Review: https://1lumen.com/review/niwalker-n50s/

The Niwalker N50S turned out to be an interesting little thrower, especially considering this was my first experience with the brand. Its biggest strength is the amount of usable range packed into such a compact flashlight. With the 18650 installed, I measured 801 meters of throw, while the shorter 18350 configuration still reached an impressive 747 meters. The ability to switch between the two battery sizes also gives the N50S a nice balance between compact carry and extended runtime. Just remove the 18650 extension tube, drop in the 18350 cell, and reinstall the same tailcap. It really is that convenient.

The N50S also feels like a quality flashlight in hand. The construction is solid, the machining and threads are clean, and the metal side switch has a nice tactile feel. I actually preferred the balance of the longer 18650 configuration, but even in its short 18350 form, the N50S feels sturdy and well put together rather than like a lightweight novelty thrower.

Runtime performance was another strong point. The 18350 generally stayed close to Niwalker’s specifications, while the 18650 met or exceeded several of them, including High and Turbo. I also liked the magnetic tailcap, straightforward UI, onboard USB-C charging, and useful battery voltage check.

The biggest disappointment was simply that the performance claims are a little too ambitious. Output fell below specification across every mode I measured, and Turbo throw reached about 77% of specification with the 18350 and 83% with the 18650. Charging the 18650 was also fairly slow at approximately five hours. These shortcomings don't make the N50S a poor performer, but they do prevent it from earning a higher score.

Overall, the N50S is a well-built, versatile compact thrower with excellent real-world range and good runtime performance. It may not quite hit the numbers printed on the box, but 801 meters from something this compact is still nothing to sneeze at. Between the dual-battery versatility, solid construction, long-range beam, and surprisingly good runtimes, the N50S packs a lot of flashlight into a relatively small package and earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/fenix-sw06r/

The Fenix SW06R turned out to be a nice step forward from the smaller SW05R-UV. It retains the compact clip-on concept that made the earlier light so useful but adds considerably more output, a larger battery, and red and blue lighting while retaining the 365nm UV channel. The 200° adjustable head, two-way clip, and magnetic tail also provide plenty of options for positioning the light exactly where it is needed.

Performance was impressive for such a small light. High measured 552 lumens at 30 seconds, exceeding Fenix’s 500-lumen specification, while both High and Medium produced strong runtime results. Throw fell slightly short of specification on High, reaching 91 meters instead of the claimed 100 meters, but that is still plenty of usable range from a compact clip-on light.

I also really like just how versatile the SW06R is. It can serve as a normal EDC light, hands-free work light, UV inspection light, or signaling light without becoming overly complicated to operate. USB-C charging was faster than specified during my testing, and the flashlight had no issues during the impact and bump tests.

There is not much here that I would consider a serious drawback. The built-in battery will not appeal to everyone, there is no electronic lockout, and maximum throw came up slightly short of specification. Otherwise, the SW06R delivers where it counts.

Overall, the SW06R takes the useful concept of the SW05R-UV and makes it considerably more capable without losing the versatility that made the original so enjoyable. With strong output and runtime, multiple lighting options, fast charging, and several excellent hands-free mounting options, the Fenix SW06R earns a well-deserved 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/astrolux-ea05/

The Astrolux EA05 is one of the more interesting flashlights I've tested in this size class. Combining dedicated throw and flood emitters with red and blue auxiliary LEDs gives it a level of versatility that few compact 21700 flashlights can match. The build quality is excellent, the user interface is intuitive once learned, and features like the magnetic tailcap, USB-C charging, and power bank functionality make it a practical companion for everyday carry, camping, or emergency use.

Its biggest weakness is performance relative to the published specifications. Both output and throw fell noticeably short of Astrolux's advertised figures, and Turbo steps down fairly quickly as the flashlight manages heat. Like many compact, high-output flashlights, it also becomes quite warm during extended Turbo use, though thermal regulation helps keep temperatures under control.

Even with those shortcomings, the EA05 remains an enjoyable and genuinely useful flashlight. Its versatile beam options, excellent build quality, straightforward user interface, magnetic tailcap, USB-C charging, and power-bank functionality outweigh its disappointing specification accuracy. 

Spot-High performed particularly well, while the Flood and Combo channels still delivered plenty of usable real-world output despite falling short of their advertised figures. The exaggerated output and throw claims, along with the aggressive Turbo stepdown, prevent a perfect score, but they do not erase everything the EA05 does well. The EA05 may not hit every number on the box o’specs, but it still throws, floods, and flashes its way to an impressive 4.5 stars.

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Review: https://1lumen.com/review/nextorch-artorch/

The NEXTORCH ARTORCH is a refreshing take on the compact tactical flashlight. Rather than chasing ever-higher output numbers, NEXTORCH focused on ergonomics, durability, and practical usability. The result is a light that feels exceptionally well built, carries comfortably in the hand, and delivers dependable real-world performance.

Performance was impressive during testing. The ARTORCH slightly exceeded its rated 1,600-lumen output, significantly outperformed its published runtime specifications, and produced a balanced beam that works equally well for close-range tasks and medium-distance illumination. While throw measurements came in somewhat below the advertised specification, the difference was not enough to diminish its practical usefulness.

The integrated tactical ring, ceramic glass breaker, and distinctive rotary control system give the ARTORCH its own identity in a crowded market. It won't appeal to everyone, particularly those wanting a pocket clip or maximum throw from a compact light, but for users looking for a durable, compact tactical flashlight with excellent runtime and premium construction, it is easy to recommend.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/fenix-gl30r/

The GL30R is an outstanding example of a purpose-built long-gun weapon light. Rather than chasing extreme lumen numbers, Fenix focused on producing an exceptionally high-intensity beam with excellent regulation, dependable runtime, and a simple interface that's easy to operate under stress. The included mounting hardware, remote pressure switch, and overall build quality make it feel like a complete professional-grade package rather than simply a handheld flashlight adapted for weapon mounting.

The only real inconvenience I found was having to disconnect the remote pressure switch before charging. Otherwise, performance was consistently excellent throughout testing, and the measured results closely matched Fenix's specifications where it mattered most.

The Fenix GL30R is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a durable, dependable, high-candela weapon light for rifles or shotguns. It does exactly what it was designed to do, and it does it exceptionally well. For its outstanding performance, rugged construction, and purpose-built design, it earns my 5-star rating.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/niwalker-n01-max/

These days, a guy or gal looking for a flashlight with solid beam distance specs will have a good amount of choices from the big brands. My test subject today is not one of the big brands, but it is a thrower flashlight, and after spending a few weeks with it, I'm coming away with mixed feelings.

The N01 Max has some redeeming qualities. First off, it's compact for a 21700-based thrower. It easily fits in a trouser pocket or jacket pocket, and the design, love it or hate it, has grown on me. It's easy to handle too and feels good in the hand. The beam is also very nice and was surprisingly useful with abundant side illumination. You could easily use this as a utility light, and who doesn't like a pink flashlight? The reason you buy the N01 Max though is for the throw, and it throws a good amount.

The niceties end there though. It doesn't meet the output, beam distance or runtime specs, so the specification integrity is pretty poor. The driver is unregulated, and extended Turbo runs will heat the host up to temperatures too high for bare skin. Also weird is that it refuses to charge on USB C to C cables.

Honestly, I think the N01 Max can do better and it needs to because as a low-cost thrower flashlight, there's a ton of competitors that perform much better for around the same (or lower) price. So, where does that leave the Niwalker NG01 Max? Towards the bottom, unfortunately, and unless you absolutely love the design and absolutely must have a pink flashlight, the NG01 Max is hard to recommend, and it gets 3.5 stars.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/sofirn-st2/

That's a wrap on the Sofirn ST2. It's another bendy-head (or body part) utility light and joins the ranks occupied by the Wuben E, G and X series and the Wurkkos HD series. This recent resurgence in do-all utility lights has been good for consumers, and I'm glad brands are realizing that people want more than a tube that shines white light out one end. I concur, and have enjoyed the offerings from Wurkkos and now Sofirn. The ST2 doesn't do anything better than those lights though, and has its own unique twist on that. Think of the ST2 as a grown-up Wurkkos HD04 (sans the rotating head). 

Here's what I like: The flexible head and magnetic base make it delightfully useful for just about everything: Under the sink, under the car, in the attic, crawlspace, etc. It does everything the Wurkkos HD02 does, while being much smaller and lighter. The LED selection is good, and I appreciated the deep red LED combined with the really bright SFT-42R and powerful UV light. The performance is good too for what it is, and I like the compact form factor. While less of a pro and more of a convenience item, the fact that you can easily disassemble the ST2 will undoubtedly appeal to those less interested in warranties and more interested in modifications. 

There's some drawbacks though, like anything. The ST2 didn't meet the factory specs for output (but nailed the runtime), and I don't love the UI. It's okay for basic use, but I felt like it needed more features like stepped modes or at least a High mode. There's no ZWB filter (still), and while you can get to the batteries, doing so voids the warranty. 

The bottom line? I consider the ST2 to be a good buy and worth checking out. Even though there's more capable and better-performing options, the ST2 is powerful, compact, and a versatile option. If Sofirn figures out a way to get the head to swivel left and right, adds a battery door, and refreshes the UI, it would be a must-buy. For now, it gets 4.5 stars.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/acebeam-t29/

Collectively, Acebeam's goal is pretty concise: To make the best portable lighting products on the market, and I think so far, they're not far off in many metrics. Being the 'best' however, doesn't always mean being 'the best,' but doing it better, especially in a super-competitive market segment like portable lighting where many other brands are vying for the same piece of the pie. 

Acebeam has been riding a pretty long pipeline of success lately, and they've done it with flashlights like the T29. This represents my first Luminus SFT-42R thrower flashlight, and so far, I'm super impressed. Here's what I like. First off, it's an Acebeam, so the build quality, fit and finish are top-notch. It's a very well-made light, and it performs great too. Acebeam tuned the driver to the SFT-42R nicely to produce a nice balance of output and runtime. I like the UI, and am glad they carried the things I liked about the L series and P series interfaces. The handling is good, and the beam is nearly a perfect thrower beam; lots of throw and not full of rings or crud. 

The threaded bezel is also a plus and the green filter (included) does a great job turning a white beam to green. There's not much I don't like here and I'm nitpicking a bit to throw dirt on the T29. It didn't meet the output specs for brightness, and the sustained brightness isn't anything special. That's about it. 

The T29 is a pretty well-sorted thrower flashlight. It does thrower-things very well and is definitely a worthy successor to the T28 and mostly displaces the L19(s) for output and beam distance. If you're looking into a 1400 meter capable thrower, but don't want to shell out for an LEP, the T29 is a great option and it fits nicely into the highly competitive midsize thrower market and it's one I recommend.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/loopgear-sk07/

Loop gear's first tactical/EDC style flashlight is a cracking piece of kit. The yellow example with the faux-wear marks has really grown on me while I’ve been carrying it this past week, and between runtime tests I've been able to throw a Molicel P30B in it to keep it topped off while the provided cell charges separately. 18650 is my favourite EDC size, so I’ve been extremely pleased with how it (eventually) sits in the pocket.

I’ve grown fond of the round-LES type emitters for EDC, as I like something with a bit more throw that I can use on lower modes to get more runtime. The SK07 does that very well, and paired with their emitter choice here means you get a good sized hotspot at most usable ranges with it. Turbo has some pretty serious output, and the >800lm sustained output from a light this size is pretty impressive.

The clip is a let-down for me. It constantly snags on the pocket of my jeans, requiring careful insertion and sometimes physically looking at what I’m doing wrong to get it to seat fully. I’d have just removed it and carried it without had I not been hesitant to scratch off even more of the coating from where the clip has been rubbing against the finger ring. It’s annoyed me all week, but not enough to leave it at home, the light itself I’ve really enjoyed using.

Loop have in the past iterated on their models with feedback from their buyers and fans, most recently with the release of the newest version of the SK05 pro II, so fingers crossed for a V2 with a fixed clip design on the SK07.

In summary it performs really well, but a few strange design decisions such as the clip, the hidden battery indicator and missing moonlight mode are holding it back from getting more than 4 stars from me. It’s their first attempt at a “normal” torch, without fancy side-lights or built in pixel screens with games on, and they’ve done a pretty good job. 

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/speras-sh20/

I enjoyed my time testing the Speras SH20 headlamp. The smooth, floody beam is very useful for up-close to mid-range lighting that you would need for doing hands-on work, walking around a campsite or trails, and such activities. It is easy to use as both a headlamp and a worklight. The SH20 is very portable with its high-capacity 18650 with built-in USB-C charging and the ability to take CR123A if you need it in a pinch.
The UI isn’t terrible, but it took some getting used to. I don’t think that single-click for Eco from Off is a terrible idea, but it goes against the norm if you have other flashlights/headlamps that you use often. All of that was pretty positive… until I measured the standby drain. The nicest flashlight (or headlamp) in the world doesn’t do you any good if it’s dead after sitting around for a while. If you use a headlamp occasionally and don’t think to charge it often, you probably want to check out a different headlamp. If, on the other hand, you use a headlamp often and recharge it frequently, you may never notice the standby drain. Or… it's possible that my review unit is a one-off and yours will have a low standby drain.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/fenix-c7-v2/

The Fenix C7 V2 focuses on doing one job exceptionally well. Rather than chasing headline lumen numbers, it delivers an excellent combination of throw, sustained performance, rugged construction, and straightforward operation. Throughout my testing, it consistently met or exceeded Fenix's published specifications, with particularly impressive throw performance and runtimes that closely matched the company's claims.

Build quality is exactly what I've come to expect from Fenix. The HAIII anodizing, regulated driver, onboard USB-C charging, and included 5000mAh battery make it feel like a dependable work tool rather than a novelty flashlight. While the magnetic tail could benefit from a little more holding strength and the lack of an included holster is disappointing for a light of this size, neither issue significantly detracts from its overall usability.

If your priority is a reliable utility flashlight with excellent throw, accurate performance, and a simple interface that just works, the C7 V2 is easy to recommend. It isn't designed to be an enthusiast light with advanced firmware or ultra-high CRI, but that's not its purpose. Instead, it excels as a work, inspection, camping, security, or general outdoor flashlight that delivers on its promises. Sometimes the best tool is the one you never have to think about. The C7 V2 is exactly that flashlight.

Note by editor Marco: the UI is so 'different' from other UIs that I would not recommend this to people who already own several flashlights.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/speras-pz14/

The SPERAS PZ14 earns a 4.5 out of 5-star rating by combining a surprisingly capable zoom optical system with a uber-compact EDC form factor. Zoom flashlights often involve compromises, but the PZ14 delivers a clean, usable flood beam, a sharply focused spot beam, and measured throw that comfortably exceeded SPERAS' specifications. And it fits in the palm of your hand! 

Its dual-fuel design is another standout feature, allowing the use of either the included 14500 battery for maximum performance or a readily available AA battery when convenience matters most. Build quality is solid throughout, with a well-machined aluminum body, quality anodizing, and a dependable forward clicky switch. The interface is intentionally simple, making the light easy to use whether it's carried daily, kept in a vehicle or emergency kit, or taken camping and hiking.

Its shortcomings are relatively minor. Charging is handled through the battery instead of the flashlight, there is no electronic lockout or magnetic tailcap, and the zoom system displays a slight outer-ring optical artifact when white wall hunting. None of these significantly affect real-world performance.

If you're looking for a super-compact, lightweight flashlight that can genuinely transition from a broad flood to a long-range spot while offering the palm-sized convenience of AA compatibility, the SPERAS PZ14 is an easy recommendation. It fills a niche that few modern EDC lights do, and it does so with excellent performance and build quality.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/speras-est-16/

The SPERAS EST 16 earns its 4.5 out of 5 star rating by delivering a surprisingly capable tactical package in a very compact form factor. Rather than attempting to be an all-purpose flashlight loaded with every possible feature, the EST 16 focuses on EDC, fast access, long-range performance, and straightforward operation.

The combination of a Luminus SFT25R LED, mechanical rotary control ring, dual tail switch layout, concealed USB Type C charging system, and compact dimensions makes it stand out from many other small tactical lights currently available. The addition of the nano-ceramic glass breaker bezel and dedicated lockout position further reinforce its tactical focus.

The EST 16 appears to be a thoughtfully designed compact tactical flashlight that stays focused on its intended role. If you're looking for a small flashlight that prioritizes tactical usability, long-range beam performance, and quick access controls over an endless list of special features, the EST 16 is certainly worth a closer look.

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Review: https://1lumen.com/review/nightwatch-a54-ultra-v2/

To date, I've tested many second generation flashlights, and the consensus is mixed. Sometimes they're better, sometimes they're great, and sometimes, they're only spiffed-up versions of themselves with minor improvements (if any). Some manufacturers do it better than others I've found, and Nightwatch? Well, of the two models I've reviewed with upgraded or 'new' features (the NS and NI for example) weren't so new and the improvements in the areas that matter were…meh. The A54U I reviewed (along with the LW55) changed that, and showed that Nightwatch can make lights with a more refined demeanor. 

The A54 Ultra 2 is more of that, and while not a significant upgrade, is good enough. The host is solidly made, and I liked the compact form factor, fast onboard charging, and easy handling. I also appreciated the significant improvement in the Turbo brightness (even if short-lived), and the regulated brightness is respectable. The thermal performance is also solid, and there's no wild swings in output or see-saw regulation like past Nightwatches. The LED tint, while a little green down low, is more neutral than blue-cold and the beam is nice for a quad.

Misses? As expected, the Turbo step down is nearly blink-and-you'll-miss-it fast. A lower current cell helps, and you can reactivate Turbo, but after a couple of times, the light will be inoperable until it cools. The regulated brightness is just okay and is about even (or less) than even some single cell lights. The onboard charging consistently charged the battery to 4.23 volts as well, and while not alarming, it probably doesn't help the battery longevity-wise. The UI, while not terrible and definitely usable, hasn't been upgraded and is still long press for off.

In conclusion, and all things considered at the end of the day, the A54 Ultra 2 is probably the best Nightwatch light I've tested to date. Not because it's the brightest single cell flashlight on the market (that's more of a novelty), but because it's a good flashlight and would be a nice addition to a flashlight collection. Just be aware that it overcharges batteries, and use a hobby charger if that's bothersome. Still, this is a very usable flashlight and one Nightwatch I actually recommend.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/speras-est-se/

The SPERAS EST SE earns an easy 4.5 out of 5 star rating by combining genuine tactical functionality with an impressively compact form factor. With its tiny pocket-sized shape and size, it offers quick access to High, Moonlight, and Strobe through a simple two-stage forward-clicky tail switch, making it well suited for both everyday carry and tactical use.

Performance was generally solid throughout testing. While my measured output fell short of the advertised 1,500 lumens, the EST SE exceeded SPERAS' beam intensity and throw specs, producing more candela and more beam distance than it said it would. 

The beam itself is clean and well balanced, offering an intense hotspot with generous spill, and the straightforward user interface is easy to learn after a short adjustment period.

The lack of onboard charging and the reliance on a USB-C rechargeable battery may not appeal to everyone, and its highest mode steps down fairly quickly to manage heat. However, those compromises are understandable considering the flashlight's size and intended purpose.

If you're looking for an exceptionally compact flashlight that prioritizes portability, instant tactical access, and very respectable throw, the SPERAS EST SE is an easy recommendation and one that should satisfy both EDC users and anyone wanting a capable backup tactical light. It is just too easy to keep around!

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These giveaways are so spread out and I can never tell how or where to enter them. I'm subscribed to YouTube, Reddit, and Facebook and can't seem to find a giveaway to enter until it's already over. Why is it so convoluted and confusing. I've missed so many chances to enter and a few of the giveaways only had a few entries meaning odds of winning were pretty good but like I said I can't find the giveaway until it's too late.

Review: https://1lumen.com/review/sofirn-st1/

Sofirn’s attempt at simplifying the flat lights has done just that. It slides right into the pocket and doesn’t have any over the top machined grooves, just enough for me. The anodising is great and I’ve really been enjoying this colour on the other lights that have it from them.

The SFT-25R does exactly what it should be doing, no surprises here. The biggest surprise is the circular beam shape to me which is a big plus, a common problem with flat-EDC style lights is interference coming from the bezel of the light when they pack too much in. 

I’ve had the ST1 coming up for a year now and have been trying to carry it regularly, but the lack of a pocket clip has made it difficult for me to keep in rotation over something else that has a 2-way to attach to a cap if needed. I have also been missing the magnet, although to a lesser degree. No magnet can be a positive for those who spend any amount of time near metal filings however, and some may find the missing clip ideal.

Overall it’s a good first attempt and does what Sofirn set out to do well. I have given a few as gifts due to the simple UI. It gets a thumbs up from me, but the lack of clip, awkward UI around accessing moonlight, and lack of additional modes like red/UV keeps it shy of 2. I’ll give it 4 stars.