Personally, the flood output on the lumintop edc aa is a feature I love. I use a small light like this mostly for finding things in and around buildings and cars. The even light makes that easier than a dazzling hot spot. I carry a separate light for throw when I’m outdoors. Great video and list.
SP-10 Pro is our best choice too.! We change the seal for a silicon (high pressure hydraulics) o-ring & now it is waterproof while swimming. snorkeling & diving. Cheers matey.! Great info on flashlights.
no tail switch,,, means no rapid reaction... ever tried to light FAST an e-switch torch, while the dog "pulling",, kids comlaining,, and wife demanding to know what the noise was....... ??? do companies actually test their prodcts in a realistic way? you give security grds a few lights,,, and get the feedbck... heres the holy trinity,, on switches... 1) allways a tail clicker... 2) a protruding one (sometimes you only have a thumb avaialble, during a strong grip) 3) a reverse clicky,, is preferable from most security personel...
I love the olight i3t it’s not supposed to be ran on 10440 but they work marvelously in them !! Brighter than the i5r since the i5r runs a custom 14450 that’s only 2.5 volts !
Capacity of lithium 10440 is pretty small and I hate AAA battery powered lights even 14500 I have a neco one with 14500 3.7 li-ion only 600mAh I have seen some Vapcell 14500 cells over 1000 so maybe light use OK included cell very light to light use best overall cell is 18650 protected Panasonic or Molicel battery yes flashlight using that are larger but there are some well designed and fairly compact considering size of battery used. I like for budget quality lights in the 50 to 100 range Nitecore flashlights are good other than the Srt-7GT with dial ring that surround the body just below the head mine died after a couple years on high faint flickering from led but I used it decent not super heavy use but I probably used dial too much causing premature failure.
Thanks for doing all the work you have done in compiling this top ten list. My top three that I find myself carrying the most are the Lumintop tool AA 2.0 with the Nichia led, the Eagtac D25A and, one that didn’t make your list, probably because of price, is the Eagtac D3 Titanium with an SST20 led. I do also like the Sofrin sp10, but I definitely prefer a tail switch more than a side switch flashlight. Thanks again for all you do for the edc community.
I also have the lumintop and the sofirn. I carry the lumintop everyday, I like the sofirn but like you prefer a tail switch. The side buttons always get unintentionally bumped in my pocket.
I would appreciate if you’re going to give the prices of one light would you be able to give the prices of every light every time because I am trying to determine whether or not it is worth it, but some you describe all the way with the pricing and some are you describe without the pricing‘s.
I've loved my Lumintop Tool AA 2.0 because it's simple, durable, and the beam pattern is more floody than almost any other AA flashlight, which is great for inspection work. I don't need my AA flashlight to be a thrower. Now that they have a Nichia high CRI version, and a 3.0, 900 lumen version, it's definitely my favorite.
I have 2 off of this list. The Olight I5R and the Acebeam Pokelit AA. I bought the Acebeam off of the review you did on it and I'm happy I listened to you. I tend to carry it a little more than my other pocket lights. I funny thing about the I5R is I didn't even notice the battery is a 2.4v. I just pull it out and charge it as needed without even looking. I feel kind of oblivious now... lol. Sofrin is really offering a great product at an amazing price, I bought the IF22A and that thing throws some light for such a small package for around $40 (also on your recommendation). Thanks for doing what you do.
Huge 1L-1AA fan! FYI the aaa doesn’t need to be wrapped in anything. A little jostling and it works fine. I do wish it would house a 16340 and 14500. I’ve run those for a hot minute ( pun intended lol) but they’re not advised. With the aa the lumens is a nice 150 for a good few hours. That’s a very nice output imo and noticeably higher that the low mode of 40lm. Just a tough cool light. Tool aa 2.0 is a fave too. So light weight and bright. Clip is a tad flush but runs fine on a hat brim. Then you can opt for a twisty magnetic tail too.
@@maxlvledc The 40lm is actually 720cd. I get what you’re saying, but this is that sweet spot between an EDC and a more professional utility light. Too bad it doesn’t tail stand too.
I've been carrying the Thrunite Archer 1A for years now. It can take a 14500 or AA. It takes a beating, lasts a long time, and always works. Only downside is thrunite discontinued it to move more towards rechargeable. But you can still find them on the secondary market under $50.
The EagTac D25A is about my favorite light. Small, very bright for its size with a 14500 and instant access to low or turbo. If I could only have one light, this would be it.
I love channels like this where I can nerd out on dumb man things. My grandpa would of loved this reminds me of all the millions pens, knives, and tools I used to go through when running around his shop.
Great video man! Thanks for putting this out there! Just a suggestion for your future videos on any lights you might come across :) I would absolutely love it if you could film each flashlight consistently lol. I’d love to see what each beam looks like before I even consider it. I saw you light up the Pokelit but never saw anything else light up lol. It’s cool that you show off the light close up, but without any of the functions being shown, it’s more about aesthetics at that point. Also, you missed on the Lumintop Tool AA where the tail switch actually glows when not being used. I think that’s a huge dealbreaker for some people, especially knowing that it’s putting a drain on your battery when not in use lol. It also comes with a diffuser and it tail stands. I’d love to hear those features being mentioned in your review :) I think it can add to the “value” rating for your selections. Lastly, you commented on how the Pokelit doesn’t perform that well on standard AA batteries, but I never heard that being mentioned on any other light which I think is unfair to Acebeam. You talked about CRI at the beginning of your video but I think that’s also something worth mentioning when talking about lights. Every review will be subjective to some degree, but adding these talking points to your reviews helps to make it as fact filled as possible :) Don’t mean to nitpick here, just wanted to throw that out there. Love your channel and what you do!
Just for info, i have a mag light which uses D cell batteries. I did change the old bulb with a single LED bulb. I changed the bulb and put fresh batteries in it in 1996. I have used the light nearly every night, and had to change the batteries in 2022! What a long run time for batteries!
I have a 6 D cell LED and it was great when you had a solid set of batteries but I still changed them out every month. I inspected semi trucks and trailers at night so it got ALOT of use
Have a Cat 4D cell maglite, I changed the bulb to led in about 2008 and put energisers in it then. They haven't leaked and its still going. Use it a bit but not much really.
Almost a new contender in the category. A Wuben sub-brand - the Pioocan L2. 1200 lumens, 4 modes, 3 sources of fuel, and $22 (less with coupon). But only IPX6. It has an interesting combination smooth and orange peel reflector design along with an Osram P8 LED. Operates with a tail switch, using last memorized level with double click to strobe. A tester measured CRI at 66-67 with CCT at 5600-5800, Candela at 8100 with throw at 180M.
So after almost 3 years of EDCing a Lumintop Tool AA, I finally lost it ☹ That has been pretty much a perfect light for me, and I was just about to order a new one when I thought, let me check out what my man Dominic has to say. Cool that you had it at #4 but now I think the Sofirn SP10 PRO will be its replacement. Thanks much for the vid 👍
As far as the Convoy T3 goes, you can swap the clip out for the screw-on one intended for the S2+ as well as several other models. I can confirm it fits, as I have one on my T3. It's more sturdy, and is slightly deeper carry. Unfortunately, just like the stock clip, it isn't two way
@@cronglBest warm flashlight LED for not keeping yourself up at night. I would say the 4500k, or better yet dedome 5700k (which makes 4300k) is the best 519a for most people. I prefer a 3500k for general use, though. 4500k 519a dedomed is my favorite. A peachy white.
the eagtac has been my go to for a couple years now, what I love about it is the light gets dimmer as the battery dies down instead of just suddenly not working like other lights. another good light is acebeam m10
Pokelit is super impressive for a cheap light with good output. So good I gave it to my Dad because it's simple and super functional. I had an EDC05C and I liked everything about it except the UI. The E05C UI looks similar. I agree USB-C would have been ideal.
I carry the Lumintop AA tool 2.0. *Zero complaints.* It can use one lithium, USB-rechargeable 14500 or a single AA battery. It's very small. Has multiple light levels up to 600 or 700 lumens. It's priced right. Well, one complaint: I wish that it had a deep pocket clip that perhaps also clipped to bill of ball cap. Otherwise, it's exactly what I want for EDC.
I just got a hanks light d4k and it’s been in my pocket the most, but before that I www carrying the pineapple quite a bit. I love that light even if I’m use to higher outputs. I also carried the FWAA a lot too even though you can’t use a AA with it. Your LAN looks awesome. Great looking light! Definitely would love to get one eventually. Same goes with a copper Tool AA.
Thanks for the reviews. Ordered the SP10 Pro w/tailcap and diffuser using your link. There is also an additional 25% coupon on the page right now, net price $17.01!
The Lumintop clip is definitely the one big thing I hate about it. That and the switch is a little too soft so you can end up accidentally bumping it and cycling modes when you don't want. But I don't think anything beats it for portability and output for the price.
Have you looked at the Wurkkos TS10? I'm interested in your thoughts on that one. Personally looking at getting the brass variant while it's on the Black Friday sale. This is a great line up of lights, and a great compilation video, I appreciate your efforts making it.
@@maxlvledc Ok. I just watched it, and realized it's not in this list because it can't take a normal AA battery. Shame but it looks like it's still a fit for me, so that's fine. (I have a brass F3WA but wanted the same thing in a slightly smaller package.) Great video too. Cheers mate, I really appreciate your responses. Keep up the great work, loving the channel.
You can use a 14500 in the streamlight Protac but the low then is as bright as high. The 14500 must have the normal length of 50mm. Many are a bit long up to 52mm. They dont work. 16340 the same. So if you want to use only high and strobe its no problem. Also there is a RCR123 from Keeppower that has only 3V. With this you have the full 350l and the regular low.
@@maxlvledc It didnt yet and I have seen some comments from others who also do it without any problems.The only Problem is with the low. But the best way is to use one of these 3V RCR123.
Outstanding video, and an interesting analyses of these flashlights. I don't think I've tested 25 different single AA models, but I've gone through a lot more than I carry, and included a few with other cell types in my testing. I agree about the Protac IL-1AA not making the cut. Its output with 1.2V cells did not impress me at all. I did not test the Lumintop EDC01 as I could see it was missing features I wanted. The Lumintop Tool AA is one of my EDC lights. It comes with a silicone diffuser, AND it tail-stands, giving it high marks for versatility since it is also an area light. I am awaiting the AAA version of this light, but I'm getting mixed messages about it working with a 3.7V 10440 cell; I helieve it does not. Although I carried it for months, the Olight i5R's proprietary battery ultimately cost it it's spot. It was replaced by the Pokelit AA on the merits of that one's universal fuel and similar brightness. #1 for me too (you probably suspected this from some of my past comments) is the Sofirn SP10 Pro, also including a silicone diffuser AND a magnetic tail-cap. Another one that did not make the EDC cut, but is in multiple tool bags and in the car, is the Nicron N7. It's a little big for EDC, but the magnetic tail-cap and aimable head make this an excellent choice for minor repair jobs in dark places. Unfortunately, the Lumintop E05C is sold out; I suspect I'd really like that one.
Honestly I have used a lot of these, and none of them compares favorably to the Trustfire L2 (1000 lumen turbo, simple on off, twist head for 100 lumen low power mode) Almost all these modern lights have a terrible UI with WAY too many settings and functions for defensive/CCW/EDC use. Of the ones on your list, I think the Eagletac D25A is the best option, but sadly the tailswitch on mine died after several years of use, so mine is a paperweight now.
Great video love the channel. So much information. I would like to see when you do flashlights thst you focus more time on flood vs throw for each light. Besides that awesome video.
I have the Sofirn. Side switch comes on in pocket sometimes. Power lasts forever. Program is difficult. Can't always use the strobe real fast when I need it, dim strobe, 3 clicks, flashes 9 times, stops, it's okay. Real light weight EDC. I like it.
Bad news.....only 2 of these are still available. You may want to check out the Lumintop AA 15. It's less than 3 inches long!!! Also, on the Lumintop AA 2.0 you didn't mention its best feature!!!! The switch is lighted so you can always find it in the dark!!! I LOVE that feature.
I5t eos StarDust and Lumintop GTA are mine. I also own 2 Fenixes with dedicated li-ion or 2 and 4 AA. And a LedLenser P5r with 14500 only. Only toys, my fav is a warm white Olight Baton 3 Pro Max.
The Olight i5r is actually really awesome for 14500 batteries. It looks like your using a vapcell 10 amp battery which has an interesting effect on the flashlight. It makes it single mode and 200 lumens. I think this is why you took it off your list because it loses its dual mode. But that’s why I got the i5r and the vapcell. What happens is extremely long run time and the light never steps down in brightness and stays cool. For some reason this extreme 10 amp 14500 because this almost magical performance.
My user lights are all cr123a. For me it makes sense, cause the batts will not leak. I have some over 12 years old, and they are fine, estimate they still have 80% power. My wife uses AA so I have two good ones, Eagle and one I cannot remember the name. Anyway, they are good lights, get batts almost anywhere if needed, and easy to replace in the dark. I make her carry an extra AA batt in her purse, (as if one could find it in there)! I think every size has a place in todays world...I do carry a AAA light from Prometheus!
The Streamlight can run 14500s, but it is not advertised. High mode becomes Ultra high and low mode becomes high mode. The best EDC light that I have ever used.
Well dang it now I definitely have to pick up an SP10 PRO and put it up against my Fenix RC05SE and see how bad the Sofirn beats the Fenix. Might actually have to pick up a Lumintop EO5C as well as I really like the dual lighting option on that light. Thanks for another great vid Maxlvledc👍
Essential missing points: 1. weight. The Convoy T3 is almost 50g, far too much. My FC11 and SC31pro weigh ca. 55 g after putting in a TIR... Wurkkos has 18350 short tubes too. The E2A is ca. 25g, much better and then an AA light makes more sense. 2. magnetic charging: 2.1 There is likely a magnet in the M150 just as in the H04RC. Actually using it it collected various steel particles from the floor of my bedroom, not even the place where I occasionally work with metal. Can't just wipe it off due to the ridges, need to use a brush. 2.2 the charging in the M150 doesn't work for AA NIMH in the previous version, only LiIon, is that still the case? If so then for use with NIMHs you still need an external charger.
Very good review 🙂 I have a similar Lumitop AA, not the version "2.0", apparently the predecessor, but it has always had a bad connection somewhere. So when i fails I have to tighten the tailcap even more firm and then it's OK again for some time. This keeps me from buying Lumitop again ! I have a AAA lumitop as weel and its OK every time. Kind regards 🙂
Amazing job!! This was great and I appreciate your hard work and effort to educate your viewers. Your knowledge is amazing and I love your channel. This is Alan,GREETINGS from Riverside in Southern California.
Acebeam ryder rx is a dope flashlight. I feel like gear should have personality and style as well as function. Sad thing is I lost it, the clip doesn't bite enough, and it slipped out of my pocket
Great list esp for people who aren't obsessed with lights and don't want to learn all the ins and outs of drivers, UIs, LEDs, etc. I LOVE My SP10 Pro, esp for the price they are asking, but the button is a bit proud and I often push it in my pocket. Also, I wish the fit and finish was a little bit better (I have the SP36 Pro which is much better machining so I know they can do it). For those reasons I'd prob lean toward the M150v3 PERSONALLY, but its close!
Ya for the price I'm thinking of replacing a beloved 5 year edc Fenix light the RC05SE. The SP10 PRO is brighter has a way better user interface and even though I'm pretty careful with my lights it's nice to know if my daily beater gets lost or damaged I'd don't have to pony up so much moolah for a replacement. Kinda do wish it had a rubber tailswitch though.
I have the Olight because I went over brand with my torches after going through so many of them. I will use this list to purchase Xmas presents for friends, first being a Lumintop E05C for the mate that has a head light but keeps asking to borrow a pencil light.
I do have the EDC05C and SP10v3 as my two primary lights they are hard to beat for AA. However, whenever I look for the E05C online I can never find it in stock anywhere
Y'man get THE 👇 Klarus XT1A on your radar. Multiple fuel source, outdoor and tactical modes, great output modes, solid build quality, £50 in the UK. A sterling option.
Great video Dom! Question for you, In your opinion what's the best compact defensive flashlight that's not overtly tactical? What I'm looking at for specific are; 18650 and/or below, 50m beam minimum with high candela and have to have a tail switch. Cheers mate.
Even these AA lights have over 150M of throw..the Protac 1L-1AA is easily the most TACTICAL of the bunch, with a 350lm only mode. If you want larger... Warrior Mini 2 is a boss.
The Eagtac is great for reliably going straight to high (if you don’t mind a clicky switch)… I have the titanium version, which I love. The Olight Warrior Mini 2 has a perfect design imho… for a large light it’s just light enough to clip to a shirt for hands-free use (aluminum version). But it’s one of two Olight’s that died on me after a month. They’re not garbage, but I’m not the only one who has had reliability issues.
@@maxlvledc I have been running it this way for almost 2 years now, still good to go, just dont leave it on too long or shift to low mode for extended use.
Do you use the vapcell 3000mah 10a batteries in the sp10 pro? (You talked about them when discussing the i5r light) I'm totally addicted to these budget lights. I really wanna get into rechargeable batteries and I wanna basically take your word for it. Thanks for everything!! * Edit* what's a decent charger? You mentioned one or some in another video but that's a lot of digging and waiting haha
Great job, my 2 favourites are Olight i5r, missed the criteria but matches mine, just a little over priced & Lumintop Tool AA 2.0 because in Aus can get it cheap.
Funny after I say that, I'm having trouble charging the Olight 14500 battery, stays on red when plugged into outlet and never goes green and when I plug it into a battery bank it turns off after 30seconds as though the battery banks can't register its there.... same thing happens with battery banks and Olights magnetic chargers for the small Olights MCC 1A, bigger ones are ok. Happens with about 6 different battery banks, 1 worked.
Beware I have had three Streamlight protac 1L 1AA lights. All of the tailcaps will fail in months. Mechanically feels good when clicking but just fails. It cannot be fixed or replaced, you just have to buy a whole new flashlight.
I like the rider rx, though I should have bought the titanium one you have. The steel version dents a bit easier, and my clip wasn’t tempered well so it has bent out of shape snagging on something while it was in my pocket. Still really like the look and features as well as output.
Great list. I would love to see some 55 day testing if you are will to put a fresh battery and let it sit on the shelf. Would make a good UA-cam video to a battle of the moonlight modes. I know my Zebra SC53c N will go for at least 16 days on it's lowest (0.2 lumens? maybe???). But never drained it entirely because I use it too often. You could be the our guide in the dark on this issue.
I'm curious as to why do you rate the run time based on a moonlight mode? Wouldn't it better be based on a medium mode instead? The small light is probably gonna be used around the house, where you normally don't read a lot in the dark. From my personal experience, I mostly use a AA/14500 light to move around the house at night, when I don't want/need to turn the lights on or outside when I need some light. I hardly ever used a moonlight mode on a 14500 flashlight. And in overall, for all types of flashlights, when searching for a flashlight to buy, I mostly look at it's low(not moonlight) medium and high mode run time. Because that's the mode that is gonna be used the most. A turbo mode doesn't last long and I don't rely on it because of that. What I mean is that low(not moonlight), medium and high modes are the most usuable modes and therefore, as for me, the run time for those modes is more important than a moonlight or a turbo mode. Thanks.
Which Flashlight would you recommend that has a good spread? I drive a box truck with no cargo lights. Looking into the sofirn sc32, but not sure how the spread is. I have the tool aa. I like having a tailight switch but not a fan of no moonlight and it doesnt remember the setting. Thought about the edc aa as well bc of the honeycomb lens. Thanks in Advance, Dominic.
I have the SP10 Pro, its nice but the side switch is too proud and keeps turning on in my pocket. I refuse to manual lockout or e-lockout everytime I use it.. I ended up giving it away and the M150 V3 519A is my new EDC.
Why are most 14500 lights putting the usb port on the battery and not the light? It would be much better with on board charging. Another complaint I have is that they're not even reaching 1000 lumens. There are lights using a 16340 battery that put out 1300 lumens. Why can't they do this with 14500?
Personally, the flood output on the lumintop edc aa is a feature I love. I use a small light like this mostly for finding things in and around buildings and cars. The even light makes that easier than a dazzling hot spot. I carry a separate light for throw when I’m outdoors. Great video and list.
SP-10 Pro is our best choice too.! We change the seal for a silicon (high pressure hydraulics) o-ring & now it is waterproof while swimming. snorkeling & diving. Cheers matey.! Great info on flashlights.
Ooo, cool mod!!
no tail switch,,, means no rapid reaction...
ever tried to light FAST an e-switch torch, while the dog "pulling",, kids comlaining,, and wife demanding to know what the noise was....... ???
do companies actually test their prodcts in a realistic way?
you give security grds a few lights,,, and get the feedbck...
heres the holy trinity,, on switches...
1) allways a tail clicker...
2) a protruding one (sometimes you only have a thumb avaialble, during a strong grip)
3) a reverse clicky,, is preferable from most security personel...
where to get those silicone o-ring you used, thanks!
Any recommendations for a flashlight the size of the Sofirn SP10 Pro (specially width) but with a tail switch?
Would love to see a AAA / 10440 version of this rundown!
It’d just be the ReyLight Pineapple Mini :-P
@@TorchHacker or the i3T if you're on a budget
No you wouldn’t
I love the olight i3t it’s not supposed to be ran on 10440 but they work marvelously in them !! Brighter than the i5r since the i5r runs a custom 14450 that’s only 2.5 volts !
Capacity of lithium 10440 is pretty small and I hate AAA battery powered lights even 14500 I have a neco one with 14500 3.7 li-ion only 600mAh I have seen some Vapcell 14500 cells over 1000 so maybe light use OK included cell very light to light use best overall cell is 18650 protected Panasonic or Molicel battery yes flashlight using that are larger but there are some well designed and fairly compact considering size of battery used. I like for budget quality lights in the 50 to 100 range Nitecore flashlights are good other than the Srt-7GT with dial ring that surround the body just below the head mine died after a couple years on high faint flickering from led but I used it decent not super heavy use but I probably used dial too much causing premature failure.
Thanks for doing all the work you have done in compiling this top ten list. My top three that I find myself carrying the most are the Lumintop tool AA 2.0 with the Nichia led, the Eagtac D25A and, one that didn’t make your list, probably because of price, is the Eagtac D3 Titanium with an SST20 led. I do also like the Sofrin sp10, but I definitely prefer a tail switch more than a side switch flashlight. Thanks again for all you do for the edc community.
I also have the lumintop and the sofirn. I carry the lumintop everyday, I like the sofirn but like you prefer a tail switch. The side buttons always get unintentionally bumped in my pocket.
I would appreciate if you’re going to give the prices of one light would you be able to give the prices of every light every time because I am trying to determine whether or not it is worth it, but some you describe all the way with the pricing and some are you describe without the pricing‘s.
I've loved my Lumintop Tool AA 2.0 because it's simple, durable, and the beam pattern is more floody than almost any other AA flashlight, which is great for inspection work. I don't need my AA flashlight to be a thrower. Now that they have a Nichia high CRI version, and a 3.0, 900 lumen version, it's definitely my favorite.
I have 2 off of this list. The Olight I5R and the Acebeam Pokelit AA. I bought the Acebeam off of the review you did on it and I'm happy I listened to you. I tend to carry it a little more than my other pocket lights. I funny thing about the I5R is I didn't even notice the battery is a 2.4v. I just pull it out and charge it as needed without even looking. I feel kind of oblivious now... lol. Sofrin is really offering a great product at an amazing price, I bought the IF22A and that thing throws some light for such a small package for around $40 (also on your recommendation). Thanks for doing what you do.
I like i5r and pokelit equally, both are in my daily rotation.
Huge 1L-1AA fan! FYI the aaa doesn’t need to be wrapped in anything. A little jostling and it works fine. I do wish it would house a 16340 and 14500. I’ve run those for a hot minute ( pun intended lol) but they’re not advised.
With the aa the lumens is a nice 150 for a good few hours. That’s a very nice output imo and noticeably higher that the low mode of 40lm.
Just a tough cool light.
Tool aa 2.0 is a fave too. So light weight and bright. Clip is a tad flush but runs fine on a hat brim. Then you can opt for a twisty magnetic tail too.
I just wish it has a true low mode...like 5 LM, the 40 is still 900cd!
@@maxlvledc The 40lm is actually 720cd. I get what you’re saying, but this is that sweet spot between an EDC and a more professional utility light. Too bad it doesn’t tail stand too.
I've been carrying the Thrunite Archer 1A for years now. It can take a 14500 or AA. It takes a beating, lasts a long time, and always works. Only downside is thrunite discontinued it to move more towards rechargeable. But you can still find them on the secondary market under $50.
Can this version operated with 3.7v b
@@seringgit20sen9 I have a 14500 in it now, but it's a 1.5v version. As far as I know, it will work with the 3.7 as well and have a higher output.
Where can i find one?
I have had an i5R on my 12 gauge semi auto for a couple years now, it is holding up great even with hundreds of magnum loads.
How did you mount it?
best EDC channel on youtube bar none!!
The EagTac D25A is about my favorite light. Small, very bright for its size with a 14500 and instant access to low or turbo. If I could only have one light, this would be it.
Too bad hardly anybody sells it and those that do sell it for for over $50
@@balsalmalberto8086 I know. Very expensive when compared to the competition.
Love your UA-cam shorts & all your knowledge on EDC items! Keep doing what you love
I love channels like this where I can nerd out on dumb man things. My grandpa would of loved this reminds me of all the millions pens, knives, and tools I used to go through when running around his shop.
Great video man! Thanks for putting this out there!
Just a suggestion for your future videos on any lights you might come across :)
I would absolutely love it if you could film each flashlight consistently lol. I’d love to see what each beam looks like before I even consider it. I saw you light up the Pokelit but never saw anything else light up lol. It’s cool that you show off the light close up, but without any of the functions being shown, it’s more about aesthetics at that point.
Also, you missed on the Lumintop Tool AA where the tail switch actually glows when not being used. I think that’s a huge dealbreaker for some people, especially knowing that it’s putting a drain on your battery when not in use lol. It also comes with a diffuser and it tail stands. I’d love to hear those features being mentioned in your review :) I think it can add to the “value” rating for your selections.
Lastly, you commented on how the Pokelit doesn’t perform that well on standard AA batteries, but I never heard that being mentioned on any other light which I think is unfair to Acebeam. You talked about CRI at the beginning of your video but I think that’s also something worth mentioning when talking about lights. Every review will be subjective to some degree, but adding these talking points to your reviews helps to make it as fact filled as possible :)
Don’t mean to nitpick here, just wanted to throw that out there. Love your channel and what you do!
Just for info, i have a mag light which uses D cell batteries. I did change the old bulb with a single LED bulb. I changed the bulb and put fresh batteries in it in 1996. I have used the light nearly every night, and had to change the batteries in 2022! What a long run time for batteries!
I highly doubt that, just not possible
I have a 6 D cell LED and it was great when you had a solid set of batteries but I still changed them out every month. I inspected semi trucks and trailers at night so it got ALOT of use
Have a Cat 4D cell maglite, I changed the bulb to led in about 2008 and put energisers in it then. They haven't leaked and its still going. Use it a bit but not much really.
I have a ray o vac flashlight and it powers the whole neighborhood and nearby mini mall. It’s fire.
@@samtrosper7224 I have an Olight and it set fire to my pants
Almost a new contender in the category. A Wuben sub-brand - the Pioocan L2. 1200 lumens, 4 modes, 3 sources of fuel, and $22 (less with coupon). But only IPX6. It has an interesting combination smooth and orange peel reflector design along with an Osram P8 LED. Operates with a tail switch, using last memorized level with double click to strobe. A tester measured CRI at 66-67 with CCT at 5600-5800, Candela at 8100 with throw at 180M.
Thank you! My favorite AA/14500 is Soshine TC3 - 300lm (on 3.7V) and it is zoomie (what I appreciate the most). The price is five bucks.
So after almost 3 years of EDCing a Lumintop Tool AA, I finally lost it ☹ That has been pretty much a perfect light for me, and I was just about to order a new one when I thought, let me check out what my man Dominic has to say. Cool that you had it at #4 but now I think the Sofirn SP10 PRO will be its replacement. Thanks much for the vid 👍
As far as the Convoy T3 goes, you can swap the clip out for the screw-on one intended for the S2+ as well as several other models. I can confirm it fits, as I have one on my T3. It's more sturdy, and is slightly deeper carry. Unfortunately, just like the stock clip, it isn't two way
Which emitter would you recommend with the T3?
@@shamusmcinky4882 I'm personally quite fond of a 519a 2700k dedomed in these. With the dedome, they come out to about 2200k
@@cronglBest warm flashlight LED for not keeping yourself up at night. I would say the 4500k, or better yet dedome 5700k (which makes 4300k) is the best 519a for most people. I prefer a 3500k for general use, though. 4500k 519a dedomed is my favorite. A peachy white.
@@shamusmcinky4882 519a 4500k for you probably.
the eagtac has been my go to for a couple years now, what I love about it is the light gets dimmer as the battery dies down instead of just suddenly not working like other lights.
another good light is acebeam m10
the only problem with sofirn is u can't just buy 1 or 2, you end up buying 6+ with 0 hesitation
Pokelit is super impressive for a cheap light with good output. So good I gave it to my Dad because it's simple and super functional. I had an EDC05C and I liked everything about it except the UI. The E05C UI looks similar. I agree USB-C would have been ideal.
I carry the Lumintop AA tool 2.0. *Zero complaints.* It can use one lithium, USB-rechargeable 14500 or a single AA battery. It's very small. Has multiple light levels up to 600 or 700 lumens. It's priced right. Well, one complaint: I wish that it had a deep pocket clip that perhaps also clipped to bill of ball cap. Otherwise, it's exactly what I want for EDC.
they just came out with a V2 btw.
@@maxlvledc do you have a link? I tried looking for it.
@@maxlvledc u have link for that v2?im interested
I just got a hanks light d4k and it’s been in my pocket the most, but before that I www carrying the pineapple quite a bit. I love that light even if I’m use to higher outputs. I also carried the FWAA a lot too even though you can’t use a AA with it.
Your LAN looks awesome. Great looking light! Definitely would love to get one eventually. Same goes with a copper Tool AA.
Also an illuminated tail switch with 14500. It’s great, except for the clip… although I prefer a leather slip for this size anyway.
Thanks for the reviews. Ordered the SP10 Pro w/tailcap and diffuser using your link. There is also an additional 25% coupon on the page right now, net price $17.01!
Very well done...thank you for taking the time and effort to produce quality videos with great and useful information.
My wife loves her EagleTac AA in TI, tail stands, tail switch, and very low/low power. Hers works perfect for like 15 years...
The Lumintop clip is definitely the one big thing I hate about it. That and the switch is a little too soft so you can end up accidentally bumping it and cycling modes when you don't want.
But I don't think anything beats it for portability and output for the price.
Have you looked at the Wurkkos TS10? I'm interested in your thoughts on that one. Personally looking at getting the brass variant while it's on the Black Friday sale. This is a great line up of lights, and a great compilation video, I appreciate your efforts making it.
I did a review of it actually. It's very good.
@@maxlvledc Ok. I just watched it, and realized it's not in this list because it can't take a normal AA battery. Shame but it looks like it's still a fit for me, so that's fine. (I have a brass F3WA but wanted the same thing in a slightly smaller package.) Great video too. Cheers mate, I really appreciate your responses. Keep up the great work, loving the channel.
They’re AMAZING lights. I have 4!
You can use a 14500 in the streamlight Protac but the low then is as bright as high. The 14500 must have the normal length of 50mm. Many are a bit long up to 52mm. They dont work. 16340 the same. So if you want to use only high and strobe its no problem. Also there is a RCR123 from Keeppower that has only 3V. With this you have the full 350l and the regular low.
If you use 14500s in the protac it will burn it out quickly..be careful
@@maxlvledc It didnt yet and I have seen some comments from others who also do it without any problems.The only Problem is with the low. But the best way is to use one of these 3V RCR123.
I’ve been on a 14500 kick lately for sure. Ts10, d3a, Fwaa,fw1aa, Tool,Sp10, Ryder, Pokelit, Wuben eo5. Great vid man 🤙
Reylight just released the aluminum pineapple btw!
i am so happy that the top one is the sofirn. i have that sp10 pro the red color...this review of yours is the legit.. good luck and have anice day..
Damn it. I didn't need another flashlight, but now that I know of the existence of that Acebeam Rider I must have it. Thanks a lot... (Good video)
Yes, I am making the aluminum Lan-apple.
!!!!!! For real!!!! 🥳🥳🥳🥳 519A ?!?!
Outstanding video, and an interesting analyses of these flashlights. I don't think I've tested 25 different single AA models, but I've gone through a lot more than I carry, and included a few with other cell types in my testing.
I agree about the Protac IL-1AA not making the cut. Its output with 1.2V cells did not impress me at all.
I did not test the Lumintop EDC01 as I could see it was missing features I wanted.
The Lumintop Tool AA is one of my EDC lights. It comes with a silicone diffuser, AND it tail-stands, giving it high marks for versatility since it is also an area light. I am awaiting the AAA version of this light, but I'm getting mixed messages about it working with a 3.7V 10440 cell; I helieve it does not.
Although I carried it for months, the Olight i5R's proprietary battery ultimately cost it it's spot. It was replaced by the Pokelit AA on the merits of that one's universal fuel and similar brightness.
#1 for me too (you probably suspected this from some of my past comments) is the Sofirn SP10 Pro, also including a silicone diffuser AND a magnetic tail-cap.
Another one that did not make the EDC cut, but is in multiple tool bags and in the car, is the Nicron N7. It's a little big for EDC, but the magnetic tail-cap and aimable head make this an excellent choice for minor repair jobs in dark places.
Unfortunately, the Lumintop E05C is sold out; I suspect I'd really like that one.
It's sooo sad..because it's soooo good. The e05c will get a review as soon as its in stock.
Love my Nicron N7 !
Honestly I have used a lot of these, and none of them compares favorably to the Trustfire L2 (1000 lumen turbo, simple on off, twist head for 100 lumen low power mode)
Almost all these modern lights have a terrible UI with WAY too many settings and functions for defensive/CCW/EDC use.
Of the ones on your list, I think the Eagletac D25A is the best option, but sadly the tailswitch on mine died after several years of use, so mine is a paperweight now.
Great video love the channel. So much information. I would like to see when you do flashlights thst you focus more time on flood vs throw for each light. Besides that awesome video.
Really helpful. I would like to see a similar comparison off the best 18650 flashligths with usb c charging port. Thanks!
Sooon....
I have the Sofirn. Side switch comes on in pocket sometimes. Power lasts forever. Program is difficult. Can't always use the strobe real fast when I need it, dim strobe, 3 clicks, flashes 9 times, stops, it's okay. Real light weight EDC. I like it.
what do you use strobe for?
My man’s is packed out!
Thanks for your time and effort that went into this
Bad news.....only 2 of these are still available.
You may want to check out the Lumintop AA 15. It's less than 3 inches long!!! Also, on the Lumintop AA 2.0 you didn't mention its best feature!!!! The switch is lighted so you can always find it in the dark!!! I LOVE that feature.
Great review! Thanks for showing all the details!
In this size my favourite light is the Lumintop Tool AA on 14500 li-ion.
I5t eos StarDust and Lumintop GTA are mine. I also own 2 Fenixes with dedicated li-ion or 2 and 4 AA. And a LedLenser P5r with 14500 only. Only toys, my fav is a warm white Olight Baton 3 Pro Max.
The Olight i5r is actually really awesome for 14500 batteries. It looks like your using a vapcell 10 amp battery which has an interesting effect on the flashlight. It makes it single mode and 200 lumens.
I think this is why you took it off your list because it loses its dual mode. But that’s why I got the i5r and the vapcell.
What happens is extremely long run time and the light never steps down in brightness and stays cool.
For some reason this extreme 10 amp 14500 because this almost magical performance.
U use vapcell button top or flat top?
Button top. The Vapcell h10. It’s a 14500, 10 amp, 1000 mah battery
@@iosonoi.7132 no wonder mine didn’t work….mine flat top h10…
Don't do that as it will drain the battery to zero which will damage it... also I don't know what will happen to the circuit itself.
@@maxlvledc wait what will damage the battery?
My user lights are all cr123a. For me it makes sense, cause the batts will not leak. I have some over 12 years old, and they are fine, estimate they still have 80% power. My wife uses AA so I have two good ones, Eagle and one I cannot remember the name. Anyway, they are good lights, get batts almost anywhere if needed, and easy to replace in the dark. I make her carry an extra AA batt in her purse, (as if one could find it in there)! I think every size has a place in todays world...I do carry a AAA light from Prometheus!
Well done, sir. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.
The Streamlight can run 14500s, but it is not advertised. High mode becomes Ultra high and low mode becomes high mode. The best EDC light that I have ever used.
Well dang it now I definitely have to pick up an SP10 PRO and put it up against my Fenix RC05SE and see how bad the Sofirn beats the Fenix. Might actually have to pick up a Lumintop EO5C as well as I really like the dual lighting option on that light. Thanks for another great vid Maxlvledc👍
Essential missing points: 1. weight. The Convoy T3 is almost 50g, far too much. My FC11 and SC31pro weigh ca. 55 g after putting in a TIR... Wurkkos has 18350 short tubes too. The E2A is ca. 25g, much better and then an AA light makes more sense. 2. magnetic charging: 2.1 There is likely a magnet in the M150 just as in the H04RC. Actually using it it collected various steel particles from the floor of my bedroom, not even the place where I occasionally work with metal. Can't just wipe it off due to the ridges, need to use a brush. 2.2 the charging in the M150 doesn't work for AA NIMH in the previous version, only LiIon, is that still the case? If so then for use with NIMHs you still need an external charger.
Oh, I don't know! I'll ask!! Good points about the metal.
thank you x10 for your Top 10. 🙂
Super nice idea and super nice test and review .. thank you from italy
Very good review 🙂
I have a similar Lumitop AA, not the version "2.0", apparently the predecessor, but it has always had a bad connection somewhere. So when i fails I have to tighten the tailcap even more firm and then it's OK again for some time. This keeps me from buying Lumitop again !
I have a AAA lumitop as weel and its OK every time.
Kind regards 🙂
Nice timing, I needed this video! 🤓👍
Amazing job!! This was great and I appreciate your hard work and effort to educate your viewers.
Your knowledge is amazing and I love your channel.
This is Alan,GREETINGS from Riverside in Southern California.
Thank you very much!
Agreed with the tool AA. Lost my E2A, gave away my pokelite(stupid name) and got the tool AA. Love the light hate the clip!
I have the sofirn, completely agree about the tail switch could do with simple ui version too.
Acebeam ryder rx is a dope flashlight. I feel like gear should have personality and style as well as function. Sad thing is I lost it, the clip doesn't bite enough, and it slipped out of my pocket
I appreciate your deep dive on this, the devil is on the details for sure. 👍
Hi! What do you think about "Lumintop Silver Fox" and "Sofirn F1" flashlights? Both 14500/AA. The first one with TIR optics, the second one with zoom.
Real good video brother! Just out of curiosity did you do any testing of the two Acebeam lights using the Vape cell like you did with the i-5r?
Both work perfectly BUT, the vapecell is NOT protected. And it needs protected cells.
Great list esp for people who aren't obsessed with lights and don't want to learn all the ins and outs of drivers, UIs, LEDs, etc. I LOVE My SP10 Pro, esp for the price they are asking, but the button is a bit proud and I often push it in my pocket. Also, I wish the fit and finish was a little bit better (I have the SP36 Pro which is much better machining so I know they can do it). For those reasons I'd prob lean toward the M150v3 PERSONALLY, but its close!
You can program it to lock out automatically after 1 minute AND you can then program the 2 momentary outputs while it's in lockout..game changer imo
@@maxlvledc ANDURIL, FLAME OF THE WEST. Guess I'm digging into the UI tonight! I'll see if you have a vid on it...
Ya for the price I'm thinking of replacing a beloved 5 year edc Fenix light the RC05SE. The SP10 PRO is brighter has a way better user interface and even though I'm pretty careful with my lights it's nice to know if my daily beater gets lost or damaged I'd don't have to pony up so much moolah for a replacement. Kinda do wish it had a rubber tailswitch though.
Just what I need for gift ideas. Top 10s help. 👍.
Sofirn did make a 14500 rear tail switch, sp14 I have 2 I think
If I can add one requirement.
Must have "protected" on off switch.
I've found a dead flashlight in my pocket so many times!
I have the Olight because I went over brand with my torches after going through so many of them.
I will use this list to purchase Xmas presents for friends, first being a Lumintop E05C for the mate that has a head light but keeps asking to borrow a pencil light.
Thank you so much for your channel one of my favorites keep going
You missed the Manker E03H II. Hard to still find a reason to get these straight flashlights, all in this video.
great another video to feed my flashlight addiction....
I do have the EDC05C and SP10v3 as my two primary lights they are hard to beat for AA. However, whenever I look for the E05C online I can never find it in stock anywhere
I know, I hesitated even putting it on the list..but it's far better than past gen.
Thank you for your detailed list. I have liked made a comment & subscribed.
Awesome. A reviewer who clips to their hat! I'd be lost without my small carry clipped to my ball cap for work every night. Cool
I get up at 4am 3 days a week..hands free is essential.
Y'man get THE 👇 Klarus XT1A on your radar. Multiple fuel source, outdoor and tactical modes, great output modes, solid build quality, £50 in the UK. A sterling option.
It's Discontinued, it was on my list but I talked to the rep about it.
Great video Dom!
Question for you, In your opinion what's the best compact defensive flashlight that's not overtly tactical?
What I'm looking at for specific are;
18650 and/or below, 50m beam minimum with high candela and have to have a tail switch.
Cheers mate.
Even these AA lights have over 150M of throw..the Protac 1L-1AA is easily the most TACTICAL of the bunch, with a 350lm only mode. If you want larger... Warrior Mini 2 is a boss.
@@maxlvledc thanks mate
The Eagtac is great for reliably going straight to high (if you don’t mind a clicky switch)… I have the titanium version, which I love. The Olight Warrior Mini 2 has a perfect design imho… for a large light it’s just light enough to clip to a shirt for hands-free use (aluminum version). But it’s one of two Olight’s that died on me after a month. They’re not garbage, but I’m not the only one who has had reliability issues.
The protac will work with 3.7 14500 battery, I've done it. Dont ask how long it lasts because I don't know :)
It overcharges the circuit sadly. Will break the light.
@@maxlvledc I have been running it this way for almost 2 years now, still good to go, just dont leave it on too long or shift to low mode for extended use.
My acebeam flickers with various batteries, the switch seems to be faulty after two months of edc. Ill stick with streamlight moving forward.
Do you use the vapcell 3000mah 10a batteries in the sp10 pro? (You talked about them when discussing the i5r light) I'm totally addicted to these budget lights. I really wanna get into rechargeable batteries and I wanna basically take your word for it. Thanks for everything!! * Edit* what's a decent charger? You mentioned one or some in another video but that's a lot of digging and waiting haha
Right now Reylight Pineapple Mini Titanium Frag is 49 and the aluminum copper is 39 as is the aluminum in 4 colors. Always something on sale.
Great job, my 2 favourites are Olight i5r, missed the criteria but matches mine, just a little over priced & Lumintop Tool AA 2.0 because in Aus can get it cheap.
Funny after I say that, I'm having trouble charging the Olight 14500 battery, stays on red when plugged into outlet and never goes green and when I plug it into a battery bank it turns off after 30seconds as though the battery banks can't register its there.... same thing happens with battery banks and Olights magnetic chargers for the small Olights MCC 1A, bigger ones are ok. Happens with about 6 different battery banks, 1 worked.
Beware I have had three Streamlight protac 1L 1AA lights. All of the tailcaps will fail in months. Mechanically feels good when clicking but just fails. It cannot be fixed or replaced, you just have to buy a whole new flashlight.
Olight Baton 3 Pro, 1500 lm gives "120 days" in Moonlight mode! 🤗
I like the rider rx, though I should have bought the titanium one you have. The steel version dents a bit easier, and my clip wasn’t tempered well so it has bent out of shape snagging on something while it was in my pocket. Still really like the look and features as well as output.
Great list. I would love to see some 55 day testing if you are will to put a fresh battery and let it sit on the shelf. Would make a good UA-cam video to a battle of the moonlight modes. I know my Zebra SC53c N will go for at least 16 days on it's lowest (0.2 lumens? maybe???). But never drained it entirely because I use it too often. You could be the our guide in the dark on this issue.
Great list, Dom!
Awesome selection thank you !
Rechargeable AA have capacity over 2000 mAh. Aren't they a better option than 14500? I have a batch of new ones reaching 2500 mAh.
Well you got your wish. Rey released the LanApple in aluminum! They're 40$ from Rey, and 45$ from Killzone.
I'm curious as to why do you rate the run time based on a moonlight mode? Wouldn't it better be based on a medium mode instead? The small light is probably gonna be used around the house, where you normally don't read a lot in the dark. From my personal experience, I mostly use a AA/14500 light to move around the house at night, when I don't want/need to turn the lights on or outside when I need some light. I hardly ever used a moonlight mode on a 14500 flashlight.
And in overall, for all types of flashlights, when searching for a flashlight to buy, I mostly look at it's low(not moonlight) medium and high mode run time. Because that's the mode that is gonna be used the most. A turbo mode doesn't last long and I don't rely on it because of that. What I mean is that low(not moonlight), medium and high modes are the most usuable modes and therefore, as for me, the run time for those modes is more important than a moonlight or a turbo mode.
Thanks.
I wake up in the dark every morning and only use a 1-5 lumen mode. But also the variance in medium is far too great from one light to another.
The Tool AA 2.0 is almost exactly the SP10Pro but with a tailswitch. The have almost identical specs. How's the Sofirn better?
no anduril, moonlight is wayyyyy too bright, no stepless ramping
Looking forward to this.
Which Flashlight would you recommend that has a good spread? I drive a box truck with no cargo lights. Looking into the sofirn sc32, but not sure how the spread is. I have the tool aa. I like having a tailight switch but not a fan of no moonlight and it doesnt remember the setting. Thought about the edc aa as well bc of the honeycomb lens. Thanks in Advance, Dominic.
Fenix LD12 is good as well. It's over 50$ range but good.
They make the LAN in Aluminum and it’s the same specs for $40. Worth it.
Sooo worth
I have the SP10 Pro, its nice but the side switch is too proud and keeps turning on in my pocket. I refuse to manual lockout or e-lockout everytime I use it.. I ended up giving it away and the M150 V3 519A is my new EDC.
You can do an auto lockout at 1 min and then program. The 2 lockout modes (I have one low, and one turbo)
lumintop tool aa can use 2 way clip from lumintop edc aa and it fit perfectly..give it a try
Any recommendations for a flashlight the size of the Sofirn SP10 Pro (specially width) but with a tail switch?
Great video!
I'm curious if you reviewed the nitecore mt10A? And what's your opinion on it?
It's Discontinued sadly
Great review
Why are most 14500 lights putting the usb port on the battery and not the light? It would be much better with on board charging. Another complaint I have is that they're not even reaching 1000 lumens. There are lights using a 16340 battery that put out 1300 lumens. Why can't they do this with 14500?