Without opening a whole can of worms about searching and research, there are MILLIONS of budget lights……I just need suggestions!
So I am looking for a small cheap single aa format light that has a long runtime on low. Now I am looking to keep it below $30 and dont need the best torch in the world, but want reliability.
What I would like:
-Small AA format NO AAA
-NEEDS moonlight/candle mode
-Reliable
-Headlamp, not necessary but awesome
PS. I looked at the “H” series UltraFires and dont like the electronic switch (parasitic loss). Also they tend to be less than reliable if smacked around a little. REAAAALLLLLYYYYY like the size and functionality of topswitch and all so alternatives are up my alley!!
I’ve been looking for something similar and so far the only thing I’ve been able to find is the Spark SX5 which might not meet your criteria since it runs on 3AA and a bunch of other configurations, but it can do 75 days at .5 lumens with 3AA’s and 35 days with 3AAA’s which is freaking amazing. Only reason I haven’t pulled the trigger is because I’m doubtful of that last claim and I’m awaiting reviews, also it’s expensive which might not meet another part of your criteria.
There’s also the Zebralight SC52 which runs on a single AA at .1 lumen for 90 days, but it’s also an expensive unit.
There’s some reviews on the Spark, but nothing concrete as to if the moonlight numbers might be accurate, so I guess it’s a matter of waiting around.
That’s just the cheapest google shopping link to give you an idea, I’ve used one of these for 12 years with mag AA’s, eBay 3 x AAA zoomys and now a c8 - very versatile, very useful. Every flashaholic should have one, particularly if you keep a light in the glove box, I use mine at work for hands free light working on vehicles.
Assuming the burn time cheating with a 2600mAh battery on super probably between 2 and a half hours, depending on how the driver with the decreasing voltage bypasses. I think that’s long enough for many activities, especially because of the much lower Leuchtsufen are sufficiently bright. ”
Anyone care to take a guess as to if the runtime claims sparks gives are real?
EDIT: just ordered two of these will report back when I get them (will be a while since I am having a friend ship them to me from the US, along with other goodies, hehehe)
EDIT #2 I just noticed CarpentryHero referred the same flashlight ;)