How do the Cree XP-E units compare to dropins like the TLE-6EX or TLE-6EXB?
I currently have a 4D and what looks like an ancient Mag LED module -- it has the markings "Mag-Lite(R)" and "4 R2H06" on the housing.
I'm thinking of either a: 3D w/Cree XP-E, a 3D + TLE-6EXB, or a 4D + TLE-6EX. Or are there more worthy competitors I should consider?
Forgive the noob question, but how would these CREE Mags work best using Eneloop AA's?
Once the supplied batteries die out I'd like to be able to use the batteries I have on hand.
I have a 3D with Malkoff drop in (I think Cree XP-G), a third generation MagLED 2D with Cree XP-E (483), a 2D TLE-6EXB, a 3D TLE-6EXB, a 4D TLE-6EX, first generation MagLED 3D (Luxeon III), and a second generation MagLED 3D with Rebel (091).
In descending order of subjective brightness and throw: 3D Malkoff, 2D XP-E, tie for 3D Rebel/3D TLE-6EXB/4D TLE-6EX, 2D TLE-6EXB, and 3D Luxeon III.
Most bang for the buck would be the 2D XP-E that I got from Home Depot last week for $14.88. The amount I spent on a 3D incan and Malkoff drop-in is enough to buy 5 2D XP-E from Home Depot!
If you insist on a MagLED I would go get a 2D or 3D Cree XP-E from Lowe's on Black Friday for $14.97.
The Terralux drop ins are perfect if you already own an incandescent Maglite. If you don't, you're better off buying a MagLED as it should be cheaper than buying a regular 3D Maglite and Terralux drop in. The latest Terralux drop ins use Rebels like the second generation MagLEDs.
As for 2D vs 3D, it's just runtime, so I would go with the 2D because it's smaller.
I use eneloops in my Rebel minimags. They are great just off the charger (1.45v), but dim as the batteries drain (1.30v). I am sure eneloops hold their voltage better than alkalines, and they can be topped off to keep good performance.
63 lumens is the old (incorrect) spec for the 2AA with XP-E, 77 lumens is correct.I was at Lowes and Home Depot this morning. The Mini Mag packaging is a bit confusing. See the
pictures below of the front and back of the same package. Regardless of what specs the package states, the cree 483 (2D) and 106 (2AA) are the most current leds? Does anyone know what the specs are for the mini mag with the 106 LED really are?
Click for a big image.
63 lumens is the old (incorrect) spec for the 2AA with XP-E, 77 lumens is correct.
There are two versions of the D-cell lights with XP-E, one is ~130 lumens and the other is ~110 lumens. The lower output XP-E is newer.