Hello CPFers, first let me say that this forum has been invaluable to me over the past few years, and I'm grateful for everyone's reviews and contributions.
I'm looking for a Christmas gift for about 8 people who are flashlight newbies -- they'll judge the quality mostly based on perceived brightness. I'm having some difficulty comparing the available lights because of new unreviewed lights and specs that focus more on 14500s. I'm hoping that someone with more knowledge of current products can help me out. So here are my criteria, and I would be very grateful for some recommendations:
I also found the Manker E11, which seems to be amazingly bright, but steps down after about three minutes. Is it possible to hit the mode button and go back to full turbo? And has anyone measured the lumens this actually puts out?
What other suitable lights are out there?
I'm looking for a Christmas gift for about 8 people who are flashlight newbies -- they'll judge the quality mostly based on perceived brightness. I'm having some difficulty comparing the available lights because of new unreviewed lights and specs that focus more on 14500s. I'm hoping that someone with more knowledge of current products can help me out. So here are my criteria, and I would be very grateful for some recommendations:
- A price under $40 USD -- $20 to $30 would be ideal
- High lumens, but with a direct-drive-like turbo/max mode that doesn't (quickly) step down
- Ability to use alkalines, NiMH, and 14500s, but alkaline performance is especially important
- Floody lights are better, no need for throw
- No PWM in any mode
- A robust clip
- An available extension tube for 2xAA would be a huge plus
- Color and CRI aren't too important, but neutral color would be best
- Heat isn't a problem as long as the light doesn't melt itself
- Button placement is not very important, but a side button would be nice (a la Zebralight)
- Modes aren't very important either -- just low, medium, and max would be fine
- An available diffuser would also be nice.
I also found the Manker E11, which seems to be amazingly bright, but steps down after about three minutes. Is it possible to hit the mode button and go back to full turbo? And has anyone measured the lumens this actually puts out?
What other suitable lights are out there?