Protected 18650 batteries for BLF A6, zenflare F1, Q8?

Which protected cells you can recommend for powerful 1x18650 flashlights? Or for BLF Q8?

What about this model?

Protected cells aren’t good idea for high Ampers flashlight. Protection can off a light. High drain 18650 are quite better:

One of the possible problems with single 18650 lights is that it does not accept all protected batteries; either it’s too thick, or/and it’s too long. Powerful single 18650 lights could be made specifically to accept unprotected cells only.
But if dimensions are not a problem, then you could look at batteries that are based on the Sanyo GA, such as Keeppower 3500 or Enerpower 3500, or you can look at the VC+ series from Enerpower if you need even more power.

For 18650s, the NCR18650GAs are probably the best protected ones.

For the Q8, protected NCR18650GAs will fit and work perfectly fine too. There is negligible perceived difference in output.

The Zanflare F1 fits protected 18650s:

I am not a fan of NCR18650Bs anymore because of the low continuous current rating - I would not use those in a Q8 (protected or not). I only would use them in lights that draw 3A or less max (single cell).

I have just ordered the BLF A6 from Banggood and it comes with Samsung INR18650-30Q.

That is an excellent paring. I just recently purchased the Samsung INR18650-30Q for my BLF-A6 . With these cells the light really comes alive. I was using the protected Ennova 18650 (made from the NCR18650GAs) it worked, but I am much more impressed with the Samsung’s. AFIK the A6 has low voltage protection as well the Q8. I won’t use non-protected cells with a light that does not have low voltage protection or warning. Read the light specifications and reviews to determine this feature.

Edit - The BLF Q8 will require button top cells

That’s great to know. Thanks.

I just ordered these protected batteries for my Q8. Are they good enough? linky

You don’t need protected cells for the Q8. The light will automatically shut off at low voltage. These would be better with no protection circuit.

Oh man… you guys can run sony vtc6 flat top on your blf q8. Only $6 each…

Yeah I know that but I still don't want unprotected cells around the house yet as you just never know who decides play with it and open it up! Do you think those keeppowers will still work?

Just for you. I don’t have a keep power. I did try Sanyo/Panasonic ncr18650ga protected rates 10 amp. The light works fine… I even let it run on the turbo mode for 2 minutes. The light barely get warm… I didn’t notice any step down.

Your keeppower protected should be ok… they are also rated 10amp.

Geez, thanks man!!! The keeppowers are using the Sanyo ncr18650ga cells so I should be just fine. Thanks for taking the time to do that for me.