[Review] Wuben E05 - Impressive eSwitch 14500

[Gebe]

@m_a_schuster

Just received one of these from Amazon using the coupon for $19.95.

That price, the positive review, and the bunch of unused 14500’s sitting in the drawer, are what convinced me.

There is a lot to like here.

Some random observations tho:

• To keep the provided USB-charging 14500 at nominal capacity, the overall length of the cell is increased considerably in order to fit the charging circuit. This works fine in the E05 as it is designed to accommodate the extra length, but not so for re-using in other lights you may have on hand. My ancient AW protected 14500 works just dandy in the E05.

• I wish it had come with an OP reflector as the beam pattern is a little rough with the smooth one. Not being inclined to mod, I can live with this though.

• The light came with the battery pre-installed and charged to mid capacity. To do this, they must have some confidence that parasitic drain will not deplete the battery before it reaches the customer. Wondering if it has been measured.

• I am not a fan of the magnetic end cap … or magnets in general for anything intended for EDC. Keep them away from your mag-stripe credit cards, work ID/access cards, and the like!

Thanks for your thoughts schuster. I’m awaiting the arrival of mine. Looks like a great deal for $20.00. I actually prefer the magnet as I find it increases the usefulness of smaller lights but to each their own.

Like you, I prefer OP reflectors in lights unless it’s a dedicated thrower. I’m thinking if the beam bothers me, an application of diffuser film will clean the beam up. I use it in a lot of my lights and it’ll turn a smooth reflector into a OP.