| NlightD L3 | |
|---|---|
| LEP type / class | Class 3B / shine through |
| Max. beam intensity (candelas) | 562,000 cd |
| Max. beam distance (meters) | 1,500 meters |
| Max. output (lumens) | 1000 lm |
| Modes | 2 |
| Avg. Price | $229 |
NlightD L3
It is a 18350 style LEP flashlight boasting a claimed output of 1,000 lumens, which is impressive for this type of flashlight. The L3 includes a 18650 battery tube, providing flexibility for users unsure about which battery type to choose. While the flashlight may not appear attractive in photos, it looks significantly better in person, especially with the 18650 tube attached!
The flashlight has a protruding forward clicky switch located at the tail, with an option to replace the metal switch boot with a rubber one for those who prefer a different feel. The L3 is compact enough for pocket carry and serves various purposes, such as a location finder or a backup light during outdoor activities. However, the body lacks knurling, making it somewhat slippery, and the available coatings can be sensitive to marks. The pocket clip serves multiple functions, including acting as an anti-roll feature, but it can leave marks on the 18350 battery tube when unscrewing the tailcap.
The L3 uses a shine-through LEP module for compactness and improved heat dissipation. While the beam profile has a bright spot with some spill, some users have reported a darker hotspot! Ask Neal if he wants to send one with the new driver.
The included NlightD 18350 battery has a capacity of 1,474 mAh, which is slightly below the claimed 1,600 mAh but still respectable. The flashlight lacks onboard charging, making an external lithium-ion battery charger necessary. With a simple user interface and a runtime of less than an hour with the 18350 battery, the L3 is best suited for those seeking a high-output LEP flashlight without concern for extended runtimes, earning a rating of around 4 to 4.5 stars.
Performance
Lumen
I used the included 18350 battery for testing, and a Samsung INR18650 30Q.
| Mode | Specified output | Turn on | 30 sec. | 10 min. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18350 Low | 360 lm | 356 lm | 358 lm | 330 lm |
| 18350 High | 1000 lm | 906 lm | 867 lm | 365 lm |
| 18650 Low | 360 lm | 352 lm | 349 lm | 326 lm |
| 18650 High | 1000 lm | 895 lm | 858 lm | 367 lm |
Runtime
lightD does not mention any specified runtime.
| Mode | Specified runtime | Runtime (ANSI FL1) | Time till shut off* |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18350 Low (17.3°C) | – | 0h 47min | 0h 50min |
| 18350 High (21.7°C) | – | 0h 31min | 0h 35min |
| 18650 Low (19.0°C) | – | 1h 40min | 1h 43min |
| 18650 High (18.2°C) | – | 1h 16min | 1h 18min |
Throw measurements
Measurements were taken outdoors at 20 meters with a Hagner E4-X Lux Meter. The measurements were taken 30 seconds after turn on.
| Mode | Specified intensity | Specified beam distance | Candela measured | Meters | Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low | 202,500 cd | 900m | 216,000 cd | 930 m | 1,017 yd |
| High | 562,500 cd | 1,500m | 436,000 cd | 1,321 m | 1,444 yd |
Low performs above spec, but High just below. I wouldn’t worry too much about this, since 1300m is nothing short of amazing for such a small light. Much better than any LED of this size is able to achieve.
