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Nitecore

Nitecore DL20 1000lm diving light review: Pros and Cons

Cree XP-L HI V3 LED
1000 lm output
12400 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Nitecore DL20 diving light released in 2018. It uses Cree XP-L HI V3 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this diving light provides up to 1000 lm output, 12400 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 223 m.

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 Nitecore DL20, then tell us.

Nitecore DL20 / DL20

This light has 2 + 2 modes of lighting. The lack of mode memory means you need to adjust the flashlight's settings each time you turn it on. The strobe function produces a high-frequency flashing light pattern. It disorients or distracts potential threats or aggressors.

Nitecore DL20 specifications

BrandNitecore
NameDL20
TypeDL20
Rating
Rated 3 / 5 based on 1403 user votes.
Launch2018
Formdiving light

Nitecore DL20 / 3

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight135.5 g
Length133.1 mm
Head diameter34 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The flashlight weighs 135.5 g. It is generally comfortable to hold for a long time, and it is also easy to carry in pockets or bags. A smaller flashlight is easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch. This makes it more convenient for everyday use or when you're on the go. The aluminium body of the DL20 has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components.

The HAIII process makes a hard and wear-resistant surface on the aluminum. This makes it more resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. The DL20 flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

Nitecore DL20 / 4

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XP-L HI V3 LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic side

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 smooth reflector creates a well-defined hotspot at the center. This hotspot provides a concentrated beam for long-range use. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. Some flashlights with electronic switches have programmable features. They allow users to customize the behavior of the flashlight.

Nitecore DL20 / 2

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1000 lm
Intensity12400 cd
Throw223 m
CD/LM factor12.4

With 1000 lm, the DL20 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The DL20 flashlight has 12400 cd. It can light objects at greater distances. 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.

Nitecore DL20 / 1

Software, user interface, modes

Modes2 + 2 modes
Mode memoryno
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconno

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The DL20 is tactical strobe ready. The strobe light is disorienting to the person it is aimed at, this makes it hard for them to concentrate.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatorno
Charger portno
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIPx8, depth 100 meters
Impact resistance1 m
AUX LEDsyes
Magneticno
Specialsred light
white light

The DL20 flashlight utilizes 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery as its power source. The DL20 cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. The flashlight detects when the battery's voltage has dropped to a certain level. Then, it reduces or cuts off the power. The DL20 has thermal protection feature. These mechanisms track and regulate the flashlight's temperature as it operates.

The "8" in the IPx8, depth 100 meters rating means the highest level of protection. It is against water ingress. The flashlight's impact resistance is its ability to withstand physical shocks. It can accomplish this without sustaining any damage. It has auxiliary LEDs which make it really nice looking.

Accessories, package contents

Package contents2 x spare o-rings
lanyard

The lanyard prevents accidental loss of the flashlight. 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 DL20 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 Nitecore 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
  • AR coated lens
  • side switch
  • adequate performance
  • multiple modes
  • tactical strobe
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • waterproof
  • auxiliary LEDs

Cons

  • cool light
  • no mode memory
  • no battery indicator
  • no built-in charger
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore DL20 / DL20 photo 1.
Nitecore DL20 / DL20 photo 2.
Nitecore DL20 / DL20 photo 3.
Nitecore DL20 / DL20 photo 4.
Nitecore DL20 / DL20 photo 5.
Nitecore DL20 / DL20

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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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