Like the overview of the flats. I personally am not ready to go to a flashlight that is only rechargeable. I've actually just started carrying a Sofirn SP10, and I like the versatility of being able to use a 14500 or an AA. Thanks for sharing!
Flat flashlights are cool and more ergonomically friendly in the hands. But one limitation I see is swapping out batteries. Cylindrical flashlights you can have a spare battery around to swap out when batteries run low. Overall I like the flat lights you picked out. Got a few of the ones your showed. Keep posting good content videos.
Wow you covered a lot of info and did a great job. Would have liked to have had info on battery size and corresponding run times plus lumen outputs but.....I can look it up.
Thanks for posting the useful information. In my experience the flat lights are easier to carry but have a serious drawback. Lithium cells lose capacity over time and most manufacturers of flat lights do not offer a battery replacement service. That is odd because the lights all use standard size lithium pouch cells that could be easily changed by a technician with a soldering iron. Even though I would prefer a flat flashlight for everyday use my main EDC light will continue to be one that uses an easy to get 18650 size lithium cell.
Ergonomics are fine but what happens when the battery runs out? You have to plug the flat flightiest in where with a cylindrical flashlight you can swop out the battery. I’ll stick with my cylindrical flashlight.
I prefer drum style if battery is replaceable. A light running on CR123, 14500, AAA, AA, 18650 and everything in between means it will last a lot longer in the long run. Replacing a flat battery may not be for everyone. I didnt choose a flashlight made of copper so the internal lithium could die and the flashlight would be thrown out.
Skilhunt ec 300 and angel eyes for the utility. only thing flat lights have that are a con is that the batteries are not so replaceable for long term. id much rather have a light that can use 14500 cells and also aa batteries for modular use. however being a more traditionalist, the flat lights offer ergonomics. i think some of the angel eyes variants use dual power sources. both a built in li-ion and 1x aaa battery which is interesting. Overall throughout the years ive come to prefer 2700-4000k temperature lights with high cri 90+ with a nichia emitter, probably a 219b rosy tint bin or 519a which pretty hot right now. Ui depends on purpose of light. edc i like anduril 2. For search and rescue i prefer a simple ui in case i hand off a light to a teammate. Excellent video as usual!
Flat style lights definitely have their advantages in many situations. I've had lots of lights through the years for machinery, automotive work, hunting, and home use. Compact small lights, like Tip2 Nitecore, and the other X shown. Make life easier. Being to clip the Tip to my hat for wiring harnesses and electronics is awesome. And!! I've had tons of snap-on, streamlight, and countless other brands and battery styles. Sold and given away everything else to go to 21700 with everything. It's lovely and hassle free.
@stevedyer5902 I have the EDC27. It uses a none removable, rechargeable pouch cell type battery. That's how these companies can make flat style lights. I've owned other Nitecore lights with removable, rechargeable 21700 and 18650 cylindrical style lights.
This was really helpful X. Thanks again! I’m interested in the Streamlite Wedge but curious as to wether it tail-stands? I’ve just got the Olight Warrior Mini II and I am LOVING IT!! The fact it can tail-stand, has a magnetic base (as well as the tail-switch) ticks a lot of boxes for me! Plus it’s nice in the hand for self-defence uses. The two way clip is always super handy too. If I could find as versatile a flat flashlight with similar features, I’d definitely go for it! Love the video as always my friend! 🤙
It definitely tells stands. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the charger just like the olight is on the tail. In advantage for the olight is that the base is magnetic but I really like the wedge.
How many years does the battery last in the wedge flashlight? At the end of battery life, can the consumer replace the battery? Does the manufacturer offer battery replacement or just the flashlight then become disposable?
The only reason they're cylindrical is because of the battery shape. The cylindrical batteries are also much more robust & have better longevity than pouch batteries.
I like the idea of the form factor, except for the fact that the on switches are placed forward on the side of the light instead of the rear tail cap. I would lean toward stream light as well, but the problem I see being right handed, keeping the light in the left pant pocket, when you pull it out, you'd have to slide your fingers up THEN flip the light over for your thumb to come to the switch. I think that takes a lot more attention and motor skills than hitting a big button on the back with your already solid fist grip
I'm still a drum guy. I only use rechargeable, but in standard sizes that work with traditional batteries as well, such as cr123, aaa, aa. That keeps options open. If my battery craps out, they are easy to replace. But you make some great points
I carry the arkfeld in my pocket, but a "drum" i5r in the organizer in my bag (if i'm carrying a bag). Nice as to have a backup light that you can swap batteries if needed.
I like the flat flashlight but l think almost all are too long for EDC. I want my flashlight to disappear in my pocket. Also in a emergency, l like the idea of being able to buy replacement batteries. If you are in a situation where the rechargeable battery dies, an instant replacement can be available either in your pack or at almost any store.
I never even heard about flat lights until about 3 months ago. I’ve been carrying Streamlight drum lights for years both on and off duty. I almost bought the Streamlight Wedge a couple months ago until the Surefire Stilletto popped up in my Amazon search. I think it was about $30-$40 more than the Wedge, but I really love how it’s a little flatter than the Wedge and has buttons on the “tail cap” and side as well as a lockout feature so it doesn’t turn on if clipped into a back pocket.
Thanks for mentioning the stiletto. My concern with the flats are them turning on in-pocket because most seem to have the side buttons/levers. (and even on my drum/cylinder flashlights I still prefer tail cap switches, rather than side). But the lock-out function, if it is clipped sounds awesome. The Surefire Stiletto is a bit beyond my budget right now, but I'll keep an eye out for some sales.
I carry the arkfeild everyday for work. I love the way it fits slim in my pocket, but also gives me the versatility of a “drum” flashlight. The magnetic back comes in handy while troubleshooting a repair. My other flashlights are collecting dust.
I have owned the arkfeld, wedge and rovyvon and the rovyvon is the last light standing although i never carry it as it does not have lockout. Still waiting on the perfect flat light to come out.
I am all about those ergonomics, the way I see it is if I don't like holding and/or using something then I ain't bringing it with me and then the item(s) becomes expensive paper weight(s). As far as flashlights goes though, I am still on the fence on whether or not to carry them.
How are you going to talk about flat flashlights and not bring up the one that single-handedly started the entire trend, the Surefire Stiletto & Stiletto Pro?? I EDC a Stiletto Pro and the only criticism I can think of for it is that it charges via a Micro-USB port, as opposed to a USB Type-C. That’s it.
Ok, flats are ergonomic but trusting the soldered in battery is a joke. One is none. Any good flashlight has replaceable parts and batteries. Surefire, Malkoff, Elzetta. Those are real lights, not the garage door openers you’re talking about.
@@meursault1654 I see where you are coming from lol but for the most part in some of the newer flashlights out the ones that ive seen that are compatible with a common battery like a AA are weaker than one with a integrated battery
I don't own a flat - yet. However, you made a good case for having one or more. I'm going to look into the Streamlight that you like so much. Thanks, MarineX!
My vast experience tell me there is an almost perfect flashlight for every task, never one for all tasks. My bed-side flashlight is flat, square in fact, Nitecore TUP. Does not roll, i can use it for only 30 seconds. But its crappy for all my other needs. If id be forced to keep only one, would be Seeker4Pro in neutral, i own one in cool, too. And id also keep 3-4 spare 21700. I respect everyone else opinions, we live different lives with different needs!
I prefer a tail switch so that’s that. Streamlight wedge or Arkfeld would be perfect IF they had a tail switch. Currently using Microstream or Warrior Mini 2.
But... thank you for the video!!!! You showed a couple I've never seen before.. that I ABSOLUTELY plan on getting...... keep up the great content...God bless you
I don’t particularly care about the shape but I do care about the _size_ of my EDC light. Something single CR123/18350/whatever sized, small enough that it can float in my pocket. If it needs a pocket clip then it’s too big for my _everyday._ I’m not a warfighter, I don’t need 2,000 lumens and a crenellated strike bezel, I will not use a belt mounted holster or pouch.
I'm looking for my first flat flashlight. But it has to have usb-c charging, magnetic base, 90° pivoting head and at least 1000 lumens. Under $200. Is there such a flashlight?
I will cary a different light day to day depending on the day. Most the time I’ll pocket my Imalent LD-10 or LD-70. The LD-10 peaks at 1200 lumens, and has a throw beam. The LD-70 peaks at 4k lumens with a flood. Those are both rechargeable. If you haven’t heard of Imalent, check them out!
Flats are pouch batteries. The leds will outlast the batteries but maybe it won’t matter because you’ll have other $80+ flashlights laying around. You’re comparing so many different styles and sizes of lights, it’s not even about flat or round at that point. I carry Fenix lights 🔦
Both!!!!! Being from Buffalo..... the only right answer is both!!!!! Lol and for lights...... the wedge is awesome.... but pound for pound..... the warrior mini with a upgraded 3500 mah battery and man does it PACK A PUNCH!!!!!
Yooo... this is great content! Have you explored Flateye from Panthervision? Seems to fit your parameters, but there isn't much content out there for them.
I agree. I got an Arkfeld and a Streamlight this year, my first foray into flats, and I love them both but I grab the Streamlight more often. Today I'm in the office and doing some "tool-stuff" as opposed to my normal work-load so I'm carrying a P4 and Olight Baton but my norm in the office the past few months has been 50/50 Arkfeld and Streamlight and a Kershaw Leek.
I have to disagree, pretty much across the board (other than aesthetics, which are subjective). Non-replaceable cells doom most flats to obsolescence. Use-case should determine the choice, and I can only think of 1-2 where one or the other is almost necessarily better.
Streamlight flashlights are typically sub-par, and the Wedgevis no exception. Low lumens, very fragile switch, minimal options. Really, the Wedge is a poor choice. For the record, the Arkfeld has way better charging than the Wedge. Honestly, you have a table full of sub-par flashlights. There are worse flashlights, but those on your table are not the best. And you mispronounced Rovyvon. Flat flashlights can be good, but get a good one. Frankly, I would not choose any of those for my EDC flashlight. I carry several flashlights, but none of those made the cut. They lack versatility. I want my carry to be as minimal as possible. Those flashlights have poor design, minimal features, or lack versatility. Since this selection of flashlights is so feature-limited, no flashlight there would eliminate a flashlight I already carry, and no flashlight there would ever be used. There is no use case in which any of those flashlights would be the best. These flashlights are a waste of money. It seems fairly certain that, after you push these, there will be a future video in which you will recommend against carrying these.
Like the overview of the flats. I personally am not ready to go to a flashlight that is only rechargeable. I've actually just started carrying a Sofirn SP10, and I like the versatility of being able to use a 14500 or an AA. Thanks for sharing!
Flat flashlights are cool and more ergonomically friendly in the hands. But one limitation I see is swapping out batteries. Cylindrical flashlights you can have a spare battery around to swap out when batteries run low. Overall I like the flat lights you picked out. Got a few of the ones your showed. Keep posting good content videos.
Wow you covered a lot of info and did a great job. Would have liked to have had info on battery size and corresponding run times plus lumen outputs but.....I can look it up.
Thanks for posting the useful information. In my experience the flat lights are easier to carry but have a serious drawback. Lithium cells lose capacity over time and most manufacturers of flat lights do not offer a battery replacement service. That is odd because the lights all use standard size lithium pouch cells that could be easily changed by a technician with a soldering iron. Even though I would prefer a flat flashlight for everyday use my main EDC light will continue to be one that uses an easy to get 18650 size lithium cell.
Ergonomics are fine but what happens when the battery runs out? You have to plug the flat flightiest in where with a cylindrical flashlight you can swop out the battery. I’ll stick with my cylindrical flashlight.
Boom! This. Furthermore, if the battery dies due to old age, accident, or abuse, you probably can't swap it out on a flat.
@@OnusBones And, the LED bulb will outlast the lithium ion battery
I prefer drum style if battery is replaceable. A light running on CR123, 14500, AAA, AA, 18650 and everything in between means it will last a lot longer in the long run. Replacing a flat battery may not be for everyone. I didnt choose a flashlight made of copper so the internal lithium could die and the flashlight would be thrown out.
Skilhunt ec 300 and angel eyes for the utility. only thing flat lights have that are a con is that the batteries are not so replaceable for long term. id much rather have a light that can use 14500 cells and also aa batteries for modular use. however being a more traditionalist, the flat lights offer ergonomics. i think some of the angel eyes variants use dual power sources. both a built in li-ion and 1x aaa battery which is interesting. Overall throughout the years ive come to prefer 2700-4000k temperature lights with high cri 90+ with a nichia emitter, probably a 219b rosy tint bin or 519a which pretty hot right now. Ui depends on purpose of light. edc i like anduril 2. For search and rescue i prefer a simple ui in case i hand off a light to a teammate. Excellent video as usual!
I agree. The Nitecore P18 is the only one in this lot that uses a 18650 (I think) and is still nearly flat.
Flats for the carry win! Drums/batons for stationary use when not carrying.
Flat style lights definitely have their advantages in many situations. I've had lots of lights through the years for machinery, automotive work, hunting, and home use. Compact small lights, like Tip2 Nitecore, and the other X shown. Make life easier. Being to clip the Tip to my hat for wiring harnesses and electronics is awesome. And!! I've had tons of snap-on, streamlight, and countless other brands and battery styles. Sold and given away everything else to go to 21700 with everything. It's lovely and hassle free.
Which flashlight uses that battery?
is it rechargeable or do you replace it?
@stevedyer5902 I have the EDC27. It uses a none removable, rechargeable pouch cell type battery. That's how these companies can make flat style lights. I've owned other Nitecore lights with removable, rechargeable 21700 and 18650 cylindrical style lights.
Use my wedge all the time as my EDC but think I might try the Angel eyes out! thanks for the great content
Thanks for checking it out again
This was really helpful X. Thanks again! I’m interested in the Streamlite Wedge but curious as to wether it tail-stands? I’ve just got the Olight Warrior Mini II and I am LOVING IT!! The fact it can tail-stand, has a magnetic base (as well as the tail-switch) ticks a lot of boxes for me! Plus it’s nice in the hand for self-defence uses. The two way clip is always super handy too. If I could find as versatile a flat flashlight with similar features, I’d definitely go for it! Love the video as always my friend! 🤙
It definitely tells stands. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the charger just like the olight is on the tail. In advantage for the olight is that the base is magnetic but I really like the wedge.
How many years does the battery last in the wedge flashlight? At the end of battery life, can the consumer replace the battery? Does the manufacturer offer battery replacement or just the flashlight then become disposable?
Great info, not to mention when your trying to do something with both hands the drum style rolls around ..SEMPER FI
I need to be able to swap batteries on the fly and get instant function.
The only reason they're cylindrical is because of the battery shape.
The cylindrical batteries are also much more robust & have better longevity than pouch batteries.
I like the idea of the form factor, except for the fact that the on switches are placed forward on the side of the light instead of the rear tail cap. I would lean toward stream light as well, but the problem I see being right handed, keeping the light in the left pant pocket, when you pull it out, you'd have to slide your fingers up THEN flip the light over for your thumb to come to the switch. I think that takes a lot more attention and motor skills than hitting a big button on the back with your already solid fist grip
I'm still a drum guy. I only use rechargeable, but in standard sizes that work with traditional batteries as well, such as cr123, aaa, aa. That keeps options open. If my battery craps out, they are easy to replace. But you make some great points
I carry the arkfeld in my pocket, but a "drum" i5r in the organizer in my bag (if i'm carrying a bag). Nice as to have a backup light that you can swap batteries if needed.
I like the flat flashlight but l think almost all are too long for EDC. I want my flashlight to disappear in my pocket.
Also in a emergency, l like the idea of being able to buy replacement batteries. If you are in a situation where the rechargeable battery dies, an instant replacement can be available either in your pack or at almost any store.
I never even heard about flat lights until about 3 months ago. I’ve been carrying Streamlight drum lights for years both on and off duty. I almost bought the Streamlight Wedge a couple months ago until the Surefire Stilletto popped up in my Amazon search. I think it was about $30-$40 more than the Wedge, but I really love how it’s a little flatter than the Wedge and has buttons on the “tail cap” and side as well as a lockout feature so it doesn’t turn on if clipped into a back pocket.
Thanks for mentioning the stiletto. My concern with the flats are them turning on in-pocket because most seem to have the side buttons/levers. (and even on my drum/cylinder flashlights I still prefer tail cap switches, rather than side). But the lock-out function, if it is clipped sounds awesome. The Surefire Stiletto is a bit beyond my budget right now, but I'll keep an eye out for some sales.
I carry the arkfeild everyday for work. I love the way it fits slim in my pocket, but also gives me the versatility of a “drum” flashlight. The magnetic back comes in handy while troubleshooting a repair. My other flashlights are collecting dust.
It's nice. The only thing that gets me is the proprietary charger!
Magnetic tails are crazy useful!
I’m in the exact same boat, I love the arkfield, and when I wanna give my 8 month old some exercise the laser light is perfect
I have owned the arkfeld, wedge and rovyvon and the rovyvon is the last light standing although i never carry it as it does not have lockout. Still waiting on the perfect flat light to come out.
Rovyvon E8. Absolute Swiss army knife of lights
I haven’t really thought about changing but maybe ill give one a shot. Thanks for the info and breakdown.
I've been a drum person pretty much my whole life you might have changed my perspective to flats who knows I might pick up a flat and check it out
Im just here for the wings.....
I am all about those ergonomics, the way I see it is if I don't like holding and/or using something then I ain't bringing it with me and then the item(s) becomes expensive paper weight(s). As far as flashlights goes though, I am still on the fence on whether or not to carry them.
How are you going to talk about flat flashlights and not bring up the one that single-handedly started the entire trend, the Surefire Stiletto & Stiletto Pro?? I EDC a Stiletto Pro and the only criticism I can think of for it is that it charges via a Micro-USB port, as opposed to a USB Type-C. That’s it.
Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA for my EDC
Drums > Flats
I’m really liking the flats…carrying the Olight right now and loving it.
#Battalion
Omg it's smooth
Ok, flats are ergonomic but trusting the soldered in battery is a joke. One is none. Any good flashlight has replaceable parts and batteries. Surefire, Malkoff, Elzetta. Those are real lights, not the garage door openers you’re talking about.
Considering olight now has a lifetime warranty on all of their lights im fine carrying one now
@@juvy-1223 warranty is an insurance product. I would rather buy a good light than insurance for one.
@@meursault1654 I see where you are coming from lol but for the most part in some of the newer flashlights out the ones that ive seen that are compatible with a common battery like a AA are weaker than one with a integrated battery
I don't own a flat - yet. However, you made a good case for having one or more. I'm going to look into the Streamlight that you like so much. Thanks, MarineX!
If they wedge had a cover on the charging port i would 100% agree.
My vast experience tell me there is an almost perfect flashlight for every task, never one for all tasks.
My bed-side flashlight is flat, square in fact, Nitecore TUP. Does not roll, i can use it for only 30 seconds. But its crappy for all my other needs.
If id be forced to keep only one, would be Seeker4Pro in neutral, i own one in cool, too. And id also keep 3-4 spare 21700.
I respect everyone else opinions, we live different lives with different needs!
I carry a small Coast Flashlight I got at Walmart. Nothing fancy, but it's light, compact, works and fits in a pocket. Was only $11.00.
I prefer a tail switch so that’s that. Streamlight wedge or Arkfeld would be perfect IF they had a tail switch. Currently using Microstream or Warrior Mini 2.
Picked up a Warrior 2 in the recent sales and I am loving it. Wildly capable and well made light!
Love your channel sir. I love the Streamlight Wedge. I own so many lights and the streamlight is awesome
But... thank you for the video!!!! You showed a couple I've never seen before.. that I ABSOLUTELY plan on getting...... keep up the great content...God bless you
I don’t particularly care about the shape but I do care about the _size_ of my EDC light. Something single CR123/18350/whatever sized, small enough that it can float in my pocket. If it needs a pocket clip then it’s too big for my _everyday._ I’m not a warfighter, I don’t need 2,000 lumens and a crenellated strike bezel, I will not use a belt mounted holster or pouch.
A video on flashlight, without getting blinded, here, have a comment, like and a new subscriber.
Thanks much
I'm with you on the flats. I run the Surefire Stiletto. (1st version) Always there, never disappoints!
The best edc flashlight is the one that works best for you
I'm looking for my first flat flashlight. But it has to have usb-c charging, magnetic base, 90° pivoting head and at least 1000 lumens. Under $200. Is there such a flashlight?
Oh this video is straight lemon pepper! I'm digging the overlays 🤌🏽
The driest and best flavor
I will cary a different light day to day depending on the day. Most the time I’ll pocket my Imalent LD-10 or LD-70.
The LD-10 peaks at 1200 lumens, and has a throw beam. The LD-70 peaks at 4k lumens with a flood.
Those are both rechargeable. If you haven’t heard of Imalent, check them out!
Totally sounds like me
I like crenallations, I like tail switches. I saw Nitecore flat I liked but still....
Flats are pouch batteries. The leds will outlast the batteries but maybe it won’t matter because you’ll have other $80+ flashlights laying around.
You’re comparing so many different styles and sizes of lights, it’s not even about flat or round at that point.
I carry Fenix lights 🔦
Both!!!!! Being from Buffalo..... the only right answer is both!!!!! Lol and for lights...... the wedge is awesome.... but pound for pound..... the warrior mini with a upgraded 3500 mah battery and man does it PACK A PUNCH!!!!!
I am starting to cross the bridge to flats.
Yooo... this is great content!
Have you explored Flateye from Panthervision? Seems to fit your parameters, but there isn't much content out there for them.
I've also heard great things about the streamlight stiletto....
No surefire stiletto pro?!
I agree. I got an Arkfeld and a Streamlight this year, my first foray into flats, and I love them both but I grab the Streamlight more often.
Today I'm in the office and doing some "tool-stuff" as opposed to my normal work-load so I'm carrying a P4 and Olight Baton but my norm in the office the past few months has been 50/50 Arkfeld and Streamlight and a Kershaw Leek.
I concur
Semper fi brother
Flat Is Justice!!!
But also......okluma and reylight also make AMAZING lights
I have to disagree, pretty much across the board (other than aesthetics, which are subjective). Non-replaceable cells doom most flats to obsolescence. Use-case should determine the choice, and I can only think of 1-2 where one or the other is almost necessarily better.
I guess clarification is needed. I EDC flats not survive with them. My survival kits have replaceable, big beefy behemoths.
Streamlight flashlights are typically sub-par, and the Wedgevis no exception. Low lumens, very fragile switch, minimal options. Really, the Wedge is a poor choice. For the record, the Arkfeld has way better charging than the Wedge.
Honestly, you have a table full of sub-par flashlights. There are worse flashlights, but those on your table are not the best.
And you mispronounced Rovyvon.
Flat flashlights can be good, but get a good one.
Frankly, I would not choose any of those for my EDC flashlight. I carry several flashlights, but none of those made the cut. They lack versatility. I want my carry to be as minimal as possible. Those flashlights have poor design, minimal features, or lack versatility. Since this selection of flashlights is so feature-limited, no flashlight there would eliminate a flashlight I already carry, and no flashlight there would ever be used. There is no use case in which any of those flashlights would be the best. These flashlights are a waste of money.
It seems fairly certain that, after you push these, there will be a future video in which you will recommend against carrying these.
Finally!
No use for the flats lights...just not for me.