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Fenix

Fenix SD11 diving light review

1 x Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, 1 x Cree XQE RED LED
1000 lm output
505 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Fenix SD11 diving light was released in 2017. It uses 1 x Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, 1 x Cree XQE RED LED, no reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this diving light provides up to 1000 lm output, 505 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 45 m.

Curious to see if this diving light impresses? Read on!

Table of Contents

The content of this article reflects our own experiences and viewpoints. We aim to offer insights on a topic, and we hope others find it helpful and motivating. Additionally, we make every effort to provide accurate and comprehensive coverage. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications for the Fenix SD11, then tell us.

Fenix SD11 / SD11

This light has 2 modes of lighting. This flashlight does not have memory function.

Fenix SD11 specifications

BrandFenix
NameSD11
TypeSD11
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1440 user votes.
Launch2017
Formdiving light

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight132 g
Length138 mm
Body diameter26 mm
Head diameter34 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The flashlight weighs 132 g. It is generally comfortable to hold for a long time, and it is also easy to carry in pockets or bags. The best flashlight size depends on personal preference. It also depends on intended use and the specific features you want. The aluminium body of the SD11 has a reputation for being durable and strong. It offers excellent resistance to impacts, scratches, and corrosion. HAIII is a specific anodizing process. It creates a thicker and harder oxide layer than regular anodizing. The SD11 flashlight is available in black.

Fenix SD11 / 1

System, LED, lens, reflector

Emitter1 x Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, 1 x Cree XQE RED LED
Color temperature5000 K
Reflectorno
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchrotary front

Lighting professionals trust Cree LEDs. Cree LEDs have gained a strong reputation for quality and performance. The color temperature choice depends on the light's use and personal taste. The coating is thin and applied to the lens surface. It cuts reflections and boosts light transmission.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1000 lm
Intensity505 cd
Throw45 m
CD/LM factor0.51

With 1000 lm, the SD11 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. 505 cd can make things quite bright. It's enough for many everyday tasks. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 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.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes2 modes
Mode memoryno
Ramping modeno
Strobeno
SOS/Beaconno

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatorno
Charger portno
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
Protectiondepth 100 meters
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno
Specialsred light
white light

The SD11 flashlight utilizes 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery as its power source. The SD11 cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. This flashlight has built-in low voltage protection (LVP). It prevents damage from over-discharge, so it doesn't need protected cells. The SD11 has thermal protection feature. These mechanisms track and regulate the flashlight's temperature as it operates.

Accessories, package contents

Package contents2 x spare o-rings
brand ring
camera mount
lanyard

The lanyard of the SD11 protects the flashlight from accidental damage. It does this by stopping it from falling or hitting the ground. Instead of searching for matching O-rings, having spare O-rings allows quick fixes.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the SD11 flashlight 30 seconds after switching on the light. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

Conclusion, pros and cons

This Fenix flashlight, like any other, has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a close look at both sides to understand this flashlight better. I share my thoughts on its standout features and the parts that might need improvement. Keep in mind, these are just my opinions, and you might have a different perspective.

Pros

  • lightweight
  • aluminium body
  • warm light
  • AR coated lens
  • rotary switch
  • adequate performance
  • multiple modes
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation

Cons

  • low intensity
  • no mode memory
  • no battery indicator
  • no built-in charger
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Fenix SD11 / SD11 photo 1.
Fenix SD11 / SD11 photo 2.
Fenix SD11 / SD11

If there’s information about the Fenix SD11 that you would like to see on this site, then write to us.

David Hagon
I love bushcraft and flashlights. I find joy in mastering wilderness survival skills and exploring the realm of illuminating gadgets. Bushcraft isn't just fun, it's a learning journey. I form a strong bond with nature. It's more than a hobby, it enriches me in practical and spiritual ways.
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