Nitecore EC21 460lm review. Is it worth it in 2023?

The Nitecore EC21 (EC21) 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.

The EC21 is an impressive flashlight that offers both power and reliability. Its robust build and outstanding illumination make it a versatile lighting instrument. This light has 5 modes of lighting. Since the EC21 flashlight automatically recalls the last used mode, there is no need to access higher brightness levels or additional features unless specifically required. The strobe function can be utilized as a self-defense tool, providing a non-lethal means to deter or disorient attackers

Table of contents:

• Nitecore EC21 specifications
• Nitecore EC21 pictures
• Nitecore EC21 comparisons

Nitecore EC21 (EC21) specifications

This Nitecore flashlight offers portability, versatility, and reliability in providing illumination.

Body

The 58.5 g flashlight would be considered extremely lightweight for a handheld flashlight. The length of a flashlight can affect how it feels in your hand and how you can grip and maneuver it. A longer flashlight may provide a more substantial grip, making it easier to hold and control, especially if you have larger hands. Aluminium is a lightweight material, which is beneficial for EC21 flashlight. Hard-Anodized Type III (HAIII) is a specific anodizing process that creates a thicker and harder oxide layer compared to regular anodizing. It involves subjecting the aluminum to a higher voltage and a sulfuric acid bath, resulting in a dense and durable coating. This flashlight comes in a sleek black color option.

System

Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer and has a track record of delivering high-quality and innovative lighting solutions. Warm white light is generally considered more comfortable and less harsh on the eyes compared to cool white light. The EC21 features a smooth reflector (SMO). If long-range illumination and throw distance are the primary requirements, a flashlight with a smooth reflector may be more suitable.

The AR coating of the lens helps to mitigate these reflections by altering the refractive index of the lens surface. The EC21 has electronic switch. The electronic switches may have a higher likelihood of standby drain compared to mechanical switches since they require a small amount of power for operation.

Performance

If you mainly need a flashlight for basic tasks like finding keys, navigating in dimly lit areas, or occasional use around the house, 460 lm can be adequate. With 9400 cd, the EC21 flashlight provides a noticeably brighter and more intense beam of light. It can illuminate objects or areas with greater clarity and visibility, even at longer distances. 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. The candela per lumen (cd/lm) ratio can be used to determine if a flashlight has a spot or flood type beam. Well-focused spot beams can be over 100 cd/lm, tactical flashlights are typically between 20-100 cd/lm, and work lights are less than 10 cd/lm.

Software

Modes on a flashlight refer to different output settings or levels of brightness that can be selected to suit different needs and preferences. The EC21 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 strobe function on the EC21 flashlight is a feature that produces a rapid and repetitive flashing of light. It is designed to create a disorienting or attention-grabbing effect. The EC21 has an SOS signal mode. The SOS code consists of three short signals, followed by three long signals, and then three short signals again.

Features

The power source of the EC21 flashlight is 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery, providing reliable and long-lasting energy for optimal performance. The EC21 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. When the EC21 flashlight detects that the voltage of the battery has dropped to a certain threshold, it automatically reduces or cuts off the power output to prevent further discharge. This helps to preserve the battery's capacity and prevent it from reaching a critically low voltage level.

Flashlights without thermal protection may be more susceptible to overheating under extreme conditions, such as prolonged high-output use or exposure to high ambient temperatures. The EC21 flashlight with IPx8 rating can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period, typically specified by the manufacturer. This flashlight is designed to withstand impacts of up to 1 m without sustaining significant damage, ensuring its durability and reliability even in challenging conditions. Auxiliary LEDs with different color options or specialized modes can be beneficial for specific tasks.

Accessories

The package comes complete with a holster designed specifically to provide a secure and protective storage solution for your flashlight. With a clip, you can securely fasten the flashlight to a reachable location, ensuring it is easily accessible whenever you need it. By securing the flashlight with a lanyard, you can free up your hands for other tasks while keeping the flashlight within reach. Regularly replacing worn or damaged O-rings helps maintain the overall durability and performance of the flashlight.

The performance of the Nitecore EC21 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.

The specifications above 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 EC21, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.

Nitecore EC21 (EC21) pictures

Nitecore EC21 (EC21) comparisons

According to our statistics, the Nitecore EC21 flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.

Fenix UC30
Astrolux MF02 XHP35
Nite Ize INOVA T2
Acebeam K30

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