Nitecore HC30 1000lm In-depth review, Pros and Cons

The Nitecore HC30 (HC30) released in 2017. It uses Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this headlamp provides up to 1000 lm output, 6600 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 162 m.

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The HC30 is particularly useful in situations where you need to use both hands, such as camping, hiking, or working in low-light environments. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The mode memory of HC30 eliminates the need to cycle through different modes every time you turn on the flashlight, providing convenience and saving time. The strobe function can be utilized as a self-defense tool, providing a non-lethal means to deter or disorient attackers

Nitecore HC30 (HC30) pictures

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 HC30, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.

Nitecore HC30 (HC30) specifications

The HC30 is a comfortable headlamp. Whether you're engaging in outdoor activities like camping, running, or fishing, or working in industries such as construction, mining, or maintenance, headlamps provide efficient and focused illumination.

Body

This 40.3 g flashlight would generally be considered lightweight and easy to handle for most people. 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 body of HC30 is known for its durability and strength. It offers excellent resistance to impacts, scratches, and corrosion, making it suitable for rugged outdoor use or in demanding environments.

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. The HC30 flashlight is available in black.

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 primary function of the smooth reflector (SMO) is to precisely focus and project the light emitted from the light source into a defined beam pattern. The smooth surface allows for greater reflectivity and light concentration, resulting in a more focused and intense beam with a longer throw distance.

This flashlight has an AR coated lens. This Anti-Reflective coating is a thin optical coating applied to the surface of the lens to minimize reflections and improve light transmission. The HC30 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

With 1000 lm, the HC30 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. This higher output can be advantageous in various situations where you require enhanced visibility or need to illuminate larger areas. With 6600 cd, the HC30 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 is the calculated distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. The cd/lm factor (candela-to-lumen ratio) provides information about how concentrated or focused the light output of a light source is. A higher cd/lm ratio indicates that the light is more concentrated in a specific direction, while a lower ratio indicates a more diffused or spread-out light output.

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 HC30 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 HC30 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 HC30 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 HC30 flashlight is 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery, providing reliable and long-lasting energy for optimal performance. The HC30 cannot charge batteries directly. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. When the HC30 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.

The built-in thermal control automatically adjusts brightness output to prevent overheating. The "8" in the IPx8 rating indicates the highest level of protection against water ingress.

Accessories

With a clip, you can securely fasten the flashlight to a reachable location, ensuring it is easily accessible whenever you need it. Having spare O-rings allows you to replace them as needed, ensuring that the flashlight maintains its water-tight seal and remains protected from moisture or water ingress.

The performance of the Nitecore HC30 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 HC30 (HC30) comparisons

According to our statistics, the Nitecore HC30 flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.

Nitecore EC23 Nitecore MH12 Nitecore NE02 Nitecore NEW P12 Nitecore P10GT Nitecore E4K Nitecore Thumb Nitecore HA23

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