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Nitecore EC20 960lm In-depth review, Pros and Cons

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

The Nitecore EC20 (EC20) 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.

The EC20 lashlight offers a versatile lighting solution. This light has 4 modes of lighting. The mode memory of EC20 contributes to a more seamless and intuitive user experience. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.

Nitecore EC20 (EC20) pictures

Nitecore EC20 / EC20 photo
Nitecore EC20 / EC20

The specifications below are based on the official data published by the manufacturer, but we also take user reviews into consideration. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications above for the Nitecore EC20, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.

Nitecore EC20 (EC20) specifications

BrandNitecore
NameEC20
TypeEC20
Rating
Rated 4/5 based on 1274 user votes.
Launch2014
Formflashlight

This Nitecore flashlight is designed to be compact and handheld, making it easy to carry and maneuver.

Body

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, it can be handy for quick and convenient illumination in emergency situations or for close-range tasks. The length of the EC20 flashlight can affect its portability. A shorter flashlight is generally easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch, making it more convenient for everyday use or when you're on the go.

The aluminium bodies can be anodized, providing a protective layer and a wide range of color options for flashlight bodies. Anodizing enhances the corrosion resistance, hardness, and scratch resistance of the aluminum, while also allowing for a variety of attractive finishes. The HAIII coating provides excellent corrosion resistance, protecting the underlying aluminum from exposure to moisture, humidity, and other corrosive elements. It helps maintain the appearance and functionality of the flashlight, even in harsh environments. This flashlight features a captivating black color.

System

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

The emitter of EC20 manufactured by Cree, a US-based LED manufacturing company. Cree is a well-regarded LED manufacturer known for its high-quality products and innovation in the lighting industry. Color temperature is a characteristic of light. It is measured in units called Kelvin (K) and is used to quantify the color appearance of light sources, particularly white light. The smooth reflector is typically used in flashlights where long-range illumination is a priority, such as searchlights or thrower flashlights. By minimizing light scattering and maximizing light directionality, the smooth reflector can produce a tighter and more concentrated beam that reaches greater distances.

The AR coating on the lens maximizes light transmission, making the flashlight more effective in darker environments. The EC20 utilizes electronic switch. Electronic switches on flashlights provide a range of advantages and additional features compared to mechanical switches.

Performance

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

The 960 lm output of EC20 provides greater versatility, as you can adjust the brightness levels to suit different lighting needs. The EC20 flashlight with 12450 cd has an extended throw distance, allowing you to illuminate objects or areas at greater distances. This can be advantageous for outdoor activities, search and rescue operations, or scenarios where long-range visibility is required. The throw distance refers to the maximum distance at which the flashlight can effectively illuminate an object or target. The stated throw distance typically indicates the point at which the brightness falls below a specified threshold, such as 0.25 lux. Flashlights with a higher cd/lm ratio typically excel in long-range throw and focused beam applications, while flashlights with a lower cd/lm ratio may provide a wider and more evenly distributed beam for closer-range illumination or general-purpose use.

Software

Modes4 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

Modes on a flashlight refer to different output settings or levels of brightness that can be selected to suit different needs and preferences. The EC20 has mode memory. Mode memory means that the flashlight will remember the mode you were using when the light was last turned off, and when you turn it on again. The EC20 is tactical strobe ready. The strobe light is disorienting to the person it is aimed at which makes it difficult for them to concentrate. It has the SOS beacon function for an emergency situation. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed. The SOS signal is recognized as an international distress call and is used to indicate an urgent need for assistance.

Features

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. A charger port is a designated connection point or interface where you can plug in a charger to recharge the flashlight's battery. This flashlight has a built-in low voltage protection (LVP) to prevent damage to the cell from over-discharge, so protected cells are not necessary.

This light does not have temperature control feature. The EC20 flashlight with IPx8 rating can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period, typically specified by the manufacturer.

The performance of the Nitecore EC20 flashlight is measured according to the ANSI / NEMA FL1 Standard 30 seconds after switching the light on. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

Nitecore EC20 (EC20) comparisons

According to our statistics, the Nitecore EC20 flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.

Nitecore CR6 (CR6) Nitecore CR6 Nitecore E4K (E4K) Nitecore E4K Nitecore P23i (P23I) Nitecore P23i Nitecore DL20 (DL20) Nitecore DL20 Nitecore HC33 (HC33) Nitecore HC33 Nitecore EF1 (EF1) Nitecore EF1 Nitecore Ci7 (CI7) Nitecore Ci7 Nitecore NEW P12 (NEWP12) Nitecore NEW P12

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