Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO +

selfbuilt

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Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO +

Warning: even more pic heavy than usual! :sweat:

UPDATE March 29, 2012: There was a glitch/hack of the CPF system on March 12, 2012 causing a number of posts to have an earlier date stamp than the main review. The review has now been moved back up to the top of the thread, but the date stamp is now off. The review was originally posted on November 15, 2011.

UPDATE April 19, 2012: To clarify, all three of my review samples were received in October-November of 2011. The first version (batch code V1.10) experienced flickering issues on Turbo. The second (batch code V1.11) experienced an emitter failure. The third was also batch code V1.11, but apparently with improved emitter soldering. Subsequent to the completion of this review, I understood Nitecore was going to adjust to lower return set point for the thermal sensor, to try and reduce the variability in the hysterisis function noted in my review samples (i.e., the oscillations between Hi and Turbo). I presume this change was made to later V1.11 lights, but have no specific knowledge. Recently, a V1.12 has appeared on the market, which seems to have a circuit change causing the red LED ring around the on-switch to light up continuously when the light is on. But there may have been other circuit changes introduced over time, including throughout the V1.11 batch run.


TM11013.jpg


The "Tiny Monster" TM11 is an aptly-named 3xXM-L, high-output light from Nitecore. Does it live up to its 2000 lumen specs? Scroll on, gentle reader … ;)

Reviewer's note: Nitecore has actually sent me a number of iterations of the TM11 to test, as the first batches had a number of issues (mainly circuit-related). I will report on the difference between the samples as we go along.

Manufacturer's Specifications:
  • LED: Three CREE XM-L LEDs
  • Four Ouput Levels:
  • Turbo: 2000 Lumens for 1h15m
  • High: 1100 Lumens for 3h
  • Medium: 550 Lumens for 7h30m
  • Low: 200 Lumens for 18h
  • Integrated Thermal protection circuit prevents overheating
  • Uses either 4 x 18650s or 8 x CR123 Batteries
  • Can run off of 1 x 18650 or 2 x CR123A in emergency situations
  • Exceptionally long runtimes using 4×18650 Li-ion Batteries
  • Patented Single Button two-stage switch offers versatile functionality
  • Patented Integrated power indicator displays remaining battery power
  • Power indicator secondary function displays battery voltage (Accurate to 0.1V)
  • Coated mineral glass lens resists scratches
  • Aluminum reflector ensures a smooth and powerful beam
  • Stainless steel retaining ring protects the core components from damage
  • Constructed from aircraft grade aluminum alloy
  • HA III Military grade hard anodized
  • IPX-8 Waterproof to 2m
  • Impact Resistant to 1.5m
  • Dimensions
  • Length: 135mm
  • Head Diameter: 60 mm
  • Tube Diameter: 50mm
  • Weight: 336g (without battery)
  • Accessories: Quality holster, Lanyard, Spare O-ring
  • MSRP: ~$260
TM11012.jpg


Packaging is a cardboard box with built-in packaging foam. Inside is the light, belt holster, extra o-ring, simple wrist lanyard, and manual. The wrist lanyard seems to need some user assembly, but I'm not sure how you open the plastic base to insert/thread the attachment wire. (UPDATE: you don't - it is just a guide wire to thread the thicker lanyard through - scroll down to the first few responses for user pics).

TM11036.jpg

TM11002.jpg

From left to right: Redilast Protected 18650; Nitcore TM11; 4Sevens X10 Maelstrom, S18 Maelstrom, Olight SR92.

All dimensions are given with no batteries installed:

Nitecore TM11: Weight: 342.6g (476g with 8xCR123A), Length 135.3mm, Width (bezel): 59.5mm
4Sevens S18: Weight: 700g (800g with 6xCR123A), Length: 233mm, Width (bezel) 63.0mm, (tailcap) 25.6mm
4Sevens X10: Weight: 156.9g (245.7g with 1x26650), Length: 135.5mm, Width (bezel): 46.0mm
Olight SR90: Weight: 1.6 kg (with battery pack), Length: 335mm, Width (bezel): 97mm
Olight SR92: Weight: 1.15 kg (with battery pack), Length: 271mm, Width (bezel): 98mm

Here is a potentially better scale reference: :whistle:

TM11038.jpg


The TM11 is definitely the most compact 3xXM-L light I've tested to date. :eek:oo:

TM11014.jpg

TM11017.jpg

TM11023.jpg

TM11026.jpg


Anodizing is a flat black, and seems in excellent shape on all my samples. There is some knurling on the head and body, of reasonable aggressiveness. Overall grip is certainly decent.

Labels are rather extensive – in additional to the usual maker and model information, you also have a 5-point series of warnings about the light (in a very tiny, but legible, font). :rolleyes:

Light has a stainless steel bezel ring, slightly scalloped. The light can tailstand. :)

The TM11 uses a two-stage (two-pressure) electronic switch, located near the head. There is also a clear ring around the switch that hides a red LED light – the ring glows to indicate battery status, voltage, and standby modes. Scroll down for an explanation of the interface.

Battery handle is quite compact, and easily houses 4x18650 or 8xCR123A. The battery compartments are molded right into the aluminum, with a common negative terminal contact plate. You don't need to fill all the wells for the light to work, but should expect lower runtime (and Turbo mode is not recommended on anything but the full complement of cells). Again, scroll down for more info.

Screw threads are anodized for lock-out. :thumbsup:

Note the later shipping samples have a slightly different looking contact plate in the head, with a bit of a shiny silver material exposed near the negative contact ring (i.e. the blue background doesn't fully cover the board).

UPDATE January 19, 2012: There has been a lot of confusion about which types of 18650s will fit and work in this light. I have expanded my comments in the Potential Issues section of the review, but basically it is somewhat hit-or-miss with individual samples and the newer high-capacity 3100mAh cells (due to the greater length of these cells). For example, my 4GREER 3100mAh cells (based on the Panasonic NCR18650 and 69.0mm in height) worked in one TM11 sample and not another. As a result of the tolerances of individual batches, you may have difficulty getting the light to work with anything outside the 67-69mm height range. Also, true flat-top cells (where the platic wrapping is higher than the contact button, as on many of the higher capacity AW cells) will definitely not work in the light.

User Interface

The TM11 uses an innovative two-stage electronic switch in the head. For Max output, press firmly and hold for momentary, or press firmly and release quickly for locked-on Max.

For the Lo/Med/Hi modes, only half-press the switch (again, hold for momentary, release quickly for locked-on). Light will come on in the memorized lower output mode. To switch modes when locked-on, simply half-press and quickly release the switch again. The light will advance to the next output, in repeating sequence of Lo – Med – Hi.

The light has memory, and will retain the last lower output used.

Timings and pressure needed take a little getting used, but eventually you should be able to navigate through the modes reliably. Note that when in momentary Lo/Med/Hi, you can press further for momentary Max.

The light will read-out the voltage of the cells when you first connect the head, by a series of red flashes around the on-off switch. The voltage reading seems a bit high on all the TM11 samples I was set (i.e. 18650s that read 4.2V on my DMM typically read out as 4.4V on the TM11s).

After the initial voltage read-out, the light will then flash once every three seconds (when off), to let you know you are in standby mode. When on, the indicator will also flash red as the batteries begin to drain, at increasing frequency. Note the indicator only comes on as the batteries are nearing exhaustion (and the light is about to fall out of regulation).

A "hidden" strobe mode can be accessed by two rapid full presses of the switch from On. Turn off or double-click again to return to constant output modes.

For a more detailed examination of the build and user interface, please see my video overview: :wave:



Video was recorded in 720p, but YouTube defaults to 360p. Once the video is running, you can click on the 360p icon in the lower right-hand corner, and select the higher 480p to 720p options, or even run full-screen.

PWM/Strobe

There is no sign of PWM at any output level – I believe the light is actually current-controlled as claimed. :)

I did however detect some high frequency noise on the Lo/Med/Hi levels, on all three samples I was sent. It does not seem to be PWM, as there is no evidence of a varying pulse width or duty cycle across output levels.

TM11-3-MedNoise.gif


Note that this 3.9 kHz noise is not visible to the naked eye – the beam appears perfectly still, with no signs of flicker. There was no sign of this noise on Turbo.

Strobe is a true oscillating strobe, that continually changes its frequency. Here is an overview taken at at long time series (8 secs):

TM11-Strobe1.gif


The overall "average" frequency is somewhere around 9-10 Hz. But this is misleading, as the strobe actually varies considerably from pulse to pulse, as shown over the shorter time series below:

TM11-Strobe2.gif

TM11-Strobe3.gif

TM11-Strobe4.gif


In my testing, the time between pulses varied anywhere from ~60 msecs to ~250 msecs (i.e. from ~17 Hz to ~4 Hz).

I am starting to see this pattern on a number JetBeam and Nitecore lights. It is indeed very disorienting.:green:

Standby drain and Lock-out

Due to the electronic switch design, the TM11 is always drawing a small current when the light is fully connected. I measured this current as 450uA (although it would periodically spike every couple of seconds to just under 2mA for a fraction of a second).

Going with an "average" current of 0.5mA, and assuming four times 2600mAh capacity batteries, that would give you 2 years and 4.5 months before four fully charged batteries would be completely drained (given the parallel cell arrangement). Not bad, but I still always recommend you store lights physically locked out by loosening the head.

Note the light also has a "lock-out" mode, similar to the Olight SR-series (although the timings are different). With the light on, press the switch all the way down (as if you were turning off), but press and hold for over 1 sec. To re-activate the light, you need to press the switch three times quickly (within 1 sec). Nitecore claims the standby current is lower in this "locked-out" mode, but I can't directly measure it to confirm.

Beamshots:

TM11021.jpg

TM11010.jpg


The TM11 uses three Cool White XM-L emitters, each well-centered in their own reflector well (although the wells do overlap slightly). Reflector is quite shallow overall, so I would expect more of a floody beam.

And now, what you have all been waiting for. ;) All lights are on their respective max battery sources (4xAW protected 18650 for the TM11), about ~0.75 meter from a white wall (with the camera ~1.25 meters back from the wall). Automatic white balance on the camera, to minimize tint differences.

TM11-Beam001.jpg
SR92-Beam001.jpg

X10-Beam001.jpg
S18-Hi-Beam001.jpg


TM11-Beam002.jpg
SR92-Beam002.jpg

X10-Beam003.jpg
S18-Hi-Beam002.jpg


TM11-Beam003.jpg
SR92-Beam003.jpg

X10-Beam003.jpg
S18-Hi-Beam003.jpg


TM11-Beam004.jpg
SR92-Beam004.jpg

X10-Beam004.jpg
S18-Hi-Beam004.jpg


Overall output is clearly remarkably bright on the TM11 - talk about a wall of light! :eek:oo: There are some minor artefacts in the TM11 hotspot and beam at this ridiculously close range, but these are not issues in real life. Spillbeam width is remarkably wide, thanks to the shallow reflector.

To better illustrate the spillbeam, here is my famed "integrating carpet": :laughing:

TM11-CarpetBeam001.jpg


As you can see, there is a virtually a 180-degree arc of light coming out the TM11, although most of the light comes out in a ~120-degree arc.

And now for the outdoor shots. :) These beamshots were done in the style of my earlier 100-yard round-up review. Please see that thread for a discussion of the topography (i.e. the road dips in the distance, to better show you the corona in the mid-ground).

"2000-lumen" Turbo mode:

TM11Turbo-SR92.gif


"1200-lumen" Hi mode: (to compare to some lower output lights)

TM11Hi-X10-S65.gif


The outdoor shots don't really do the TM11 justice – it has an incredibly bright spillbeam, just not much as much dedicated throw as typical. :shrug: Check out the spill on the side of the images and in the immediate foreground to get a better feel for just how much light the TM11 puts out. But as you can tell from my earlier carpet shot, the TM11 really puts out a much wider wall-of-light than the camera can capture in ths positioning.

Testing Method:

All my output numbers are relative for my home-made light box setup, a la Quickbeam's flashlightreviews.com method. You can directly compare all my relative output values from different reviews - i.e. an output value of "10" in one graph is the same as "10" in another. All runtimes are done under a cooling fan, except for any extended run Lo/Min modes (i.e. >12 hours) which are done without cooling.

I have recently devised a method for converting my lightbox relative output values (ROV) to estimated Lumens. See my How to convert Selfbuilt's Lighbox values to Lumens thread for more info.

Throw/Output Summary Chart:

Effective November 2010, I have revised my summary tables to match with the current ANSI FL-1 standard for flashlight testing. Please see http://www.sliderule.ca/FL1.htm for a description of the terms used in these tables.

TM11-FL1-Summary.gif


The Nitecore TM11 is the brightest LED-based light in my collection at the moment. Output is slightly higher than my Olight SR92. :eek:oo: However, as expected, it also has the lowest throw of any of my multiple-XM-L or SST-90-based high output lights.

I would say Nitecore's ANSI FL-1 specs for output and throw are extremely accurate on Turbo – they perfectly match my testing results and estimates. :) My Lo/Med/Hi lumen estimates are slightly higher than the reported specs, but relative relationships hold.

Output/Runtime Comparison:

But first: a comparison and explanation of the various batches of TM11s I have tested.

The first shipping batch of TM11s suffered a few circuit issues – most noticeably "flickering" on Turbo. This was actually the rapid dropping down to lower output levels, or turning off completely, for fractions of a second. You can see this "flickering" effect on the initial sample Nitecore sent me (visible between ~100-130 seconds):

TM11-1-Runtime.gif


But a second issue was the rapid "cycling" between Turbo and Hi once the thermal sensor cut-in (around ~205 secs in the run above). I suspected this was due to an overly low degree of separation between set points of the thermal sensor (i.e. once the light drops down to the lower output level, temperature should also drop slightly, potentially causing a return to the Turbo level if the set point trigger is too close).

I also suspected this oscillation was exacerbated by the external cooling fan setup that I use. So to test this theory, I tried turning the cooling fan off for a period of time (between ~275 secs and ~480 secs in the run above). As you can see, once the fan is off, the light begins spending more time in the Hi mode (and less in the Turbo mode), and soon stays in the Hi mode for an extended period. Turning the fan back on caused it to again rapidly cycle back and forth between Hi and Turbo.

Here is a 25 sec blow-up of the period when it was cycling the most rapidly, shortly after turning off the fan:

TM11-1-Runtime-blowup.gif


Again, the above is the most rapid period of cycling, without cooling applied. As you can tell from the earlier trace, this cycling slows down and extinguishes (i.e. stays at the Hi output level) within a couple of minutes – as long as no external cooling is applied.

The "flickering" issue earlier in the run is a much greater concern, and far more noticeable. Nitecore sent me a second sample with a revised circuit to test, as shown below:

TM11-2-Runtime.gif


This is exactly what you would want to see - no flickering, and a proper sustained step-down. :thumbsup:

Unfortunately, this sample quickly suffered from an issue that has been observed on some of the early batches of TM11s - failure of one of the emitters (i.e. one became permanently dimmed to "moonlight" levels of output). Nitecore has identified this problem as a soldering issue on some of the initially produced lights. They report having since revised their processes, and no longer expect this to be an issue.

A third sample was thus sent to me, where both the flickering and emitter burn-out issues were resolved. Unfortunately, like the original sample, this third sample has a relatively low degree of separation between thermal sensor set points – and thus tends to cycle back-and-forth under a cooling fan once the step-down to Hi occurs. :shrug:

Here is a quick run on the final sample - without cooling - to allow me to measure the surface temperature of the head with a thermal probe. I manually turned the light off after 15 mins, to also observe the cool down period.

TM11-3-Runtime.gif


Note the thermal probe was placed in-between the upper-most set of fins (i.e. roughly half-way between the switch and the bezel ring). Maximum external temperature leveled off around 59 degrees C. Temperature drops off fairly rapidly once the light is turned off.

As you can see, even without cooling, it takes several minutes for the thermal cycling to abate - but the light does eventually stabilize at the lower Hi output level.

Long story short, it seems there remains a fair degree of variability form one sample to the next in how wide of a gap there is between the temperature set points needed to trigger the mode level switch. Thus, on Turbo, you could see a stable step-down to Hi (even under cooling, as in sample #2), or have several minutes of cycling before stabilizing at the Hi output level (even without cooling, as in sample #3).

Since sample #3 is the final, fully-functioning sample that I received, all comparison runtimes below are based on this model. However, as I do all my extended runtimes under cooling, expect to see continued oscillations on the Turbo runtimes.

TM11-Hi18650.gif


TM11-Med18650.gif


TM11-HiCR123A.gif


Note that runtimes on Turbo would likely have been slightly longer, if this sample hadn't repeatedly cycled back-and-forth from Turbo to Hi. Your experience may thus be slightly different, depending on the temperature set point range of your individual sample (again, see explanation above).

When taking into account the lower capacity 18650 cells used here, Nitcore's ANSI FL-1 runtime values see very believable. If anything, they seem to be slightly under-estimating the runtime and/or output (especially on Lo). :thumbsup:

Potential Issues

The circuit on the initial production run had issues with "flickering" (i.e. shutting off briefly) on Turbo output. Currently shipping versions have a revised circuit that fixes this issue.

Some of the initial production runs may have had emitter soldering issues, leading to rapid emitter failure. Nitecore believes they have resolved this issue going forward.

The temperature set point range used to trigger a mode switch can vary, and may cause the light to jump back and forth between Hi and Turbo – exacerbated in my runtimes by the external cooling fan I use. Should be less of an issue in practice, but you may still experience this effect on some lights, at least initially.

Light gets hot quickly (e.g. without cooling, my final sample reached 50 degrees C surface temp in 4.5 mins). I recommend you do not tailstand the light on Turbo or Hi for extended periods (or take great caution before picking it up again if you do!). Best to constantly hand-hold the light when in use, or limit yourself to the Lo/Med when using as a candle.

Unprotected 18650 cells - and extremely long (high-capacity) protected 18650 cells - may not activate in the light. For example, my unprotected AW IMR-18600 cells (65.1mm height) would not activate in the light, even with a magnet spacer to raise the height to 66.0mm. Most my raised-top protected cells, from my AW protected 2200mAh (67.4mm height) to my Redilast 2900mAh cells (68.9mm height), worked fine. However, my unusually long button-top 4GREER 2400mAh cells (69.2mm height) were too tall and would not let the head screw down all the way. My 4GREER 3100mAh cells (69.0mm) worked in one TM11 sample, but not another. Basically, 67-69mm seems to be the height tolerance range for the light, and should safely cover most primaries and button protected 18650s out there. True flat-top cells (where the positive contact plate is recessed below the level of the wrapping) will definitely not work in this light.

The two-stage pressure switch takes a little getting used to (i.e. there is light touch difference between half-press and full-press).

Due to the electronic switch, the light has a stand-by current when fully connected. But this current is fairly low, and there are options for an electronic as well as physical lock-out.

Grip elements are reasonable, but people with smaller hands may find the light awkward to hold for extended periods.

Preliminary Observations

Despite some initial circuit and soldering issues, the currently shipping TM11 lights live up to their "tiny monster" name - this is undoubtedly the highest level of output I've seen in a light this size to date. :sweat:

I am happy to report that the manufacturer specifications for output, throw and runtime all seem very accurate in my testing. Overall efficiency is excellent, with very impressive runtimes on the Lo/Med/Hi levels especially (given their output levels). :thumbsup:

Regulation is similarly excellent, and the thermal sensor-driven step-down on Turbo is a sensible precaution in a light this size. Note that the repeated "cycling" pattern between Hi and Turbo shown in my runtimes is partially an artefact of the externally-supplied cooling I use during my testing. In regular hand-held use, the light should either stably maintain the Hi level immediately after stepping down, or do so after a few minutes of cycling.

This inter-sample variability in the thermal set point range for triggering mode switching is the major nagging issue with the light, now that the more serious on/off "flickering" and emitter failures have been addressed. Hopefully Nitecore can standardize this soon.

UPDATE NOV 22, 2011: I've had some correspondence back and forth with Nitecore's engineers, and they agree that a possible source of the oscillations is an overly narrow temperature range over which the temperature sensor responds. They are going to try lowering the temperature set point at which the light returns to Turbo output, to see if that resolves the issue.

The build feels solid and robust, and I found handling to be good. However, those with smaller hands may find it a bit awkward to carry for extended periods. I suppose you could practice by walking around holding a can of soup for a while first. :laughing:

I like the interface and the design of the electronic switch, although it does take a bit of practice to get the pressure and timings just right (especially if you want to use momentary modes). I am glad to see they have kept the standby current to an acceptably low level, and have provided a variety of lock-out options. :thumbsup:

The light has considerable battery flexibility by running the four wells in parallel – you can thus run the light in 1x, 2x, 3x, or 4x 18650 configurations (or 2x, 4x, 6x, 8x CR123A). Although I haven't tested it here, I recommend you don't try to run Turbo on anything less than the full 4x/8x complement of cells (or Hi on anything less than 3x/6x). Although in a pinch, I'm sure you could get by with an IMR-18650 or two (if you had ones that were long enough to activate the light – my AW IMR-18650 are too short, even with a magnet spacer).

I am sure this light will garner a lot of attention, given its tiny size and incredible output. Long-term stability is unknown, but Nitecore seems to be diligent in working through the initial issues identified on the first production runs. I've certainly found it a fun light to play with - looking forward to hearing the experiences of other members here. :wave:

UPDATE December 12, 2011: It was reported in another thread that the diffuser from the Eagletac M3C4 screws down and fits the TM11 exactly. I just attempted this, and can confirm it works. :thumbsup:

UPDATE January 19, 2012: I've expanded my comments on the length compatibility of 18650 cells. Note that many of the new 3100mAh cells may not activate in this light, depending on their exact height and the tolerances of your individual sample. I recommend you make sure your cells are between 67-69mm, to ensure reliable contact.

UPDATE April 19, 2012: To clarify, all three of my review samples were received in October-November of 2011. The first version (batch code V1.10) experienced flickering issues on Turbo. The second (batch code V1.11) experienced an emitter failure. The third was also batch code V1.11, but apparently with improved emitter soldering. Subsequent to the completion of this review, I understood Nitecore was going to adjust to lower return set point for the thermal sensor, to try and reduce the variability in the hysterisis function noted in my review samples (i.e., the oscillations between Hi and Turbo). I presume this change was made to later V1.11 lights, but have no specific knowledge. Recently, a V1.12 has appeared on the market, which seems to have a circuit change causing the red LED ring around the on-switch to light up continuously when the light is on. But there may have been other circuit changes introduced over time, including throughout the V1.11 batch run.

----

TM11 provided by Nitecore for review.
 
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peterharvey73

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Superb review as always Selfbuilt.

Thank you for letting me know what faults to look out for when mine arrives next week...
 

selfbuilt

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Typo :Can run off of 1 x 18660 or 2 x CR123A in emergency situations.
Great review, Cheers Norm
LOL, and that was something I cut-and-pasted from a dealer's specs. :rolleyes: I'm sure I've got more than a few in my own writing, given how long this review is. :laughing:
 

jeowf

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

but I'm not sure how you open the plastic base to insert/thread the attachment wire.

The base doesn't open. The included stiff wire is used to pull the lanyard though (nice touch by nitecore)
I think that 60 deg is maybe a bit too hot for the sensor to cut off personally it's on the very, very edge of burning-skin hot.
But overall a great torch. (save having to check battery voltages every time I load the batteries so that i'm sure i don't screw up the batts)

BPndBl.jpg
 
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brightnorm

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Selfbuilt,

Thanks for yet another outstanding review. I agree that your long beamshots don't do the light justice. I recently tested mine in an area with many trees 50-100+ feet away, and it provided a remarkably bright and broad beam that truly blew away my other lights, including Scorpion II turbo, Eagletac M3C4 XM-L (single XM-L), Catapult V2, etc. With their narrower beams, those lights may give the impression of greater brightness in a smaller area, but the TM11 is in another league entirely. For those people who want more throw it might be interesting if Nitecore offered a "moderate" turbo head option a la Scorpion. It would be closer in size to the RRT3 but have longer runtime from its 4x18650's.

In your outdoor beamshots you label the TM11 on "High". Did you mean Turbo?

My only gripe about the TM11 is the hair trigger sensitivity of the switch. If a little more pressure was required, you would be less likely to accidently go into Turbo from "Momentary daily mode", and also less likely to accidently go to a different level within momentary daily mode. The voltage meter is a great feature; I wish more lights had it.

Brightnorm
 
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varuscelli

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Great review, selfbuilt. :thumbsup:

It took me a a little bit of staring at the parts before I realized that the tiny piece of string had an actual purpose. I'm assuming it must be considered completely intuitive, but my intuition didn't immediately kick in to tell me it was a pull string to thread the lanyard.

111018-010_small.jpg


111018-011_small.jpg
 
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varuscelli

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

I'm not sure what other current users of the TM11 think about this, but after doing a bit of fumbling on more than one occasion when trying to locate the switch to turn it off (or switch modes) while using it out in the dark, I actually wish the red switch light would automatically come on when the light is switched on.

Despite the tactile recesses to the left and right of the switch that I assume are there to help the user locate the switch by feel, I'd like the red switch light to come on while the TM11 is in use to give a visual of where the switch is.

Locating the switch is not much of a problem when in high or turbo mode, but if used on the lower modes (without other reflective surfaces around to bounce light back toward the light body), the switch goes pretty much invisible. With such a fat light body, it can take a bit of spinning to actually locate the switch by feel alone, especially if you're using only one hand to control the flashlight.

Does this make sense to any of you who are using the TM11?
 

selfbuilt

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

The base doesn't open. The included stiff wire is used to pull the lanyard though (nice touch by nitecore)
It took me a a little bit of staring at the parts before I realized that the tiny piece of string had an actual purpose. I'm assuming it must be considered completely intuitive, but my intuition didn't immediately kick in to tell me it was a pull string to thread the lanyard.
:ohgeez: Of course, that makes sense. Should have clued in by the larger hole opening in the light base, to accommodate the thicker lanyard material. Thanks for the pics guys, I'm sure others will find them helpful. :)

I think that 60 deg is maybe a bit too hot for the sensor to cut off personally it's on the very, very edge of burning-skin hot.
Yeah, it is not very comfortable, to it mildly (but of course, this is just external - I don't what exactly the sensor detects internally). It would probably do better with hand-holding (i.e. would slow the rate of temperature increase). Still, if bare-handed, I expect most will not be keen to run this light on Hi or Turbo for extended periods of time ... :whistle:

In your outdoor beamshots you label the TM11 on "High". Did you mean Turbo?
No, the labels are correct. I meant to showcase how the lower "1200 lumen" level looks against other lights with lower max output. I've added some headers to those pics, to make that clearer.

My only gripe about the TM11 is the hair trigger sensitivity of the switch. If a little more pressure was required, you would be less likely to accidently go into Turbo from "Momentary daily mode", and also less likely to accidently go to a different level within momentary daily mode.
Yes, it is rather sensitive. However, I found it didn't take me long to get the feel just right (and reliably produce the level I want). Of course, that's mainly sitting around my house - in a tense situation, something tells me I'd be getting the Turbo mode no matter what I tried for. :rolleyes:

I'm not sure what other current users of the TM11 think about this, but after doing a bit of fumbling on more than one occasion when trying to locate the switch to turn it off (or switch modes) while using it out in the dark, I actually wish the red switch light would automatically come on when the light is switched on.
An interesting idea, I can see why you would want it. I suspect many would object to a constant red light during operation, but I too am curious to hear what others think.
 

Hogokansatsukan

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

As always, an excellent review.
I would pick one of these up... but I aleady did!
 

excfenix

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Mad props selfbuilt. Looks like I'm getting one. Sigh. I spent 95 (SC600--just shipped), 45 (batteries), and 50 (Pila charger); now 260 (TM11), and about 50 more for 4 x 18650s if I go with Callie's Kustoms 3100s. After this, NO MORE! edit: '2nd thought, maybe I'll get a real thrower next ;)

I too would see myself fumbling around for the switch if on low/med in the dark. So I would want that flash/3secs when on as well-- on any mode.

Also, I really hope I don't see any of that damned cycling in real use. You know, Nitecore should re-revise it so as to not do any cycling. If it needs to step down to normal hi, it should just stay there, period.

Wait, would the Kallie's Custom's 3100s fit? Are they too tall that the head wouldn't screw in all the way?
 
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light36

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

I have been waiting a long time for this review and you have not disappointed SELFBUILT(10 out of 10 as always) . I received my TM11 about 3 weeks ago and must say i truly enjoy it , if you want a huge tunnel of light this is the one for you. I compared the TM11 to my Olight SR51 , the SR51 still out throws the TM11 but it is no match for for the floody light of the TM11 and in honesty i must say it still has decent throw , just short of the SR51. Heard other people had problems with their TM11's not one with mine .

As always thank you very much for your review Selfbuilt !!!!!!.:)
 

selfbuilt

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Thanks for the support everyone. :grouphug: This was definitely a longer review than typical!

Wait, would the Kallie's Custom's 3100s fit? Are they too tall that the head wouldn't screw in all the way?
A good question, I'd ask for very exact measurements first. Again, my 68.9mm Redilast 2900mAh were fine, but my 69.2mm 4GREEER were not. :shrug:
 

varuscelli

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

It took me a a little bit of staring at the parts before I realized that the tiny piece of string had an actual purpose. I'm assuming it must be considered completely intuitive, but my intuition didn't immediately kick in to tell me it was a pull string to thread the lanyard.

111018-010_small.jpg

:ohgeez: Of course, that makes sense. Should have clued in by the larger hole opening in the light base, to accommodate the thicker lanyard material. Thanks for the pics guys, I'm sure others will find them helpful. :)

I have to admit that when I saw the parts in the photo I thought I had a broken or unassembled lanyard on my hands. I initially thought the small cord was supposed to be part of the lanyard just like lanyards for many smaller flashlights, so it took a bit of time for my brain to process what I was seeing.

Fortunately, I had recently watched a video on attaching fishing line guides to fishing poles and a very similar technique is used to finish the thread wrapping process for the guides, and eventually the similarities clicked.

Perhaps a brief reference to lanyard attachment would have been appropriate to include in the user manual. :thinking:
 

SkyPup

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Wow, this is simply a first class review!!! Nice work.

I have been using mine allot for over a month now with no issues at all. I have been leaving it on in medium mode for approximately 4 hours at a time numerous nights out and it has performed excellent with a huge flood beam and a pretty good throw.

I did put a dab of Silicon Seal below the UI button so that I could find it by touch at night when I had the light off and locked down, this makes it easy to find the switch in the dark.

It is truly a "Tiny Monster" and fully lives up to its name!

Nice work, Selfbuilt!:)
 

varuscelli

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Timings and pressure needed take a little getting used, but eventually you should be able to navigate through the modes reliably. Note that when in momentary Lo/Med/Hi, you can press further for momentary Max.

I don't own any other flashlights that have a similar capability (are there any others that allow this, by the way?), but I think that instant access from momentary Lo/Med/Hi to momentary Turbo is great. No need to release the switch -- just push further to go into momentary Turbo from whichever lower momentary mode you're currently using. Very cool.
 

tre

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

That for all the time you spent on this review. nice job. This seems like it will be a really nice light with a great UI if they can get all the bugs worked out.
 

selfbuilt

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

I don't own any other flashlights that have a similar capability (are there any others that allow this, by the way?), but I think that instant access from momentary Lo/Med/Hi to momentary Turbo is great. No need to release the switch -- just push further to go into momentary Turbo from whichever lower momentary mode you're currently using. Very cool.
This is actually my preferred two-stage "tactical" interface, pioneered (I believe) by Surefire on the L2-series lights.

On those lights, lightly press the switch for momentary Lo, press harder for momentary Max. Of course, you also have the option to screw on for locked-on (i.e. either locked off, locked Lo, or locked Max). Gives you the flexibility to set the light to constant on Lo, and then press for momentary max, for example. Quite ingenious. Lumintop has also duplicated this general switch design on their P16X light. FYI, the Surefire UB3T uses a new version of this tailcap, where you set the "Lo" state to any of the possible user-defined output modes (including max or strobe) by turning the control ring in the head.

Of course, all those lights involve an actual tailcap and physical contact/press. This is the first time I've seen this interface with an electronic switch. One downside here is that you have no option to convert your momentary to locked-on (i.e. need to flash off first). :shrug:
 

Zeruel

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Here is a potentially better scale reference: :whistle:

TM11038.jpg

That's some serious product placements. Now I feel thirsty and hungry at the same time. :p


Light gets hot quickly (e.g. without cooling, my final sample reached 50 degrees C surface temp in 4.5 mins). I recommend you do not tailstand the light on Turbo or Hi for extended periods (or take great caution before picking it up again if you do!). Best to constantly hand-hold the light when in use, or limit yourself to the Lo/Med when using as a candle.

Did you find out the maximum temperature this monster emits past the 4.5min mark?

Another fantastic review. :thumbsup:
 

GulfCoastToad

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Re: Nitecore "Tiny Monster" TM11 (4x18650, 3xXM-L) Review: RUNTIMES, BEAMSHOTS, VIDEO

Thanks for a great review. Your photos sure are grainy for ISO 80. Guess cameras have come a long way since 2007.
 

member 6142

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Well done Selfbuilt. Thanks
 

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