I here what your saying but for this project alone just to get a nicer tint in an olight, a user would have to purchase; the new emitter, the grip tool x2, soldering iron, hot plate, solder, thermal paste, tweezers, on top of purchasing the light itself. If they already have all that then my point is moot but not all if many have all that equipment. Great video as always though Cheule and thank you for taking the time to make them.
Nov.2024 just bought a Warrior 3s for my non-pocket use light and a Warrior Mini 3 as my EDC light. That magnetic charging is a game changer so I know my light is always fully charged and ready, no guessing anymore. The UI with tail switch & side switch is pretty nice too, access to both turbo, turbo strobe AND low are essential in my line of work. I’m an ex-night time commercial truck driver and my flashlight might be my most important tool, turbo for exterior Pretrip inspection, turbo strobe in the rare event I require non-lethal defensive tools but a dependable low output is critical in the cab not to interfere with night vision, I use low all the time. It’s taken over 10 years to find a light I like better than my prior EagTac D25LC2 but I think these Olight Warriors have won me over..
That's my EDC light. Admittedly, I dont use Olight for any other flashlight need I have, but it is a Jeep of a flashlight. If their proprietary batteries had a USB-C charger built in (to the cell itself) to get you a non-proprietary charging option, even if it takes opening it up...and if the full-press tail was NOT disabled on lockout, it would be perfect, IMHO. It's also the only light I have seen take a shotgun hit (buckshot) and be pretty much fine (with dents). I dont think that is super important, but still kinda neat.
The reason many people prefer USB C over the magnetic charger is that USB C is a real standard. You're unlikely to find yourself without a USB C cable, with the proprietary charger you're limited to the one in the box or spending extra to get more. Whether you like to be able to charge your light while traveling or want to be able to charge it in more than one spot, the reality is that you need a specialised piece of gear that isn't shared with any of your other tech that you need to keep a track of. You can carry one USB C cable in your bag and charge pretty much all your tech, but not your EDC light. Sure magnetic charging is neat, but the benefits of three seconds saved not having to actually plug your flashlight in aren't worth the trade offs to everyone. That's doesn't mean that magnetic charging is worse, just that there are good reasons people have certain preferences.
It being just the puck would help a bit but I don't think the issue is that the cable is that difficult to stuff into your bag. It's having another thing to keep track of and which can't be easily replaced by just walking into any store. Especially if you're not in the US. The reason people like USB C is the promise of having one cable for everything... except for the things that get clever with charging and which force you to have dedicated proprietary chargers.
I work nights and take walks on my night out. I have a surefire and a streamlight and got this so they would be dedicated pew pew lights. The olight warrior 3s was way better than I expected. It’s really functional and easy to use. I’m not as into it as you guys but out of box it has been my favorite.
I’m on the fence about what light I should get. Maybe you can help me with this. I work pest control and want a good inspection light. All my buddy’s use aspheric telescopic zoom lights (I think Nebo is the brand?) I just think they are too big and bulbous. I want something with long battery life, efficient runtimes and a good amount of lumen output.
The UI is easily the best for a mix of tactical and EDC purposes IMO. Not many lights have instant turbo AND allow you to change modes after using it. Most lights with a dedicated turbo tail have to be turned off and turned back on with a side switch to change modes.
I quit buying olight because of their loyalty program. I've spent a ton of money on olight products but the loyalty points that I earned still weren't enough for a certain light that I wanted. Apparently it's set up for ebay sellers. I also don't like the proprietary charging system.
The proprietary charging was a part of the draw for me. I liked it for my wml because I hate buying batteries. And I just look at the rewards catalog as a bonus so idc if or how long it takes to get a light for free. Not to mention they have sent me numerous free lights in the last 2 years and have top notch cs
Nice video! It would really be nice though if Olight just offered that LED as a stock option. It might be easy to swap, but most people buying Olights aren't going to do that. Also, I disagree that this is the best EDC when the Warrior Mini 2 exists ;) Personally I still disagree though with your statements on the proprietary cell, for all the reasons everyone else has already mentioned. The magnetic charging is great though, I honestly wish Olight would allow other brands to use their system so it could become a standard of sorts (after all, the Armytek system is already nearly identical, but with reversed polarity)
Thank you for the awesome product review! I saw another video on TH-cam which convinced me to cancel my order for the SureFire 6PX and order an Olight Warrior 3S. Your video confirms I made the right choice. Can't wait to see my dad open his gift on Christmas!
@@cheulehey, I have the exact same like light and color! I HATE the green tint and little to no color rendering. I’d be okay if it was even NW or even a true CW! But it’s a puke green. I don’t want a light that sacrifices too much lumens but I would like my light to at least be a neutral white. I would be happy to pay you for you to change out my led for a better tinted 1, preferably NW on my Olight Warrior 3S. let me know if your interested!
The only reason I don't buy Olight is the almost proprietary magnetic charger. It works and it's easy but that's not my issue. I just don't like proprietary cables & connectors esp. for charging. Like Apple's Lightning connector - I hate needing to carry a special cable for a single device 😒. All my EDC/hiking/camping tech is USB-C. When I go out I take one powerbank & one charge cable - done (many USB-C devices can act as a powerbank). If this isn't an issue for you then Olight really do make great lights. Bright lights everyone.
The Warrior 3S is also so efficient and has such a huge battery that I often go weeks without charging. So a charge cable might not even be needed on a hike.
@@cheule Yeah I know it's probably an unfounded phobia developed years ago when battery tech wasn't as good. Probably should get one and actually test the reality. What's one more light for the collection??? 😅
This man can sell ice to Eskimos. Love how you explained the pros and cons of Olight and even show us how to swap the emitter. Also noticed that you are using a new hot plate instead of the old Corning one.
Great video! You really can't beat the quality and functionality of the Warrior 3S, for the price. I own one and I don't leave home without it attached to my body. It has literally become an appendage. I have literally gotten a mile or so down the road and realized it wasn't in my pocket and turned around to get it. I plan to purchase one for my mother very soon, because she keeps commenting on how great mine is.
Best EDC light? Controversial subject for sure.Personally after years of owning many Olights I have come to the conclusion that the proprietary Olight batteries do not last as long as most name brand cells. That has been my experience. Put on top of that, Olight no longer tells you what LED they are using. Really Olight you can do better. My vote for best EDC light for 2022 Thrunite TN12 pro. Oh and I get that the point of the video was emitters. For me I prefer CW.
The TN12 Pro is one of my favorites as well. For me it’s “best pocket thrower” even beating out the likes of KR1 and D1 from Hank Wang. I made the argument in the video that I really am at the point that where the emitter a flashlight comes with isn’t very important because none of them are perfect. So just SWAP!
@@cheule You Sir are a master modder. And I really enjoy your videos tremendously. But I do not mod flashlights so I judge them based solely as they come.
Interesting review, but actually I don’t have all these instruments to rebuild and change the color temperature: it’s rather simple to fix this :just get a color adjustment filter sheet from Lee ,cut it into the right shape,unmount the bezel and put it in place.😊you can even change into other different color options if necessary
All in all. I love O light. Their products are innovative, beautiful, practical, and the improvements with each generation have been well thought out. I currently own almost all of their products and many of my pistols or rifled have O light wml models on them. They are all excellent! If they would just realize that they really need to offer each product they make moving forward in all the available colors and that people really do want the neutral white emitters to be an option with every new release, they would be unstoppable. Keep the tactical tailswitch on as many models as possible and phase out the puck charger with one waterproof magnetic USB C port so we can all just use one standard charger cable for everything and O light would be unstoppable.
I have just replaced my streamlight strion with the warrior 3s as my edc. I saw another one of your videos where people say the warrior 3s was "too big" but my strion was easily an inch longer and thicker (mostly at the head). I am loving the warrior 3s so far and I'm not that picky about emitters yet. I like how the warrior 3s has all the features of my old light plus more and I am looking into getting the L bracket to slap onto the side of my toolbox
I consider the Warrior Mini 2, a slightly smaller version of the 3S, the best EDC light. The main reason is that 3S is just a bit too big and heavy to clip to a hat brim.
Thank you for the help, just finished up doing the same swap as you. Looks so much better than factory which I thought was acceptable yet had room for improvement.
Thank you Cheule for such a great video. I honestly didn't know the magnetic charger was so easy to connect to the flashlight. The only complaint I got about olight's properitary batteries is that as much as I probably wouldn't need to buy another one for my flashlight, I personally like to have all 21700 cells work in all of my flashlights. But if the Olight is your only flashlight, it wouldn't be a problem.
@@cheule Yeah, if you get into their ecosystem a little bit, it gets better. I might think of getting an Olight, although the prices mostly drive me away.
@@cheule lol which validates everyone’s comparison Apple to Olight. If you are in the ecosystem you’re all good, but throw in some other piece of gear and it gets to be a pain in the ass.
Excellent information. I have many olights and learned a bunch👍👍I also really like the magnetic charging. I think those who complain just haven’t tried it potentially.
Its a very good light, no doubt but there are serious issues with the tail button if you work in environments that have lots of dirt,dust, and especially metal shavings. The gaps in the button can seize up or even stay on. For EDC...fantastic but its not as bulletproof as I wish it could be.
They make amazing gift lights for laypeople who have no awareness of CRI or appreciation for warmer tints. My family prefers icy cold like their EV's headlights. They live in opposite land and love to stare at eye searing blue lights for fun and set their home lighting and electronic displays to the least healthy configurations imaginable. They also consistently put the toilet paper rolls in the wrong orientation on the dispenser. If I handed my sibling an unprotected Molicel they'd probably lick the positive end like a lollipop.
@@AG4runner I don't have direct first-hand experience with them myself but Fenix is pretty consistently talked up to be a pretty strong competitor in that same ball park, specifically the TK20R.
Why would anyone want a warm tint light? doesn’t make sense. looks like shit and isn’t as bright hence the reason the automobile market switched as well
@@optimuscrime608 Highly subjective. Some think it can feel pleasantly nostalgic in the right context, like a bonfire at night. But neutral white is definitely more versatile all around. Cold white is for being hostile and blinding the ｓｈｉｔ out of the slowpoke ahead of you driving or an aggressive, rowdy suspect coming at you. But that's just my opinion
Great review an amazing modification! I just got this light yesterday in the speckled camo finish which is cool. I realize that enthusiasts like to do this sort of upgrade but in my world there's so much of variance in the environment that changing the color temperature or quality of an emitter is a moot point for me. I have a number of neutral color temperature flashlights and actually find that I prefer the cooler bluer light for its reach and contrast in the dark. I'm sure there are others for whom this won't work, but each of us has his own use case scenarios. By the way, for those who complain about no USB-C Olight does make a cool little magnetic connector which utilizes that cable so you only need to carry the connector on a keychain and use any USB-C cable!
I totally agree about the charging i absolutely love the magnetic charging,as u said no fumbling around trying to remove a tiny rubber flap covering the usb port its to easy and if u buy one olight i think as i did u will buy more and have plenty of spare cables .
I think that white liner inside is to stop the ano colour in the head from making it into the beam periphery. I know without one, my dm11 definitely has a colourful bright green is the very outer spill
Great review! One little thing ... Methinks it would have been cool if you could have juxtaposed the stock beam next to the modified one so as to let folks see the difference between them. Also, might you recommend some quality grease to put on the threads of flashlights (and which won't cause rubber o-rings to disintegrate)? Thanks much and keep up the great work!💥👍
I recommend SuperLube Silicon lube found on Amazon in a huge can for like $20. Will last a lifetime. But if you want “the best money can buy,” then Nyogel 760G which is significantly more expensive, and only marginally better. Like, you’ll never notice. But it is the gold standard for lube with silicon o rings.
I actually buy olights for the charging system. For an edc it’s perfect, I have the cable command stripped to my nightstand so I know exactly where it is in relation to the edge. And for a tactical light, I’d argue usb c is better. But I’d also argue that the $10 usb c to mag charge keychain by olight is worth it. Keep that in your backpack or something and you’ll always be able to charge the light with a c cable. If they made one with both that would be cool… but hey, it works
Yet another great presentation as always, may I ask for your opinion on Nitecore lights? I've had an MH 10V2 for a couple years now and it's honestly the best light I've ever purchased. Thank you again for the great presentation and consideration for my suggestion.
I don’t know about an Apple analogy. However,you cannot argue that Olight locks you in with their proprietary batteries and charging cables. Even in terms of practicality, you could be out there somewhere and you lose your charging cable so you’re pretty much done. That is not very consider all light especially if you were in an extremely challenging situation in the wilderness or wherever. Honestly, Olight would vastly increase their already considerable following by diversifying their charging options.
@@cheule I just tried the Baton 4 3.6 volt 16340 in a charger. Doesn’t work. There’s a plastic rim on the positive end. Very disappointing Olight! 🤦🏼♂️
It's too big for edc. That's ridiculous. But it's easily one of the best lights in its size right now. Although I'd argue a SFT 40 light is probably gonna perform a bit better. Have my eyes on the weltool t2 but the mode spacing is a bit weird. Also no way to show the voltage...
@@cheule sure, i can fit it into my pockets as well but im not gonna do that every day. And im think im not alone when im saying that a 21700 light is kind of the absolute limit for real edc..
I was visiting somewhere in the uk( I’m uk based ) the other month and I had my astrolux mf01 mini and emissar dm1.12 taken off me but was allowed to keep a baton 3 on me. I can’t remember where it happened .
Not sure about that. I have a Warrior Mini 2 and love it, but wishing it were bigger and had a 21700. But maybe if I had both I would end up liking the smaller one more. I am not sure.
For what it's worth, at least the Seeker 2 Pro works with batteries other than Olight's proprietary one. The catch is they need to be rather narrow, 21.4mm wide at most, or they won't fit. And it probably needs to be a button top. And you need to put the battery in there "backwards", with the button sticking outwards. And you definitely should not try to charge non-proprietary batteries within the flashlight with the magnetic charger. Other than that, it's all good. Not sure how universal this is to 21700 Olights, though.
Personally I'm not happy at all with voiding my warranty on a light of this price just because they didn't make any effort to so much as give us the option for an LED with a good tint or CRI. I have had to return an M2R Pro a year into its service because it just stopped working and they replaced it quickly and for free, that would have been a significant amount of money to replace had I modified it. But I am going to say, in my opinion, that the M2R Pro is their best light in the series and is better in my mind than its "upgrades" because it comes with a great neutral LED and doesn't have any annoying proximity sensor.
The light is too big for EDC. Not a fan of the pocket clips, pretty much all the big companies are using the clips that attach to the body and I get that you can choose how you carry it, bezel up or down, that’s cool for those who care. But I’ve bent so many and nearly lost my original Olight S1 and every other Olight I’ve had. Or I’ve bent the clip and have to jerry rig it back to shape. Or they don’t have enough tension when clipping to the pockets
Why do you all leave out the part where the turbo only works to seventy five percent I was severely disappointed when I turned it on turbo and it went to 75 percent battery and instantly stepped down from turbo everytime you hit it
My biggest problem with proprietary batteries is that I can't bring a couple of spares in my charger/powerbank/battery case and use them in both an Olight and whatever other light I have along. It's bad enough I have to bring a couple magnets along so the spares can be long enough for my Acebeam and short enough for my Noctigon. Incidentally, both of those came with exactly the emitters I wanted, but I don't disagree that at a certain level of enthusiasm, one should be prepared to swap emitters.
Just got my first olight baton3 in a pakage with a baldor s weapon light.I always just figured them to be just "flashlights" until I watched this video, I guess I was wrong,more to it than II will ever grasp but It should be fun trying and maybe I'll end up an enthusiast?
Lots of lights out there, in my opinion of all the lights I have, which is only 20-25, the best out of the box edc light for the money is the Wurkkos FC12.
The best EDC flashlight for me would be if my Warrior Mini2 had a quick release belt holster. I LOVE my WM2 but NEED that holster. For me, its the right size, color output n UI.
Great video, but I'm afraid that the proprietary charging will keep me from ever getting an Olight. I have too hard a time keeping track of things. Maybe a glove box light but that's about it.
I have never considered Olight in the past as I have seen many people on HK gun groups imply they are junk, but I got a Warrior Mini 2 and I see that is not correct. They seem to be more like DJI. Nice quality and with some actual innovation rather than being a clone company. Had I known the Olight had a proprietary battery I probably wouldn’t have bought it. Now that I have one, i like the UI and feature set more than my Fenix PD36R, so I don’t plan to return it. I will take the magnetic charger over USBC. Especially given that I use iPhone and don’t have many USBC things anyway. Just my Sony headphones. I like how the UI doesn’t cycle through brightness levels. I have a choice of two plus turbo. Sounds good to me. But, I do already have lots of Sanyo 18650 and was looking forward to having a few 21700. For sure wish Olight worked with them. I can’t think of any upside to them using their own.
So glad you made this video, and woody clear concise way to show how to change the emitter. I am a fan of all lights products for the most part and I agree with everything you said, regarding there being very little downside to most of their products. What they would mention is anybody doing the submitter swap just take the battery out first. I'm sure it was taken out, but it wasn't shown. 😎👍🏻
Hmmm now you got me wanting to swap something into my warrior mini. I don’t use it just because the light is so crappy. I’ve never done a swap and I’m not keen on trying it and stuffing it up. How do you know which led will work? Size wise. Voltage wise. And any other consideration I don’t know about. Does the led have a polarity it needs to be put onto the board?
You would need to research the emitter size and voltage for any given light. The polarity of the emitter matters. If you watch one of my longer emitter swap videos, you’ll see me use a diode tester to light up the emitter and figure which side is negative. That then aligns to the negative side of the mcpcb. But in reality, all you really need to do is take a guess, then once the flow is done use your DMM set to diode and test the polarity on the mcpcb driver pads. If it’s correct, huzzah. If not, either A) reflow 180° rotated or B) solder red to neg and black to pos.
Great review sir. Im not really an olight fan, but having the baldr's magnetic charging, i could put this ecology into my edc lights. Currently using a fenix ld12 for its abilty to swap out AA cells and 14450. Now, look what have you done, you've convinced me to change my edc hahaha.
Where does one buy emitters from? Soldering irons and flux.. Any home Depot... Heh. Curious... Odd there isn't aCW version of the W3S offer S3 Pro.... There is for the B3 Pro
I got these particular emitters from Mouser.com. I use a very high end soldering station I got off Aloexpress, because it’s a $150 clone of a $700 station.
In your video you're talking about having found a 80CRI version. However, the article number you've mentioned in the notes is a 90CRI version. Shure that this is the one you've used? Thank you in advance
I own a few of those custom build flashlights, such as the BLF GT, and GT70. And a few other mass products lights from Imalent, Acebeam, and Olight. To this day, I still haven't worked up the nerve to ruin the flashlight by attempting to replace the emitters. We need more how to videos from experts such as you. I can mod any RC car in production. Solder, installing motors, ESC'S ect. But, when it comes to flashlights, I'm lost.
I'm an Olight fan, I have quite a few of their lights and will continue to purchase them, but I do wish they would just release all their lights with the option between Neutral and CW. I have the M2R Warrior 2 which is neutral, but decided against the W3 because of its tint. I just recently purchased the Arkfeld in 5000k, and I would have probably bought the new Seeker Pro (I have the Seeker 2 Pro) and Warrior if they have offered them in 5000k. Don't get me wrong, I have some lights with cooler tints as well that I like, but I still like my higher CRI lights more. CW just washes colors too much.
Olight released the new Arkfeld in a NW version as well, but unfortunately I found it about 30-50 points above BBL. So even if they include NW, if you’re a maniac like me, you’ll end up swapping.
I have plenty of lights with amazing tint but I honestly love my olight and it’s ugly tint it’s perfect for normal edc and I don’t king the bad tint on it because of its other features
Great video. I love my Hank lights and anduril lights but I always have a couple of olight baton 3s pon me due to the magnetic charging. ( normally also have a dm1.12 in my big bag )
What are your thoughts on baton3 v sc21 . I like the tint of the sc21 but as a practical light the baton 3 is very hard to beat. Where I live in the uk we go from 7 hrs of light in the winter to 17hrs in the summer. High CRI is luxury in winter😀.
Hi Cheule. I apologize for my spicy comments the last day and i am here to state my personal opinion on what the perfect edc flashlight is without getting into the argument if this Olight is the one this time. So... The perfect edc flashlight needs to have the following characteristics: Lumens 1000 and beyond is fine in my book Size, smaller diameter than 27mm, and this is optional, not to be taller than 10-11cm. 18350 cell fits the bill better or 18650. The height is important so when you are clipping the light into your pocket it doesn't mess with your smartphone, keys or coins in it and you have free access to all your items unobstructed. The diameter is also important cause the tightest pants are the most common types of jeans. For tight jeans i would say that even 25mm head diameter is on the limit of edc-able lights. Yeah if you wear anything else even a 35mm diameter light is pocketable, like i do with my kr1. So the size of the light can be a personal thing altogether or a choice depending on the type of pants you wear every time. For larger pants I'll take my kr1 with me. For tighter ones I'll take the sc31pro. But only the smaller lights can be used for edc by everyone Beam profile, a combination of throw with great flood with emphasis to flood for everyday carry. Candela around 20.000 is great for seeing at 150+ meters. This will sound silly but some zoom lights have the advantage on the beam profile as you can choose to have either throw or flood, the best ones are the ones that don't have the twist motion zoom but the push pull one as you are able to use them one handed. Unfortunately those smaller in size zoom lights are rather weak, i am soon expecting the Sofirn s11c to test it out though it is a twist zoomie i expect it to be just bright enough to edc. It ticks out almost every characteristis that i think the perfect edc light must have. The same happens with the dual channel lights from Hank that you can have combined emitters for throw and flood. Noctigon Kr4 and emisar dv2 dual channel anduril 2 lights have this option but unfortunately they don't run a simple ui Tint: 4000-5700k with high cri Pocket clip, either a two way or at least 2 slots in the tube for reversing a regular one. Light needs to be small and not heavy for being able to be used on a cap as a headlamp when needed Being able to tailstand easily, and not only on perfectly flat surfaces. For example my wurkkos fc12 though it can tailstand on a flat surface it doesn't do it with ease it can be wobbly, and even a small breeze could take it down so this light doesn't fit the bill for the perfect edc flashlight either. Strong magnetic tailcap. I consider a strong magnet the one that can keep the light attached firmly parallel to the ground and won't fall off with the slightest bump from this position. I've used plenty of times my shorty sc31pro as a reverse light for my truck on our farm at night. Usb type c built in charging port and be able to take in any type of battery is a huge plus Ipx8 is perfect. You're gonna drop your edc light often so it needs to be able to withstand the abuse and have some waterproofing too Easy ui, just a ramping mode plus a stepped mode with a strobe and moonlight is a great start. I love anduril, but even i that know anduril well when i sometimes forget about it it gets frustrating to use the light. So simple ui is the best option. Recessed or a tough to accidentally be pressed button: This is so important. If the light turns on accidentally the light is a Huge no no. Even if it has a lockout mode it's still useless for edc. You need a firm button that doesn't accidentally turn on the light in your pocket so you can be able to use the light fast and easy without clicking 4 times before using it and another 4 times when you're finished using it. Unscrewing the tailcap for locking is also a no no as that prevents the light to be used fast and with only one hand when needed. How to tell if your light has the perfect button? Easy. Have you ever took your light off your pocket and it was turned on? Does that happened more than one time in a long time of usage? If yes then this is not a good light for edc-ing Somekind of a small attack bezel, not something crazy and dangerous, just something protruding just a tad to keep the lens safe from droping/or intentionally smashing it onto something should be fine. If someone can think of some other essential characteristics for the perfect edc light feel free to respond to this comment with your answer. My personal favourite edc light that also covers all of the above characteristics besides the protruding bezel and simple ui is the Sofirn sc31pro with the short 18350 tube, a magnetic tailcap and the original pocket clip attached to the light's head reversed for usage on a cap as headlamp. Sofirn sc21 and wurkkos ts10 are even better fits in my opinion than my current set up cause of the simple ui. Fortunately i use anduril lately a lot and my sc31pro is still my favourite edc. So please feel free to add any other characteristics for the perfect edc light that I've might forgot Cheers to everyone
This seems like a well thought out list to me. I loathe flappy doodles. HATE THEM. So I like no port at all, or magnetic. But that’s just opinion of course.
@@cheule Maybe a type c port into the screwing threads will do the trick for you. like some other flashlight have. Unscrew the light and it reveals the port inside of it
@@cheule same, I always say they should add USB-C right into the proprietary cell itself. other companies do it and I'd always use the mag charger, but if push came to shove and I only had my phone charger cord on me...would be nice.
I love my Olights. Been using them for years with no issues. People who style themselves “enthusiasts” are often just complainers who offer no real-world help.
I encourage anyone to watch my emitter swapping video and try it themself! I can do it for you if you want to pay for it, but I’m so busy at the moment that even getting content out has been a pain. If you want to wait until June (only two months away), my schedule will free up a lot.
I am laughing at the rebukes. I respect the love you show for the light, great designs and such. Keep in mind, I have used Olight rechargeable Baton series before. BUT in my mind I want an EDC to be small for pocketability, decently bright to suit most situations and easily rechargeable. For me this S3 takes up too much pocket real estate, so that rings it out as an EDC. So it would be better to look at an S1R. But I don't want it , because if I am on the go I want a standardized charging medium USB C. I saw your argument that the cable is not much effort to bring with, but I see it as another real estate thief TBH and what will happen if I lose my only provided cable from Olight? I can probably ask a rando if he/she has an USB C cable. And not forgetting to mention itsl is reversible and allows for actual fast charging. Why am I even arguing about this shit while I know I am using a flashlight to check for a burr on my sharpening jobs. All and all, I see the comfort of it, but I don't fuck with it that hard.
I Like how they come with their own batteries...acebeam might have a 1mile throw but you gotta lol your own batteries and a charger... I cant even consider most other companies cuz the battery/charger situation is trash
I have a love hate relationship with the magnetic charger. The hate comes from metal dust that accumulates ( just wish o light made silicone caps that would fit perfectly on the tail cap [i had to add electrical tape to make it girthy enough to fit a glow in the dark silicone cap i ordered off of ebay] to help mitigate the dust issue and also act as a diffuser. I love how easy the magnetic charging is but wish there was also a usb c option along with it like their olantern
Hey Cheule, is there a benefit to the tint of the light? For example, I work in a natural gas processing plant and I want to know if a certain light will allow for better detail of gauges and certain items like that or is it just personal preference.
I have a video that breaks down the terms used, like CCT, Tint and DUV: th-cam.com/video/agIbkfuZjH4/w-d-xo.html Often people find that high CRI lights can be super helpful when color matters, like grilling (seeing the color of meat), EMTs who need to check skin color, or even sorting colored wires in a rack. I don’t know if CRI will help your gauges, but it couldn’t hurt! The stock emitter has low CRI and a very low r9 value. The one I swapped to was over 90 CRI (remember that the sun is about 98 CRI.)
Olight definitely did a really good job with this light. Output, UI, and features are very good. Size is subjective and all, but I personally think a 21700 size light is not an edc light, Iv tried it but there’s definitely more times than not I’m reaching for a smaller light. This warrior stays in truck. Game changer if they would make this in an 18350 size. As I usually reach for an 18350 modlite just about every day. Keychain light for my admin purposes. Iv debated hard on buying a warrior mini 2 but I just can’t bring myself to do it.
Strobe is best for Anti-Animal use. They tend to stare at bright lights (deer in headlights), but if you see something like a skunk and you strobe it, it will panic and run instead of stay and spray the strange light. Anecdotal note: I'm pretty sure the FETs toggling or whatever is in there making noise also pisses off dogs and makes them hide. My dog hated it when I would show the light to someone and hit the strobe, even when he couldnt see it...but that might just be him. It does work for startling off animals though (done it many times). They are allegedly for disorienting an attacker, but that is dumb because you are also messing with your own vision (less so), if you hit a person with turbo, they are out of the fight and you can see fine.
The emitter is from mouser.com, part number 941-XHP50DH0D0UH245G . Check out my other emitter swapping video for specific items to buy like SMD solder and soldering station. Etc.
@@cheule Please clarify. In the video you say that you used a 5000K, 80CRI emitter but the part number above pulls up a 4500K, 90CRI emitter. The numbers on your light meter seem to support the latter.
I just bought Olight Warrior 3S and Seeker 3 Pro out of curiosity. I sense emitter swap in the nearest future, however I have to admit that Olight make really cool flashlights. In the era of Anduril Enthusiasts lights, it might be a good idea to have sth simpler for a change. Thanks for the inspiration to come back to Olight again :)
Just ordered the Camo.Im retiring my Surefire Defender Ultra after 5 years because it eats cr123's.How will this one compare to the Surefire? This is my first Olight.
Good enough, thank you. After dropping my old Fenix and messing up the aluminum bezel I'd like it to be steel to fully sell me on one. Will be picking one up.
I’ll have to double check, but sometimes you can get standard cells to work in Olights, but you always forgo the magnetic charging system. So to be clear, I cannot remember whether a standard cell works in this light. I also think that since the cells that come with the light are excellent, and I haven’t had to replace a cell yet, it’s sort of a “moot issue” for me.
![ฮักเทื่อสุดท้าย - บอย ศิริชัย [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/-1PoPoQ-B-k/mqdefault.jpg)
I’ve just discovered a whole new race of people while trying to see if this was a “good flashlight”
The world is a crazy place, innit?
I here what your saying but for this project alone just to get a nicer tint in an olight, a user would have to purchase; the new emitter, the grip tool x2, soldering iron, hot plate, solder, thermal paste, tweezers, on top of purchasing the light itself. If they already have all that then my point is moot but not all if many have all that equipment. Great video as always though Cheule and thank you for taking the time to make them.
This video is firmly aimed at people who have emitter swapped before. That’s very true.
@@cheule Oh okay. Thank you again for taking the time to make these videos. They are very helpful and insightful.
@@itachii267 agreed!! 👍🏼👍🏼
I don't have a hot plate, but I've got a friend who does. Win win, and I can mod my lights!
Nov.2024 just bought a Warrior 3s for my non-pocket use light and a Warrior Mini 3 as my EDC light. That magnetic charging is a game changer so I know my light is always fully charged and ready, no guessing anymore. The UI with tail switch & side switch is pretty nice too, access to both turbo, turbo strobe AND low are essential in my line of work. I’m an ex-night time commercial truck driver and my flashlight might be my most important tool, turbo for exterior Pretrip inspection, turbo strobe in the rare event I require non-lethal defensive tools but a dependable low output is critical in the cab not to interfere with night vision, I use low all the time. It’s taken over 10 years to find a light I like better than my prior EagTac D25LC2 but I think these Olight Warriors have won me over..
Wm3 is a great light! My personal edc too
That's my EDC light.
Admittedly, I dont use Olight for any other flashlight need I have, but it is a Jeep of a flashlight.
If their proprietary batteries had a USB-C charger built in (to the cell itself) to get you a non-proprietary charging option, even if it takes opening it up...and if the full-press tail was NOT disabled on lockout, it would be perfect, IMHO.
It's also the only light I have seen take a shotgun hit (buckshot) and be pretty much fine (with dents). I dont think that is super important, but still kinda neat.
The reason many people prefer USB C over the magnetic charger is that USB C is a real standard. You're unlikely to find yourself without a USB C cable, with the proprietary charger you're limited to the one in the box or spending extra to get more. Whether you like to be able to charge your light while traveling or want to be able to charge it in more than one spot, the reality is that you need a specialised piece of gear that isn't shared with any of your other tech that you need to keep a track of. You can carry one USB C cable in your bag and charge pretty much all your tech, but not your EDC light. Sure magnetic charging is neat, but the benefits of three seconds saved not having to actually plug your flashlight in aren't worth the trade offs to everyone. That's doesn't mean that magnetic charging is worse, just that there are good reasons people have certain preferences.
You’ve made good points. I would argue that the magnetic charging is so small that it’s easy to bring.
@@cheule lol I think the point is it you still have to bring something else along.
I really wish they would just design the magnetic charging cable as just the magnetic puck with a USB c port that plugs into any USB c cable
It being just the puck would help a bit but I don't think the issue is that the cable is that difficult to stuff into your bag. It's having another thing to keep track of and which can't be easily replaced by just walking into any store. Especially if you're not in the US. The reason people like USB C is the promise of having one cable for everything... except for the things that get clever with charging and which force you to have dedicated proprietary chargers.
@@darkdragon1194
That already exists. It’s called the Olight Oport.
I work nights and take walks on my night out. I have a surefire and a streamlight and got this so they would be dedicated pew pew lights. The olight warrior 3s was way better than I expected. It’s really functional and easy to use. I’m not as into it as you guys but out of box it has been my favorite.
It’s a GREAT light. Just under what I’d call “too big” but with a great dual switch UI, and it runs forever.
I’m on the fence about what light I should get. Maybe you can help me with this. I work pest control and want a good inspection light. All my buddy’s use aspheric telescopic zoom lights (I think Nebo is the brand?) I just think they are too big and bulbous. I want something with long battery life, efficient runtimes and a good amount of lumen output.
The UI is easily the best for a mix of tactical and EDC purposes IMO. Not many lights have instant turbo AND allow you to change modes after using it. Most lights with a dedicated turbo tail have to be turned off and turned back on with a side switch to change modes.
You make solid points.
I quit buying olight because of their loyalty program. I've spent a ton of money on olight products but the loyalty points that I earned still weren't enough for a certain light that I wanted. Apparently it's set up for ebay sellers. I also don't like the proprietary charging system.
The proprietary charging was a part of the draw for me. I liked it for my wml because I hate buying batteries. And I just look at the rewards catalog as a bonus so idc if or how long it takes to get a light for free. Not to mention they have sent me numerous free lights in the last 2 years and have top notch cs
@@PennStateCivic I agree completely. Well said.
This video is a perfect reason as to why you have won my subscription to your channel. Thanks for doing what you do, and doing it with quality!
I appreciate that!
Nice video! It would really be nice though if Olight just offered that LED as a stock option. It might be easy to swap, but most people buying Olights aren't going to do that.
Also, I disagree that this is the best EDC when the Warrior Mini 2 exists ;)
Personally I still disagree though with your statements on the proprietary cell, for all the reasons everyone else has already mentioned. The magnetic charging is great though, I honestly wish Olight would allow other brands to use their system so it could become a standard of sorts (after all, the Armytek system is already nearly identical, but with reversed polarity)
But you only think the mini 2 is the best because that will drive people to your excellent review of said light😊. I know it worked on me
@@victorvannatter312 Haha that wasn't quite the thinking but hey if it works... ;)
Thank you for the awesome product review! I saw another video on TH-cam which convinced me to cancel my order for the SureFire 6PX and order an Olight Warrior 3S. Your video confirms I made the right choice. Can't wait to see my dad open his gift on Christmas!
It’s still my favorite 21700 production light!
@@cheulehey,
I have the exact same like light and color! I HATE the green tint and little to no color rendering. I’d be okay if it was even NW or even a true CW! But it’s a puke green.
I don’t want a light that sacrifices too much lumens but I would like my light to at least be a neutral white.
I would be happy to pay you for you to change out my led for a better tinted 1, preferably NW on my Olight Warrior 3S. let me know if your interested!
The only reason I don't buy Olight is the almost proprietary magnetic charger. It works and it's easy but that's not my issue. I just don't like proprietary cables & connectors esp. for charging. Like Apple's Lightning connector - I hate needing to carry a special cable for a single device 😒. All my EDC/hiking/camping tech is USB-C. When I go out I take one powerbank & one charge cable - done (many USB-C devices can act as a powerbank). If this isn't an issue for you then Olight really do make great lights. Bright lights everyone.
The Warrior 3S is also so efficient and has such a huge battery that I often go weeks without charging. So a charge cable might not even be needed on a hike.
@@cheule Yeah I know it's probably an unfounded phobia developed years ago when battery tech wasn't as good. Probably should get one and actually test the reality. What's one more light for the collection??? 😅
This man can sell ice to Eskimos. Love how you explained the pros and cons of Olight and even show us how to swap the emitter. Also noticed that you are using a new hot plate instead of the old Corning one.
Yes, I figured the $40 hot plate with LCD was worth it so I didn’t have to babysit the Corning with a IR thermometer.
Great video! You really can't beat the quality and functionality of the Warrior 3S, for the price. I own one and I don't leave home without it attached to my body. It has literally become an appendage. I have literally gotten a mile or so down the road and realized it wasn't in my pocket and turned around to get it. I plan to purchase one for my mother very soon, because she keeps commenting on how great mine is.
I definitely agree.
Do you live in the woods?
How do you like the moon light mode? Is it useable in low light or dark conditions?
Best EDC light? Controversial subject for sure.Personally after years of owning many Olights I have come to the conclusion that the proprietary Olight batteries do not last as long as most name brand cells. That has been my experience. Put on top of that, Olight no longer tells you what LED they are using. Really Olight you can do better. My vote for best EDC light for 2022 Thrunite TN12 pro. Oh and I get that the point of the video was emitters. For me I prefer CW.
The TN12 Pro is one of my favorites as well. For me it’s “best pocket thrower” even beating out the likes of KR1 and D1 from Hank Wang. I made the argument in the video that I really am at the point that where the emitter a flashlight comes with isn’t very important because none of them are perfect. So just SWAP!
@@cheule You Sir are a master modder. And I really enjoy your videos tremendously. But I do not mod flashlights so I judge them based solely as they come.
Interesting review, but actually I don’t have all these instruments to rebuild and change the color temperature: it’s rather simple to fix this :just get a color adjustment filter sheet from Lee ,cut it into the right shape,unmount the bezel and put it in place.😊you can even change into other different color options if necessary
they make a usb-c mcc cable as well
All in all. I love O light. Their products are innovative, beautiful, practical, and the improvements with each generation have been well thought out. I currently own almost all of their products and many of my pistols or rifled have O light wml models on them. They are all excellent! If they would just realize that they really need to offer each product they make moving forward in all the available colors and that people really do want the neutral white emitters to be an option with every new release, they would be unstoppable. Keep the tactical tailswitch on as many models as possible and phase out the puck charger with one waterproof magnetic USB C port so we can all just use one standard charger cable for everything and O light would be unstoppable.
A very reasonable take, unshrouded by bias.
I really don’t mind the MCC though. Really.
I have just replaced my streamlight strion with the warrior 3s as my edc. I saw another one of your videos where people say the warrior 3s was "too big" but my strion was easily an inch longer and thicker (mostly at the head). I am loving the warrior 3s so far and I'm not that picky about emitters yet. I like how the warrior 3s has all the features of my old light plus more and I am looking into getting the L bracket to slap onto the side of my toolbox
Thanks for sharing!
I consider the Warrior Mini 2, a slightly smaller version of the 3S, the best EDC light. The main reason is that 3S is just a bit too big and heavy to clip to a hat brim.
This makes sense.
Thank you for the help, just finished up doing the same swap as you. Looks so much better than factory which I thought was acceptable yet had room for improvement.
Great to hear!
@@cheule is there a better chip available right now ? :)
Thank you Cheule for such a great video. I honestly didn't know the magnetic charger was so easy to connect to the flashlight.
The only complaint I got about olight's properitary batteries is that as much as I probably wouldn't need to buy another one for my flashlight, I personally like to have all 21700 cells work in all of my flashlights. But if the Olight is your only flashlight, it wouldn't be a problem.
Good points. Sounds like if you have 3-4 Olight in your life you would be good! Hahah
@@cheule Yeah, if you get into their ecosystem a little bit, it gets better.
I might think of getting an Olight, although the prices mostly drive me away.
@@cheule lol which validates everyone’s comparison Apple to Olight. If you are in the ecosystem you’re all good, but throw in some other piece of gear and it gets to be a pain in the ass.
Excellent information. I have many olights and learned a bunch👍👍I also really like the magnetic charging. I think those who complain just haven’t tried it potentially.
I suspect the same. If you “live” with the flashlight for any amount of time you fall in love.
Its a very good light, no doubt but there are serious issues with the tail button if you work in environments that have lots of dirt,dust, and especially metal shavings. The gaps in the button can seize up or even stay on. For EDC...fantastic but its not as bulletproof as I wish it could be.
Metal shavings are an issue because the tail cap is magnetized.
They make amazing gift lights for laypeople who have no awareness of CRI or appreciation for warmer tints. My family prefers icy cold like their EV's headlights. They live in opposite land and love to stare at eye searing blue lights for fun and set their home lighting and electronic displays to the least healthy configurations imaginable. They also consistently put the toilet paper rolls in the wrong orientation on the dispenser. If I handed my sibling an unprotected Molicel they'd probably lick the positive end like a lollipop.
What do you recommend in similar style and size to the warrior 3s that takes non proprietary batteries?
@@AG4runner I don't have direct first-hand experience with them myself but Fenix is pretty consistently talked up to be a pretty strong competitor in that same ball park, specifically the TK20R.
Why would anyone want a warm tint light? doesn’t make sense. looks like shit and isn’t as bright hence the reason the automobile market switched as well
@@optimuscrime608 Highly subjective. Some think it can feel pleasantly nostalgic in the right context, like a bonfire at night. But neutral white is definitely more versatile all around.
Cold white is for being hostile and blinding the ｓｈｉｔ out of the slowpoke ahead of you driving or an aggressive, rowdy suspect coming at you.
But that's just my opinion
I don't know what any of that being a noob but I still found it hilarious. Thanx. Lol
Loved the innuendo in the closing comments on wireless charging.
I admit nothing!
Great review an amazing modification! I just got this light yesterday in the speckled camo finish which is cool. I realize that enthusiasts like to do this sort of upgrade but in my world there's so much of variance in the environment that changing the color temperature or quality of an emitter is a moot point for me. I have a number of neutral color temperature flashlights and actually find that I prefer the cooler bluer light for its reach and contrast in the dark.
I'm sure there are others for whom this won't work, but each of us has his own use case scenarios.
By the way, for those who complain about no USB-C Olight does make a cool little magnetic connector which utilizes that cable so you only need to carry the connector on a keychain and use any USB-C cable!
Great tip!
I love cool white lights maybe neutral just came stand the orange warm white
This is too deep of a rabbit hole for me right now. Maybe another day I try doing this. But not today.
I’m be here when you’re ready!
I totally agree about the charging i absolutely love the magnetic charging,as u said no fumbling around trying to remove a tiny rubber flap covering the usb port its to easy and if u buy one olight i think as i did u will buy more and have plenty of spare cables .
The Reddit screenshot has my post about my little girls shoes! How fricken cool! 😎😎😎
Hooray!
I think that white liner inside is to stop the ano colour in the head from making it into the beam periphery. I know without one, my dm11 definitely has a colourful bright green is the very outer spill
Great review!
One little thing ... Methinks it would have been cool if you could have juxtaposed the stock beam next to the modified one so as to let folks see the difference between them.
Also, might you recommend some quality grease to put on the threads of flashlights (and which won't cause rubber o-rings to disintegrate)?
Thanks much and keep up the great work!💥👍
I recommend SuperLube Silicon lube found on Amazon in a huge can for like $20. Will last a lifetime. But if you want “the best money can buy,” then Nyogel 760G which is significantly more expensive, and only marginally better. Like, you’ll never notice. But it is the gold standard for lube with silicon o rings.
@@cheule off to Amazon I go, thanks so much!💥👍
Motorcraft Electrical Grease, XG-12 is Nyogel 760G. It is on Amazon for less than $20.
I think zebralight makes the best edc flashlights hoping for a smaller form factor 21700 soon
This was an awesome review, wanted something in depth before i made this purchase. This went above and beyond. Thank you!
I actually buy olights for the charging system. For an edc it’s perfect, I have the cable command stripped to my nightstand so I know exactly where it is in relation to the edge. And for a tactical light, I’d argue usb c is better. But I’d also argue that the $10 usb c to mag charge keychain by olight is worth it. Keep that in your backpack or something and you’ll always be able to charge the light with a c cable. If they made one with both that would be cool… but hey, it works
From one teacher (ex-secondary science) to another - great video once again!
Thanks for taking the time to send words of encouragement-it means a lot!
What a light!! What a review!! That magnetic end was just 😂🎉
Glad you liked it!!
Yet another great presentation as always, may I ask for your opinion on Nitecore lights? I've had an MH 10V2 for a couple years now and it's honestly the best light I've ever purchased. Thank you again for the great presentation and consideration for my suggestion.
I haven’t found a good rep for Nitecore review lights. I’ll look into it at your request.
Oport can charge any olight on usb c
I don’t know about an Apple analogy. However,you cannot argue that Olight locks you in with their proprietary batteries and charging cables.
Even in terms of practicality, you could be out there somewhere and you lose your charging cable so you’re pretty much done. That is not very consider all light especially if you were in an extremely challenging situation in the wilderness or wherever.
Honestly, Olight would vastly increase their already considerable following by diversifying their charging options.
It’s worth noting that all their proprietary batteries can be charged in standard alone chargers. That’s the primary way I charge mine.
@@cheule I hadn’t realized that. Great to know!
Hopefully they sell batteries on their website. Amazon?
@@cheule I just tried the Baton 4 3.6 volt 16340 in a charger. Doesn’t work. There’s a plastic rim on the positive end. Very disappointing Olight! 🤦🏼♂️
You should provide this as a service. I’m sure a lot of people would be interested.
Who says I don’t? 😉
It's too big for edc. That's ridiculous. But it's easily one of the best lights in its size right now. Although I'd argue a SFT 40 light is probably gonna perform a bit better. Have my eyes on the weltool t2 but the mode spacing is a bit weird. Also no way to show the voltage...
“Ridiculous?” Nah, I have one in my pocket right now. But you are certainly entitled to want something smaller.
@@cheule sure, i can fit it into my pockets as well but im not gonna do that every day. And im think im not alone when im saying that a 21700 light is kind of the absolute limit for real edc..
Yeah, I guess you only EDC that size of light if you want people asking if you’re happy to see them.
I was visiting somewhere in the uk( I’m uk based ) the other month and I had my astrolux mf01 mini and emissar dm1.12 taken off me but was allowed to keep a baton 3 on me. I can’t remember where it happened .
Not sure about that. I have a Warrior Mini 2 and love it, but wishing it were bigger and had a 21700. But maybe if I had both I would end up liking the smaller one more. I am not sure.
For what it's worth, at least the Seeker 2 Pro works with batteries other than Olight's proprietary one. The catch is they need to be rather narrow, 21.4mm wide at most, or they won't fit. And it probably needs to be a button top. And you need to put the battery in there "backwards", with the button sticking outwards. And you definitely should not try to charge non-proprietary batteries within the flashlight with the magnetic charger. Other than that, it's all good. Not sure how universal this is to 21700 Olights, though.
I have the Seeker 2 Pro in Orange. It's an amazing light. The most amazing part, the battery lasts forever compared to my M2R Pro's batteries.
Personally I'm not happy at all with voiding my warranty on a light of this price just because they didn't make any effort to so much as give us the option for an LED with a good tint or CRI. I have had to return an M2R Pro a year into its service because it just stopped working and they replaced it quickly and for free, that would have been a significant amount of money to replace had I modified it.
But I am going to say, in my opinion, that the M2R Pro is their best light in the series and is better in my mind than its "upgrades" because it comes with a great neutral LED and doesn't have any annoying proximity sensor.
The M2R is a great light.
Do you like it more than the Acebeam E70?
I like the E70, a lot since I put a XHP70.3 5000K in it. However I really do like the Warrior 3S more (post 4500K swap).
The light is too big for EDC.
Not a fan of the pocket clips, pretty much all the big companies are using the clips that attach to the body and I get that you can choose how you carry it, bezel up or down, that’s cool for those who care. But I’ve bent so many and nearly lost my original Olight S1 and every other Olight I’ve had. Or I’ve bent the clip and have to jerry rig it back to shape. Or they don’t have enough tension when clipping to the pockets
I love my Olights, all of them. But for professional use, I prefer Ledlenser.
ledlenser lmao
Great video, all great points about the wireless charging and the proprietary battery....just common sense. Love it. Thanks
Oddly, not everyone agrees! :)
@@cheule oddly... a LOT of people have very bad ideas 😭
Nice light and info. Thanks. Like your vids and gave you a sub. You touch on info others don't and you really know your stuff.
I appreciate that!
Why do you all leave out the part where the turbo only works to seventy five percent I was severely disappointed when I turned it on turbo and it went to 75 percent battery and instantly stepped down from turbo everytime you hit it
I find the added battery protection useful!
I have one in the royal blue among others and love them all.
My biggest problem with proprietary batteries is that I can't bring a couple of spares in my charger/powerbank/battery case and use them in both an Olight and whatever other light I have along. It's bad enough I have to bring a couple magnets along so the spares can be long enough for my Acebeam and short enough for my Noctigon. Incidentally, both of those came with exactly the emitters I wanted, but I don't disagree that at a certain level of enthusiasm, one should be prepared to swap emitters.
This is probably the most airtight case I’ve heard for not liking Olight batteries. Touché good sir!
Just got my first olight baton3 in a pakage with a baldor s weapon light.I always just figured them to be just "flashlights" until I watched this video, I guess I was wrong,more to it than II will ever grasp but It should be fun trying and maybe I'll end up an enthusiast?
Lots of lights out there, in my opinion of all the lights I have, which is only 20-25, the best out of the box edc light for the money is the Wurkkos FC12.
The best EDC flashlight for me would be if my Warrior Mini2 had a quick release belt holster. I LOVE my WM2 but NEED that holster. For me, its the right size, color output n UI.
They sell some nice aftermarket holsters for the warrior mini 2 on etsy
Great video, but I'm afraid that the proprietary charging will keep me from ever getting an Olight. I have too hard a time keeping track of things. Maybe a glove box light but that's about it.
Oh man do I love the magnetic charging!!
this format video is pretty fun. sharing community sentiments is oddly entertaining to listen to. haha
It was a passion project for sure.
The warrior I do think is a contender, and I have, but have had issues with it, is the Warrior Mini or whatever it’s called
I have never considered Olight in the past as I have seen many people on HK gun groups imply they are junk, but I got a Warrior Mini 2 and I see that is not correct. They seem to be more like DJI. Nice quality and with some actual innovation rather than being a clone company.
Had I known the Olight had a proprietary battery I probably wouldn’t have bought it. Now that I have one, i like the UI and feature set more than my Fenix PD36R, so I don’t plan to return it.
I will take the magnetic charger over USBC. Especially given that I use iPhone and don’t have many USBC things anyway. Just my Sony headphones.
I like how the UI doesn’t cycle through brightness levels. I have a choice of two plus turbo. Sounds good to me.
But, I do already have lots of Sanyo 18650 and was looking forward to having a few 21700. For sure wish Olight worked with them. I can’t think of any upside to them using their own.
Your comment mirrors a lot of my own thinking.
What a great video. Cheers.
Thank you for your encouragement!
So glad you made this video, and woody clear concise way to show how to change the emitter. I am a fan of all lights products for the most part and I agree with everything you said, regarding there being very little downside to most of their products.
What they would mention is anybody doing the submitter swap just take the battery out first. I'm sure it was taken out, but it wasn't shown. 😎👍🏻
Hmmm now you got me wanting to swap something into my warrior mini. I don’t use it just because the light is so crappy. I’ve never done a swap and I’m not keen on trying it and stuffing it up. How do you know which led will work? Size wise. Voltage wise. And any other consideration I don’t know about. Does the led have a polarity it needs to be put onto the board?
You would need to research the emitter size and voltage for any given light. The polarity of the emitter matters. If you watch one of my longer emitter swap videos, you’ll see me use a diode tester to light up the emitter and figure which side is negative. That then aligns to the negative side of the mcpcb.
But in reality, all you really need to do is take a guess, then once the flow is done use your DMM set to diode and test the polarity on the mcpcb driver pads. If it’s correct, huzzah. If not, either A) reflow 180° rotated or B) solder red to neg and black to pos.
Great review sir. Im not really an olight fan, but having the baldr's magnetic charging, i could put this ecology into my edc lights. Currently using a fenix ld12 for its abilty to swap out AA cells and 14450. Now, look what have you done, you've convinced me to change my edc hahaha.
I love mine and hope you will too!
Where does one buy emitters from? Soldering irons and flux.. Any home Depot... Heh. Curious... Odd there isn't aCW version of the W3S offer S3 Pro.... There is for the B3 Pro
I got these particular emitters from Mouser.com. I use a very high end soldering station I got off Aloexpress, because it’s a $150 clone of a $700 station.
Can i open my thrunite tn12 head like that...my lens too dirty inside there.
TN12 Pro? I’ll check when I get home. I don’t have it with me this week.
@@cheule no sir, just thrunite tn12 2016 version..🤭thnx sir.
In your video you're talking about having found a 80CRI version. However, the article number you've mentioned in the notes is a 90CRI version. Shure that this is the one you've used? Thank you in advance
Yes I misspoke 80CRI, it’s 90
I own a few of those custom build flashlights, such as the BLF GT, and GT70. And a few other mass products lights from Imalent, Acebeam, and Olight. To this day, I still haven't worked up the nerve to ruin the flashlight by attempting to replace the emitters. We need more how to videos from experts such as you. I can mod any RC car in production. Solder, installing motors, ESC'S ect. But, when it comes to flashlights, I'm lost.
Have you attempted to follow along with my son’s Convoy S2+ build? That’s a great place to start.
@@cheule Not yet. But, I will take a Crack at it, thanks.
I'm an Olight fan, I have quite a few of their lights and will continue to purchase them, but I do wish they would just release all their lights with the option between Neutral and CW. I have the M2R Warrior 2 which is neutral, but decided against the W3 because of its tint. I just recently purchased the Arkfeld in 5000k, and I would have probably bought the new Seeker Pro (I have the Seeker 2 Pro) and Warrior if they have offered them in 5000k.
Don't get me wrong, I have some lights with cooler tints as well that I like, but I still like my higher CRI lights more. CW just washes colors too much.
Olight released the new Arkfeld in a NW version as well, but unfortunately I found it about 30-50 points above BBL. So even if they include NW, if you’re a maniac like me, you’ll end up swapping.
Olight has great warranties and customer service,kinda goes out the window if you'd change it,they have a 5 year warranty
2:11 Is that an FA-5 Apollo light replica? Such a classic design.
Good eye! It is exactly that. 1968 Apollo pen light replica.
can there be a video on how to disassemble the black head and lamp body? Thank you
I like the cool white, there is a reason why car enthusiasts prefer HID/LED over your halogens.
At about 9:45, you state that the new LED is 80 CRI. Yet it's 90+ according to the Sekonic. Why the discrepancy?
I believe what I meant to say was r9080. Or CRI 90 with an r9 of 80. Sorry for any confusion.
@@cheule
Gotcha. Thanks for clarifying!
I have plenty of lights with amazing tint but I honestly love my olight and it’s ugly tint it’s perfect for normal edc and I don’t king the bad tint on it because of its other features
Honestly the stock SFT40 in this light isn’t ugly at all.
Great video. I love my Hank lights and anduril lights but I always have a couple of olight baton 3s pon me due to the magnetic charging. ( normally also have a dm1.12 in my big bag )
What are your thoughts on baton3 v sc21 . I like the tint of the sc21 but as a practical light the baton 3 is very hard to beat. Where I live in the uk we go from 7 hrs of light in the winter to 17hrs in the summer. High CRI is luxury in winter😀.
Do you own a Zebralight? I would be shocked if you still prefer Olight.
Hi Cheule. I apologize for my spicy comments the last day and i am here to state my personal opinion on what the perfect edc flashlight is without getting into the argument if this Olight is the one this time. So...
The perfect edc flashlight needs to have the following characteristics:
Lumens 1000 and beyond is fine in my book
Size, smaller diameter than 27mm, and this is optional, not to be taller than 10-11cm. 18350 cell fits the bill better or 18650. The height is important so when you are clipping the light into your pocket it doesn't mess with your smartphone, keys or coins in it and you have free access to all your items unobstructed. The diameter is also important cause the tightest pants are the most common types of jeans. For tight jeans i would say that even 25mm head diameter is on the limit of edc-able lights. Yeah if you wear anything else even a 35mm diameter light is pocketable, like i do with my kr1. So the size of the light can be a personal thing altogether or a choice depending on the type of pants you wear every time. For larger pants I'll take my kr1 with me. For tighter ones I'll take the sc31pro. But only the smaller lights can be used for edc by everyone
Beam profile, a combination of throw with great flood with emphasis to flood for everyday carry. Candela around 20.000 is great for seeing at 150+ meters. This will sound silly but some zoom lights have the advantage on the beam profile as you can choose to have either throw or flood, the best ones are the ones that don't have the twist motion zoom but the push pull one as you are able to use them one handed. Unfortunately those smaller in size zoom lights are rather weak, i am soon expecting the Sofirn s11c to test it out though it is a twist zoomie i expect it to be just bright enough to edc. It ticks out almost every characteristis that i think the perfect edc light must have. The same happens with the dual channel lights from Hank that you can have combined emitters for throw and flood. Noctigon Kr4 and emisar dv2 dual channel anduril 2 lights have this option but unfortunately they don't run a simple ui
Tint: 4000-5700k with high cri
Pocket clip, either a two way or at least 2 slots in the tube for reversing a regular one. Light needs to be small and not heavy for being able to be used on a cap as a headlamp when needed
Being able to tailstand easily, and not only on perfectly flat surfaces. For example my wurkkos fc12 though it can tailstand on a flat surface it doesn't do it with ease it can be wobbly, and even a small breeze could take it down so this light doesn't fit the bill for the perfect edc flashlight either.
Strong magnetic tailcap. I consider a strong magnet the one that can keep the light attached firmly parallel to the ground and won't fall off with the slightest bump from this position. I've used plenty of times my shorty sc31pro as a reverse light for my truck on our farm at night.
Usb type c built in charging port and be able to take in any type of battery is a huge plus
Ipx8 is perfect. You're gonna drop your edc light often so it needs to be able to withstand the abuse and have some waterproofing too
Easy ui, just a ramping mode plus a stepped mode with a strobe and moonlight is a great start. I love anduril, but even i that know anduril well when i sometimes forget about it it gets frustrating to use the light. So simple ui is the best option.
Recessed or a tough to accidentally be pressed button: This is so important. If the light turns on accidentally the light is a Huge no no. Even if it has a lockout mode it's still useless for edc. You need a firm button that doesn't accidentally turn on the light in your pocket so you can be able to use the light fast and easy without clicking 4 times before using it and another 4 times when you're finished using it. Unscrewing the tailcap for locking is also a no no as that prevents the light to be used fast and with only one hand when needed. How to tell if your light has the perfect button? Easy. Have you ever took your light off your pocket and it was turned on? Does that happened more than one time in a long time of usage? If yes then this is not a good light for edc-ing
Somekind of a small attack bezel, not something crazy and dangerous, just something protruding just a tad to keep the lens safe from droping/or intentionally smashing it onto something should be fine.
If someone can think of some other essential characteristics for the perfect edc light feel free to respond to this comment with your answer.
My personal favourite edc light that also covers all of the above characteristics besides the protruding bezel and simple ui is the Sofirn sc31pro with the short 18350 tube, a magnetic tailcap and the original pocket clip attached to the light's head reversed for usage on a cap as headlamp. Sofirn sc21 and wurkkos ts10 are even better fits in my opinion than my current set up cause of the simple ui. Fortunately i use anduril lately a lot and my sc31pro is still my favourite edc.
So please feel free to add any other characteristics for the perfect edc light that I've might forgot
Cheers to everyone
Excellent breakdown!
This seems like a well thought out list to me. I loathe flappy doodles. HATE THEM. So I like no port at all, or magnetic. But that’s just opinion of course.
@@cheule Maybe a type c port into the screwing threads will do the trick for you. like some other flashlight have. Unscrew the light and it reveals the port inside of it
@@cheule same, I always say they should add USB-C right into the proprietary cell itself. other companies do it and I'd always use the mag charger, but if push came to shove and I only had my phone charger cord on me...would be nice.
I love my Olights. Been using them for years with no issues. People who style themselves “enthusiasts” are often just complainers who offer no real-world help.
Awesome review sir! And thank u
Do you provide a service for this emitter swap? If so what is the cost?
I encourage anyone to watch my emitter swapping video and try it themself! I can do it for you if you want to pay for it, but I’m so busy at the moment that even getting content out has been a pain. If you want to wait until June (only two months away), my schedule will free up a lot.
Awesome video, could I potentially use a hot air solder station instead of a hot plate to heat up the board to swap the emitters?
You definitely can, but it’s a lot trickier because the air pushes the components off the solder pads.
I am laughing at the rebukes.
I respect the love you show for the light, great designs and such.
Keep in mind, I have used Olight rechargeable Baton series before.
BUT in my mind I want an EDC to be small for pocketability, decently bright to suit most situations and easily rechargeable.
For me this S3 takes up too much pocket real estate, so that rings it out as an EDC. So it would be better to look at an S1R.
But I don't want it , because if I am on the go I want a standardized charging medium USB C. I saw your argument that the cable is not much effort to bring with, but I see it as another real estate thief TBH and what will happen if I lose my only provided cable from Olight? I can probably ask a rando if he/she has an USB C cable. And not forgetting to mention itsl is reversible and allows for actual fast charging.
Why am I even arguing about this shit while I know I am using a flashlight to check for a burr on my sharpening jobs.
All and all, I see the comfort of it, but I don't fuck with it that hard.
Good response!
Why don't they just offer it as an option / variant?
I’ve just stumbled across this video. I’d love to attempt an emitter swap. What hot plate do you use please…?
This one on AliExpress:
a.aliexpress.com/_mOSvTaC
@@cheule Thanks for getting back to me so quickly. That’s great thanks 👍👍
I Like how they come with their own batteries...acebeam might have a 1mile throw but you gotta lol your own batteries and a charger... I cant even consider most other companies cuz the battery/charger situation is trash
I have a love hate relationship with the magnetic charger. The hate comes from metal dust that accumulates ( just wish o light made silicone caps that would fit perfectly on the tail cap [i had to add electrical tape to make it girthy enough to fit a glow in the dark silicone cap i ordered off of ebay] to help mitigate the dust issue and also act as a diffuser. I love how easy the magnetic charging is but wish there was also a usb c option along with it like their olantern
You’ve made solid points.
Hey Cheule, is there a benefit to the tint of the light? For example, I work in a natural gas processing plant and I want to know if a certain light will allow for better detail of gauges and certain items like that or is it just personal preference.
I have a video that breaks down the terms used, like CCT, Tint and DUV: th-cam.com/video/agIbkfuZjH4/w-d-xo.html
Often people find that high CRI lights can be super helpful when color matters, like grilling (seeing the color of meat), EMTs who need to check skin color, or even sorting colored wires in a rack. I don’t know if CRI will help your gauges, but it couldn’t hurt!
The stock emitter has low CRI and a very low r9 value. The one I swapped to was over 90 CRI (remember that the sun is about 98 CRI.)
Olight definitely did a really good job with this light. Output, UI, and features are very good. Size is subjective and all, but I personally think a 21700 size light is not an edc light, Iv tried it but there’s definitely more times than not I’m reaching for a smaller light. This warrior stays in truck. Game changer if they would make this in an 18350 size. As I usually reach for an 18350 modlite just about every day. Keychain light for my admin purposes. Iv debated hard on buying a warrior mini 2 but I just can’t bring myself to do it.
You make great points. I tend to wear cargo pants/shorts so the larger size isn’t an issue for me. But I can see how it might be a lot for jeans.
Great review. 👍 🔦
Thanks for watching!
I always wondered what strobe was for. Great video!
Thanks for watching!
Strobe is best for Anti-Animal use. They tend to stare at bright lights (deer in headlights), but if you see something like a skunk and you strobe it, it will panic and run instead of stay and spray the strange light. Anecdotal note: I'm pretty sure the FETs toggling or whatever is in there making noise also pisses off dogs and makes them hide. My dog hated it when I would show the light to someone and hit the strobe, even when he couldnt see it...but that might just be him. It does work for startling off animals though (done it many times).
They are allegedly for disorienting an attacker, but that is dumb because you are also messing with your own vision (less so), if you hit a person with turbo, they are out of the fight and you can see fine.
Great video. Can you please share with us where you got the emitter for this swap along with some of the specific supplies needed?
The emitter is from mouser.com, part number 941-XHP50DH0D0UH245G . Check out my other emitter swapping video for specific items to buy like SMD solder and soldering station. Etc.
@@cheule thank you for that. Yes I will check it out. 👍👍
th-cam.com/video/QQtnoXoUUwA/w-d-xo.html
@@cheule Please clarify. In the video you say that you used a 5000K, 80CRI emitter but the part number above pulls up a 4500K, 90CRI emitter. The numbers on your light meter seem to support the latter.
I just bought Olight Warrior 3S and Seeker 3 Pro out of curiosity. I sense emitter swap in the nearest future, however I have to admit that Olight make really cool flashlights. In the era of Anduril Enthusiasts lights, it might be a good idea to have sth simpler for a change. Thanks for the inspiration to come back to Olight again :)
I concur!
Olight makes great flashlights, efficient and bright enough, they're just not cheap like sofirn or convoy are. I'm not a hardcore tint guy though.
Good points!
How much candela does this flashlight output?
Before or after the swap?
Just ordered the Camo.Im retiring my Surefire Defender Ultra after 5 years because it eats cr123's.How will this one compare to the Surefire? This is my first Olight.
You are gonna love it. It’s such a great light.
Is this a steel or aluminum bezel? Having a hard time finding an answer online.
The bezel is steel, but it’s more of a retaining ring than full on bezel.
Good enough, thank you. After dropping my old Fenix and messing up the aluminum bezel I'd like it to be steel to fully sell me on one. Will be picking one up.
Random, but would an Apple Watch charger work with the worrier 3s ? Hahah I have one on it way to me …… we shall see 🤷🏻♂️
Actually I tested that, it does not work :)
Can you mod it to take ordinary 21700s or mod a 21700 to work in it?
I’ll have to double check, but sometimes you can get standard cells to work in Olights, but you always forgo the magnetic charging system. So to be clear, I cannot remember whether a standard cell works in this light. I also think that since the cells that come with the light are excellent, and I haven’t had to replace a cell yet, it’s sort of a “moot issue” for me.
Well evidenced argument for a controversial topic. Always love your work Cheule
Thanks for the encouragement!