Streamlight. I think I prefer the screwing method.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240720/e97dcb36ae3a252e3534d29c8250d3dc.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240720/0dec8e82030c464f10f93d5a2ce36452.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240720/b619275db1884af2f6119e08f667e373.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240720/06c3b5fda432502479bf59454bd8c9c7.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20240720/51d20eb939c077e1368db46a86bc9200.jpg

[Blades]

I sent the Nitecore MT1C Pro EDC back because during the Amazon Prime days the Nitecore MT2C Pro (https://www.nitecorestore.com/MT2C-Pro-1800-Lumen-Rechargeable-EDC-Flashlight-p/fl-nite-mt2cpro.htm) was on sale for about what I paid for the MTC1.

The specs for the MT2C:
LED: UHi 20 LED
Maximum Brightness: 1800 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 568 yards
Peak Beam Intensity: 67000 cd
Dimensions: L-4.63" x W-1.06" x H-0.84"
Weight: 4.02 oz

It's 1.17" longer but doubles the candela. We'll see how I like it.

[DMF13]

https://www.fenixlighting.com/products/fenix-pd36-tac-tactical-flashlight

3000 lumens/18700 candela, with a lockout switch, to either lock into a brightness setting, or locked so it doesn't accidentally turn on.

Its 5.5" long, but only 1" in diameter.

[Wyoming Shooter]

I've been using a Nitecore EDC27 for about 7 months. It carries easily and offers plenty of light - 3000 lumens. I like the lock out feature which limits the potential for accidental activation of the light. Earlier this week, I was up on a roof tending to a dying swamp cooler. The light fell out of my pocket, skittered down about 20 feet of asphalt shingles, and dropped about 15 vertical feet onto a gravel surface. I fully expected a dead light but, it works just fine and suffered no visible damage. Downside - it's from China.

https://flashlight.nitecore.com/product/edc27

[DamonL]

I picked up a Nitecore edc25 during the amazon prime sale. Its pretty light and bright. Still learning the controls. I like that its flat and not round.

[rob_s]

Promising...

https://nitecorestore.com/products/nitecore-edc23-2500-lumen-usb-c-rechargeable-ultra-slim-edc-flashlight

Max brightness of 2500 lumens with a 306 yard throw
5 brightness modes plus Strobe
USB-C rechargeable for easy charging
Features two lock modes

LED 2x UHi 25 LEDs
Maximum Brightness 2500 lumens
Peak Beam Distance 306 yards
Peak Beam Intensity 20720 cd
IP Rating IP54
Impact Resistance 2 m
Dimensions L-4.05" x W-1.30" x H-0.89"
Weight 3.56 oz

MODE OUTPUT RUNTIME
Turbo 2500 lumens ~
High 1100 lumens 1 hr 30 mins
Mid 200 lumens 3 hrs 45 mins
Low 65 lumens 11 hrs
Ultralow 15 lumens 39 hrs
Strobe 2500 lumens ~


https://youtu.be/9NP8uOtujGw?si=tfXR3Yrur4llmlWu

[That Guy]

I've been running one of those Nitecore EDC lights at home for a good while now, and I tend to use a flashlight a lot. Couldn't even say how many times I've pulled it out of my pocket today alone. And personally, the bloody thing keeps annoying me.

The whole "3000 lumens" thing is a marketing gimmick - you can only access that mode for a few seconds at a time and only on momentary mode. Repeated activations quickly make the light hot enough to be uncomfortable to hold. So in reality, it's just a 1000 lumen light. Which, granted, is still plenty of light. I just dislike dishonesty, and this thing really should have been marketed as a thousand lumen light with a spicy extra mode. Anyways, that's the least of my annoyances.

The buttons keep doing other things than what I want the light to do. In theory, a half press of the taller button should give momentary on in low mode. Except that a short half press only shows battery voltage on the little display the light has, and nothing else. So I keep doing a half press, getting nothing, and pushing straight on into constant on - which remembers the last used brightness setting, which is often something quite different from the tiny bit of light I was trying to get out of the light. A couple of times I've even managed to enable the button lock while fumbling with the half presses and full presses and what not - and usually at very inopportune times. Like for example stepping out of the front door to check on a strange noise, try to get high output out of the light, wind up with no light since the fucking button lock activated, finally grab an old and always functional Maglite from the wall, determine that whatever made the strange noise buggered off sometime during minute three of the Will You Fucking Light Just Work saga, go back inside, and google how to disable the bloody lock mode. Yes, that was one memorably fun user experience.

Oh, and that cute little display that shows you how charged the battery is? It doesn't. It shows the voltage of the battery, and it is up to the user to know if that is a lot or a little. Really tells you a lot about the people who designed this light and how they approached the design, in my opinion.

I mean, typically I don't have that much trouble with the light, but I must say despite my best efforts to acclimate to the lights user interface, I can't say I quite agree with the way it was designed. The flat form factor is nice, and in this application being rechargeable is usually a convenience (as long as I can recharge the battery frequently enough) since I don't have to change batteries. However, every time I leave the property, it's a Surefire light that sits in my pocket, and this newfangled contraption stays at home, since I do not trust this thing to work when I really need it to, at all.

So, not a completely unreserved recommendation to go out and buy one of these lights, from me.

[That Guy]

I've been running one of those Nitecore EDC lights at home

Oops, that may not have been a 100% clear way of putting it. To clarify, the specific light I have is the EDC27.

[Chuck Whitlock]

Oops, that may not have been a 100% clear way of putting it. To clarify, the specific light I have is the EDC27.

Thanks. I was about to ask for clarification, as the EDC23 is interesting to me specifically due to the simple sliding lockout switch. I need to use the lock-out feature on my SL Wedge XT, but the 5-tap is annoying.

[rob_s]

Oops, that may not have been a 100% clear way of putting it. To clarify, the specific light I have is the EDC27.

I appreciate the post either way.

For a long time, I've felt like the flashlight thing is (a) getting out of hand regarding complexity and (b) being driven by the "enthusiasts." The latter doesn't mean they aren't "hard use" or "real world users;" it just means they're maybe a little too into a lot of the whiz-bang and geegaw.

Hell, even the MOAR crowd "needing" 52 bazillion lumens is a little nutso (at least to those of us who remember the very first Surefires and how you suddenly had more light than a Maglight all in the palm of your hand (granted, with less impact ;) )

If I could get a streamlight with a USB-C, I'd probably quit there.

[Flamingo]

I have the small version of the Cloud Defensive Chicro XL. It is USB C chargeable and is inexpensive. Specs are:

• 500 Lumens (High) / 50 Lumens (Low)
• 90 Mins (High) / 6+ Hours (Low)
• 5.3" Length
• 1.54 oz Weight (W/ Battery)

It's for sale on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Defensive-Chicro-XL-Rechargeable/dp/B0D775JG88?crid=2J2XE9E88I3X4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hP962s9QK6QtmuRvcU6nADo7-2YKhegDEqKbK1q744gn0r2hCN-Fsa2fIrVfjvGaNWUED8NQlXuYnikuI9lzLNly7k6SDod9HBkeG 0lD67pMmtbr75ByJX-9K0JlNoCPcZBpx-Qm2D0WE7KHDDUUOYCy6e-LBnOx2eBRCehc6K2RtDC4Mqjqi7Nu5oIul4UV.TYQ51Jc1xi06 zrrbrRWA0ot2l6C10GDyXDSZtUy5sTY&dib_tag=se&keywords=cloud+defensive+chicco+xl&qid=1730742068&sprefix=cloud+defensive+chicro+xl%2Caps%2C1249&sr=8-2) for 40ish bucks, but I think it's cheaper from Cloud Defense (https://clouddefensive.com/products/cloud-defensive-chicro-xl) (although I am not sure with shipping).

I will probably get the XL version as well.

[jeep45238]

I have the small version of the Cloud Defensive Chicro XL. It is USB C chargeable and is inexpensive. Specs are:

• 500 Lumens (High) / 50 Lumens (Low)
• 90 Mins (High) / 6+ Hours (Low)
• 5.3" Length
• 1.54 oz Weight (W/ Battery)

It's for sale on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Defensive-Chicro-XL-Rechargeable/dp/B0D775JG88?crid=2J2XE9E88I3X4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hP962s9QK6QtmuRvcU6nADo7-2YKhegDEqKbK1q744gn0r2hCN-Fsa2fIrVfjvGaNWUED8NQlXuYnikuI9lzLNly7k6SDod9HBkeG 0lD67pMmtbr75ByJX-9K0JlNoCPcZBpx-Qm2D0WE7KHDDUUOYCy6e-LBnOx2eBRCehc6K2RtDC4Mqjqi7Nu5oIul4UV.TYQ51Jc1xi06 zrrbrRWA0ot2l6C10GDyXDSZtUy5sTY&dib_tag=se&keywords=cloud+defensive+chicco+xl&qid=1730742068&sprefix=cloud+defensive+chicro+xl%2Caps%2C1249&sr=8-2) for 40ish bucks, but I think it's cheaper from Cloud Defense (https://clouddefensive.com/products/cloud-defensive-chicro-xl) (although I am not sure with shipping).

I will probably get the XL version as well.

I ditched that one because of the switching. Not being 100% sure if it was going to be high or low when I turned it on resulted in some annoyances.

I've stuck with the Streamlight micro USB one - same form factor, and you can get them to default to high (brown) or low (black) when you turn them on.

I also noticed there was a build up until you got to full output in the CD Chicro that isn't present in the Streamlight.