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Nitecore MT21C flashlight review

Cree XP-L HD V6 LED
1000 lm output
8500 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Nitecore MT21C flashlight was released in 2018. It uses Cree XP-L HD V6 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 1000 lm output, 8500 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 184 m.

Curious to see if this flashlight impresses? Read on!

Table of Contents

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. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications for the Nitecore MT21C, then tell us.

Nitecore MT21C / MT21C

The MT21C is a powerful and reliable flashlight. It has impressive illumination and durable construction. It is an exceptional lighting tool, it works in many situations and environments. This light has 5 modes of lighting. You don't have to cycle through many modes to find what you want. The MT21C's mode memory makes the flashlight start in your preferred or needed mode. The strobe function produces a high-frequency flashing light pattern. It disorients or distracts potential threats or aggressors.

Nitecore MT21C specifications

BrandNitecore
NameMT21C
TypeMT21C
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1412 user votes.
Launch2018
Formflashlight

This flashlight can fit in pockets, backpacks, or glove compartments. You can carry it wherever you go.

Nitecore MT21C / 1

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight103.5 g
Length131 mm
Body diameter25.4 mm
Head diameter25.4 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The flashlight weighs 103.5 g. It is generally comfortable to hold for a long time, and it is also easy to carry in pockets or bags. A balanced flashlight has even weight. It can be more comfortable to hold for longer and reduce hand fatigue. The aluminium body of the MT21C has a reputation for being durable and strong. It offers excellent resistance to impacts, scratches, and corrosion. The body of MT21C flashlight treated with a Type III hard-anodized, anti-abrasive finish. The MT21C flashlight is available in black.

Nitecore MT21C / 3

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XP-L HD V6 LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic side

Lighting professionals trust Cree LEDs. Cree LEDs have gained a strong reputation for quality and performance. The color temperature choice depends on the light's use and personal taste. The smooth reflector creates a well-defined hotspot at the center. This hotspot provides a concentrated beam for long-range use. The coating is thin and applied to the lens surface. It cuts reflections and boosts light transmission. Some flashlights with electronic switches have programmable features. They allow users to customize the behavior of the flashlight.

Nitecore MT21C / 4

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1000 lm
Intensity8500 cd
Throw184 m
CD/LM factor8.5

With 1000 lm, the MT21C flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The MT21C flashlight has 8500 cd. It provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 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.

Nitecore MT21C / 2

Software, user interface, modes

Modes5 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. It stays in that mode when you turn it on again. The MT21C flashlight has a strobe function. It produces a rapid, repetitive flashing of light. The SOS signal is commonly used in outdoor adventures or survival scenarios.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portno
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsno
Magneticyes
Specialsadjustable head

The MT21C flashlight utilizes 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery as its power source. A battery indicator lets users see the battery status. It helps them decide when to recharge or replace the battery. The MT21C cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. This flashlight has built-in low voltage protection (LVP). It prevents damage from over-discharge, so it doesn't need protected cells.

The MT21C has thermal protection feature. These mechanisms track and regulate the flashlight's temperature as it operates. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection. It is against water ingress. This flashlight has a magnetic base. It lets it easily stick to metal surfaces.

Accessories, package contents

Package contentsclip
lanyard
nylon holster
spare o-ring

The package includes a holster to safely store your flashlight. The clip provides flexibility in how you carry your flashlight. When gripping the flashlight with the lanyard around your wrist, it gives a more secure hold. It also gives a more stable hold. Instead of searching for matching O-rings, having spare O-rings allows quick fixes.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the MT21C flashlight 30 seconds after switching on the light. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

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
  • adequate performance
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • SOS/beacon function
  • battery indicator
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • waterproof
  • magnetic
  • protective holster
  • clip

Cons

  • cool light
  • no built-in charger
  • no auxiliary LEDs

Photos

Nitecore MT21C / MT21C photo 1.
Nitecore MT21C / MT21C photo 2.
Nitecore MT21C / MT21C photo 3.
Nitecore MT21C / MT21C photo 4.
Nitecore MT21C / MT21C photo 5.
Nitecore MT21C / MT21C

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David Hagon
I love bushcraft and flashlights. I find joy in mastering wilderness survival skills and exploring the realm of illuminating gadgets. Bushcraft isn't just fun, it's a learning journey. I form a strong bond with nature. It's more than a hobby, it enriches me in practical and spiritual ways.
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