I have the old (grey) and new (clear) Lite models, and the clear is much brighter - but I don't have a Nite microlight to compare for you. I would say it's as bright as other single LED 'button' cell fob lights I have...so not a replacement for a AAA, but OK for avoiding tripping hazards in the woods at night.
...and you get the inline Phillips
I agree with Max' assessment but would like to add that Vic improved the LED some time before they changed the housing (from grey to clear). This means that last gen grey housing "Lite" SAKs are equally bright as clear housing ones. In fact, I prefer the light of my grey housing Traveler Lite to my clear housing Huntsman Lite's: the former does not dazzle the user in dark surroundings.
So, the plan is to wait until *after* the winter solstice before getting one? I thought one of the MTO sayings is “buy now, regret later”…or “it’s only money”. You choose.
You bring up a great point about the timing of my purchase. I should get one now to take full advantage of the onboard flashlight. Thanks kamakiri!
I also see that you’ve been considering the purchase since last year. I think we can safely say that you aren’t making a hasty decision.
If Kraken had a penny for every time he was pondering the issue, the Huntsman Lite would already be paid for