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Nitecore

Nitecore TM26 flashlight review

4 x Cree XM-L2 U3 LEDs
4000 lm output
51600 cd intensity
4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries

The Nitecore TM26 flashlight released in 2017. It uses 4 x Cree XM-L2 U3 LEDs, SMO reflector and 4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 4000 lm output, 51600 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 454 m.

Want to know if the Nitecore made a really good flashlight? You'll find out by the end of our article!

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 TM26, then tell us.

Nitecore TM26 / TM26

The TM26 is an impressive flashlight that offers both power and reliability. Its robust build and outstanding illumination make it a versatile lighting instrument. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The lack of mode memory means you need to adjust the flashlight's settings each time you turn it on. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.

Nitecore TM26 specifications

BrandNitecore
NameTM26
TypeTM26
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1410 user votes.
Launch2017
Formflashlight

Flashlights are unlike ambient or overhead lights. They let you aim the light where you need it.

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight438 g
Length142 mm
Body diameter50 mm
Head diameter68 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

This 438 g flashlight is quite heavy 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. The aluminium body of the TM26 has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components. HAIII is a specific anodizing process. It creates a thicker and harder oxide layer than regular anodizing. The TM26 flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

System, LED, lens, reflector

Emitter4 x Cree XM-L2 U3 LEDs
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchdual electronic side

Cree is a US-based LED manufacturer. It is well-regarded for its high-quality products and innovation in lighting. Color temperature is a characteristic of light. It is used to quantify the color appearance of light sources. The TM26 has a smooth reflector. The right reflector focuses light well. It gives you a better hotspot, and it throws better. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. The flashlight has electronic switches. They have many benefits and extra features compared to mechanical switches.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux4000 lm
Intensity51600 cd
Throw454 m
CD/LM factor12.9

The TM26 flashlight has 4000 lm. It will provide an exceptionally bright and powerful beam of light. 51600 cd represents an extremely high level of brightness for a flashlight. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. The cd/lm factor is the candela-to-lumen ratio. It shows how concentrated a light source's output is.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes5 modes
Mode memoryno
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. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The TM26's SOS mode produces a specific sequence of long and short flashes. It signals distress or emergency.

Features, battery, protections

Battery4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portyes
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIPx8
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno
SpecialsOLED display

The Nitecore TM26 flashlight is powered by 4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries. The battery indicator helps users check the battery status. It also estimates how much runtime they have left before recharging the battery. The flashlight detects when the battery's voltage has dropped to a certain level. Then, it reduces or cuts off the power. The built-in thermal control adjusts brightness output to prevent overheating. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection. It is against water ingress.

Accessories, package contents

Package contentscharging port cover
lanyard
nylon holster
spare o-ring
wall adapter

The holster keeps your flashlight secure. It provides a reliable and easy way to do this when not in use. Securing the flashlight with a lanyard frees up your hands for other tasks. It keeps the flashlight within reach. Replacing worn or damaged O-rings helps a lot. It keeps up the flashlight's durability and performance.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the TM26 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

  • aluminium body
  • AR coated lens
  • side switch
  • strong flux
  • super bright
  • multiple modes
  • tactical strobe
  • SOS/beacon function
  • battery indicator
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • waterproof
  • OLED display
  • adapter included
  • protective holster

Cons

  • cool light
  • no mode memory
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore TM26 / TM26 photo 1.
Nitecore TM26 / TM26

If there’s information about the Nitecore TM26 that you would like to see on this site, then write to us.

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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