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Nitecore TM03 flashlight review

Cree XHP70 LED
2800 lm output
21000 cd intensity
1 x special 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Nitecore TM03 flashlight released in 2017. It uses Cree XHP70 LED, OP reflector and 1 x special 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 2800 lm output, 21000 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 290 m.

Wondering if this flashlight is a hit? Stay tuned!

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 TM03, then tell us.

Nitecore TM03 / TM03

The TM03 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 4 modes of lighting. You don't have to cycle through many modes to find what you want. The TM03'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 TM03 specifications

BrandNitecore
NameTM03
TypeTM03
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1426 user votes.
Launch2017
Formflashlight

The TM03 flashlight allows you to light dark areas. It helps you find hazards or stop threats by shining light on them.

Nitecore TM03 / 3

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight213 g
Length159 mm
Body diameter30 mm
Head diameter40 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

This 213 g flashlight is not very heavy. But, it is heavier than the average handheld flashlight. A balanced flashlight has even weight. It can be more comfortable to hold for longer and reduce hand fatigue. The aluminium body of the TM03 has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components. The body of TM03 flashlight treated with a Type III hard-anodized, anti-abrasive finish. The TM03 flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

Nitecore TM03 / 2

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XHP70 LED
Color temperature5000 K
ReflectorOP
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchmechanical rear, mode pedal rear

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 designers of the TM03 incorporated an orange peel reflector to enhance the beam. It does this by diffusing the light from the light source. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens.

The TM03 flashlight has multiple switch options. They can be useful, adding versatility and convenience to using the flashlight. Mechanical switches are usually robust. They resist wear and tear and work in many environments. The rear switch of the TM03 is usually operated with the thumb or finger. This makes it easy to reach and use.

Nitecore TM03 / 4

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux2800 lm
Intensity21000 cd
Throw290 m
CD/LM factor7.5

With 2800 lm, the TM03 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The TM03 flashlight has 21000 cd. It can light objects at greater distances. 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 TM03 / 1

Software, user interface, modes

Modes4 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconno

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 TM03 flashlight has a strobe function. It produces a rapid, repetitive flashing of light.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x special 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portno
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno

The TM03 flashlight utilizes 1 x special 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 TM03 cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. The flashlight detects when the battery's voltage has dropped to a certain level. Then, it reduces or cuts off the power.

The TM03 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.

Accessories, package contents

Package contents18650 battery
spare o-ring

The included battery lets you immediately use the flashlight for your desired applications. It saves time and allows you to focus on your tasks or activities. 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 TM03 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
  • warm light
  • OP reflector
  • AR coated lens
  • tactical switch
  • super bright
  • multiple modes
  • mode memory
  • tactical strobe
  • battery indicator
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • waterproof
  • battery included

Cons

  • no built-in charger
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore TM03 / TM03 photo 1.
Nitecore TM03 / TM03 photo 2.
Nitecore TM03 / TM03 photo 3.
Nitecore TM03 / TM03 photo 4.
Nitecore TM03 / TM03 photo 5.
Nitecore TM03 / TM03

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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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