Comparison Nitecore THUMB vs Nitecore Tube

The type of lamp installed in the flashlight.

Nowadays, the most widespread models on LEDs(with or without a reflector). Halogen lamps are used much less frequently (alone or in combination with LEDs), xenon lamps, krypton lamps, fluorescent lamps, and in some models you can even find classic incandescent lamps. A separate type of light source is a laser. Here is a more detailed description of the most relevant options for today:

— LEDs. They can also be referred to as LED — an abbreviation of the English name. The most advanced type of lamps today, used in the vast majority of modern flashlights. One of the key advantages of LEDs is extremely high efficiency — as a result, they provide excellent brightness with low power consumption and small size, and they practically do not heat up during operation. LEDs can be made both in the form of separate point light sources and in the form of COB panels of a fairly large area; see Diode Model for details. Also, such light sources are resistant to shock, shock and low temperatures; with all this, they are generally inexpensive and have practically no noticeable shortcomings.

— LED with reflector. In lanterns with this type of lamp, LEDs (see above about them) are installed in special-shaped recesses covered with reflective material. Thank...s to this design, the light emitted by the LED to the sides is reflected and directed forward, in the same direction as the main stream. This significantly increases the overall brightness of the flashlight, which is especially important for compact models with a single LED of relatively low brightness. Actually, most compact types (see "Type") have just such a lamp design.

— Halogen lamp. One of the most popular modifications of a classic incandescent lamp: the light source is a hot metal spiral in a sealed glass flask filled with gas with the addition of bromine or iodine vapor (these substances are so-called halogens — hence the name of the lamps themselves). This has a positive effect on efficiency and allows you to achieve a fairly high brightness; so that modern lanterns with such lamps are usually referred to as hand-held lamps. At the same time, even in such devices, such lamps are becoming less and less common, being replaced by the LEDs described above.

— LEDs / halogen lamp. The combination in the design of the two light sources described above at once; usually the "halogen" is installed in the centre, and the LEDs are around it. At one time, this combination appeared as an attempt to create sufficiently powerful lighting devices that would consume less energy than analogues with halogen lamps, while costing less than pure LED ones. In addition, such a design provided additional features for adjusting the operating mode: it could be changed simply by turning on the existing light sources together or separately. However, with the development and cheapening of LED technologies, this option has practically lost its relevance; today it is extremely rare.

— Xenon lamp. This term can mean two types of light sources: one of the modifications of an incandescent lamp, where the bulb with a spiral is filled with an inert xenon gas, or a gas discharge lamp, in which the light source is an electric arc in the same xenon medium. The first variety was used mainly in small pocket flashlights, the second — in hand lamps. At one time, xenon lamps (both varieties) had very decent indicators of efficiency and brightness, although they were not cheap. However, again, the development of LEDs made the production of flashlights with such lamps impractical.

— Incandescent lamp. In this case, we mean classic incandescent lamps that do not belong to more advanced varieties — halogen, xenon, krypton, etc. Recall that the light source in such a lamp is a hot metal spiral in a glass bulb, which is filled either with vacuum (in miniature light bulbs), or a mixture of argon and nitrogen (in larger ones). Anyway, such lamps nowadays are considered completely obsolete — primarily due to low efficiency, which results in low brightness with significant power consumption, as well as strong heating during operation. However, nowadays this option can still be found in individual lamps — mainly hand-held lamps for the construction industry, powered by standard replaceable batteries for power tools. "Gluttony" in terms of energy consumption for such lamps is not critical, and the bulbs themselves are extremely cheap.

— Laser. The laser beam itself has a high effective range, but a small thickness. Therefore, flashlights with such light sources are usually equipped with adjustable optics, with which you can scatter the beam and turn its “imprint” from a point into a fairly large spot. Typically, laser flashlights have a specific purpose: illumination and target designation when hunting at night (for this, a mount on an optical sight is often provided), giving light signals, etc. Note that when using such devices, care must be taken: if it gets into the eyes, the laser beam can not only blind, but also cause irreversible damage, even at a fairly large distance.

The remaining types of lamps nowadays are practically ousted from the market by LEDs and are found mainly in frankly outdated models. It makes no sense to describe them in detail, we note only the key features:

• Fluorescent lamp. One of the names for fluorescent lamps, known colloquially as "fluorescent lamps". The luminous flux itself turns out to be scattered, so such light sources were used mainly in tourist lanterns and individual models of hand-held lamps.
• krypton lamp. An incandescent lamp with a bulb filled with krypton to increase brightness and reduce heat. Due to the high cost of the filler, such lamps were mostly made miniature and used in lanterns of the appropriate size.

The number of LEDs (see "Lamp type") provided in the design of the lantern.

At first glance, the more LEDs, the more powerful this model. However, in fact, things are not so clear cut. Firstly, one high-end LED may well provide more light output than several inexpensive diodes. Secondly, modern luminaires can use both traditional LEDs and arrays of numerous miniature diodes on a common basis. Such arrays can be implemented using SMD technology or more advanced COB; the differences between these options are described in more detail in the Diode Model section, here we note that a solid SMD or COB plate is also considered to be 1 LED — despite the fact that in terms of luminosity it can exceed conventional LEDs by several times, or even orders of magnitude.

Thus, it is hardly worth directly evaluating the brightness and efficiency of the flashlight by this parameter. But what the number of diodes often directly affects is reliability: most “repeatedly charged” lamps are able to continue working even if some of the diodes fail. In addition, in some types of flashlights — in particular, tourist models and hand-held diffused lamps (see "Type") — each LED illuminates a separate sector, and together they cover a full 360 ° horizontally.

The maximum luminous flux provided by the lantern.

Luminous flux (denoted in lumens) can be described as the total amount of light produced by an LED or other light source and distributed in all directions where this source shines by itself (without lenses, reflectors, etc.). In fact, this means that the capabilities of the flashlight depend not only on the luminous flux, but also on the angle of illumination (see "Angle of illumination (light)"). For example, a relatively weak stream can be concentrated into a narrow beam, providing good range; and a large number of lumens will inevitably be needed to effectively cover a wide area.

Note that the coverage angle is not always specified in the characteristics, and even with such data it is difficult to immediately assess the real capabilities of the flashlight. Therefore, for such an assessment, it is best to use information about the actual illumination range (see below), and also take into account the general type of device (see above). For example, for the same number of lumens, a handheld flashlight with a reflector to form a directional beam will give a noticeably greater range than a tourist lamp with 360 ° coverage.

It should also be borne in mind that the high brightness of the flashlight is far from always justified, and it is worth choosing according to this parameter, taking into account the actual conditions of use. S...o, when working at short ranges, bright light can become a hindrance: it tyres the eyes and can blind others. In addition, an increase in brightness usually requires more powerful sources of both light and power, and the weight and dimensions of the lantern increase accordingly.

The maximum range at which the flashlight provides any effective illumination of objects. Different manufacturers have different criteria for this efficiency when measuring ranges, and therefore it is only possible to unequivocally compare among themselves in range only models of one manufacturer. At the same time, this parameter allows us to compare models from different manufacturers with some certainty: for example, flashlights with a lighting range of 15 m and 100 m will clearly belong to different range classes, regardless of manufacturers.

Note that the range of illumination depends not only on the maximum luminous flux provided by the lantern (see above), but also on the features of its design: the narrower the beam is provided by the reflector of the lantern, the greater the range will be, and vice versa — scattered light does not spread far. Some models allow you to adjust the beam width depending on the requirements of the situation (for more details, see "Adjusting the focus").

It is also worth bearing in mind that models with the same claimed lighting range can cover different spaces. For example, a hand lamp (see Type) with a reflector diameter of 20 cm will be able to provide a wider beam than a conventional hand lamp with a 5 cm reflector. And although in both cases the objects that fall into the light spot will be illuminated in the same way, however, in the first case, the size of the spot itself will be larger, and the actual efficien...cy of the flashlight will be correspondingly higher (in light of the fact that it is easier to "feel" individual objects with a wide beam, especially at a considerable distance).

The angle of light or illumination provided by a flashlight.

The meaning of these parameters is generally the same — we are talking about the angle that forms the edges of the light flux diverging from the lantern. The only difference is what is meant by edges. So, speaking about the angle of the glow, they usually mean the angle directly between the edges of the main stream; beyond these edges the light does not propagate. And the word "light" refers to a relatively narrow sector in the centre of the light flux; there is also light outside its edges, but its intensity is low, and effective illumination is provided only within the light zone. Thus, there is no fundamental difference between these terms — both of them characterize the width of the sector effectively covered by the lantern.

In addition to the coverage width itself, the luminous flux density and, as a result, the effective illumination range also depend on this indicator. With the same number of lumens (see “Maximum luminous flux”), a small coverage angle allows you to brighter illuminate objects that fall under the beam and provide greater “range”; and a large angle, respectively, will mean extensive coverage, but with a small effective range and less illumination of objects within the beam.

Also note that if the coverage area has the shape of a rectangle, then for different brands (and even in different models of the same brand) this parameter can be designated differently:...in some cases, the angle is measured along the larger side of the rectangle, in others — diagonally. Most often, this difference is not fundamental, but exceptions are possible; in such cases, you should refer to the official documentation of the manufacturer.

Maximum runtime of the flashlight without changing batteries or recharging the battery.

Note that in models with brightness control, this time is indicated for the most modest and, accordingly, economical mode. For example, in a flashlight with a maximum luminous flux of 1000 lm, the claimed operating time of 20 hours can be achieved at a brightness of only 30 lm, and at maximum battery life may not exceed half an hour. These nuances should be clarified according to the detailed characteristics. However, also note that additional modes of operation (see below) are not taken into account in this case: for example, if the flashlight from our example in SOS mode can operate for 30 hours, the characteristics will still state 20 hours.

It is also worth bearing in mind that for models with replaceable batteries, the actual operating time will also depend on the quality of such batteries. For example, for flashlights for AA and AAA elements, battery life is most often given when using high-quality alkaline batteries; if instead of them inexpensive saline ones are used, the operating time may be several times shorter.

In general, when choosing a flashlight according to the maximum operating time, it does not always make sense to focus on “long-playing” models: they often have either low power or impressive weight / dimensions, and the price can significantly “bite”. Flashlights with a long battery life will be useful first of all to those who have to s...tay “away from civilization” for a long time: extreme tourists, rescuers, military, etc. And for most everyday tasks in a modern city, and even for trips to nature for several days, up to 10 hours is enough.

The number of brightness levels provided in the flashlight design. Most modern models have one level of brightness, but there are models with the ability to adjust. Several levels of brightness allow you to choose the best option for a particular case: for example, to view a small room, you can reduce the brightness and save battery power, while in a large warehouse you may need full power of the flashlight. Accordingly, the more brightness levels are provided in the design of the flashlight, the wider your options for choosing the best option will be.

Also note that in addition to step-by-step brightness adjustment, with fixed levels, modern flashlights can also be used with smooth adjustment. It is detailed below; here we note that the stepped format is technically simpler, cheaper, and therefore is used much more often. And in individual lamps, these options are combined — for them, the characteristics indicate both the number of individual brightness levels and the presence of smooth adjustment. The specific way to implement such a combination may be different. For example, a brightness control ring can have several fixed levels with clear values, and the ability to set any intermediate position between these values; the main mode of operation with smooth adjustment can be supplemented with a fixed level of reduced or increased brightness; etc.

The ability to smoothly change the brightness of the lamp.

In general, this function allows you to adjust the mode of operation depending on the situation: for example, to inspect a small room, you can reduce the brightness and save battery power, while in a large warehouse you may need full power of the flashlight. At the same time, smooth adjustment makes it possible to select any brightness level within a certain range and, thus, provides more precise and fine tuning than stepwise adjustment (see "Brightness level"). On the other hand, this option is more expensive, and therefore is much less common. And in some models, both types of adjustment can even be combined. For example, a brightness control ring can have several fixed levels with clear values, and the ability to set any intermediate position between these values; the main mode of operation with smooth adjustment can be supplemented with a fixed level of reduced or increased brightness; etc.

The number and types of additional modes of operation provided for in the flashlight.

Additional modes include all modes in which the flashlight operation format differs from the standard “constant luminous flux in the visible range without pronounced coloration”. Namely strobe, SOS, beacon, flicker, light, low / high beam, infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), red light, blue light, green light, etc. More details about each:

- Stroboscope. Fast flashing mode - several flashes per second. One of the most popular applications of this function is disorientation of the enemy in an extreme situation; in light of this, a stroboscope is often provided in underbarrel flashlights (see "Type"), as well as manual models of "tactical" specialization. In addition, fast blinking is well suited to distinguish yourself on the road - especially in cloudy weather or at night: such a light is much more visible than constant light, including with peripheral vision. At the same time, we note that when using a stroboscope, some caution should be observed: due to the specific effect on the p...syche, this mode can provoke exacerbations of certain diseases - for example, seizures in patients with epilepsy.

— S.O.S. The mode of operation is "three short flashes - three long - three short", which corresponds to the international signal "please help" (letters SOS in Morse code format). This eliminates the need to send such a signal manually and allows you to leave the flashlight to work autonomously, and take care of more pressing problems (which often accompany situations that require the "SOS").

— Low / high beam. Possibility to switch between far directional beam and near diffused light. This switching is most often accomplished by using multiple sets of LEDs; at the same time, in some models, each of these sets is responsible for its own mode, in others, all diodes work in the high beam, and only a part of them work in the low beam.

— Infrared (IR). Illumination in the invisible infrared range. It is used, in particular, to improve the efficiency of night vision devices and IR sights. Note that many of the LEDs responsible for this mode also glow in the visible range (red light) during operation; however, this glow is quite weak and, as a rule, is noticeable to the human eye only when looking directly at its source from a short distance.

- Ultraviolet (UV). Illumination in the ultraviolet range is mainly used to identify objects and traces that are invisible under normal lighting. One of the most popular ways to use this feature is with a makeshift currency detector: most modern banknotes have markings that glow under UV light. Also, such light can be used to detect inscriptions with “invisible” ink (including marks on the same banknotes), some biological (for example, blood) and chemical liquids (in particular, UV-sensitive compounds can detect leaks in pipes and liquid contours), etc. Note that the UV emitter usually glows in the visible range - with a characteristic bluish tint; this allows you to accurately determine whether such a light is on or off.

- Red light. One of the more popular complementary colors in modern flashlights; can be used both in combination with blue and green (in the so-called RGB models), and as the only auxiliary shade. One of the features of red light is that it practically does not affect night vision, does not penetrate through the eyelids, and even after complete darkness does not blind the eyes. This makes such lighting the best option, for example, for clarifying map data during a night hike, when you need to quickly restore vision after turning off the light, or for emergency lighting in a sleeping room, where you need to see the environment and at the same time it is undesirable to disturb sleeping people with the light. . Another way to use red light is signaling: this light travels farther than blue or green, and stands out prominently against most landscapes and man-made objects. Hue change can be carried out both due to the light filter on the main light source, and due to a separate LED.

- Blue light. One of the shades used in the main three-color "RGB-lanterns" - along with red (see above) and green. This light is intended mainly for situations where you need to effectively illuminate the space in front of you, but it is undesirable to use ordinary white light. Human vision is most sensitive just to blue and green shades; therefore, a relatively weak blue light flux allows a large amount of detail to be revealed. And in some situations, such lighting can be even more effective than white. For example, if at night a white lantern is pointed at a light object, then the space behind this object will be hardly noticeable due to the bright reflected light; and a weak blue light will evenly highlight both the "foreground" and the "background". But using this shade at high brightness, on the contrary, is undesirable - reflection from bright blue light will dazzle even more than from white, and even more so red. And if a blue beam, even a weak one, hits directly into the eyes, it will instantly knock out night vision, and it will take quite a long time to restore it.
Note that the choice between blue and the similar green (see below) depends on the specific situation: different shades may be optimal in different situations.

- Green light. Hue, most commonly used in tri-color RGB lights, but sometimes used as the only complementary color. In many ways it is similar to the blue described above - in particular, in some situations, a weak green light can clearly reveal details that are invisible in other shades (even under the same blue light), but high brightness is undesirable for such a beam. In addition, this color has its own specific feature: many animals almost do not react to green light, so it is especially convenient for hunting.

- Lighthouse. The mode of infrequent flashes with a repeating amplitude, most often at a relatively low brightness (with some exceptions to the rule). In some models of lanterns, you can even meet more than one version of the lighthouse. The mode is designed to detect and observe the user at a distance; at the same time, the beacon not only consumes battery power more economically than a constant light of the same brightness, but is also better visible from afar. We also note that in headlamps, the flicker mode performs a similar function (see below).

- Flicker. In this mode, the flashlight emits short pulses or shines with a variable, "pulsating" brightness. This format of work is not intended to illuminate the surrounding area, but to make the user more visible to others: a person reacts to flickering light reflexively, even if its source is far in the peripheral vision zone. The flicker mode will be useful primarily on the roads - for example, when walking or cycling at night: in the same city, such a warning for surrounding drivers will not be out of place, and there is no need to talk about dark country roads.

— Red blinking (red blinking, red beacon). This mode allows you to make the flashlight as noticeable as possible: the red light, especially the flashing one, catches the eye even in the daytime. And in the dark, this shade is also useful due to the fact that it does not harm night vision (for more on this, see "Red Light" above). But the specific specialization of the red flashing may be different, depending on the specialization of the flashlight. For example, in tourist models (see "Type"), this mode allows you to give a signal, indicate the location of the camp, collection points, etc.; and in headbands, it is used to highlight the user on the road and make him as visible as possible to others (primarily for car drivers).

- Lamp. The function is found, as a rule, among hand lamps and in tourist models of flashlights (as an addition to the main directional light). In fact, we are talking about a scattered light mode - as opposed to a directional beam that provides the main light source with a reflector. Diffused light does not differ in range, but it allows you to cover a significant space - for example, to illuminate an entire room.

- LCU. Laser pointer mode: the flashlight emits a laser beam, the mark from which points to the intended point of impact. It makes sense to provide for such a regime only in underbarrel models (see "Type").

Note that this list is not exhaustive: modern flashlights may provide for other, more specific modes of operation. In such cases, the features of the functionality should be clarified according to the manufacturer's documentation.