Looking at the selection of AA high-powered flashlights, it is easy to see that there are very few selections that can push the output of the light over the 600 lumen mark, or even hitting a high output without the use of a ton of batteries. Thankfully, the Nitecore EA4 solves this issue with a few good traits.
The most noticeable part of this AA torch, is the output. With its CREE XM-L U2 LED, the EA4 Pioneer has a maximum output of 900 lumens with an even more impressive beam. The range of the beam can reach as far as 283 meters from only using four AA batteries, which makes it a perfect choice for those that want to stick with the convenience and value of AA batteries.
This EA4 series also has a fantastic set up of the user interface, which is similar to the Tiny Monster series. Manageable through the use of a single side switch, a full press of the button allows the user to access the turbo mode, while a half press of the switch allows the user to access the other six modes and cycle through the available choices. In order to access the strobe feature, a simple double click of the switch will engage the 900 lumen strobe, providing an extra measure of security and visibility.
The EA4 series is fairly priced, and also comes in a Neutral White version for those that prefer the ambiance of a pure white.
As of recently, it seems that this is the season of the flashlight companies to release their biggest and baddest flashlights. With Nitecore unveiling its TM26 Quad Ray and MH40, JETBeam releasing the DDR30, and Blackshadow (the underdog that is rising quickly in the ranks) producing the Terminator, it was only natural for the boys and girls of Fenix to show of their new powerhouse: the TK75.
Hosting three CREE XM-L U2 LED’s in the deep reflector, this light can push up to 2600 ANSI lumens. Using the deep reflector for the three XM-L’s allows the beam of the light to be more concentrated than others, which helps boost the throw distance of the light, while maintaining a fantastic flood beam as well.
The interface of the TK75 is perfectly tuned for any flashlight user with the two button layout on the side of the light. The first button is used to turn the light on and off, while the second button allows the user to quickly access the other modes on the light, leaving out the annoyance of twisting the head, or trying to access secret features from a one button switch.
One thing that definitely gives this light a competitive advantage over the other lights is the optional battery extender. Attaching the extender to the light will not only give the user a good defense mechanism (kidding), but will also increase the run time, which is incredibly helpful for long periods of use.
So far for the new Niteye brand, we’ve reviewed a great selection of lights that fit the wants and needs of any person that’s looking for a good pocket light or a good and functional tactical light. What we have yet to review, however, is a light that uses AA batteries instead of CR123′s or 18650′s. Granted that the lithium-powered cells are more powerful and better performing than the traditional alkaline batteries, but when it comes down to convenience and affordability, the Niteye EYE12‘s AA capability makes it a perfect choice for an EDC or emergency flashlight.
Using a CREE XM-L U2 LED that produces an impressive 260 lumens, the EYE12 is powered by two AA battery cells, which makes it a perfect starting light for those that are looking to delve into the high performance flashlight realm and wanting to stick with convenience first. The light has a tail switch that is used to turn the beam on and off, while the ramping ring located towards the head of the light is used to manage the lumen output, which allows the user to set the beam at a preferred mode rather than using programmed settings.
The body of the EYE12 is constructed out of aerospace aluminum, which allows the light to be durable and reduces damage by impact or accidents. The stainless steel bezel located on the head gives the light an executive finish, while it doubles over as reinforced protection of the lens and LED. Just like the other Niteye flashlights, the EYE12 comes standard with the IPX-8 waterproof rating, meaning that the light can handle heavy rain storms and can be dropped in water without any worries.
While lights may be an important cornerstone to everyday preparations or emergency situations, maintaining a proper battery source is very important as well. For those that like to have a rechargeable battery source for their lights, Nitecore has introduced a four bay charger that can charge three different types of batteries: the Nitecore i4 Intellicharger. This impressive charger uses a “smart interface” that can identify the battery type (Lithium-ion, NiMH, NiCd) that will choose the appropriate charging method for the battery. Once the batteries are fully charged, the charger will stop charging the battery and can be safely left in its slot until it needs to be used. The charger can be used via a traditional wall plug, or can be charged with an optional car adapter.
The HDS Executive 120 and 170 are both extremely compact and bright lights. Small size and great output makes the Executive series perfect for the every day carry role.
The only difference between the 120 and 170 versions is the output. As the name implies the 120 version tops out at 120 lumens on high, while the 170 version tops out at 170 lumens on the max brightness setting. Both of the lights utilize a single CR123 lithium battery which provides maximum run time while still maintaining a small package. Both torches also have 4 preset brightness settings allowing you to choose the right amount of output for the task at hand. Along with the great features the Executive series sports the same high quality that all other HDS flashlights have, ensuring years and years of loyal service.
It’s hard to get an idea of how a flashlight works through words, so watch the video below for a better idea.
ThruNite has made a name by making large high output lights. The 1AA and 2AA Neutron flashlights are still very high output torches, but they are a lot smaller than what is commonly seen from ThruNite.
The Neutrons shown in the video below utilize the ubiquitous and affordable AA battery, making it painless to replace batteries when they eventually run out of juice. Highly efficient circuitry allows this light to get the most out of the AA while still having good run time. 5 different brightness settings ranging from .1 all the way to 260 lumens ensures that you will have just the right amount of light for any situation. The reverse switch on the tail cap makes cycling through modes as easy as pressing a button. To access turbo mode all you need to do is turn the light on, then tighten the front bezel.
The Neutron series of lights bring Thrunite into the EDC flashlight world in a big way. Extremely high output and small size makes this an instant hit with flashaholics. If you’re still craving more information you’re in luck. The video below gives you an idea of just how bright this light is in use.
Zebralight can make it a little confusing to know exactly what it is that you want in one of their lights, so hopefully this video will help clear that up some.
The SC51 is a small every day carry light that is powered by a single AA battery. The “F” model dictates a model that will come with a frosted lens. While having virtually zero throw, the frosted lens version of the light is still incredibly useful. Sometimes lighting up a wide area directly in front of you is more useful than lighting up a tiny spot hundreds of yards away. The other version, the “Fw” model, comes with a frosted lens and a neutral white LED. Color rendition is sometimes not quite right with LED emitters, so if a person wants to be guaranteed a true white light this is the flashlight for them. The only real downside to having the true white color is slightly decreased output.
Of course, you can’t really get a good idea of what a flashlight is like until you see it in action. Both of these flashlights put out a lot of light, but after watching the video it should be easier to choose which one is best for your needs.
