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Nitecore

Nitecore EC20 flashlight review

Cree XM-L T6 LED
960 lm output
12450 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

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.

Nitecore EC20 / EC20

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

BrandNitecore
NameEC20
TypeEC20
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1410 user votes.
Launch2014
Formflashlight

This Nitecore flashlight is compact and handheld. It is easy to carry and maneuver.

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight76 g
Length128 mm
Body diameter25.4 mm
Head diameter25.4 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

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

EmitterCree XM-L T6 LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic 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

Flux960 lm
Intensity12450 cd
Throw223 m
CD/LM factor12.97

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

Modes4 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. 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

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portno
LVPyes
Thermal regulationno
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno

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

Nitecore EC20 / EC20 photo 1.
Nitecore EC20 / EC20

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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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