Nitecore TIP3
USB-C RECHARGEABLE
The Nitecore TIP3 was sent to me by Nitecore for review.
For technical details and to purchase: https://nitecorestore.com/collections/k … flashlight
DESCRIPTION AND TECHNICAL DATA:
After more than five years, Nitecore updates its TIP keychain flashlight, introducing a higher-performance product with improved battery life and runtime. The Nitecore TIP3 partially incorporates the design of the first version, now more modernized, using a 4-core UHE MCT (Multiple Color Temperatures) optical system to deliver a maximum output of 720 lumens. Excellent construction, crisp button click, and new LED battery life indicators. The new Nitecore TIP3 keychain flashlight is rechargeable (via an integrated USB-C port), small and lightweight, weighing just 30g (without accessories), and features five brightness levels. The two buttons on the top remain, while the built-in battery has increased from 500mAh to 650mAh, offering a maximum battery life of up to 160 hours. The Nitecore TIP3 is constructed from aluminum alloy and is water and dust resistant (IP54). It’s ideal for everyday use and as a keychain and is available in three different colors: Orange, Blue, and Black.
Main Features:
• Utilizes 4-core UHE MCT (Multiple Color Temperatures) LEDs to deliver a maximum output of 720 lumens
• Equipped with 3 color temperatures (warm light 3,000K / neutral white light 4,500K / cool white light 6,500K)
• Maximum beam intensity of 2,117 cd and a maximum throw of 92 meters
• Designed with a TIR optical lens to provide uniform and soft light
• Built-in 650 mAh lithium-ion battery, offering up to 160 hours of battery life
• Advanced Power Cut-Off (APC) technology for extremely low standby power consumption
• Integrated lithium-ion battery intelligent charging circuit with USB-C charging port
• Highly efficient constant current circuit to provide stable output
• Dual-button interface for convenient use
• 5 brightness levels available with direct access to TURBO
• Function Intelligent memory for color temperature and brightness level
• Partial lock and full lock modes available
• Designed with power indicators to display battery level and a lock indicator to show the lock status
• Built-in ATR (Advanced Temperature Regulation) module (Patent No. ZL201510534543.6)
• Rear metal shackle can support up to 30 kilograms
• Made of aluminum alloy with a military-grade HA III hard-anodized finish
• IP54 water and dustproof rating
• Shockproof up to 2 meters
Specifications
Dimensions: 62 mm x 26 mm x 15 mm / 2.44" x 1.02" x 0.59" (clip not included)
Weight: 30 g / 1.06 oz (accessories not included)
Warranty Service
Any DOA/defective product can be replaced through a local distributor/retailer within 15 days of purchase. After that, all defective/malfunctioning NITECORE® products can be repaired free of charge within 24 months from the date of purchase. Beyond 24 months, a limited warranty applies, covering labor and maintenance costs, but not accessories or replacement parts.
Note: The figures shown are measured using the built-in lithium-ion battery (650 mAh), in accordance with international flashlight test standards
ANSI/PLATO FL 1-2019, at an ambient temperature of 26°C (79°F) provided by the NITECORE Lab. Actual data may vary due to different environmental conditions.
- The data is tested without temperature regulation.
The Nitecore TIP3 is sold in a white cardboard box. On the sides of the box, we find the main information that distinguishes the Nitecore TIP3. Inside, we find the TIP3 with the clip and Key Clasp already inserted, the charging cable, the manual, the warnings, and the Warranty.
The Nitecore TIP3 is made of aluminum alloy with a HA III military-grade hard-anodized aluminum with IP54 waterproof and dustproof rating and shock resistance up to 2 meters. The excellent anodization feels great in the hand; the orange color is very attractive. Various white markings appear on the flashlight body, some of which remind us how to use the buttons or what the LEDs indicate. The Nitecore TIP3 comes with a removable plastic clip, which is very useful for quickly attaching it to jeans.
The main innovation of the new Nitecore TIP3 is the implementation of the new “MCT” (Multiple Color Temperatures) system. This system allows everyone to choose the color of the light beam.
The TIP3’s new optical system uses 4-core UHE MCT LEDs to deliver a maximum output of 720 lumens, a maximum beam intensity of 2,117cd, and a maximum range of 92 meters.
Designed with a TIR optical lens, which provides uniform and soft light, it features three color temperatures (3,000K warm light / 4,500K neutral white light / 6,500K cool white light).
The 4 green LEDs above the two buttons indicate the charge level of the 650mAh internal battery, while the red LED below them indicates the TIP3’s electronic lock. These indications are reminded of these by small screen prints to the left of the LEDs.
The two electronic switches that we’ll use to easily control the TIP3 are raised and easy to find, even in the dark, and are very sensitive to the touch. The bottom button is the ON/OFF button (Power Button), while the top button controls the four available levels, including Turbo (Mode Switch). Pressing both switches together also changes the beam color temperature and releases the electronic lock.
The switches have a firm, audible click.
The Nitecore TIP3 uses a USB-C port protected by a soft rubber cap for on-board charging. The very thin cap has a side flap that makes it easier to open. Honestly, I struggled to open it, even though I have small hands. The internal lithium battery capacity has increased from 650mAh to 160 hours of battery life.
During the charging process, LEDs will display the charging progress. The TIP3 can be used while charging. The charging time measured in my tests was approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes (0.6A).
Note: The TIP3 automatically unlocks during charging if in locked mode.
The Nitecore TIP3 features a sturdy metal rear pull ring on the bottom that can support up to 30 kg. This ring houses the included keychain carabiner, allowing you to attach the TIP3 to a keychain, jeans loop, or backpack.
Let’s see the Nitecore TIP3 alongside other EDC flashlights.
From left: Nitecore MT2C, Loop Gear LoopDot, Nitecore TIP3, Nitecore TINI3, and Olight S1 Baton
UI:
The Nitecore TIP3 has 5 brightness levels available with direct access to TURBO and ULTRALOW, and also has 3 color temperatures (3000K warm light / neutral white light) 4,500K / Cool White 6,500K).
Instructions for Use (UI):
On/Off
On: When the light is off, briefly press the power button to turn it on.
Off: When the light is on, briefly press the power button to turn it off.
Switching Color Temperatures
The product has 3 color temperatures: warm light, neutral white light, and cool white light. When the light is on, press and hold both buttons to cycle through the following color temperatures: Three color temperatures: cool white - neutral white - warm white. Release to confirm and save the selected color temperature.
Adjusting Brightness Levels
When any color temperature is active, briefly press the Mode button to cycle through the following brightness levels: ULTRALOW - LOW - MEDIUM - HIGH.
Note: The product is designed with a memory function. When reactivated, it will automatically access the previously saved brightness level and color temperature.
Direct Access to ULTRALOW
When the light is off, long press the Power button to directly access ULTRALOW.
Direct Access to TURBO
When the light is on/off, long press the Mode button to directly access TURBO. Release to return to the previous state.
Lock/Unlock
The product has two lock modes: Semi-Lock Mode and Full Lock Mode.
Semi-Lock Mode:
• When the indicator light is on, press and hold the power button until the red lock indicator flashes once to confirm that Semi-Lock Mode is activated.
• In Semi-Lock Mode, the power button is not available to activate the product. Long-press the Mode button to directly access TURBO and release it to turn it off.
Full Lock Mode (Default setting):
• When the indicator light is on, press and hold the power button until the red lock indicator flashes once, and continue holding it until it flashes twice again to confirm that Full Lock Mode is activated.
• In Full Lock Mode, both buttons are not available to activate the product.
Unlock:
In either Lock Mode, press and hold both buttons until the product turns on to exit Lock Mode. Note: The product will automatically unlock while charging in Lock Mode.
BEAM and RUNTIME:
The Nitecore TIP3 has decent power, but the beam is flood-like. When tested against a wall, I didn’t notice any particular artifacts, with no PWM at all in the various available levels.
With the “HIGH” setting of 220 lumens, you can walk safely in the dark with good peripheral illumination (spill).
Thanks to MCT technology, the color temperature can be varied from Neutral (4500K) to Warm (3000K) or Cool (6500K).
The Throw values I found (the power of the light beam), with the TIP3 set to Cool White light, are below Nitecore’s specifications. Below are some candela (CD) values taken with the luxmeter at a distance of 3 meters:
Using the OPPLE Light Master Pro, a fairly accurate device even if not calibrated, I took some measurements, taking the CCT color temperature and Color Rendering Index (Ra) values. Flicker is in the safe green range. The values obtained are only fair, but let’s remember that it’s a keychain flashlight:
Cool White Light: Color Temperature (K): 5881 - Color Rendering Index (Ra or CRI): 72.2 - Duv = -0.0015
Neutral White Light: Color Temperature (K): 4217 - Color Rendering Index (Ra or CRI): 70.6 - Duv = -0.0016
Warm Light: Color Temperature (K): 3221 - Color Rendering Index (Ra or CRI): 63.7 - Duv = 0.0074
Runtime:
The test was performed with the internal battery of the The Nitecore TIP3 was fully charged. The ambient temperature was approximately 18°C. The Nitecore TIP3 features the ATR (Advanced Temperature Regulation) module, which adjusts its output power to the surrounding environment, maintaining optimal performance. The battery life in HIGH and MID modes was good; the values roughly match those indicated by Nitecore.
In the graph below, I kept the TIP3 powered on in TURBO mode for about 5 minutes, with two pauses after about 2 minutes and after about 3 minutes and 45 seconds.
Unboxing Video
Conclusion:
Nitecore updates the TIP series with this version, offering a higher-performance product while maintaining the compact size that fits perfectly Ideal for use as a keychain flashlight or an everyday flashlight, an EDC to keep in your pocket just in case.
TIP3 is available in 3 colors and now features the “MCT” (Multiple Color Temperatures) system, which offers multiple beam color temperatures. The user interface is simple, complete with 5 levels of use and controlled by two buttons. It features the essential electronic lock and a convenient USB-C port for charging the internal 650mAh battery.
In conclusion, a lightweight and complete product perfect for many uses and activities (home, reading, camping, etc.).
Thanks for reading the review.
Roberto.
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