Looking for suggestions to replace Fenix Tk-11

LED Flashlights – General Info
1

Hi all, new here.

There is a ton of info on this site, and I’m finding it very difficult to get basic recommendations. I need a flashlight for work where most of the time I need to light part of a room (say 20 x 20 feet,) and sometimes I need to cast a beam far away to find reflective stickers (say 300 yards.) I currently carry a Fenix Tk-11 that was a gift. I like it and it works ok for what I need, but I could use a bit more light for finding the distant stickers.

Here’s what I know I like:

  • Power button on the end cap
  • size of the Tk-11
  • Genuine Cree LED

I have read that most of the inexpensive lights are using fake Cree LEDs. I don’t really like that, but if you think maybe I shouldn’t be concerned maybe tell me so and why you think that.

Also, I don’t need the new light to use Cr123 batteries. In fact, I can get AA or AAA for free from my employer so I’d prefer to use those, but if you tell me otherwise I will listen (will I get more light from a rechargeable lithium battery?)

Lastly, I would like to spend under $50. Actually if possible, I would like to spend less than $30 but I don’t know. I handled some inexpensive LED lights and they seem to be built rather well (at least on the outside!)

Thanks in advance for any recommendations.

2

I think you would need to get into the 18650 battery size to get good recommendations to replace the TK11 directly.
something like the ThorFire VG10S is only one example. I have the older VG10 and the S is more powerful.

However the AA lights have evolved pretty well. Some may surprise you but still an Eneloop AA NiMh would be recommended.
Utorch UT01 is a neat AA light that will also take LiIon 14500 3.7V batteries. Pretty impressive for AA rechargeable use.
But understand that many UT01 lights have reported issues. I have 2 and both are doing fine so far. Deals are out there on this light for about $10

I think you can score deals on Good 18650 batteries, charger and light. And still have some left to get an AA, package. Within the $50 budget.
Better deals with coupon codes can be had from China retailers if you are willing to wait. Many lights are on Amazon too but the coupons and deals are scarce.

3

Sorry, forgot… Welcome to BLF!

4

Thanks for the reply. I really like the look of the ThorFire you recommended! The size is almost identical to the Tk-11 I think.

Regarding the batteries, I have no problem going with the 18650 size. If that is the better way to go I will do it.

The UT01 looks really tiny. I can’t believe it throws as much light as they say. Amazing.

Do you think either of the lights you recommended have genuine Cree LEDs?

Thanks again.

5

Absolutely Genuine Cree.

ThorFire is present on this forum yet quiet…
Some other affordable Quality brands are
Convoy #1 IMO
EagleEye
Jaxman
Sofirn
UTorch
Astrolux inquire model you are considering with forum, Most are good but they got some Duds.
Lumintop occasionally offered at great deal prices. Great line of AAA Lights and recent AA offerings