@stinks Here are the only led flashlights I’ve been able to find that have just one mode. On or off. They are you basic cheap flashlight on every level, but I love them because they are either on or off.
@stinks For one of the models that used to be common and often counterfeited on eBay, there were a couple of manufacturers providing a dumb switch and tail cap assembly that got rid of all of the idiot modes. Unfortunately, as the proliferation in different models has proceeded, it has become next to Impossible to find them for anything currently available. Sometimes it is possible to retrofit the dumb switch from the Harbor Freight freebie flashlights into other models, but not often enough. And it always requires destructive surgery. I’ve done it, but only for ones where somebody else tested it first.
@stinks I have a couple of super-bright Amazon generics that also take 18650’s and have multiple annoying modes that I’ll never use… however, when you turn it off (by long-pressing the tail switch), it “remembers” the mode you had last selected and returns directly to that mode the next time you turn it on… so much less annoying than having to cycle through all the modes to get to the one you want every time you use it. Not sure if these are like that or not - but for $10 I might risk it.
I have a couple of super-bright Amazon generics that also take 18650’s and have multiple annoying modes that I’ll never use… however, when you turn it off (by long-pressing the tail switch), it “remembers” the mode you had last selected and returns directly to that mode the next time you turn it on
I think mine does this too, but the AAAs are dead.
So, more specifically, I could probably live with and even prefer “bright vs. BLAZING LIKE THE SUN BRIGHT” options, but whoever thought, “Insert blinking fast & bright enough to induce a seizure” into the standard rotation – twice – without a separate emergency switch, well, I wish they hadn’t.
@mehllow@stinks Correct. These mode-happy lights need a “preference” setting method to disable unwanted modes permanently. I don’t ever want strobe or SOS modes to come up unless I change the preference setting. Until there’s an easy way to permanently set the modes up the way I want them, forget it.
@stinks Hm, NiMh specifically forbid putting into sealed flashlights because of potential hydrogen release. Exploding flashlights is sub-optimal, so it seems like a good idea. I wonder how sealed this one is?
I have several like this and they are very good. The are bright and you can adjust the beam. The multiple modes can be a pain. All the LED flashlights have the same problem-they do not slowly dim (like the flashlights of yore) as the battery dies, they just quit when you least expect it (which is any time), so I try to keep a spare set of batteries near them.
@stinks Batteries that ship with budget flashlights tend to be thrid-rate or worse. A while back Amazon had some good lights with a two-pack of “3800mAh” batteries. What was in the photo and what was in the box did not correspond. Unless that Wallylight is a familiar brand, expect a crummy cell.
OBTW, I’ll second the rec for Nitecore. Not cheap, but no lies on their capacity. I use them in my two EDC units, and can go a week between cell swaps easily. With the cheaper ones, it was two or three days at most. (That’s still a bargain by comparison to alkalines, but…)
@aarond12@andyw@stinks Sorry about that. I got mine a few years ago and didn’t think to check the stock levels. Only two models have the built in charger and the other only has a little more capacity but is $19.95 instead of $11.95.
@donrick@Plenny7 It’s called a water heater because it heats water, not any of the other things that get heated. Calling it a cold water heater is redundant because you don’t need a heater if the water is already hot, plus it heats tepid and warm water too.
What if your water heater is especially attractive?
Won’t matter, they don’t get out much. At least it means you don’t have to worry about them dragging home some slick on-demand heater for a one-night-stand.
Meet the Flashlights That Outshine Your Sense of Humor
Introducing the 3-Pack: Super Bright Zoomable Cree LED Tactical Flashlights, the only light source that’s more sardonic than you are. Before you roll your eyes, buckle up and prepare to be blinded by their radiant wit, and by “wit,” we mean 1200 lumens of pure, blinding light.
Five Modes: A Light Show for the Apathetic
Each of these beacons of banter comes with five modes, all of which involve light. We know, we’re as shocked as you are.
Eye-Melter: For those who feel the need to see every single one of their pores in the bathroom mirror.
Snark Spotlight: Perfect for shining on your friends when they make a hilariously bad joke.
Drama Dimmer: When you need just the right amount of light to roll your eyes with maximum impact.
Meh Mode: For when you're too indifferent to choose a brightness setting.
The Strobe of Sardonicism: Flash this when someone says something so absurd, you need an SOS signal to rescue you from the conversation.
1200 Lumens, They Say
Honestly, we’d love to tell you that these flashlights emit 1200 lumens, but we know you’d never believe us. Let’s just say they’re bright enough to light up your life, but not so bright they’d outshine your wit. That would be a travesty.
Power Sources: Because Being Prepared is SO Overrated
These flashlights take 3 AAA batteries or one 18650, because who doesn’t love having options? Plus, there’s something satisfying about scavenging for the right battery type when you’re in the middle of a blackout. It’s like a mini-adventure, except not fun or interesting.
Cree(d) III: The Best Film of 2023, According to Our Flashlights
If these flashlights could talk, they’d tell you their favorite movie of 2023 is Cree(d) III. It’s a classic tale of light versus darkness, where the protagonist, Lumi, takes on an evil villain who wants to plunge the world into eternal cynicism. We’d give you more details, but we don’t want to spoil the movie for you. Or, maybe we just don’t care.
Conclusion: Embrace the Radiance of Snark
So, what are you waiting for? Light up your life with these 3-Pack: Super Bright Zoomable Cree LED Tactical Flashlights. They’re the only flashlights that understand your unique brand of humor, and the only ones you can trust not to take themselves too seriously. After all, life’s too short to be serious all the time – just ask our flashlights.
Order now, or don’t. We’re not your mom. But if we were, we’d tell you that these flashlights are a bright idea. Get it? Bright? Oh, never mind.
@outz While humor has its place in advertising, I would advise caution when purchasing a flashlight from a company that doesn’t take its products seriously.
When it comes to flashlights, you want to ensure that the product you choose is reliable and effective. In emergency situations, a faulty flashlight could mean the difference between safety and danger. That’s why it’s essential to purchase a flashlight from a reputable brand that values quality and customer satisfaction.
When considering a flashlight, lumens are just one of the many important factors to take into account. Other essential specifications include battery life, beam distance, and durability. Take the time to research each of these factors to find a flashlight that meets your specific needs.
In conclusion, while humor is a useful marketing tactic, it’s crucial to prioritize quality and effectiveness when purchasing a flashlight. Look for a brand with a proven track record of producing reliable, high-quality products, and make sure to research all of the essential specifications to find a flashlight that meets your requirements.
@brochenzo@outz For three units for ten bucks, it’s not worth extensive research, just a quick evaluation of “are they just crap?” (experience predicts “no”) and “are they good enough for most common uses?” (experience predicts “yes”). At that point, the only important question is “Do I really need (more) flashlights?” In my case, I do not. Your results may vary.
@Kidsandliz Poesy without panache, not quite the verve of haiku, but a nice little lilt with that kiss of reality. Kudos.
BTW, what’s coming out of your faucets at present time? Anything at all? Liquid algae? Ice cubes from a few days ago? Haven’t heard anything about it from you for awhile – is that a good sign?
@phendrick Light brown water last night. But of course why would a boil water notice be issued. 19 cases of water stored in a 2 room apartment. Apparently eventually I will need it all.
Perfect for making tea!
(Thoroughly boiled, of course.)
Is the situation there ever going to get better, or should we start a MIG (Meh Investment Group) to specialize in bottled water holdings?
Is Dosani a big brand there, or which? (I don’t recall your mentioning the brand of your stockpile.)
At any rate, best wishes. I’m glad I don’t have to rely on bottled water here. My 50# dog goes through water at about 3X the rate I drink liquids, including coffee. (But she’s not that picky; she seems to prefer curb water(?) to our city-certified “excellent” water supply that I keep her bowls full with.)
@phendrick I have a variety of brands some of which taste like plastic or other grossness, others not so much so. Briefly in this on going mess they finally had the national guard handing out water. I stockpiled because it is incredibly expensive to keep buying bottled water for animal and human use and only those in denial think this will end any time soon.
@phendrick My gosh did that song hit me hard! I’m sitting here with tears running down my face thinking about what a freaking wonderful life I had living on the edge in my younger years. Great music, antique hot rod cars, being wild and fearless! Blinded by the light for sure!
OH YEAH, FUN TIMES!
Got the multi-pack last time they were on here, and these are bright enough for me to stand at my back door and spotlight across my backyard at night when I hear animals making noises.
@aarond12@bugger@pmarin If you’re lucky, in the near future you might run across some Ryobi packs equipped with 21700 cells, too. I’ve noticed that a lot of the more recently-produced flashlights have been leaving room for those, for upgrade when they finally become common. I believe that the hard-to-find 9Ah pack uses them; I have one, but I haven’t popped it open to check.
They’re right about me not believing the 1200 lumens claim, since 3 AAA batteries simply can’t deliver the power needed to achieve that output. An 18650 could, but the reality is probably somewhere between 250 and 550, likely in the 300 to 400 range. As for their actually having a genuine CREE emitter… From China? Bloody unlikely. Bright enough for most purposes, and amazingly bright by comparison to anything incandescent that Maglite ever made? You betcha - but that’s an astonishingly low bar to get over.
@werehatrack
ummm, maybe I’m wrong, ( it does happen), but aren’t 3 AAA batteries (in series) actually more voltage than one 18650? They may not last as long, but I would think they would put out 1.5 x 3 volts or 4.5v total, vs the 3.7 from the 18650.
@chienfou@werehatrack More voltage, less amperage. These have regulators, so it’ll buck down to whatever the LED is rated for; white LEDs are typically around 3-3.3V
Similarly, you might have noticed that several power tool companies now have « high performance » or « high output » tool batteries for new tools like cordless saws. They are the same voltage as the older ones (18-20V for the most common). But newer battery tech gives them the ability to provide higher current without dropping. So the tool speed can run at its max potential. Sounds like this light also benefits from higher-current-capable batteries and you just can’t get that from 3AAA.
@werehatrack I can believe CREE LEDs if not all the other claims. I bought 100 CREE LEDs for less than $.10 each from Digikey. How bright? I don’t know - they were fine for the dollhouse I was building. (I used 18 in the dollhouse.)
@sligett The high output LEDs used in flashlights that are made in China are almost never genuine Cree LEDs. Counterfeiting is the rule in that area. Trying to shut down all of the multitude of makers of fakes is impossible.
I probably have a dozen flashlights that look exactly like these, plus several dozen better ones. Stop trying to make me buy more flashlights and knives. I really do not need any more. No really. I’m good.
So Funny Ponagathos!!! I feel the same. My Mother and I joke that I have a flashlight fetish… I guarantee that we are good in a power outage. I am fighting off the urge…
I didn’t need tactical flashlights as gifts for my grandkids, so I got ASIN B099DF293G. A package of 6 LED flashlights, with batteries, a simple on/off switch, in colors for $16.
I can’t use this to fix my hot water heater because my water heater only heats cold water. But these flashlights are the best to have all over my old creepy house.
@chiefbigbong I had one turn up on a Friday afternoon a few weeks back, and I moved it out to the curb for the city’s dead-animal pickup service to collect. By the time they got there, the brown vultures had reduced it to a skull, a backbone, a tail, and a few assorted other bones. We joked that the city must have subcontracted the worst of the disposal to the birds. When another one turned up in the garage, I didn’t find it soon enough, and getting rid of it was a bit messier. That one went into a plastic bag, tightly tied shut and tossed in the trash barrel.
@chiefbigbong@werehatrack We’ve had regular late night visits from possums for the last 25 years, usually looking for a chance at a chicken or cat food, but never have found a dead one. I’m curious as to how they turn up dead in the yard. Hit by a car, dog attack, lead?
@krmugn52 Cause of death unknown for the one outside; the one in the garage probably died of stupidity since it was discovered after a period of a couple of weeks of me not having the doors open at all.
My input is, these are fine for kids and throw aways. If you want a real flashlight there are some made in USA companies but there is also Sofrin which is sofricking bright and well built and pretty affordable for what you get. They run sales regularly. I have multiple of different types and they are all great!
Use my affiliate link: just kidding. I recommend them, not a shill.
@qazxto +1 to myself , great comment. I have one that is >9000 lumens and it’s like a hand held sun. Keep by the bedside with my guns. It’s 11000 on full blast.
@qazxto LOL I don’t know what you’re up to but that is kinda funny. BTW you know the bot tracks everything including giving you an award for when you +1 to yourself. Not sure that’s a bad thing, though.
Meanwhile I was hoping for the fantasy-world-link of made-in-USA flashlights. And not “assembled in USA from global components…”
@pmarin sorry, yes it is Chinese but they make them according to request of flashlight enthusiasts (a real condition) like BLF.
The big one I have is so bright if you turn it on and out it in your pocket it will burn a hole through your clothes (it does have some temp regulators for safety, so you can’t be on 11000 for too long but it’s better than having your hand explode from 4 x 18650s)
Final recommendation, get a flashlight with a 21770 size if you have to choose between 2 models. Bigger battery, more juice. Both battery’s can be bought on a variety of reputable online websites for fairly cheap (Black Friday or other sales help).
Also, I apologize for my helpful and light tone. It’s spring. My ground is thawing. The ducks and chickens are thawing out and I’m thawing out. Time to get rid of cold.
@qazxto this is way better than the review I came here to consider writing. I’ve gotten a couple (few?) of these via meh (different name, very similar appearance, 2019); they’re definitely fine! no complaints, good light / UX for the price.
A search on eBay for “single mode flashlight” turns up an encouraging number of hits. Apparently the manufacturers are finally snapping to the fact that there’s a nontrivial demand for units that are just On or Off and not bloody Flashing or Dim or Not Bright Enough or Flashing A Pointless SOS Signal. Dare I hope that part of the reason that these serviceable but annoying ones are on Meh is because the demand for Not Five Fecking Modes Dammit has finally caused these to be deprecated?
In the 5th photo, it’s a Toyota from the logos on the air cleaner and engine cover. But it looks like a longitudinal V6. Can anyone more familiar with the brand identify the vehicle? Dude seems to be pretty happy about checking the oil at night.
@walarney
yeah, and I like how he is shining the light on the inside of the hood in anticipation of being able to see where all the oil flicks when he pulls out the stick in that bend!
@chienfou My theory about his happiness is that last week he dumped in some Slick50 that he bought at a daily deals site, and now he’s smug that he fixed his oil leak all by himself. He’s already wiped the stick on his brand new dish towel, and he’s just putting it back in for the photo commemorating this momentous occasion. At night.
Rec’d today…
These might be fake CREE bulbs, they are certainly overspec’d implementations of them.
With a freshly charged 3.6V 18650 battery (~3.8-4V charged) draws 1.45A, so about 5.5W.
That said, Cree’s datasheet for the XM-L T6 says it’s 551 lumen at 1500mA.
Technically, a genuine Cree can take up to 3000mA and at a spec of 100 lumen/watt, could potentially hit 1080 lumens while chewing up 10.8W of power.
–An 3000mAh 18650 cell (3.6*3 = ~10.8WH) would last about an hour at ‘full’ power; In this 5W implementation should last 2 hours.
–Three Energizer Max AAA batteries could supply 4.5V@1250mAh for ~5.6WH and give maybe an hour of runtime at full brightness, but at over an amp current, not likely to be hold up that well.
Also important to note that:
–Medium brightness is about half power and draws ~600mA for roughly ~200-250 lumens and should last ~5 hours (w/ modest 18650 cell)
–Low Brightness draws ~300mA and should last ~10 hours
Moral of the story, use the lowest mode you can.
Also, FWIW’ a legit LG Chem 18650 ~3200mA cell weighs 47g.
A crappy “Ultrafire” 4200mAh that’s grossly misleading weighs 28g, and a slightly more realistic “Ultrafire” 3000mAh cell weighs 42g, both of which tested extremely poorly. They’re also labeled “Low discharge rate”, “Sheef life around 10 years”, and “Environmentally Friendly”
@lisaviolet I’m way too late to be useful, including to myself, but having pulled one of these out tonight, it appears to me that it didn’t ship with the (other) adapter that is required to use it with 3 AAA batteries. I’m suspicious of myself, though, because no one else mentioned it.
@pfd314 Button top protected. If you leave either of the other two in there with the switch accidentally on, it will destroy the battery and you will not be able to recharge it. With the protected battery, you are supposed to be insulated from that eventuality.
Hi, Received these and when zoomed in the light is the shape of the light bulb. Which looks like a sheet of loose leaf paper. What is the story about that?
@edsa As you zoom out, the image loses focus and gets fuzzy and round. Zoomed to minimum diameter, the LED is nearly in focus. To have kept it fuzzy and round would have required more than one lens element. This behavior is pretty much the norm for zoomable LED flashlights. I have at least a dozen from different sources that all work the same way
We love this small, portable flashlight. In the evening we go out walking where it’s dark. We keep the light on in a circle wide enough to see where we are going. If we happen to see a hawk or owl in the trees we shine it on him and he either dive bombs us or flys off. Great little gadget!
I’m way too late to be useful, including to myself, but having pulled one of these out tonight, it appears to me that it didn’t ship with the adapter that is required to use it with 3 AAA batteries. I’m suspicious of myself, though, because no one else mentioned it.
Specs
Product: 3-Pack: Super Bright Zoomable Cree LED Tactical Flashlights
Model: XML-T6
Condition: New
What’s Included?
Price Comparison
$50.85 for 3 similar on Amazon
Warranty
90 days
Estimated Delivery
Tuesday, Mar 28 - Thursday, Mar 30
These are INSANELY bright.
They kinda eat batteries. I should get the rechargeables.
The only annoying part is the modes. I don’t want to cycle through modes when i click; I want to click it on once for on, another for off.
But otherwise these are incredible. Feel pretty solid too.
@stinks Definitely worth buying the 18650’s for these.
@stinks Yup. Cycling modes seems to be the “sucking standard” on most of these.
@stinks Here are the only led flashlights I’ve been able to find that have just one mode. On or off. They are you basic cheap flashlight on every level, but I love them because they are either on or off.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RQQVM44/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title
@stinks For one of the models that used to be common and often counterfeited on eBay, there were a couple of manufacturers providing a dumb switch and tail cap assembly that got rid of all of the idiot modes. Unfortunately, as the proliferation in different models has proceeded, it has become next to Impossible to find them for anything currently available. Sometimes it is possible to retrofit the dumb switch from the Harbor Freight freebie flashlights into other models, but not often enough. And it always requires destructive surgery. I’ve done it, but only for ones where somebody else tested it first.
@stinks I have a couple of super-bright Amazon generics that also take 18650’s and have multiple annoying modes that I’ll never use… however, when you turn it off (by long-pressing the tail switch), it “remembers” the mode you had last selected and returns directly to that mode the next time you turn it on… so much less annoying than having to cycle through all the modes to get to the one you want every time you use it. Not sure if these are like that or not - but for $10 I might risk it.
@Raven65
I think mine does this too, but the AAAs are dead.
So, more specifically, I could probably live with and even prefer “bright vs. BLAZING LIKE THE SUN BRIGHT” options, but whoever thought, “Insert blinking fast & bright enough to induce a seizure” into the standard rotation – twice – without a separate emergency switch, well, I wish they hadn’t.
@mehllow @stinks Correct. These mode-happy lights need a “preference” setting method to disable unwanted modes permanently. I don’t ever want strobe or SOS modes to come up unless I change the preference setting. Until there’s an easy way to permanently set the modes up the way I want them, forget it.
@stinks Hm, NiMh specifically forbid putting into sealed flashlights because of potential hydrogen release. Exploding flashlights is sub-optimal, so it seems like a good idea. I wonder how sealed this one is?
@Nancyen
Suspicious… @thumperchick
@chienfou @Nancyen Got it. Thanks for the tag.
@Thumperchick
I have several like this and they are very good. The are bright and you can adjust the beam. The multiple modes can be a pain. All the LED flashlights have the same problem-they do not slowly dim (like the flashlights of yore) as the battery dies, they just quit when you least expect it (which is any time), so I try to keep a spare set of batteries near them.
@andyw Definitely use 18650s with these. I can easily light up the water tower several streets over with these.
@aarond12 @andyw this is not hyperbole ^^^
Oof. The 18650s are expensive if I pick em up locally. Then another $22 for a charger.
https://www.batteriesplus.com/productdetails/nure18650=1
I’m not a huge fan of no-names from Amazon, but tempted now.
Hrm, for $10 at Walmart (in stock), I get a battery and a flashlight.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Rayovac-Metal-Rechargeable-LED-Flashlight-with-USB-Charging-Cable-300-Lumens-18650-battery/253274634?
@aarond12 @andyw @stinks Get the Nitecore 18650 like mine. Just need a wall wart with a micro-USB cable and they charge themselves.
https://www.nitecorestore.com/Nitecore-NL1826R-18650-Battery-p/bat-nite-18650-nl1826r.htm
@stinks Batteries that ship with budget flashlights tend to be thrid-rate or worse. A while back Amazon had some good lights with a two-pack of “3800mAh” batteries. What was in the photo and what was in the box did not correspond. Unless that Wallylight is a familiar brand, expect a crummy cell.
OBTW, I’ll second the rec for Nitecore. Not cheap, but no lies on their capacity. I use them in my two EDC units, and can go a week between cell swaps easily. With the cheaper ones, it was two or three days at most. (That’s still a bargain by comparison to alkalines, but…)
@aarond12 @andyw @yakkoTDI
That was mean. It’s out of stock.
Edit: Oh wait, there are more…
@aarond12 @andyw @stinks Sorry about that. I got mine a few years ago and didn’t think to check the stock levels. Only two models have the built in charger and the other only has a little more capacity but is $19.95 instead of $11.95.
@aarond12 @andyw @stinks You’re on the internet, no need to be price gouged on batteries.
https://www.18650batterystore.com/collections/18650-batteries/products/eve-20p
@aarond12 @andyw @jandrese
Was more worried about buying crap, but what a deal. one for 1.99 [sic] or…
Buy 10 + $2.85
Buy 50 + $2.65
Buy 100 + $2.40
Buy 400 + $2.25
Buy 1000 + $2.15
It’s just called a “water heater” because you don’t have to heat hot water.
@donrick Even “cold water heater” makes more sense, because it heats up cold water.
@donrick unless you want it even hotter
@donrick @Plenny7 It’s called a water heater because it heats water, not any of the other things that get heated. Calling it a cold water heater is redundant because you don’t need a heater if the water is already hot, plus it heats tepid and warm water too.
@donrick @werehatrack @brennyn @Plenny7 What if your water heater is especially attractive?
@brennyn @donrick @macromeh @Plenny7
Won’t matter, they don’t get out much. At least it means you don’t have to worry about them dragging home some slick on-demand heater for a one-night-stand.
@donrick Yep… much like saying “ATM Machine” (remember using those?) when what you’re actually saying is “Automatic Teller Machine Machine”
@donrick @Plenny7
/youtube mythbusters water heater
Hotter water
Meet the Flashlights That Outshine Your Sense of Humor
Introducing the 3-Pack: Super Bright Zoomable Cree LED Tactical Flashlights, the only light source that’s more sardonic than you are. Before you roll your eyes, buckle up and prepare to be blinded by their radiant wit, and by “wit,” we mean 1200 lumens of pure, blinding light.
Five Modes: A Light Show for the Apathetic
Each of these beacons of banter comes with five modes, all of which involve light. We know, we’re as shocked as you are.
1200 Lumens, They Say
Honestly, we’d love to tell you that these flashlights emit 1200 lumens, but we know you’d never believe us. Let’s just say they’re bright enough to light up your life, but not so bright they’d outshine your wit. That would be a travesty.
Power Sources: Because Being Prepared is SO Overrated
These flashlights take 3 AAA batteries or one 18650, because who doesn’t love having options? Plus, there’s something satisfying about scavenging for the right battery type when you’re in the middle of a blackout. It’s like a mini-adventure, except not fun or interesting.
Cree(d) III: The Best Film of 2023, According to Our Flashlights
If these flashlights could talk, they’d tell you their favorite movie of 2023 is Cree(d) III. It’s a classic tale of light versus darkness, where the protagonist, Lumi, takes on an evil villain who wants to plunge the world into eternal cynicism. We’d give you more details, but we don’t want to spoil the movie for you. Or, maybe we just don’t care.
Conclusion: Embrace the Radiance of Snark
So, what are you waiting for? Light up your life with these 3-Pack: Super Bright Zoomable Cree LED Tactical Flashlights. They’re the only flashlights that understand your unique brand of humor, and the only ones you can trust not to take themselves too seriously. After all, life’s too short to be serious all the time – just ask our flashlights.
Order now, or don’t. We’re not your mom. But if we were, we’d tell you that these flashlights are a bright idea. Get it? Bright? Oh, never mind.
@outz Your term papers must have been a hoot to read.
@outz While humor has its place in advertising, I would advise caution when purchasing a flashlight from a company that doesn’t take its products seriously.
When it comes to flashlights, you want to ensure that the product you choose is reliable and effective. In emergency situations, a faulty flashlight could mean the difference between safety and danger. That’s why it’s essential to purchase a flashlight from a reputable brand that values quality and customer satisfaction.
When considering a flashlight, lumens are just one of the many important factors to take into account. Other essential specifications include battery life, beam distance, and durability. Take the time to research each of these factors to find a flashlight that meets your specific needs.
In conclusion, while humor is a useful marketing tactic, it’s crucial to prioritize quality and effectiveness when purchasing a flashlight. Look for a brand with a proven track record of producing reliable, high-quality products, and make sure to research all of the essential specifications to find a flashlight that meets your requirements.
@brochenzo @outz For three units for ten bucks, it’s not worth extensive research, just a quick evaluation of “are they just crap?” (experience predicts “no”) and “are they good enough for most common uses?” (experience predicts “yes”). At that point, the only important question is “Do I really need (more) flashlights?” In my case, I do not. Your results may vary.
@brochenzo @outz you’re on the wrong site, you need to go over to Brookstone
@brochenzo @outz @werehatrack My sister says a person can never have too many flashlights (her husband says that about screwdrivers).
@brochenzo @outz Almost tl/dr. My only reaction:
@brochenzo @Kidsandliz @outz I say it’s Vice-grips, because it seems like I always need one more pair than I have handy.
@brochenzo Are you lost? Need a cheap flashlight?
This little light of mine
I’m going to let it shine…
Until the AAA batteries die
@Kidsandliz Poesy without panache, not quite the verve of haiku, but a nice little lilt with that kiss of reality. Kudos.
BTW, what’s coming out of your faucets at present time? Anything at all? Liquid algae? Ice cubes from a few days ago? Haven’t heard anything about it from you for awhile – is that a good sign?
@phendrick Light brown water last night. But of course why would a boil water notice be issued. 19 cases of water stored in a 2 room apartment. Apparently eventually I will need it all.
@Kidsandliz
Perfect for making tea!
(Thoroughly boiled, of course.)
Is the situation there ever going to get better, or should we start a MIG (Meh Investment Group) to specialize in bottled water holdings?
Is Dosani a big brand there, or which? (I don’t recall your mentioning the brand of your stockpile.)
At any rate, best wishes. I’m glad I don’t have to rely on bottled water here. My 50# dog goes through water at about 3X the rate I drink liquids, including coffee. (But she’s not that picky; she seems to prefer curb water(?) to our city-certified “excellent” water supply that I keep her bowls full with.)
@phendrick I have a variety of brands some of which taste like plastic or other grossness, others not so much so. Briefly in this on going mess they finally had the national guard handing out water. I stockpiled because it is incredibly expensive to keep buying bottled water for animal and human use and only those in denial think this will end any time soon.
Beware my power… Cree Lantern’s light!
/youtube blinded by the light, manfred mann
@phendrick My gosh did that song hit me hard! I’m sitting here with tears running down my face thinking about what a freaking wonderful life I had living on the edge in my younger years. Great music, antique hot rod cars, being wild and fearless! Blinded by the light for sure!
OH YEAH, FUN TIMES!
@Lynnerizer
It immediately came to mind. Glad you enjoyed it.
Yeah, but now, the antique I see is in the mirror.
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Also, I thought the visuals around the lyrics were strikingly done in this video.
@phendrick
You’ve got that right about looking in the mirror, 3 years ago I started seeing my grandmother every time I looked into mine!
Got the multi-pack last time they were on here, and these are bright enough for me to stand at my back door and spotlight across my backyard at night when I hear animals making noises.
If these had the 18650 batteries i’d buy 3 batches or 9 flashlights
@bugger Of course! But good-quality 18650s from a reliable non-fake brand would cost more than these lights.
@bugger @pmarin We’re going to test that!
@bugger @pmarin I use 18650s scavenged from old Ryobi tools and old laptops. Works great.
@aarond12 @bugger @pmarin If you’re lucky, in the near future you might run across some Ryobi packs equipped with 21700 cells, too. I’ve noticed that a lot of the more recently-produced flashlights have been leaving room for those, for upgrade when they finally become common. I believe that the hard-to-find 9Ah pack uses them; I have one, but I haven’t popped it open to check.
They’re right about me not believing the 1200 lumens claim, since 3 AAA batteries simply can’t deliver the power needed to achieve that output. An 18650 could, but the reality is probably somewhere between 250 and 550, likely in the 300 to 400 range. As for their actually having a genuine CREE emitter… From China? Bloody unlikely. Bright enough for most purposes, and amazingly bright by comparison to anything incandescent that Maglite ever made? You betcha - but that’s an astonishingly low bar to get over.
@werehatrack
ummm, maybe I’m wrong, ( it does happen), but aren’t 3 AAA batteries (in series) actually more voltage than one 18650? They may not last as long, but I would think they would put out 1.5 x 3 volts or 4.5v total, vs the 3.7 from the 18650.
@chienfou @werehatrack More voltage, less amperage. These have regulators, so it’ll buck down to whatever the LED is rated for; white LEDs are typically around 3-3.3V
@chienfou @narfcake @werehatrack It’s not the volts, it’s how you use them!
Similarly, you might have noticed that several power tool companies now have « high performance » or « high output » tool batteries for new tools like cordless saws. They are the same voltage as the older ones (18-20V for the most common). But newer battery tech gives them the ability to provide higher current without dropping. So the tool speed can run at its max potential. Sounds like this light also benefits from higher-current-capable batteries and you just can’t get that from 3AAA.
@werehatrack I can believe CREE LEDs if not all the other claims. I bought 100 CREE LEDs for less than $.10 each from Digikey. How bright? I don’t know - they were fine for the dollhouse I was building. (I used 18 in the dollhouse.)
@sligett The high output LEDs used in flashlights that are made in China are almost never genuine Cree LEDs. Counterfeiting is the rule in that area. Trying to shut down all of the multitude of makers of fakes is impossible.
@sligett you must have had a happy kid with that dollhouse!
I probably have a dozen flashlights that look exactly like these, plus several dozen better ones. Stop trying to make me buy more flashlights and knives. I really do not need any more. No really. I’m good.
In for three.
@ponagathos BTDT in the past, will resist the urge this time. Now, if they were purple…
So Funny Ponagathos!!! I feel the same. My Mother and I joke that I have a flashlight fetish… I guarantee that we are good in a power outage. I am fighting off the urge…
/showme chivalrous tenacious leek
@mediocrebot Them R not leeks. Them R onions. C M round leaves?
I didn’t need tactical flashlights as gifts for my grandkids, so I got ASIN B099DF293G. A package of 6 LED flashlights, with batteries, a simple on/off switch, in colors for $16.
So really, are these good or not?
@edsa Decent and well worth the price despite the inflated lumens claim.
@edsa @werehatrack I think “adequate” is the word you’re looking for.
I can’t use this to fix my hot water heater because my water heater only heats cold water. But these flashlights are the best to have all over my old creepy house.
@stenger8 It won’t heat tepid or merely warm water?
@werehatrack tepid is now my new favorite word
@stenger8 @werehatrack flaccid is also a good one to whip around.
@pmarin @werehatrack shudder that word falls in the category with “moist”
The zoom is great for finding dead possums in your yard at night. I found two so far.
@chiefbigbong I had one turn up on a Friday afternoon a few weeks back, and I moved it out to the curb for the city’s dead-animal pickup service to collect. By the time they got there, the brown vultures had reduced it to a skull, a backbone, a tail, and a few assorted other bones. We joked that the city must have subcontracted the worst of the disposal to the birds. When another one turned up in the garage, I didn’t find it soon enough, and getting rid of it was a bit messier. That one went into a plastic bag, tightly tied shut and tossed in the trash barrel.
@chiefbigbong @werehatrack Eek. But isn’t nature magical? As they say, We all gotta eat.
@chiefbigbong
Are you finding them dead or is that the result after you find them?
@chiefbigbong @werehatrack We’ve had regular late night visits from possums for the last 25 years, usually looking for a chance at a chicken or cat food, but never have found a dead one. I’m curious as to how they turn up dead in the yard. Hit by a car, dog attack, lead?
@krmugn52 Cause of death unknown for the one outside; the one in the garage probably died of stupidity since it was discovered after a period of a couple of weeks of me not having the doors open at all.
Love these. In for one (pack of 3)!
/giphy overwrought-vacant-balloon
These are pretty bad without 18650s. When I buy 18650s, I almost always find one or two of these thrown in the box for free.
I’ll pass, but if you still own even one incandescent flashlight, you should throw it away and buy these.
/giphy thorny-calamitous-grasshopper
My input is, these are fine for kids and throw aways. If you want a real flashlight there are some made in USA companies but there is also Sofrin which is sofricking bright and well built and pretty affordable for what you get. They run sales regularly. I have multiple of different types and they are all great!
Use my affiliate link: just kidding. I recommend them, not a shill.
@qazxto +1 to myself , great comment. I have one that is >9000 lumens and it’s like a hand held sun. Keep by the bedside with my guns. It’s 11000 on full blast.
@qazxto LOL I don’t know what you’re up to but that is kinda funny. BTW you know the bot tracks everything including giving you an award for when you +1 to yourself. Not sure that’s a bad thing, though.
Meanwhile I was hoping for the fantasy-world-link of made-in-USA flashlights. And not “assembled in USA from global components…”
@pmarin sorry, yes it is Chinese but they make them according to request of flashlight enthusiasts (a real condition) like BLF.
The big one I have is so bright if you turn it on and out it in your pocket it will burn a hole through your clothes (it does have some temp regulators for safety, so you can’t be on 11000 for too long but it’s better than having your hand explode from 4 x 18650s)
Final recommendation, get a flashlight with a 21770 size if you have to choose between 2 models. Bigger battery, more juice. Both battery’s can be bought on a variety of reputable online websites for fairly cheap (Black Friday or other sales help).
Also, I apologize for my helpful and light tone. It’s spring. My ground is thawing. The ducks and chickens are thawing out and I’m thawing out. Time to get rid of cold.
@qazxto this is way better than the review I came here to consider writing. I’ve gotten a couple (few?) of these via meh (different name, very similar appearance, 2019); they’re definitely fine! no complaints, good light / UX for the price.
A search on eBay for “single mode flashlight” turns up an encouraging number of hits. Apparently the manufacturers are finally snapping to the fact that there’s a nontrivial demand for units that are just On or Off and not bloody Flashing or Dim or Not Bright Enough or Flashing A Pointless SOS Signal. Dare I hope that part of the reason that these serviceable but annoying ones are on Meh is because the demand for Not Five Fecking Modes Dammit has finally caused these to be deprecated?
@werehatrack
True, but nowhere near this price point. (Though some come with 18650 batteries and a charger)
@chienfou Quite correct. Let us hope that this changes; the sooner, the better.
/buy
@uvassassin It worked! Your order number is: boisterous-shaky-fang
/image boisterous shaky fang
In the 5th photo, it’s a Toyota from the logos on the air cleaner and engine cover. But it looks like a longitudinal V6. Can anyone more familiar with the brand identify the vehicle? Dude seems to be pretty happy about checking the oil at night.
@walarney
yeah, and I like how he is shining the light on the inside of the hood in anticipation of being able to see where all the oil flicks when he pulls out the stick in that bend!
@chienfou My theory about his happiness is that last week he dumped in some Slick50 that he bought at a daily deals site, and now he’s smug that he fixed his oil leak all by himself. He’s already wiped the stick on his brand new dish towel, and he’s just putting it back in for the photo commemorating this momentous occasion. At night.
@walarney Looks like a 4Runner, all right.
These are a good way to use all my 18650 rechargeable batteries that I still have since I quit vaping. What else are they good for?
@goldnectar They fit in the barrel of a 12-gauge quite nicely, but a rifled choke won’t give them enough spin to be stable.
@goldnectar @werehatrack
like this?
… as my power is out at home for the next two days. This is such a f-ing tease.
Keep a few in my car. Good cheap gifts for the grandkids.
/giphy unbearable-perceptive-canvas
@Springbank Such an unhinged, brilliant movie.
Here’s a great single mode flashlight. $30, give or take.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KH2JP5G/
Just so we’re clear: triple A = triple nope.
Thanks a lot !
B.B.
I can’t wait to see what these shine a light on!
Rec’d today…
These might be fake CREE bulbs, they are certainly overspec’d implementations of them.
With a freshly charged 3.6V 18650 battery (~3.8-4V charged) draws 1.45A, so about 5.5W.
That said, Cree’s datasheet for the XM-L T6 says it’s 551 lumen at 1500mA.
Technically, a genuine Cree can take up to 3000mA and at a spec of 100 lumen/watt, could potentially hit 1080 lumens while chewing up 10.8W of power.
–An 3000mAh 18650 cell (3.6*3 = ~10.8WH) would last about an hour at ‘full’ power; In this 5W implementation should last 2 hours.
–Three Energizer Max AAA batteries could supply 4.5V@1250mAh for ~5.6WH and give maybe an hour of runtime at full brightness, but at over an amp current, not likely to be hold up that well.
Also important to note that:
–Medium brightness is about half power and draws ~600mA for roughly ~200-250 lumens and should last ~5 hours (w/ modest 18650 cell)
–Low Brightness draws ~300mA and should last ~10 hours
Moral of the story, use the lowest mode you can.
Also, FWIW’ a legit LG Chem 18650 ~3200mA cell weighs 47g.
A crappy “Ultrafire” 4200mAh that’s grossly misleading weighs 28g, and a slightly more realistic “Ultrafire” 3000mAh cell weighs 42g, both of which tested extremely poorly. They’re also labeled “Low discharge rate”, “Sheef life around 10 years”, and “Environmentally Friendly”
What are these plastic sleeves for?
@lisaviolet Use to keep an 18650 Lithium battery centered, if you want to switch to a rechargeable.
@lisaviolet I’m way too late to be useful, including to myself, but having pulled one of these out tonight, it appears to me that it didn’t ship with the (other) adapter that is required to use it with 3 AAA batteries. I’m suspicious of myself, though, because no one else mentioned it.
These flashlights are just fantastic for the price. Fulfilled my need by need x 6. Ordered two sets.
What are the best 18650 batteries to use for this?
@pfd314 Button top protected. If you leave either of the other two in there with the switch accidentally on, it will destroy the battery and you will not be able to recharge it. With the protected battery, you are supposed to be insulated from that eventuality.
Hi, Received these and when zoomed in the light is the shape of the light bulb. Which looks like a sheet of loose leaf paper. What is the story about that?
@edsa As you zoom out, the image loses focus and gets fuzzy and round. Zoomed to minimum diameter, the LED is nearly in focus. To have kept it fuzzy and round would have required more than one lens element. This behavior is pretty much the norm for zoomable LED flashlights. I have at least a dozen from different sources that all work the same way
We love this small, portable flashlight. In the evening we go out walking where it’s dark. We keep the light on in a circle wide enough to see where we are going. If we happen to see a hawk or owl in the trees we shine it on him and he either dive bombs us or flys off. Great little gadget!
I’m way too late to be useful, including to myself, but having pulled one of these out tonight, it appears to me that it didn’t ship with the adapter that is required to use it with 3 AAA batteries. I’m suspicious of myself, though, because no one else mentioned it.