I thought I’d share my thoughts on a nice versatile light that I have been enjoying - Wuben Lightok X3 Owl
This isn’t going to be a thorough review with testing claims, but more just my thoughts on it.
For me having a good flashlight readily available is right up there in importance with carrying a SAK or Multitool. I’ve been carrying one for almost as long as I can remember.
Wuben is not a real popular flashlight brand, but I have heard good things about their lights for a few years. It wasn’t until I saw an ad for the Owl that I decided to try one.
I was drawn to the Owl for its rotatable head and clip, but there are several “pros” for me that got me to actually purchase it
- Dual white and red lights
- the White light is Hi-Cri (good color rendering) and pretty neutral in color (not cool white like many are)
- IP65 waterproof rating
- the steel clip is nice and strong so it holds well even if attached to the outside of my bag
- magnetic base for hand free option. Couple with the rotating head, you can get light at just about any angle
- Small screen that shows battery life and lumens
Even though I really like the light, there is one big con for me
- Recharging isn’t through usb-c alone. You can charge wirelessly (magsaf), but if you do not do wireless then charging requires the proprietary box or base which you cannot purchase separately
- a smaller con is that the 700 turbo drops to 200 after just 30s. I wish it was more like a minute.
- the rated impact resistance is only 1 meter, which isn’t great. It may perform better but I prefer not to find out.
- Rather expensive to get with charge box.
I have one of these attached to my dog walking bag and another that goes between my sling and backpack. It is convenient to use whether hands free or holding. I really like the versatility.
The Charge box is nice if extra battery life is important like camping or emergencies, but a little bulky. The charge base is about the size of a cr123 battery which is not that big, but not nearly as convenient as a built-in usb-c port would be.
If you are interested in the actual manufacturer specifications, then here is a link to their site.
https://www.wubenlight.com/products/wuben-x3-best-edc-flashlightOne reason, I was drawn to do this post now is because I saw it on sale at Neal’s Gadgets for 35% off with coupon code “blackfriday” if anyone wants to try one.