Fenix RC20 1000lm In-depth review, Pros and Cons

Cree XM-L2 U2 LED

1000 lm output

21100 cd intensity

1 x special 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Fenix RC20 (RC20) released in 2016. It uses Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x special 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 1000 lm output, 21100 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 291 m.

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The RC20 lashlight offers a versatile lighting solution. This light has 4 modes of lighting. The mode memory of RC20 contributes to a more seamless and intuitive user experience.

Fenix RC20 (RC20) pictures

The specifications below 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 RC20, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.

Fenix RC20 (RC20) specifications

Brand	Fenix
Name	RC20
Type	RC20
Rating	★★★★★ Rated 3/5 based on 1208 user votes.
Launch	2016
Form	flashlight

This Fenix flashlight offers portability, versatility, and reliability in providing illumination.

Body

Weight	205 g
Length	161 mm
Body diameter	25.4 mm
Head diameter	40 mm
Material	aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colors	black

The 205 g flashlight would be considered moderately heavy for a handheld flashlight. The weight may provide advantages like increased durability or the ability to house larger batteries for longer runtime. It's important to consider the length of the flashlight to ensure it fits comfortably in your desired carrying method. Aluminium is a lightweight material, which is beneficial for RC20 flashlight. The HAIII coating provides excellent corrosion resistance, protecting the underlying aluminum from exposure to moisture, humidity, and other corrosive elements. It helps maintain the appearance and functionality of the flashlight, even in harsh environments. This flashlight comes in a sleek black color option.

System

Emitter	Cree XM-L2 U2 LED
Color temperature	6500 K
Reflector	SMO
Lens	toughtened AR coated glass
Switch	mechanical rear, mode button rear

The emitter of RC20 manufactured by Cree, a US-based LED manufacturing company. Cree is a well-regarded LED manufacturer known for its high-quality products and innovation in the lighting industry. Color temperature is a characteristic of light. It is measured in units called Kelvin (K) and is used to quantify the color appearance of light sources, particularly white light. The smooth reflector is typically used in flashlights where long-range illumination is a priority, such as searchlights or thrower flashlights. By minimizing light scattering and maximizing light directionality, the smooth reflector can produce a tighter and more concentrated beam that reaches greater distances.

The AR coating of the lens helps to mitigate these reflections by altering the refractive index of the lens surface. The RC20 uses multiple switches. Depending on the placement and design of the switches, a multiple switch configuration can allow for one-handed operation. This is particularly helpful in situations where you need to hold or manipulate objects with one hand while using the flashlight with the other hand.

The RC20 has mechanical switch. Mechanical switches often offer tactile feedback, allowing users to feel a distinct click or resistance when the switch is pressed. This feedback helps users confirm that the switch has been activated or deactivated, providing a reassuring sense of control and awareness. The RC20 uses a reear switch. Rear switches are commonly found on tactical flashlights designed for law enforcement, military, and self-defense purposes. The rear switch allows for quick and easy momentary activation or constant-on activation, enabling rapid response and tactical maneuvering.

Performance

Flux	1000 lm
Intensity	21100 cd
Throw	291 m
CD/LM factor	21.1

The 1000 lm output of RC20 provides greater versatility, as you can adjust the brightness levels to suit different lighting needs. The RC20 flashlight with 21100 cd has an extended throw distance, allowing you to illuminate objects or areas at greater distances. This can be advantageous for outdoor activities, search and rescue operations, or scenarios where long-range visibility is required. The throw distance refers to the maximum distance at which the flashlight can effectively illuminate an object or target. The stated throw distance typically indicates the point at which the brightness falls below a specified threshold, such as 0.25 lux. The candela per lumen (cd/lm) ratio can be used to determine if a flashlight has a spot or flood type beam. Well-focused spot beams can be over 100 cd/lm, tactical flashlights are typically between 20-100 cd/lm, and work lights are less than 10 cd/lm.

Software

Modes	4 modes
Mode memory	yes
Ramping mode	no
Strobe	no
SOS/Beacon	no

Modes on a flashlight refer to different output settings or levels of brightness that can be selected to suit different needs and preferences. The RC20 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.

Features

Battery	1 x special 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicator	yes
Charger port	yes
LVP	yes
Thermal regulation	yes
Protection	IPx8
AUX LEDs	no
Magnetic	no

The Fenix RC20 flashlight is powered by 1 x special 18650 Li-Ion battery. The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is low, charging, or fully charged. This flashlight has a built-in low voltage protection (LVP) to prevent damage to the cell from over-discharge, so protected cells are not necessary. The RC20 has thermal protection feature. The thermal protection mechanisms are designed to monitor and regulate the temperature of the flashlight during operation. This feature helps prevent overheating, which can be detrimental to the flashlight's performance, battery, and overall safety. The RC20 flashlight with IPx8 rating can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period, typically specified by the manufacturer.

Accessories

Package contents	charging cradle lanyard spare o-ring special 18650 battery wall adapter

Obtaining a flashlight with an included battery saves you the time and effort of searching for a compatible battery or waiting for a separate battery to arrive. Attaching a lanyard to your RC20 flashlight provides an additional layer of security, reducing the risk of accidental drops or loss. Regularly replacing worn or damaged O-rings helps maintain the overall durability and performance of the flashlight.

The performance of the Fenix RC20 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.