kj75
Enlightened
A couple of weeks ago, Klarus has updated the XT11 by redesigning the light and adding some new features. So, the XT11S is there: a tactical light that has a new charging function, a brighter led and some interesting features. A specialty of the XT11S is that its programmable, so everyone can choose it favorite mode. Let's have a closer look at the XT11S, also compared to some equal flashlights!
the upgraded "S-version" of the Klarus XT11
a tactical torch
powered by a XP-L HI V3 LED
has interesting features
To start with, the features and specifications here, given by Klarus:
• Upgraded 4th generation ultra-compact, lightweight, super-bright tactical flashlight Superior performance protected by two original patents
• The CREE XP-L HI V3 LED, delivering a maximum output of 1100 lumens, provides a strong spotlight with a maximum beam distance of up to 330 metres
• Dual tactical tail switch as well as side switch are easy to operate and designed to satisfy any user requirements
• Multi-purpose with clear, versatile functions: Straight 2 Strobe, Instant Turbo, Instant Low-light, Memorized Function ability, SOS, Side
Switch Lock Function, Battery Capacity Indicator, USB Rechargeable, ITS Smart Temperature Control System, Easy Mode Change
• Ultra compact and lightweight (head diameter 34.9mm, body diameter 25.4mm, length 139mm), net weight 115g (without battery).
• Patented dual tactical tail switch for easy non-visual, one-handed touch operation; Quick and easy to correctly locate the switches in the dark and activate the flashlight
instantly
• Three operating modes: Classic Tactical Setting,Outdoor Setting and Tactical Assault Setting
• Direct Recharging Function: Micro-USB general charging port with protective cover, giving dustproof, antifouling and waterproof properties
• Smart digital charging system tracks charging to ensure rapid, safe recharging and prevent overcharging
• Smart ITS temperature control system monitors internal temperature and adjusts output for maximum brightness, protecting the LEDs
and internal components to ensure safety, stability and optimum performance
• Constant current circuit with no PWM dimming to prevent flickering
• Side switch incorporates a specially designed lock function to prevent accidental illumination
This precludes power drainage during storage or travelling and prevents eye damage should children play with the flashlight
• Battery capacity indicator display enables you to control usage according to remaining charge
• Dual springs in head and tail for improved drop and shock resistance
• Reverse-battery protection prevents damage to both flashlight and battery
• Aircraft grade aluminum, CNC precision machined cell, Military III hard anodic oxidation, wear resistant, portable and strong
• Stainless Steel bezel design for better protection of internal components
• Integrated head and tube design for more efficient heat dissipation
• Durable tempered glass lens with AR film plating forscratch resistance
Und the technical specs:
• Utilizes CREE XP-L HI V3 LED with a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours
• Classic Tactical Setting as factory default
• Working voltage: 2.5V-8.4V
• Compatible Batteries: 1x 18650 battery with PCB protection or 2 x CR123A batteries ( Do not use 16340 batteries)
• Charging time: Depends on the battery capacity
Formula: charging time= (capacity of battery/1000mA+1H)
• Body colour: Black
• Reflector: Smooth reflector
• Switch type: Dual Tactical Tail Switch and Side Switch
• Dimension: (Head)34.9mm×(Body)25.4mm×(Length)139mm
• Net weight: 115 g (Excluding battery)
• Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum 6061-T6, Type III hard-anodized
• Waterproof: IPX-8 (underwater 2 metres)
• Lens: Toughened ultra-clear glass with anti-corrosion AR coating
And the output specs:
Unboxing:
The box is easy to recognize: a colorful but cramped carton… Store away the XT11S in this box isn't an easy job; the box will tear out easily. But, overall it looks nice at neat. A Klarus box is, like we're used off, a complete box: all we need is inside. Because we don't need a separate charger, but only a phone charger or an usb-port, we can start up straight. Have a look at some pictures below, that show the box and the contents!
a colorful box
without secrets.. because all specs are mentioned
all-in: ready to go!
Impressions:
First impression: A real compact, tactical light that has good "feels". The XT11S has a nice, deep black color and is well finished: The build-quality and finished is well-done, I couldn't detect any defects. Also a good job on the machining; the used materials are of good quality. The grey laser engraving is also fine. The side button (with built-in power check) is the same Klarus used at the BK30 bike-light. Also thank to the tactical ring the XT11S has good anti-rolling design. The clip (that is detachable) is one of the strongest I met until now. The micro-usb-port has a rubber cover that seals well. But there always the risk that the cover will lose a little during when using the XT11S. This means you always have to be careful in rainy of wet conditions and ensure the cover is closed. The XT11S has a smooth and clean reflector and a well-centered XP-L HI V3 led. Especially, a thrower needs a perfectly centered led, so I'm happy with this. During opening the light, the threads run smooth and without scratching; but please take care of your lights and lube your threads regularly. Advantage of a rechargeable light like this is that you don't need to open it for charging. Inside the light, that has double springs, it looks ok. Only thing I noticed are some glue-rest below the spring in the lights' head. But summarizing, I can tell I like the XT11S: The build-quality and finishing are well-done, certainly for a light in this price range. Please have a look at a couple of impression-pictures too!
the S-upgrade to the Klarus XT11
a compact, tactical light
the renewed side-button
dual-switch at the bottom
not too big
can tailstand, but it isn't steady standing
a smooth reflector and the typical, flat led
that is well-centered
comes including a flat-top 18650
always and easy direct-strobe thanks to the special button
a look into the tailcap
and into the tube.. some glue rests below the spring here
a close-up to the rubber cover that seals the micro-usb port
the Klarus XT11S is well-finished
a closer look to the XP-L HI V3 led
easy to control
a nice black color
and an attractive appearance
the XT11S fits well in the delivered holster
easy to add-on: the lanyard
some outdoor pictures here…
outside the light no specialties visible..
but inside…
its high-tech!
waterproof to IPX-8
User interface:
The XT11S is rather compact and fits well in the hand. The interface fits well for one-hand operation. Both switches at the bottom have a clear pressure point, the side button hasn't a clear pressure point. Silent operation (without audible clicks) is possible, depending on the used main-mode. The side-button has an integrated power check: after turning on the XT11S, this indicator-led will light up in green, red or orange. It also warns when the voltage is low or if the cells are installed incorrectly. Charging the light is an easy job: Any power source that has a micro-usb jack can be used.
Everyone can control the XT11S, I mean turn on and off the light and change modes, but this light is designed to do more with it! Special feature of the XT11S is that you can adjust three different main modes, depending on actual situation.
Adjusting the XT11S works like this: Press and hold the side-button for about 10 seconds; until the light flickers (like a strobe-mode). Mind to keep the button pressed! Choose your desired mode by using the strobe / mode button, after every press the light will change the main-mode an blink once, twice, or three times. Easy job, it can't go wrong…
Modes:
The XT11S has totally four normal modes: LOW > MED > HIGH > TURBO. The modes are well spaced, even though the LOW (that has 10 lumens) is for me too bright. So, maybe, in total five modes in future and a real moonlight would be a good option here. The XT11S has two special modes: STROBE and SOS. Also three special modes for the XT11S here (depending on actual mainmode):
Using the forward clicky will bring direct-TURBO; in tactical / hunting and outdoor-mode (by pressing and holding the side button) you will have direct-LOW. The second button at the lights' tail brings direct-STROBE.
Releasing the tailcap about a full turn will LOCK-OUT the XT11S.
I'll show you the modes and possibilities of the light (thanks to the clear manual Mr. Schiermeier has added):
1. Tactical Mode:
• Forward clicky > a half press for momentary-on, a full press / click for constant-on. (starts always at TURBO).
• If on, change modes by (short) pressing the mode / strobe button, only three modes available: TURBO > HIGH > LOW; a longer press brings STROBE, a press longer than two seconds brings constant-STROBE.
• Short press the side-button for on, after that a short click to change modes. This way, the light starts at last used mode. Press and hold the side-button for off.
• A quick double press to the side button brings STROBE. Click once to shut off.
• When off, a long press to the side-button brings instant-LOW. After that, you can cycle through TURBO > HIGH > MED clicking the same button.
2. Hunting / Outdoor Mode:
• Forward clicky > a half press for momentary-on, a full press / click for constant-on. (starts always at TURBO).
• A short press to the mode / strobe-button to cycle through the modes: TURBO > MED > HIGH
• Use the side-button to cycle through the modes: TURBO > HIGH > MED > LOW. When off, a longer press than one second will bring direct-LOW. Quick double press: STROBE; again a quick double-press: SOS-mode.
You can cycle up ánd down using both buttons. Great option here!
3. Extreme Tactical Mode:
Only the clicky and the mode / strobe button work. The side button doesn't work at this mode.
• Forward clicky > a half press for momentary-on, a full press / click for constant-on. (starts always at TURBO).
• A short press to the mode / strobe-button brings momentary-STROBE, press 2 seconds or more for constant STROBE
• Side-button has no function
Smart ITS:
ITS means, that the XT11S, when it gets overheated, automatically will downshift to a lower output level. Good option and update here, because a compact light like this will get hot easily at turbo-mode.
Size comparison:
A comparison here to some equal lights: All lights shown here have about the same output and almost equal throw. Clear to see here that the XP-L HI needs less place to reach the same or even more distance, and also because of this the XT11S' head is compact compared to the RS20-brother.
18650, Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
the heads: twice XP-L HI V3 and once XM-L2 U2
the tails: Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
Tint:
The XT11S has a coolwhite tint. The tint of the MH20GT is more neutral, the RS20 has a greenish tint in the corona and a slightly bluish tint in the spill. Personally, I would like to see a more neutral tint on the XT11S.
Beamprofile:
The XT11S has a "thrower-profile": a narrow hotspot, tiny corona and big spill. However, thanks to the spill a usable profile because the XP-L HI is a powerful led. Therefore it's not only "hotspot" that the XT11S emits. This is a very useful profile for tactical employability. I could detect any defects in the profile, but at short distance (indoors) I noticed some barely visible rings. No PWM at any mode, so we can say again: Well done Klarus!
Beamshots:
Starting here by projecting the beam of the XT11S on a white wall, distance about 1 meter away. Outside I'll compare the XT11S to the other two lights we seen earlier in this review.
Camera-settings: ISO100, F/2.7, WB daylight, 1/125 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
And now, some outdoor shots! Starting again by showing the four normal modes of the XT11S, followed by a GIF; after that some comparison shots with the Nitecore MH20GT and the Klarus RS20!
Camera-settings: ISO100, F/2.7, WB daylight, 4 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
the XT11S against the Nitecore MH20GT
Location 2: the four normal modes of the XT11S
the XT11S against the Klarus RS20
a shoot-out of the XT11S against the Nitecore MH20GT
a"throw-picture": the XT11S against the Nitecore MH20GT. Trees at about 50 meters
Conclusion:
The XT11S is a really nice one and also an interesting flashlight! It's complete, well-built and (despite of the many possibilities) easy to control. The XP-L HI V3 has good throw, but also enough spill too, what creates a usable beam. The second (hunting / outdoor) mode is my favorite: Especially the instant-modes here and the opportunity to cycle up and down is what I love!
I would like to see a more neutral tint at the XT11S and also a better indication of the actual main-mode. Now, you always have to wait ten seconds to check this out..
I can recommend this light to everyone who want a compact, tactical light that has good throw; and can be adjusted to your wishes. Also the price of about € 89,- make this Klarus an interesting option!
Thanks to Klaruslight and Mr. Schiermeier for the proper shipping!
the upgraded "S-version" of the Klarus XT11
a tactical torch
powered by a XP-L HI V3 LED
has interesting features
To start with, the features and specifications here, given by Klarus:
• Upgraded 4th generation ultra-compact, lightweight, super-bright tactical flashlight Superior performance protected by two original patents
• The CREE XP-L HI V3 LED, delivering a maximum output of 1100 lumens, provides a strong spotlight with a maximum beam distance of up to 330 metres
• Dual tactical tail switch as well as side switch are easy to operate and designed to satisfy any user requirements
• Multi-purpose with clear, versatile functions: Straight 2 Strobe, Instant Turbo, Instant Low-light, Memorized Function ability, SOS, Side
Switch Lock Function, Battery Capacity Indicator, USB Rechargeable, ITS Smart Temperature Control System, Easy Mode Change
• Ultra compact and lightweight (head diameter 34.9mm, body diameter 25.4mm, length 139mm), net weight 115g (without battery).
• Patented dual tactical tail switch for easy non-visual, one-handed touch operation; Quick and easy to correctly locate the switches in the dark and activate the flashlight
instantly
• Three operating modes: Classic Tactical Setting,Outdoor Setting and Tactical Assault Setting
• Direct Recharging Function: Micro-USB general charging port with protective cover, giving dustproof, antifouling and waterproof properties
• Smart digital charging system tracks charging to ensure rapid, safe recharging and prevent overcharging
• Smart ITS temperature control system monitors internal temperature and adjusts output for maximum brightness, protecting the LEDs
and internal components to ensure safety, stability and optimum performance
• Constant current circuit with no PWM dimming to prevent flickering
• Side switch incorporates a specially designed lock function to prevent accidental illumination
This precludes power drainage during storage or travelling and prevents eye damage should children play with the flashlight
• Battery capacity indicator display enables you to control usage according to remaining charge
• Dual springs in head and tail for improved drop and shock resistance
• Reverse-battery protection prevents damage to both flashlight and battery
• Aircraft grade aluminum, CNC precision machined cell, Military III hard anodic oxidation, wear resistant, portable and strong
• Stainless Steel bezel design for better protection of internal components
• Integrated head and tube design for more efficient heat dissipation
• Durable tempered glass lens with AR film plating forscratch resistance
Und the technical specs:
• Utilizes CREE XP-L HI V3 LED with a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours
• Classic Tactical Setting as factory default
• Working voltage: 2.5V-8.4V
• Compatible Batteries: 1x 18650 battery with PCB protection or 2 x CR123A batteries ( Do not use 16340 batteries)
• Charging time: Depends on the battery capacity
Formula: charging time= (capacity of battery/1000mA+1H)
• Body colour: Black
• Reflector: Smooth reflector
• Switch type: Dual Tactical Tail Switch and Side Switch
• Dimension: (Head)34.9mm×(Body)25.4mm×(Length)139mm
• Net weight: 115 g (Excluding battery)
• Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum 6061-T6, Type III hard-anodized
• Waterproof: IPX-8 (underwater 2 metres)
• Lens: Toughened ultra-clear glass with anti-corrosion AR coating
And the output specs:
Unboxing:
The box is easy to recognize: a colorful but cramped carton… Store away the XT11S in this box isn't an easy job; the box will tear out easily. But, overall it looks nice at neat. A Klarus box is, like we're used off, a complete box: all we need is inside. Because we don't need a separate charger, but only a phone charger or an usb-port, we can start up straight. Have a look at some pictures below, that show the box and the contents!
a colorful box
without secrets.. because all specs are mentioned
all-in: ready to go!
Impressions:
First impression: A real compact, tactical light that has good "feels". The XT11S has a nice, deep black color and is well finished: The build-quality and finished is well-done, I couldn't detect any defects. Also a good job on the machining; the used materials are of good quality. The grey laser engraving is also fine. The side button (with built-in power check) is the same Klarus used at the BK30 bike-light. Also thank to the tactical ring the XT11S has good anti-rolling design. The clip (that is detachable) is one of the strongest I met until now. The micro-usb-port has a rubber cover that seals well. But there always the risk that the cover will lose a little during when using the XT11S. This means you always have to be careful in rainy of wet conditions and ensure the cover is closed. The XT11S has a smooth and clean reflector and a well-centered XP-L HI V3 led. Especially, a thrower needs a perfectly centered led, so I'm happy with this. During opening the light, the threads run smooth and without scratching; but please take care of your lights and lube your threads regularly. Advantage of a rechargeable light like this is that you don't need to open it for charging. Inside the light, that has double springs, it looks ok. Only thing I noticed are some glue-rest below the spring in the lights' head. But summarizing, I can tell I like the XT11S: The build-quality and finishing are well-done, certainly for a light in this price range. Please have a look at a couple of impression-pictures too!
the S-upgrade to the Klarus XT11
a compact, tactical light
the renewed side-button
dual-switch at the bottom
not too big
can tailstand, but it isn't steady standing
a smooth reflector and the typical, flat led
that is well-centered
comes including a flat-top 18650
always and easy direct-strobe thanks to the special button
a look into the tailcap
and into the tube.. some glue rests below the spring here
a close-up to the rubber cover that seals the micro-usb port
the Klarus XT11S is well-finished
a closer look to the XP-L HI V3 led
easy to control
a nice black color
and an attractive appearance
the XT11S fits well in the delivered holster
easy to add-on: the lanyard
some outdoor pictures here…
outside the light no specialties visible..
but inside…
its high-tech!
waterproof to IPX-8
User interface:
The XT11S is rather compact and fits well in the hand. The interface fits well for one-hand operation. Both switches at the bottom have a clear pressure point, the side button hasn't a clear pressure point. Silent operation (without audible clicks) is possible, depending on the used main-mode. The side-button has an integrated power check: after turning on the XT11S, this indicator-led will light up in green, red or orange. It also warns when the voltage is low or if the cells are installed incorrectly. Charging the light is an easy job: Any power source that has a micro-usb jack can be used.
Everyone can control the XT11S, I mean turn on and off the light and change modes, but this light is designed to do more with it! Special feature of the XT11S is that you can adjust three different main modes, depending on actual situation.
Adjusting the XT11S works like this: Press and hold the side-button for about 10 seconds; until the light flickers (like a strobe-mode). Mind to keep the button pressed! Choose your desired mode by using the strobe / mode button, after every press the light will change the main-mode an blink once, twice, or three times. Easy job, it can't go wrong…
Modes:
The XT11S has totally four normal modes: LOW > MED > HIGH > TURBO. The modes are well spaced, even though the LOW (that has 10 lumens) is for me too bright. So, maybe, in total five modes in future and a real moonlight would be a good option here. The XT11S has two special modes: STROBE and SOS. Also three special modes for the XT11S here (depending on actual mainmode):
Using the forward clicky will bring direct-TURBO; in tactical / hunting and outdoor-mode (by pressing and holding the side button) you will have direct-LOW. The second button at the lights' tail brings direct-STROBE.
Releasing the tailcap about a full turn will LOCK-OUT the XT11S.
I'll show you the modes and possibilities of the light (thanks to the clear manual Mr. Schiermeier has added):
1. Tactical Mode:
• Forward clicky > a half press for momentary-on, a full press / click for constant-on. (starts always at TURBO).
• If on, change modes by (short) pressing the mode / strobe button, only three modes available: TURBO > HIGH > LOW; a longer press brings STROBE, a press longer than two seconds brings constant-STROBE.
• Short press the side-button for on, after that a short click to change modes. This way, the light starts at last used mode. Press and hold the side-button for off.
• A quick double press to the side button brings STROBE. Click once to shut off.
• When off, a long press to the side-button brings instant-LOW. After that, you can cycle through TURBO > HIGH > MED clicking the same button.
2. Hunting / Outdoor Mode:
• Forward clicky > a half press for momentary-on, a full press / click for constant-on. (starts always at TURBO).
• A short press to the mode / strobe-button to cycle through the modes: TURBO > MED > HIGH
• Use the side-button to cycle through the modes: TURBO > HIGH > MED > LOW. When off, a longer press than one second will bring direct-LOW. Quick double press: STROBE; again a quick double-press: SOS-mode.
You can cycle up ánd down using both buttons. Great option here!
3. Extreme Tactical Mode:
Only the clicky and the mode / strobe button work. The side button doesn't work at this mode.
• Forward clicky > a half press for momentary-on, a full press / click for constant-on. (starts always at TURBO).
• A short press to the mode / strobe-button brings momentary-STROBE, press 2 seconds or more for constant STROBE
• Side-button has no function
Smart ITS:
ITS means, that the XT11S, when it gets overheated, automatically will downshift to a lower output level. Good option and update here, because a compact light like this will get hot easily at turbo-mode.
Size comparison:
A comparison here to some equal lights: All lights shown here have about the same output and almost equal throw. Clear to see here that the XP-L HI needs less place to reach the same or even more distance, and also because of this the XT11S' head is compact compared to the RS20-brother.
18650, Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
the heads: twice XP-L HI V3 and once XM-L2 U2
the tails: Nitecore MH20GT, Klarus XT11S and Klarus RS20
Tint:
The XT11S has a coolwhite tint. The tint of the MH20GT is more neutral, the RS20 has a greenish tint in the corona and a slightly bluish tint in the spill. Personally, I would like to see a more neutral tint on the XT11S.
Beamprofile:
The XT11S has a "thrower-profile": a narrow hotspot, tiny corona and big spill. However, thanks to the spill a usable profile because the XP-L HI is a powerful led. Therefore it's not only "hotspot" that the XT11S emits. This is a very useful profile for tactical employability. I could detect any defects in the profile, but at short distance (indoors) I noticed some barely visible rings. No PWM at any mode, so we can say again: Well done Klarus!
Beamshots:
Starting here by projecting the beam of the XT11S on a white wall, distance about 1 meter away. Outside I'll compare the XT11S to the other two lights we seen earlier in this review.
Camera-settings: ISO100, F/2.7, WB daylight, 1/125 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
And now, some outdoor shots! Starting again by showing the four normal modes of the XT11S, followed by a GIF; after that some comparison shots with the Nitecore MH20GT and the Klarus RS20!
Camera-settings: ISO100, F/2.7, WB daylight, 4 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
the XT11S against the Nitecore MH20GT
Location 2: the four normal modes of the XT11S
the XT11S against the Klarus RS20
a shoot-out of the XT11S against the Nitecore MH20GT
a"throw-picture": the XT11S against the Nitecore MH20GT. Trees at about 50 meters
Conclusion:
The XT11S is a really nice one and also an interesting flashlight! It's complete, well-built and (despite of the many possibilities) easy to control. The XP-L HI V3 has good throw, but also enough spill too, what creates a usable beam. The second (hunting / outdoor) mode is my favorite: Especially the instant-modes here and the opportunity to cycle up and down is what I love!
I would like to see a more neutral tint at the XT11S and also a better indication of the actual main-mode. Now, you always have to wait ten seconds to check this out..
I can recommend this light to everyone who want a compact, tactical light that has good throw; and can be adjusted to your wishes. Also the price of about € 89,- make this Klarus an interesting option!
Thanks to Klaruslight and Mr. Schiermeier for the proper shipping!
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