Dispersing the darkness: TOP 5 full-size hand lamps
We independently test the products and technologies that we recommend.
Before proceeding to a detailed description of the representatives of the TOP, we recommend comparing the parameters of all models of lanterns. The following link opens a full catalog of lanterns, where you can select a lighting device by type, function, luminous flux power and other search parameters.
A flashlight from the famous brand Varta, which has made its name in the production of batteries, is one of the most affordable solutions on the market, the quality of which can be safely vouched for.
As lighting elements in the design of the lantern, 7 LEDs with a diameter of 5 mm are used, evenly distributed along the perimeter of the front lens. They create a luminous flux of 58 lm with a maximum illumination range of up to 63 m. The figures are far from record-breaking, but given the super-low-cost cost of the model, they deserve respect.
Using a flashlight is equally good both indoors and outdoors. Varta LED Day Light 2D fits comfortably in your hand, and the flashlight body is protected from shock and moisture. Among the materials of the case, metal prevails, which is diluted with plastic and rubber inserts. At the end of the flashlight there is an eye for attaching a complete strap to it.
The strongest side of the model is long—term battery life — up to 140 hours of operation (with interruptions) is achieved on a set of two D-type batteries. Along with the good brightness of the glow and practical functionality, the model becomes a very attractive option for ordinary people who absolutely do not need additional functions and the presence of a variety of operating modes.
There is nowhere easier to decipher the alphanumeric index of the flashlight model from the American company Maglite: the 3D symbols indicate the number of corresponding D-type batteries that are needed to power the flashlight, and the letters LED indicate that an LED with a reflector acts as a light source.
The model turned out to be quite long (31 cm) and heavy (more than 850 g). Therefore, if something happens, it will be possible to use it as a tool for self-defense. This hypostasis is also facilitated by a high-strength rigid handle made of aluminium alloy. But with the glass covering the front lens, it is better to be careful — it is much easier to break it.
Despite the fact that the flashlight has only 1 brightness level, the presence on its board of the ability to adjust the focus makes the model universal. Thus, a narrow light beam is able to illuminate distant objects at a distance of up to 364 m, and a wide light scattering angle will provide effective illumination of the space near the lantern.
The complete set of the model is quite meager — the manufacturer did not even take care of including batteries in the package. But consumers are presented with the widest choice of colours of the lantern body: from classic black, to a more girly purple or camouflage khaki. And the pleasant impression of the flashlight is complemented by its attractive cost.
The model with the MT40GT index from the young Nitecore brand is included in the category of search lights, whose representatives are designed to illuminate a large area of open terrain.
The light beam of the flashlight finishes at a very impressive distance — up to 618 m. And the merit of this lies on the shoulders of just one high-performance Cree XP-L HI V3 LED. The lighting element is designed in such a way that the heat generated by the glow of the diode is removed as much as possible, thus ensuring long and stable operation of the lamp.
The lighting device is switched on and off by pressing the tactical button on the end of the case, and the rotary head is additionally involved in switching the glow modes. The key on the end is slightly recessed into the body, so it remains possible to install the lamp vertically. The model has 6 operating modes in its arsenal: from maximum brightness (1000 lm) to minimum (90 lm) with intermediate positions at 500 lm and 250 lm, as well as SOS and strobe functions.
The shape of the handle of the flashlight contributes to its under-barrel mounting, and the protection of the case from vibrations will help the hardware of the model to survive the recoil from the shots. For this, hunters often look at the Nitecore MT40GT. In addition, security agencies, border guards and tourists pay attention to the lantern. In everyday life, the use of the model is less justified.
Depending on the selected brightness mode, the charge of two 18650 batteries is enough for 1.5-24 hours of autonomous operation of the flashlight. And he is able to work almost everywhere — the protection of the case according to the IPX8 standard allows you to use the Nitecore MT40GT even in extreme conditions. In addition, the flashlight will not burden its owner with extra weight, since its body made of aluminium aerospace alloy weighs only 245 g.
Useful advice. The high brightness of the flashlight is not justified in all situations. For example, for use at short distances, it can become a hindrance, since bright light quickly tyres the eyes and can blind others. Therefore, it is recommended to select a model according to the specified parameter based on the conditions in which the flashlight is planned to be used.
The belonging of the model from the German company Led Lenser to the top segment is visible from the packaging, which is represented by a convenient plastic case for carrying a flashlight and accessories.
In addition to instructions and promotional papers about the brand's products, the kit includes a plastic clip for attaching a flashlight to a belt, a charging cable with a magnetic knob and a plastic bracket screwed to the wall. Wall fasteners are assigned the role of a kind of docking station, which greatly simplifies the process of replenishing the energy reserves of the battery. Charging is done in two ways: either via the USB port, or using a convenient magnetic contact.
Rubber seals are installed in the places of all threaded connections to prevent water from entering the lamp housing. The liquid can leak inside except when adjusting the focus under water, which is highly discouraged. But in an open space, focus the beam will create the necessary light spot for effective illumination of the surrounding reality at different distances.
Operation modes are controlled using the button on the end, which is both tactical and "reverse". When half-pressed, the LED illuminates everything around at maximum brightness while the key remains pressed. And when pressed before clicking, the flashlight switches to one of three modes of operation: Professional (the most versatile with the ability to adjust brightness, flashing mode, SOS and strobe functions), Easy (maximum, minimum and brightness adjustment) and Defense (self—defense — maximum brightness and strobe). To switch between modes, you need to press the button 4 times before clicking and once, the fifth time, completely.
The 18650 battery, from which the flashlight receives power, is installed in a special cassette. The duration of the autonomous operation of the model directly depends on the chosen scheme for stabilizing the luminous flux — with the stub turned on, the flashlight shines with a constant brightness of about three hours, after which the transition to the minimum mode occurs. Without stabilization, the model works for more than 12 hours in a row, but the brightness of the glow gradually decreases.
The brainchild of Fenix is a real giant among hand lanterns. However, its dimensions and weight are justified by high performance (the maximum brightness of the model is 3500 lm) and long range (the light beam hits a distance of more than 700 m).
The flashlight comes in a translucent plastic storage case. Together with it, the package includes a convenient strap (shoulder strap for carrying), charging with an additional power supply from a car cigarette lighter, a spare O-ring and a plug for the charging socket located on the end of the flashlight. Above the port there are 4 LEDs signaling the remaining charge of the powerful battery of the model with a capacity of as much as 7800 mAh.
The head of the lantern turned out to be truly huge. After all, 4 powerful LEDs are installed in it, and large cooling fins are involved in cooling the case. Almost immediately under the head there are two keys to control the operation of the model: the first is responsible for turning on / off the flashlight, and the second is for switching brightness modes, of which there are five. In the maximum glow mode, the Fenix RC40 is able to work up to an hour and a half, and at the lowest brightness (35 lm) — about 160 hours in a row.
Such a powerful luminous flux generated by a flashlight will be primarily appreciated by representatives of security structures and various special forces. For tourists, the model is less suitable, because its weightiness greatly affects the total weight of the equipment. By the way, in 2016, an improved version of the lantern saw the light, which became a real record holder in the family of hand—type models — Fenix RC40 XM-L2 U2 . This modification is able to give a beam with a brightness of 6000 lumens! Illuminating a vast territory, it provides an unsurpassed brightness of illumination in almost any situation, although it costs a lot of money.
How to save energy resources without compromising the comfortable indoor climate?
Filters for installation under the sink provide high-quality cleaning of tap water.
On a ribbed surface, frying of meat, fish and vegetables is carried out without excess fat.
Vertical vacuum cleaners are commonly used as auxiliary devices for cleaning.
Five traditional irons designed for everyday use in everyday life.
Articles, reviews, useful tips
All materials
