Fenix PD35 Tactical Flashlight
Next on our list of the best 18650 flashlights is the Fenix PD35, which comes with two modes, which are the outdoor and tactical modes. Switching between modes is easy but will only require pressing and holding the side switch for up to 180 seconds. When it comes to battery usage, there are two options associated with this flashlight:
- Using two CR123A 3V lithium batteries to operate the flashlight
- Using one lithium-ion rechargeable 18650 battery
When you buy this product, you get 2 EdisonBright CR123A lithium batteries. You will also notice a feature that tells you when you need to replace or recharge the battery. This is a tactical flashlight that gives you maximum lumens of 1000 with as much as 50,000 hours worth of usage time. You’ll get up to 70 minutes maximum lumens if you decide to buy this flashlight. Switching to the low lumens mode should give you almost half an hour at 60 lumens.
The build of this 18650 flashlight is an aircraft-grade aluminum designed to have resistance to abrasion. And we also like how the handle is built with slippage resistance features to give you a good grip. The Fenix PD35 has protection for reversed polarity, as well as an intuitive memory circuit.
Pros
- Double battery options
- Handle with slippage resistance
- Reverse polarity protection
- Intelligent memory circuit
- Sturdy structure and long battery life
- Two modes with easy switch
Cons
- We feel the lights could be brighter
- Adjusting the wrist wrap is tricky
Olight S2R II
This is yet another top-rated 18650 flashlight that has undergone various upgrades and improvements. So, what we have here is an upgraded version. One aspect of the S2R II that we like is that it gives you a balanced beam as far as 147 yards. This is because of the presence of the Luminus SST-40 LED and TIR lens that both have been through some upgrades. With the help of the LED, what you have is a flashlight that can emit up to 1150 lumens for about 120 seconds before you notice a step down in the lights to a lower level. The reason for the step down is to keep the flashlight from overheating. When you use this product, you can access the emergency strobe mode and choose any of the 5 levels of brightness.
This is not the first time that we’ve come across a single 18650 battery-powered flashlight, but there are some improvements. One such notable upgrade is that the battery charges faster than in the previous version. The magnetic charging tail cap and MCC II magnetic charging cable help to charge the Olight S2R II‘s battery.
The flashlight also comes with a side switch that houses the battery capacity indicator and offers you light control. With the help of the power indicator light, you can tell when your battery needs a recharge. One more thing worth noting about the new version is that it is shorter and not as heavy when compared to the older version. So, the flashlight is more comfortable to hold and use every day.
Pros
- Tail stand capability
- Comes with two-pocket clips
- Has a battery capacity indicator
Cons
- Doesn’t have a memory mode
Sofirn SP31 v2.0
The final option on our list of 18650 flashlights is the Sofirn SP31 that can light up a massive 2 soccer fields in length, thanks to its CREE CPL-HI LED. It should interest you to know that this is the latest version from the manufacturer and is also its newest SP31 line model.
This is a pocket-sized flashlight that features a carry clip so that you can attach it to various materials. So, taking it along with you wherever you are shouldn’t be a problem. The v2.0 comes with two operational light switches, which are the side and tail switches. With the help of the side switch, you can navigate five different levels of brightness, as well as two other modes (SOS and Strobe). On the other hand, the tail switch helps you turn the power light off and on while allowing you to access the momentary-on setting. You also get a much-improved temperature regulator that will make automatic brightness adjustments by reading the light’s internal temperature.
The build of the flashlight – created with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy and designed to have resistance to abrasion. The SP31 has a USB charger to help power the single lithium-ion 18650 battery that you can recharge. Keep in mind that it has an IPX8 rating, meaning you can use it outdoors even when it’s raining.
Pros
- Tail stand capability
- Mode memory
- More than one battery option
- Battery capacity indicator
Cons
- You might notice that the beam’s center has a yellow halo at certain distances
Finding The Best 18650 Flashlight
With the information contained in this buyer’s guide, you have all the necessary pointers to help you make a good decision. You might be about to buy your first flashlight, and this is something you shouldn’t do in a hurry. When you buy a 18650 flashlight, you don’t have to worry about replacing the batteries often, making them a more economical option and a worthwhile investment in the long-term
Use the information available to check out the flashlights reviewed above based on their features and your budget. Then, determine what your needs are to decide what flashlight is best for you. In all, we encourage you to be diligent and patient so that you put yourself in the best position to make an informed decision.
