Brightest LED flashlight for $20-$25

I would assume so. You can always contact BG and ask.

Just so you’re aware, the BG version is only 5-modes. The Fasttech version allows you to switch from 5-modes to 3-modes if you prefer no blinkies. (Fasttech is also $0.50 cheaper)

Do you think the difference in the LED available between the 2 will make much of a difference? Does the XML T6-3C differ much from the XML2 T6-4C as far as light output? Thanks for helping me on this!

Xml2 is 15ish% brighter, don’t think you’ll notice it with your eyes. Some of the fastech do come with xml2 instead oft xml thoug.

Yeah fasttech doesn’t always update their listings

The picture at that link shows a smooth reflector. I would then assume it’s smooth, not OP. But, as pilotdog68 has said, you should call Bang-good and ask them if you want to know for sure.

The pic shows only SMO. The picture does not change when you select OP. But as you said better to confirm with BG.

I would go for XM-L2 over and XM-L. There is enough difference that you could notice it IMO. And the XM-L2 being newer is also more efficient.

Nothing wrong with the XM-L. But given the choice and for approx the same money, go with the latest emitter.

If you’re interested in a Convoy C8, you should get it directly from Simon at Convoy. I don’t know his email address, but he goes by “convoy-flashlight” here. The ones he sells come with a SMO reflector and you can choose the tint for the XM-L2 and current for the driver.

I would agree, but there is a chance that if you order from Fasttech you may actually get an XML2 even if their description doesn’t say it. Also, I would take an XML with Fasttech’s driver over an XML2 with Banggood’s driver. I hate blinkies.

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As posted above ^ Simon is a great source as well.

I sent an email to FT about being able to source it with a different LED than advertised.

This isn’t true. At least not from my experience. I recently purchased both an S2+ and a C8 from BG and both were able to switch from 5-mode to 3-mode. I hate blinkies so that was the first thing I did after receiving them. I just swapped the drivers last night so I can’t go back and check but I swear that I switched mode groups on both of them.

Hmm well that’s great if it’s true, Banggood just failed to mention that in the description.

I think this Zoomie is just about the best deal going in my opinion. I had 3 and gave two away to friends.

I think it is a must have. Also is bright! Lots of information on here about them also.

Zeusray

Still like the idea of buying two generic Ultrafire C8, if one breaks, it gives you an excuse to customize/modernist it with better parts.
If they do not break, then you still have a good value.

Do NOT buy batteries from FastTech unless you want to receive them 60-90 days down the road.

Buy the best and do not worry about breakage. The lack of LVP alone makes those cheapies not worthwhile and many have XPE emitters.

Just fyi, fasttech has a new expedited shipping option for batteries

If there was a big price difference, then yes. But the truth is, the Convoy’s hardly cost anything more. And with them you get good anodising, fit & finish and good threads. All things you can’t “mod” on a crappy light.

Sure some of the Ultrafire C8’s are ok, but none will likely be as nice as a Convoy C8.

2000 lumens is obviously bogus. I dislike supporting sellers that lie about their products, even if it is very common practice.

A C8 is good advice. You can easily craft a diffusor from a white opaque plastic bottle and turn it into a great lantern. Or just bounce the beam on a white surface.

Take any claim with a pinch of salt, it’s not as if people like JetBEAM have always been completely honest.

The Zuesray has a good reputation on here and is a fantastic light for $7.99 including shipping. So good, that vinh over at CPF will sell you a Zeusray for $70!!!

“Had” a good reputation. As far as I know, it hasn’t been confirmed that they have started selling Zuesray lights that aren’t defective some way or another.