Fenix HL18R-T 500lm review. Is it worth it in 2023?

The Fenix HL18R-T (HL18R-T) released in 2021. It uses Cree XP-G3 S3 LED, 2 x Everlight 2835 white LEDs, SMO reflector and 1 x ARB-LP1300 Li-Ion battery pack. The powerful emitter in this headlamp provides up to 500 lm output, 1700 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 82 m.

The HL18R-T is particularly useful in situations where you need to use both hands, such as camping, hiking, or working in low-light environments. This light has 3 + 2 modes of lighting. The mode memory of HL18R-T eliminates the need to cycle through different modes every time you turn on the flashlight, providing convenience and saving time. The USB charger port allows you to charge your flashlight using alternative power sources, making them even more suitable for outdoor adventures or emergency situations where access to electricity may be limited.

Table of contents:

• Fenix HL18R-T specifications
• Fenix HL18R-T pictures
• Fenix HL18R-T comparisons

Fenix HL18R-T (HL18R-T) specifications

Headlamps consist of a light source attached to a headband, allowing users to wear them hands-free.

Body

This 63.2 g flashlight would generally be considered lightweight and easy to handle for most people. The length of the HL18R-T flashlight can affect its portability. A shorter flashlight is generally easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch, making it more convenient for everyday use or when you're on the go. The HL18R-T flashlight is available in black.

System

Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer and has a track record of delivering high-quality and innovative lighting solutions. Warm white light is generally considered more comfortable and less harsh on the eyes compared to cool white light. The primary function of the smooth reflector (SMO) is to precisely focus and project the light emitted from the light source into a defined beam pattern. The smooth surface allows for greater reflectivity and light concentration, resulting in a more focused and intense beam with a longer throw distance. The HL18R-T has electronic switch. The electronic switches may have a higher likelihood of standby drain compared to mechanical switches since they require a small amount of power for operation.

Performance

500 lm can provide a decent amount of brightness and be suitable for many everyday tasks, it may not be sufficient for certain scenarios or individuals with specific requirements. 1700 cd can provide a reasonable level of luminous intensity for many everyday lighting tasks. The throw is the calculated distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. The cd/lm factor (candela-to-lumen ratio) provides information about how concentrated or focused the light output of a light source is. A higher cd/lm ratio indicates that the light is more concentrated in a specific direction, while a lower ratio indicates a more diffused or spread-out light output.

Software

Modes on a flashlight refer to different output settings or levels of brightness that can be selected to suit different needs and preferences. The HL18R-T has mode memory. Mode memory means that the flashlight will remember the mode you were using when the light was last turned off, and when you turn it on again. The HL18R-T has an SOS signal mode. The SOS code consists of three short signals, followed by three long signals, and then three short signals again.

Features

The power source of the HL18R-T flashlight is 1 x ARB-LP1300 Li-Ion battery pack, providing reliable and long-lasting energy for optimal performance. Having a battery indicator on a flashlight is beneficial as it allows users to monitor the battery status and make informed decisions regarding recharging or replacing the battery. It helps prevent unexpected power failures during critical situations and ensures that the flashlight is ready for use when needed.

This flashlight can charge the battery with an integrated charger, and it works with a USB power source. When the HL18R-T flashlight detects that the voltage of the battery has dropped to a certain threshold, it automatically reduces or cuts off the power output to prevent further discharge. This helps to preserve the battery's capacity and prevent it from reaching a critically low voltage level. The built-in thermal control automatically adjusts brightness output to prevent overheating.

The "6" in the IP66 rating represents the level of protection against solid objects, specifically dust and foreign particles. It indicates that the HL18R-T flashlight, is fully protected against the entry of dust and other solid objects. The IP66 rating indicates that the HL18R-T flashlight has a protection against water jets. It is important to consider the impact resistance rating when selecting a flashlight, especially if you anticipate using it in situations where accidental drops or impacts are likely to occur.

Accessories

By including a battery with the flashlight, you avoid the additional expense of purchasing a battery separately.

The performance of the Fenix HL18R-T flashlight is measured according to the ANSI / NEMA FL1 Standard 30 seconds after switching the light on. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

The specifications above are based on the official data published by the manufacturer, but we also take user reviews into consideration. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications above for the Fenix HL18R-T, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.

Fenix HL18R-T (HL18R-T) pictures

Fenix HL18R-T (HL18R-T) comparisons

According to our statistics, the Fenix HL18R-T flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.

Wurkkos TS25 Nichia
Nitecore EC22

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