Nitecore EC20 flashlight review
The Nitecore EC20 flashlight released in 2014. It uses Cree XM-L T6 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 960 lm output, 12450 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 223 m.
Want to know if this Nitecore flashlight stands out? Keep going!
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 EC20, then tell us.
The EC20 flashlight offers a versatile lighting solution. This light has 4 modes of lighting. The EC20's mode memory makes the user experience more seamless and intuitive. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.
Nitecore EC20 specifications
Brand | Nitecore |
---|---|
Name | EC20 |
Type | EC20 |
Rating | |
Launch | 2014 |
Form | flashlight |
This Nitecore flashlight is compact and handheld. It is easy to carry and maneuver.
Body, materials, weight, colors
Weight | 76 g |
---|---|
Length | 128 mm |
Body diameter | 25.4 mm |
Head diameter | 25.4 mm |
Material | aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish |
Colors | black |
The 76 g flashlight may not provide the same level of brightness or features as larger models. 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 aluminum bodies can be anodized. This adds a protective layer and a wide range of color options for flashlight bodies. The HAIII coating resists corrosion well. It shields the aluminum from moisture, humidity, and other corrosive elements. This flashlight features a captivating black color.
System, LED, lens, reflector
Emitter | Cree XM-L T6 LED |
---|---|
Color temperature | 6500 K |
Reflector | SMO |
Lens | toughtened AR coated glass |
Switch | 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. Flashlights use the smooth reflector when long-range light is important. This includes searchlights and thrower flashlights. The AR coating on the lens maximizes light transmission. This makes the flashlight more effective in darker environments. The flashlight has electronic switches. They have many benefits and extra features compared to mechanical switches.
Performance, flux, intensity, throw
Flux | 960 lm |
---|---|
Intensity | 12450 cd |
Throw | 223 m |
CD/LM factor | 12.97 |
The 960 lm output of EC20 provides great flexibility. You can adjust the brightness to fit different needs. The EC20 flashlight has 12450 cd. It can light objects at greater distances. The throw distance is the farthest distance the flashlight can light an object. The cd/lm factor is the candela-to-lumen ratio. It shows how concentrated a light source's output is.
Software, user interface, modes
Modes | 4 modes |
---|---|
Mode memory | yes |
Ramping mode | no |
Strobe | yes |
SOS/Beacon | yes |
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. The EC20 is tactical strobe ready. The strobe light is disorienting to the person it is aimed at, this makes it hard for them to concentrate. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed.
Features, battery, protections
Battery | 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery |
---|---|
Battery indicator | yes |
Charger port | no |
LVP | yes |
Thermal regulation | no |
Protection | IPx8 |
AUX LEDs | no |
Magnetic | no |
The Nitecore EC20 flashlight is powered by 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is low, charging, or fully charged. The EC20 doesn't have charger port. The Low Voltage Protection helps save the battery's capacity. It stops it from reaching a critically low voltage. Flashlights without thermal protection may be more susceptible to overheating under extreme conditions. The flashlight has an IPx8 rating. It can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period. The manufacturer specifies this.
According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the EC20 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
- multiple modes
- mode memory
- tactical strobe
- SOS/beacon function
- battery indicator
- low-voltage protection
- waterproof
Cons
- cool light
- no built-in charger
- no thermal regulation
- no auxiliary LEDs
- non-magnetic
Photos
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