Maglite Runtime Sorcery (ML300L 6D) and 4D Version

[Terry_Oregon]

Maglite ML300L 4D

This thread is primarily about the 6D version of this light. However, having just purchased the 4D version of this light, I'll post the runtime graphs here, rather than making a separate thread.

The 4D version of this light is fairly new. Maglite makes an interesting claim (here) on the 4D version, which would imply that you'll get 1000 lumens continuously. I have not seen this type of claim on their other lights. From Maglite add (snip):

You know what the problem is with flashlights these days? They all brag about high lumens and how bright they are, but they only run for a short time before the brightness dims down. Well, not this one. Not the ML300L 4D LED Flashlight by Maglite. It’s got 1002 lumens and our patented LED Heat-Sink Technology allows for longer performance. On HIGH setting, it can run for more than 5 hours.

The runtime graphs will tell us if the above is true . . . .

We'll start with 4 NiMH Powerex D cells. Note the common characteristic I've seen with other Maglites when first turned on. The output ramps up to peak brightness during the first minute, before throttling way down. Note also, I could not get the claimed 1000 lumens with the Texas Ace Calibrated Lumens Tube (although we're within 10%).

Here's the same graph zoomed in to the first 15 minutes:

The 2nd test is with 4 Duracell Quantum D cells. Note Maglite uses alkalines on their runtime tests. Note again, the initial ramp-up to peak value in the first minute.

Here's the same graph zoomed in on the first hour:

Conclusion: The above graphs seriously contradicts Maglite's statement . . .

" . . . but they only run for a short time before the brightness dims down. Well, not this one. Not the ML300L 4D LED Flashlight by Maglite"

[robert1326]

hi,

I have to tell you thank you!

I have a ML300L 3D 625lumen LED which works perfectly.

I wanted a 1000 lumen, as I live near to a forest.

and I was 1 click distance from purchasing the ML300L 4D long lasting 1025 Lumen.

but I stopped after I saw your post.

have a nice day!

[DtroitPunk72]

@Lightbringer

@argi

I thought the flashlight had some kind of integrated motion sensor like there was or there is a maglite.

Yeah, I think there is a Mag that does that, an XL something? 500?

@argi

• If you forget to turn off a flashlight, she alone would go into saving mode.

I could use that for mum. She leaves flashlights turned on overnight, etc., and claims she doesn’t. Crappy 3×AAA lights, but still. I burn down those “dead” cells in dumb lights that wring ’em dry, and I can’t even keep up, not even “wasting” them as nightlights.

Something that’d turn off the light after 5min of non-use would be ideal.

What about Energizer touch tech? Only lights when in your hand. https://www.ruralking.com/energizer-touch-tech-led-flashlight-50-lumens-includes-2-aa-batteries-enthh21e

[Lightbringer]

Hmmm, looks interesting, but she’ll turn on a light and leave it lying on the countertop, etc., for “extra” light.

[DtroitPunk72]

@Lightbringer

Hmmm, looks interesting, but she’ll turn on a light and leave it lying on the countertop, etc., for “extra” light.

Yes, it’s a conundrum to be certain.