Ok, confused here. Talking strictly efficiency - most output with most runtime off identical cells. I'm not looking for which one has more throw or more flood. Not really looking for which one would run cooler, although input on that aspect would be appreciated as well.
The way I read it (assuming specs are accurate, and we all know what happens when you "assume") the 6x Q5 drop-in is rated for the most output at the lowest current draw (1200 Lumens at only 800mA). Is this correct?
It also seems more people online are using the 5x R2 drop-in. Why would people choose it over the 6x Q5 drop-in?
It's my understanding that an XM-L T6 at 800mA should produce around 350 lumens (referring to this testing: https://budgetlightforum.com/t/-/2346). The 6x Q5 says 1200 lumens at 800mA. Is the 6X Q5 pulling 800mA PER LED? Is this where I am misunderstanding the specs? That's not the way I read it though.
So are the specs false? Would the 6x Q5 drop-in be pulling a LOT more current than the "800mA @ 1200 Lumens" as stated? I'm trying to look at the current draw of the drop-in as a whole here. Same thing for the 5x R2 - drop-in, pulling a lot more than "1A @ 1200Lumens"?
Now I know I said throw vs. spill didn't matter, but any ideas? Would the 6x Q5 or 5x R2 or single XM-L module produce more flood (spill)? Do people generally go with multiple LED's to get flood? I know reflector plays into this a lot, but just go with these particular modules.
Garry, the most efficient drop-in you can probably make would be a true voltage regulated driver at 1.4A feeding an T6 XM-L. Use a driver like the Nanjg 101 AK with 4*AMC7135 chips. You will have plenty of output (500-600 lumen) and the best battery life.