Nitecore MH12S 1800lm review. Is it worth it in 2023?

The Nitecore MH12S (MH12S) released in 2020. It uses Luminus SST40 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 21700 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 1800 lm output, 21600 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 294 m.

This flashlight has a wide range of applications across various domains. It is an indispensable tool for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, or night-time exploration, offering guidance and safety. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The mode memory of MH12S 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. The flashlight is designed to be powered by rechargeable batteries that can be easily recharged using a USB cable connected to a power source such as a computer, power bank, or wall adapter.

Table of contents:

• Nitecore MH12S specifications
• Nitecore MH12S pictures
• Nitecore MH12S comparisons

Nitecore MH12S (MH12S) specifications

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

Body

The 75.5 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 MH12S flashlight.

The HAIII coating often has a matte or textured finish, which enhances grip and provides a comfortable feel in the hand. This can be particularly useful in situations where a secure grip on the flashlight is essential, such as in wet or slippery conditions. This flashlight comes in a sleek black color option.

System

The emitter of MH12S manufactured by Luminus, a US-based LED manufacturer. Luminus is recognized as a reputable LED manufacturer in the lighting industry. They are known for producing high-quality LEDs with excellent performance and reliability. 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 of the lens helps to mitigate these reflections by altering the refractive index of the lens surface.

The MH12S uses multiple switches. Depending on the placement and design of the switches, a multiple switch configuration can allow for one-handed operation. This is particularly helpful in situations where you need to hold or manipulate objects with one hand while using the flashlight with the other hand. The MH12S utilizes electronic switch. Electronic switches on flashlights provide a range of advantages and additional features compared to mechanical switches.

The MH12S has mechanical switch. Mechanical switches often offer tactile feedback, allowing users to feel a distinct click or resistance when the switch is pressed. This feedback helps users confirm that the switch has been activated or deactivated, providing a reassuring sense of control and awareness. With a rear switch of MH12S flashlight, the operation of the flashlight is often straightforward and easy to grasp. A simple press or click of the rear switch turns the flashlight on or off, eliminating the need for complex button combinations or multi-step processes.

Performance

The 1800 lm output of MH12S provides greater versatility, as you can adjust the brightness levels to suit different lighting needs. The MH12S flashlight with 21600 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. 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 MH12S 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 MH12S 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

The Nitecore MH12S flashlight is powered by 1 x 21700 Li-Ion battery. The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is low, charging, or fully charged. The MH12S flashlight can be charged directly from a USB power source, such as a wall adapter, computer, power bank, or car charger. This allows for convenient and versatile charging options, as you can utilize various USB power sources to recharge the flashlight's internal 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. The MH12S has thermal protection feature. The thermal protection mechanisms are designed to monitor and regulate the temperature of the flashlight during operation. This feature helps prevent overheating, which can be detrimental to the flashlight's performance, battery, and overall safety.

The "6" in the IP68 rating represents the level of protection against solid objects, specifically dust and foreign particles. It indicates that the MH12S flashlight, is fully protected against the entry of dust and other solid objects. The MH12S flashlight with IP68 rating can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period, typically specified by the manufacturer. It is important to consider the impact resistance rating when selecting a flashlight, especially if you anticipate using it in situations where accidental drops or impacts are likely to occur.

Accessories

Obtaining a flashlight with an included battery saves you the time and effort of searching for a compatible battery or waiting for a separate battery to arrive. 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 MH12S 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 MH12S, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.

Nitecore MH12S (MH12S) pictures

Nitecore MH12S (MH12S) comparisons

According to our statistics, the Nitecore MH12S flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.

Fenix PD35 v3
Fenix LD30
Nitecore P20i
Fenix LR40R V2.0

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