Nitecore EC21 flashlight review
The Nitecore EC21 flashlight was released in 2017. It uses Cree XP-G2 R5 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 460 lm output, 9400 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 194 m.
Want to find out if the Nitecore EC21 is good? Keep reading to know!
Table of Contents
- Nitecore EC21 specifications
- Body, materials, weight, colors
- System, LED, lens, reflector
- Performance, flux, intensity, throw
- Software, user interface, modes
- Features, battery, protections
- Accessories, package contents
- Links
- Conclusion, pros and cons
- Photos
- Comparisons
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.
The EC21 flashlight is an essential tools for emergency preparedness. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The EC21 flashlight recalls the last used mode. You can use the strobe function as a self-defense tool.
Nitecore EC21 specifications
| Brand | Nitecore |
|---|---|
| Name | EC21 |
| Type | EC21 |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2017 |
| Form | flashlight |
This Nitecore flashlight offers portability, versatility, and reliability.
Body, materials, weight, colors
| Weight | 58.5 g |
|---|---|
| Length | 108 mm |
| Body diameter | 25.4 mm |
| Head diameter | 25.4 mm |
| Material | aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish |
| Colors | black |
An extremely lightweight handheld flashlight weighs 58.5 g. Consider the length of the flashlight, it should fit comfortably in your chosen way to carry it. The aluminium body of the EC21 has excellent thermal conductivity. HAIII is a specific anodizing process, it creates a thicker and harder oxide layer than regular anodizing. This flashlight comes in a sleek black color option.
System, LED, lens, reflector
| Emitter | Cree XP-G2 R5 LED |
|---|---|
| Color temperature | 6500 K |
| Reflector | SMO |
| Lens | toughtened AR coated glass |
| Switch | dual electronic side |
Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer. Warm, white light is generally more comfortable. If you need long-range light, get a flashlight with a smooth reflector. The AR coating of the lens helps to reduce reflections. The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain.
Performance, flux, intensity, throw
| Flux | 460 lm |
|---|---|
| Intensity | 9400 cd |
| Throw | 194 m |
| CD/LM factor | 20.43 |
You mainly need a flashlight for basic tasks like finding keys or navigating in dimly lit areas, 460 lm can be enough. The EC21 flashlight has 9400 cd, it provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw distance is the farthest distance the flashlight can light an object. Candela per lumen (cd/lm) measures a flashlight's beam intensity.
Software, user interface, modes
| Modes | 5 modes |
|---|---|
| Mode memory | yes |
| Ramping mode | no |
| Strobe | yes |
| SOS/Beacon | yes |
A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The SOS signal is an international distress call.
Features, battery, protections
| Battery | 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery |
|---|---|
| Battery indicator | no |
| Charger port | no |
| LVP | yes |
| Thermal regulation | no |
| Protection | IPx8 |
| Impact resistance | 1 m |
| AUX LEDs | yes |
| Magnetic | no |
| Specials | red light white light |
The EC21 flashlight's power source is 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The EC21 doesn't have charger port. LVP (Low Voltage Protection) is designed to protect the battery. This flashlight doesn't have built-in temperature control. The flashlight has an IPx8 rating. It can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period. A flashlight's impact resistance can vary. It depends on its design, construction, and intended use. Auxiliary LEDs provide extra lighting options beyond the main beam of the flashlight.
Accessories, package contents
| Package contents | clip lanyard nylon holster spare o-ring |
|---|
The package includes a holster, it is designed to protectively store your flashlight. When you clip the flashlight to a good spot, you can angle or position it. Securing the flashlight with a lanyard frees up your hands for other tasks. When using spare O-rings, follow the maker's instructions.
Links
| Official site | https://flashlight.nitecore.com/ |
|---|
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
- low-voltage protection
- waterproof
- auxiliary LEDs
- protective holster
- clip
Cons
- cool light
- moderated performance
- no battery indicator
- no built-in charger
- no thermal regulation
- non-magnetic
Photos
Comparisons
According to our statistics, the Nitecore EC21 flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.
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Updated: May 4, 2024
