Zebralight SC5w Mk II flashlight review
The Zebralight SC5w Mk II flashlight released in 2019. It uses Cree XP-L2 LED, OP reflector and 1 x AA battery. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 550 lm output, 3600 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 120 m.
Curious to know if the Zebralight's flashlight is top-notch? Stay tuned for the answer!
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 Zebralight SC5w Mk II, then tell us.
The flashlight is a must-have tool for outdoor activities. These include camping, hiking, and night-time exploration, it offers guidance and safety. This light has 3 modes of lighting. Without mode memory, this flashlight always starts in the default mode. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.
Zebralight SC5w Mk II specifications
Brand | Zebralight |
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Name | SC5w Mk II |
Type | ZLSC5W2 |
Rating | |
Launch | 2019 |
Form | flashlight |
This Zebralight flashlight is compact and handheld. It is easy to carry and maneuver.
Body, materials, weight, colors
Weight | 49 g |
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Length | 80.3 mm |
Head diameter | 25.4 mm |
Material | aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish |
Colors | black |
The 49 g flashlight may not provide the same level of brightness or features as larger models. Consider the length of the flashlight. It should fit comfortably in your chosen way to carry it. The aluminum bodies can be anodized. This adds a protective layer and a wide range of color options for flashlight bodies. The HAIII coating is often matte or textured. This finish improves grip and feels nice in the hand. This flashlight features a captivating black color.
System, LED, lens, reflector
Emitter | Cree XP-L2 LED |
---|---|
Color temperature | 4500 K |
Reflector | OP |
Lens | toughtened AR coated glass |
Switch | 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 advantage of the orange peel (OP) reflector is that it can minimize glare and reduce eye strain. The AR coating on the lens maximizes light transmission. This makes the flashlight more effective in darker environments. The flashlight has electronic switches. They have many benefits and extra features compared to mechanical switches.
Performance, flux, intensity, throw
Flux | 550 lm |
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Intensity | 3600 cd |
Throw | 120 m |
CD/LM factor | 6.55 |
CRI | 85 |
You mainly need a flashlight for basic tasks like finding keys or navigating in dimly lit areas. 550 lm can be enough. It can also be enough for occasional use around the house. The SC5w Mk II flashlight has 3600 cd. It provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw distance is the farthest distance the flashlight can light an object. The cd/lm factor is the candela-to-lumen ratio. It shows how concentrated a light source's output is.
A flashlight with a higher CRI can show colors more accurately. This is useful for examining objects, it helps tell colors apart in low-light or nighttime. The SC5w Mk II has good color rendering. A CRI of 85 indicates much better color accuracy. It is better than that of flashlights with lower CRIs.
Software, user interface, modes
Modes | 3 modes |
---|---|
Mode memory | no |
Ramping mode | no |
Strobe | yes |
SOS/Beacon | yes |
A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. Strobe mode on SC5w Mk II flashlight produces a rapid, repeated flashing of light. The SOS signal is an international distress call. It indicates an urgent need for help.
Features, battery, protections
Battery | 1 x AA battery |
---|---|
Battery indicator | no |
Charger port | no |
LVP | no |
Thermal regulation | no |
Protection | IPx8 |
AUX LEDs | no |
Magnetic | no |
The Zebralight SC5w Mk II flashlight is powered by 1 x AA battery. The SC5w Mk II doesn't have charger port. The SC5w Mk II flashlight lacks built-in LVP. You should use a protected battery to prevent over-discharging. Flashlights without thermal protection may be more susceptible to overheating under extreme conditions. The flashlight has an IPx8 rating. It can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period. The manufacturer specifies this.
Accessories, package contents
Package contents | 2 x spare o-rings clip |
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With a clip, you can fasten the flashlight to a reachable spot. This ensures it is easy to get whenever you need it. 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 SC5w Mk II 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 Zebralight 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
- side switch
- high CRI
- multiple modes
- tactical strobe
- SOS/beacon function
- waterproof
- clip
Cons
- moderated performance
- low intensity
- no mode memory
- no battery indicator
- no built-in charger
- no LVP
- no thermal regulation
- no auxiliary LEDs
- non-magnetic
Photos
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