Nitecore MT42 1800lm In-depth review, Pros and Cons

Cree XHP35 HD LED

1800 lm output

55400 cd intensity

2 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries

The Nitecore MT42 (MT42) released in 2018. It uses Cree XHP35 HD LED, SMO reflector and 2 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 1800 lm output, 55400 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 471 m.

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The MT42 flashlight provides instant illumination at the touch of a switch. This immediate response is particularly useful in emergency situations or when you need instant visibility. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The memory function is a nice feature, the light will remember the last used mode. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.

Nitecore MT42 (MT42) 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 MT42, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.

Nitecore MT42 (MT42) specifications

Brand	Nitecore
Name	MT42
Type	MT42
Rating	★★★★★ Rated 4/5 based on 1197 user votes.
Launch	2018
Form	flashlight

The MT42 flashlight offers precise and focused illumination. Unlike ambient or overhead lighting sources, flashlights allow you to direct the light exactly where you need it.

Body

Weight	231.5 g
Length	228 mm
Body diameter	25.4 mm
Head diameter	50 mm
Material	aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colors	black

The 231.5 g flashlight would be considered moderately heavy for a handheld flashlight. The weight may provide advantages like increased durability or the ability to house larger batteries for longer runtime. The ideal length of a flashlight depends on personal preference, intended use, and the specific features and functionality you're looking for. The aluminium body of MT42 has excellent thermal conductivity, meaning it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components, such as the LED or battery.

The HAIII coating can also enhance the visual appearance of the flashlight. It offers a uniform and attractive finish, often available in different colors, giving the flashlight a sleek and professional look. The MT42 flashlight is offered in a stylish black color.

System

Emitter	Cree XHP35 HD LED
Color temperature	6500 K
Reflector	SMO
Lens	toughtened AR coated glass
Switch	electronic side, mechanical rear

The emitter of MT42 manufactured by Cree, a US-based LED manufacturing company. Cree is a well-regarded LED manufacturer known for its high-quality products and innovation in the lighting industry. 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 MT42 has a smooth reflector. The properly focused smooth reflector gives you a more cohesive hotspot and therefore throws better.

The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. This can increase the overall brightness and efficiency of the MT42 flashlight. The multiple switch configuration on the MT42 flashlight can be a useful option, providing additional versatility and convenience in operating the flashlight. The MT42 utilizes electronic switch. Electronic switches on flashlights provide a range of advantages and additional features compared to mechanical switches.

The MT42 has mechanical switch. Mechanical switches are known for their durability and reliability. They are typically built with robust construction, making them resistant to wear and tear, and capable of enduring various environmental conditions. The rear switch of MT42 is designed to be rugged and durable, capable of withstanding harsh conditions and repeated use.

Performance

Flux	1800 lm
Intensity	55400 cd
Throw	471 m
CD/LM factor	30.78

With 1800 lm, the MT42 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. 55400 cd represents an extremely high level of brightness for a flashlight. The throw is the calculated distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. Candela per lumen (cd/lm) is a measure of a flashlight's beam intensity relative to its total luminous flux or output. It quantifies the concentration of light emitted by the flashlight in relation to the total amount of light produced.

Software

Modes	5 modes
Mode memory	yes
Ramping mode	no
Strobe	yes
SOS/Beacon	yes

Modes on a flashlight refer to different output settings or levels of brightness that can be selected to suit different needs and preferences. The MT42 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 MT42 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

Battery	2 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries
Battery indicator	no
Charger port	no
LVP	yes
Thermal regulation	yes
Protection	IPx8
AUX LEDs	no
Magnetic	no

The Nitecore MT42 flashlight is powered by 2 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries. The MT42 cannot charge batteries directly. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. 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 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

Package contents	clip lanyard nylon holster spare o-ring spare rubber cover tactical ring

The holster provides a reliable and convenient way to keep your flashlight securely protected when not in use. When the flashlight is clipped to a suitable location, it can be angled or positioned to provide hands-free illumination. The lanyard of MT42 helps protect the flashlight from accidental damage by preventing it from falling or hitting the ground. Instead of searching for compatible O-rings or waiting for replacements to arrive, having spare O-rings readily available allows for convenient and immediate repairs or replacements.

The performance of the Nitecore MT42 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.