Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, pics - added new 2nd Edition WT1!

selfbuilt

Flashaholic
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
7,005
Location
Canada
Comparison of the new Fenix T1 and the Regal WT1 first edition (aka the "Wrestler").

For a detailed comparison to all the other thrower lights in my collection, please see:
Thrower review: DBS, Spear, MRV, Tiablo, Regal & clones: THROW, RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS!

UPDATE 1/7/08: I've just updated the throw and runtime numbers/graphs with the preliminary results from the new second edition WT1 currently being sold by tango-lui in the Dealer's forum. Sorry no pics, but the light looks exactly the same as shown in the dealer's thread (with updated holster).

The contenders:

From left to right: Fenix T1, Regal WT1 (first edition)

T1-1.jpg


These 2xCR123 lights represent one of the latest trends in appealing to more "tactical" personal LED lighting. Build like tanks, they sport deeper reflectors for more throw than standard lights. Although still not in the range of the monster throw lights (see my review of those here), they do throw further than the current single cell champion, the Lumapower D-mini. Outfitted with Cree Q5 emitters, I thought I'd give you a quick run-down of their features and output.

Included in the package:

Fenix T1 – purchased from fenixtactical.com.

T1-2.jpg


T1-3.jpg


T1-4.jpg


Note the light only comes with an OP textured reflector. The reflector has an unusual design: it sits higher on the emitter than normal, with a sloped edge leading to the opening for the emitter. This produces a much smoother transition from hotspot to corona, and helps to reduce the infamous Cree rings (see beamshots below)

Regal WT1 (first edition) – "CPF special" bought directly from Regal light. A second generation is now available from tango-lui - see the current thread in the Dealer's forum on CPFMP

WT1-1.jpg


WT1-2.jpg


WT1-3.jpg


The smooth reflector is shown above, but the light also comes with an OP textured reflector. Beamshots below are taken with the OP reflector, for direct comparison to the T1.

Beamshots:

Spillbeam comparison at ~.5 meters from a wall. Both lights are running on 2xCR123A with OP reflector, on Hi. The WT1 is focussed for maximum throw.

T1-6.jpg


T1-7.jpg


Beam observations:
  • The Fenix T1 produces one of the smoothest beam profiles I've seen for a Cree emitter, while still maintaining considerable throw. :thumbsup:
  • The Regal WT1 still shows signs of rings even with the OP reflector installed, so I recommend running it on the smooth reflector for max throw.
  • My first edition WT1 has a slightly misaligned emitter, leading a darker semi-circular region on one side of the hotspot. I've seen this before on other lights, and I think it stems from not having the emitter/star sitting perfectly flat against the heatsink. My second edition WT1 is well centered.
  • The Fenix T1 is brighter overall, with a broader hotspot and wider spillbeam than the WT1. However, The WT1 has a more focused hotspot with further throw.
  • Note that the WT1 can be slightly defocused into a broader hotspot by turning the head counter-clockwise relative to the body tube.

Overall Output:

For overall output comparisons, here are the results of a "ceiling-bounce" test in a small windowless room, with my light meter on the floor near the base of the light (which is shining upward in candle-mode). Both lights are on primaries with OP textured reflectors installed (and as always, the WT1 is focussed for maximum throw):

Regal WT1 (1st Edition, OP): 7.0 lux
Fenix T1: 9.2 lux

As you can see, the Fenix T1 is definitely putting out a lot of light. :eek:oo: Note that the second generation WT1 should be out soon (and Dealer claims to have increased output by ~10%). UPDATE: Just received my new second edition WT1, and my lightbox tells me its overall output has increased by ~13% compared to the earlier version.

Throw/Runtime Measurement Method:

Throw values are the square-root of Lux measurements taken at 1m using a light meter. Note that my lightmeter tends to report lower absolute values than most, but I have verified it is linearly responsive over the range of intensities in question.

Regal WT1 (1st Edition) - Q5 - Smooth Reflector
  • 18650 x 1 on high: 10,200 Lux
  • 18650 x 1 on low: 1,650 Lux
  • RCR x 2 on high: 11,350 Lux
  • RCR x 2 on low: 6,200 Lux
  • CR123A x 2 on high: 10,650 Lux
  • CR123A x 2 on low: 3,800 Lux
Regal WT1 (1st Edition) - Q5 - OP Reflector
  • 18650 x 1 on high: 7,900 Lux
  • 18650 x 1 on low: 1,220 Lux
  • RCR x 2 on high: 8,800 Lux
  • RCR x 2 on low: 5,000 Lux
  • CR123A x 2 on high: 8,300 Lux
  • CR123A x 2 on low: 2,750 Lux
Fenix T1 - Q5 - OP Reflector
  • RCR x 2 on high: 7,900 Lux
  • RCR x 2 on low: 1,850 Lux
  • CR123A x 2 on high: 7,600 Lux
  • CR123A x 2 on low: 1,780 Lux
Lumapower D-mini - Q2 - Smooth Reflector
  • RCR x 1 on high: 6,900 Lux
  • RCR x 1 on med: 1,950 Lux
  • RCR x 1 on low: 510 Lux
  • CR123A x 1 on high: 6,650 Lux
  • CR123A x 1 on med: 1,850 Lux
  • CR123A x 1 on low: 530 Lux

Quick update:
Regal WT1 (2nd Edition) - Q5 - Smooth Reflector
  • 18650 x 1 on high: 13,350 Lux
  • CR123A x 2 on high: 13,400 Lux
I haven't tried the 2-stage switch yet - but as you can see, throw has increased noticeably from the first edition.

Throw observations:

  • The second edition Regal WT1 throws about ~13% further than the original WT1 (both on the smooth reflector). Overall output (as measured by my light milk carton lightbox) also shows ~13% increase for this new WT1. :thumbsup:
  • Even the first edition Regal WT1 throws further than the Fenix T1. Although with the OP textured reflector installed in the WT1, the throw is just slightly higher than the T1 (at least as measured by lux @1m).
  • The Fenix T1 is an impressive thrower for its size, although the beam is bit more diffused with a wider hotspot than any of the dedicated "thrower" lights out there.
  • I've added the single battery D-mini Q2 Digital with smooth reflector for comparison purposes. As you can see, it doesn't throw quite as far as the T1/WT1, but with a Q5 emitter it should be pretty much equivalent to the OP-textured T1/WT1.

Runtimes:

These runtimes charts are different from my other reviews - they represent throw, not overall output. Since my home-made milk carton lightbox doesn't accurately capture overall output on these intense throwers, I have adjusted all my relative output numbers to initial throw (measured as the squareroot of Lux @1m). This allows you to directly compare the relative throw of each light over time on the graphs below (although you can't directly compare these graphs with my other reviews).

WT1Hi1.gif


WT1Hi2.gif


T1-9.gif


Note: For the runtimes, the WT1 is using the smooth reflector for maximum throw. With the OP reflector installed, initial throw is pretty similar to the Fenix T1 (as determined by lux @1m).

Runtime observations:

  • Just a reminder again: the Fenix T1 produces more overall output than the first edition Regal WT1 on primary CR123A. The graphs above are throw-adjusted to lux @1m with the smooth WT1 reflector. With the OP reflector in the WT1, the initial portion of the curve would look about the same as the T1.
  • The second edition WT1 has ~13% more output and throw than the first edition, but with similar runtime. :thumbsup:
  • On Hi, the Regal WT1 has very flat regulation on primaries, and a typical decay pattern on 18650.
  • On Hi, the Fenix T1 also has very flat regulation on primaries, with a nice long moon mode.
  • Both lights performed as expected on 2xRCR - flat output, but short runtime.
  • On Low, the current-controlled Fenix T1 lasted considerably longer than the the resistored-low mode of the WT1 (as expected). Note that although the WT1 throws farther than the T1 on low, their overall output on primaries is actually similar (again, the runtime graphs and lux numbers above relate to throw, not overall output).

Design elements:

  • Both lights are built like tanks, and feel very solid in the hand. Good weight and balance – I wouldn't want to be smacked with either of these! :laughing:
  • The WT1 has an aggressive 3-point scalloped bezel head, while the T1 has a silver-coloured ring with a few divits along the edge. Both would do some damage if used against another person (especially the WT1, I would think). :twak:
  • The WT1 can be de-focussed slightly by turning the head counter-clockwise relative to the body tube. This produces a broader hotspot.
  • Both lights come with forward "tactical" clickies with good tactile feel. The WT1 comes with an optional 2-stage standard reverse clicky with resistored low mode. The Fenix T1 features current-controlled low mode by a twist of the bezel.
  • The Fenix T1 has a built-in metal clip, which unfortunately scratches against the knurling every time you twist the bezel for the low mode (this needs to be fixed in future versions!)
  • The T1 also has a very rakish-looking design to the tailcap, with 3 raised points that allow for tailstanding. Normally a nice feature, but this seems a little over-done and makes it harder to access the switch. :thinking:
  • Both lights feature reverse polarity protection in case you put the batteries in wrong (new for Fenix).
  • The WT1 can take 18650, RCR, and 2xCR123A, while the Fenix T1 is CR123A and RCR only, AFAIK.
  • The Fenix T1 comes with a good quality holster, as you would expect from Fenix. The first edition WT1 came with a cheap holster – although the second generation WT1 has a much higher quality model (haven't taken pictures yet - but mine looks the same as in the Dealer's thread).
  • The first and second generation WT1 seem to have identical build quality, just a different anodizing finish (dark gray on the first edition, black or light gray on the second edition) and slightly more output/throw on the second edition.

T1-5.jpg


Build Quality:

  • Anodizing is good on both, but the WT1 is particularly outstanding (I quite like the dark gray colour of the WT1 as well). :)
  • Lettering is much higher quality on my WT1, one of the best I've seen. The Fenix logo and lettering look somewhat "splotchy".
  • The T1 has anodized threads allowing for tailcap lock-out. Unfortunately, the WT1 lacks this useful feature.
  • I haven't dissembled the T1 yet, but the tailcap switches seem to be of good quality on both lights.
  • The T1 has only one o-ring in the tail portion of the body (the WT1 has two), but it is quite thick and likely to be fairly water-proof.

Conclusions:
  • I'm not into "tactical" uses of lights, so I can't speak to how well either one functions in that regard – but both are excellent quality general use lights. My novice impression is that the Regal WT1 is better suited for tactical use than the Fenix T1.
  • The T1 is the first "throwy" Fenix light – it throws ~50% further than my Q5-equipped L2D. With some minor body improvements (e.g. clip replacement, altered tailcap edges), this will be a great light. Its overall beam pattern is very pleasing, and a good balance between throw and spill.
  • The Regal WT1 has excellent throw for its size – in fact, the first edition WT1 performance matches the first generation MRVs (P4/Q2). The second generation WT1 has ~13% more throw and overall output than the first edition.
  • As you might guess, I like both lights. :twothumbs
 
Last edited:

jzmtl

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Dec 4, 2006
Messages
3,123
Location
Montreal, Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

Nice, thanks for the runtime graph! Are there any plans for doing one for low mode?

The clip can be bend out manually so it doesn't contact body, quite easy to do.

One problem I have with the fenix forward switch is it needs to be pushed in further than I'd like to activate momentary mode. I'd like one that activate with a light touch, less stress on thumbs if I hold it in momentary for a while.
 

JKL

Enlightened
Joined
Nov 9, 2006
Messages
276
Location
Italy
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

icon14.gif
Nice review Selfbuilt.

A very interesting contest between the T1 and the WT1,
my choice has been to buy the second one because, IMHO, the WT1 has much more versatility.

Even if I have the DBS Q5 and the Tiablo Q5, I'm very happy with the Regal WT1.:grin2:

I hope that on the next Fenix T1 version some aspects will be improved.
popcorn.gif


Thanks Selfbuilt, :goodjob: as usual.
 
Last edited:

woodrow

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Feb 7, 2006
Messages
2,027
Location
New Mexico
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

Nice!, review again Selfbuilt. I will have to pick up a Fenix T1...and possibly the Regal light when (if) they get an American distributor.

Thanks again for the runtime and lux graphs.
 

selfbuilt

Flashaholic
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
7,005
Location
Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

Just updated the main post with throw values on RCR. As expected, the Fenix T1 keeps it's output on RCR fairly consistent with primaries, but the WT1 is considerably brighter on low (as you would expect for a resistored setup).

Nice, thanks for the runtime graph! Are there any plans for doing one for low mode?
When I get time ... :). RCR Hi mode runtimes will be posted later today, and low modes will follow when available.

The clip can be bend out manually so it doesn't contact body, quite easy to do.
Yeah, but it needs a fair bit of force. I thought I had done just that, then noticed a few minutes later it was back touching again. And of course, this would negate the point of having a clip. Would have been better if they have made it removable.

One problem I have with the fenix forward switch is it needs to be pushed in further than I'd like to activate momentary mode. I'd like one that activate with a light touch, less stress on thumbs if I hold it in momentary for a while.
Agreed, a lighter touch would be nicer, especially given all the build-up around the tailcap rim.
 
Last edited:

jirik_cz

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Jul 29, 2007
Messages
1,605
Location
europe
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

Excellent review as usual! :twothumbs:thanks::goodjob:
 

jzmtl

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Dec 4, 2006
Messages
3,123
Location
Montreal, Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

Agreed, a lighter touch would be nicer, especially given all the build-up around the tailcap rim.

What I noticed last night is the switch from factory has no lubrication whatsoever. Unassemble the tail cap, try push some silicone grease into the switch itself where the plunger goes in, click a few times and repeat, and it operates easier.
 

selfbuilt

Flashaholic
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
7,005
Location
Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

Just added runtimes on Hi for RCR. No surprises here - flat output, short runtime.

May take me awhile to do the low runtimes, as I'm travelling again the next few days and am expecting a few more lights to arrive shortly. But I fully expect the T1 will kick the WT1's butt on low. ;) We'll see ...

:wave:
 

woodrow

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Feb 7, 2006
Messages
2,027
Location
New Mexico
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

I just ordered one form Mike at PTS. It should be here Friday. (UPS 2nd day)

I can't wait to get it!

Thanks to everyone for their great reviews!
 

RGB_LED

Enlightened
Joined
Jun 17, 2006
Messages
995
Location
North of 43
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

Great review selfbuilt! :twothumbs I initially wrote off both the T1 and WT1 as I have been concentrating more on 1-cell lights and have ordered about 5 lights in the last two months...

But, after this review, I think I need to add a thrower to my list of lights... :naughty:. What surprises me is that the pictures are a bit deceptive; in the side-by-side comparisons, it looks like the T1 is brighter than the WT1 (hot-spot and corona), yet the WT1 actually puts out more lux overall. On second review, maybe the hot-spot on the WT1 appears actually brighter, but you are right in your assessment that the Fenix has a very smooth transition from hot-spot to corona - amazing. I just wish that that the tailcap wasn't shaped like that as I'm not too fond of the design. Oh well.

Btw, your review on the throwers is top-notch as well. :goodjob:
 

selfbuilt

Flashaholic
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
7,005
Location
Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

What surprises me is that the pictures are a bit deceptive; in the side-by-side comparisons, it looks like the T1 is brighter than the WT1 (hot-spot and corona), yet the WT1 actually puts out more lux overall.
Actually, the T1 seems to put out more light overall, according to my lightbox and the ceiling bounce test (consistent with what the beamshot shows). The runtime graph shows a higher value for the WT1 because it is adjusted for center throw.

I always hesitate to present the graphs this way, but throw is what matters to most people with these light, so that's the way the I do it for the thower lights. Besides, I don't really trust the exact output values of my lightbox or ceiling bounce on such strong throwers.

It's very hard to get reliable overall output comparison data when the lights are so focussed, unless I remove the reflectors and bezel (but there can be differences induced by that manipulation as well). In any case, I can't open the T1 anyway. ;)

I must say, I'm really impressed with the T1 beam - an excellent balance of throw and spill, with smooth transition and wider spill area. Good all-around reflector design. The WT1 is more of a pocket version of the bigger throwers.
 

rizky_p

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Mar 26, 2006
Messages
1,440
Location
13th Colony
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

thanks for the hard work.

Wondering whether 17670 will fit and liight up T1?

thanks
 

woodrow

Flashlight Enthusiast
Joined
Feb 7, 2006
Messages
2,027
Location
New Mexico
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, lots of pics.

I got mine today. Thanks PTS! Selfbuilt you are right. It does have a great beam! It feels incredibly tough, and it does have some weight to it, but its not heavy. I really like the simple bezel twist to go from high to low...all the while having a forward clicky. I also do not find the clicky that tough to use.

Another light I am not sad I have bought! Actually, I would take this light over a Tiablo. It is small, has two levels, is tough, has great spill and very good and usable throw. Combine that with being freaking bright and having a perfect tint, whats not to like...plus it is easy on batteries too. Seriously, ignore the mockers and get one of these if you have not. It is a great light!

Thanks again for helping me decide to get one selfbuilt!
icon14.gif
 

selfbuilt

Flashaholic
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
7,005
Location
Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, pics - Low mode added

Runtimes on primaries on low just added to main post. As expected the T1 definitely spanked the WT1 for runtime. ;)

I haven't done the other battery tests yet, and they will have to wait since my lightbox is tied up for some upcoming invited reviews. More details coming soon. :sssh:
 

garence

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Nov 26, 2007
Messages
164
Location
outer limits
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, pics - Low mode added

Great review, selfbuilt! I've already got a WT1 on order--looks like a superb light.

But I'm very curious about the low runtimes you've shown on the WT1. Light Reviews reported 970 minutes to 50% on the low setting running CR123 batteries, compared to your 434 minutes. What do you suspect accounts for such a dramatic difference?
 

selfbuilt

Flashaholic
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
7,005
Location
Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, pics - Low mode added

But I'm very curious about the low runtimes you've shown on the WT1. Light Reviews reported 970 minutes to 50% on the low setting running CR123 batteries, compared to your 434 minutes. What do you suspect accounts for such a dramatic difference?
Good question ... one thing I notice is the x2x3x2's doesn't seem to throw as far as mine does on low. The difference isn't huge, but it is noticeable, suggesting the resistor may not be same (giving his a slight advantage). Doesn't seem to be enough to explain the difference, though. :thinking:

Things might become clearer once I have a chance to do the RCR and 18650 runtimes. Lightbox is a little busy right now with a number of invited reviews, but I may have time to get the RCR runs done tomorrow ... stay tuned ...
 

selfbuilt

Flashaholic
Joined
May 27, 2006
Messages
7,005
Location
Canada
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, pics - Low mode added

Just added RCR low mode runtime on WT1 ...

As you'll see, there's clearly a big difference between mine and the one reviewed at lightreviews.info. If you look at x2x3x2's throw numbers, you'll see his throws a lot less on low on RCR, helping to explain the much longer runtimes he found. So, it definitely seems like a different resistor is at play.

My second generation WT1 has shipped, and should hopefully be here over the holidays, so I will update this review with those results once it gets here.

Happy holidays! :party:
 

garence

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Nov 26, 2007
Messages
164
Location
outer limits
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, pics - Low mode added

Just added RCR low mode runtime on WT1 ...

As you'll see, there's clearly a big difference between mine and the one reviewed at lightreviews.info. If you look at x2x3x2's throw numbers, you'll see his throws a lot less on low on RCR, helping to explain the much longer runtimes he found. So, it definitely seems like a different resistor is at play.

My second generation WT1 has shipped, and should hopefully be here over the holidays, so I will update this review with those results once it gets here.
Thanks for the add and looking forward to your results with the v2! :grin2:
 

SlotCAR

Newly Enlightened
Joined
Jun 27, 2006
Messages
49
Re: Fenix T1 vs. Regal WT1: RUNTIMEs, pics - Low mode added

I'm impressed with the Regal WT1 [Version II].

I just finished two run time tests with AW 18650's and got 3 hrs 22 mins to 50% on high.

I have now switched it to the OP reflector and the 2-stage reverse clicky. Not a bad combination although the reverse clicky is a little firm compared to the forward clicky. I just want the 2 light levels the 2-stage yields.

- SlotCAR
 
Top