Personally I prefer the twisty because it is smaller. I like lights that fit into my front pocket without taking much room.
However, the question crosses my mind as to which is more reliable of data is available?
Thanks,
Jerry
I find twisties sometimes switch more than once as they are tightened, mostly with ones I make myself. On the other hand, they are simpler and seem essentially sturdier. For a one mode, I would say the twisty is more reliable, but for a multi-mode the separate switch is more reliable.
Buttons are way more reliable in my experience. Have several twisties that are finicky in their operation.
The only twisty I have is an older Thrunite T10. It has been very reliable for a couple years now and used every day. I have several clicky switches that have failed, usually due to the plunger springs going bad over time or the contacts getting worn. I prefer a SMD momentary switch (side switch), over anything else though. I've never had one fail yet, but a soft touch is best with them.
Simple twisties have less stray resistance. My CNQ zoomy hosts have non-ferrous switch parts, but most have switches made of something like tin plate that has a lot of resistance. Also sometimes the switches quit working right when I braid the springs. Some twisties are more complicated, like the Maglight Solitaire and the Maratac Copper CR123a. I don’t know if those mechanisms add much resistance.
Usually either the driver is isolated from the head and contacted by the end of the body or else the head and body threads are anodized and the bare end of the body contacts either the head or the driver. I have one of the latter type that failed always on because the anodizing was thin and wore through.
Thanks, Guys, for the comments. Sometimes the tail button is soft, and although I have not had one fail, it is a concern when the tail switch is soft.
Thanks again,
Jerry