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Nitecore EA21 360lm flashlight review: Pros and Cons

Cree XP-G2 R5 LED
360 lm output
7000 cd intensity
2 x AA batteries

The Nitecore EA21 flashlight released in 2017. It uses Cree XP-G2 R5 LED, SMO reflector and 2 x AA batteries. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 360 lm output, 7000 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 167 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 EA21, then tell us.

Nitecore EA21 / EA21

The EA21 is a powerful and reliable flashlight. It has impressive illumination and durable construction. It is an exceptional lighting tool, it works in many situations and environments. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The memory function is a nice feature, the light will remember the last used mode. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.

Nitecore EA21 specifications

BrandNitecore
NameEA21
TypeEA21
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1424 user votes.
Launch2017
Formflashlight

Flashlights are unlike ambient or overhead lights. They let you aim the light where you need it.

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight67 g
Length141.5 mm
Body diameter25.4 mm
Head diameter25.4 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The EA21 is small, compact, and designed for ultra-portability. The length of a flashlight can affect how it feels in your hand and how you can grip and maneuver it. The aluminium body of the EA21 has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components. The body of EA21 flashlight treated with a Type III hard-anodized, anti-abrasive finish. The EA21 flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XP-G2 R5 LED
Color temperature5000 K
ReflectorSMO
LensAR coated glass
Switchdual electronic side

Cree is a US-based LED manufacturer. It is well-regarded for its high-quality products and innovation in lighting. Color temperature is a characteristic of light. It is used to quantify the color appearance of light sources. The EA21 has a smooth reflector. The right reflector focuses light well. It gives you a better hotspot, and it throws better. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. The flashlight has electronic switches. They have many benefits and extra features compared to mechanical switches.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux360 lm
Intensity7000 cd
Throw167 m
CD/LM factor19.44

360 lm can provide a decent amount of brightness and be suitable for many everyday tasks. The EA21 flashlight has 7000 cd. It provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. The cd/lm factor is the candela-to-lumen ratio. It shows how concentrated a light source's output is.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes5 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. It stays in that mode when you turn it on again. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The EA21's SOS mode produces a specific sequence of long and short flashes. It signals distress or emergency.

Features, battery, protections

Battery2 x AA batteries
Battery indicatorno
Charger portno
LVPno
Thermal regulationno
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno
Specialsred light
white light

The Nitecore EA21 flashlight is powered by 2 x AA batteries. The EA21 cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. Use a protected battery. This flashlight lacks low voltage protection (LVP). Flashlights without thermal protection may rely on other design elements to dissipate heat. These elements include heat sinks, fins, or body materials with good thermal conductivity. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection. It is against water ingress.

Accessories, package contents

Package contentsclip
lanyard
nylon holster
spare o-ring

The holster keeps your flashlight secure. It provides a reliable and easy way to do this when not in use. The clip is useful to keep the light secured in your pocket. Securing the flashlight with a lanyard frees up your hands for other tasks. It keeps the flashlight within reach. Replacing worn or damaged O-rings helps a lot. It keeps up the flashlight's durability and performance.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the EA21 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
  • warm light
  • AR coated lens
  • side switch
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • SOS/beacon function
  • waterproof
  • protective holster
  • clip

Cons

  • moderated performance
  • no battery indicator
  • no built-in charger
  • no LVP
  • no thermal regulation
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore EA21 / EA21 photo 1.
Nitecore EA21 / EA21

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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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