kj75
Enlightened
After the big RC40-2016 that I reviewed here, time to have a closer look at the "baby-member" of the RC-series. The RC09 is the tiniest rechargeable flashlight Fenix ever made (together with the limited RC09Ti) and is also the first Fenix that has magnetic charging. In this review I will share my thoughts about this edc-light, and I will compare it also to some lights that have equal output and size. Let's see how the RC09 performs!
the baby-member of the RC-series, the RC09
that has magnetic charging
powered by XM-L2(U2)
an "every-day-carry-light"
As usual, we'll start by looking at the manufacturer specs:
Features:
· Utilizes Cree XM-L2 U2 LED with a lifespan of 50,000 hours
· Powered by one 16340 rechargeable Li-ion battery or one CR123A Lithium battery can be taken under emergency circumstance
· Magnetic suction charging port in the neck, one included 16340 rechargeable Li-ion battery
· Tailored magnetic charging cable also available in portable MICRO USB devices
· One-switch for fast and convenient operation
· Specialized two-position body clip, magnetic suction bottom
· Lock-out function avoids accidental operation
· Intelligent over-heat protection to avoid high temperature of the surface
· Low-voltage warning reminds when battery replacement is needed
· Reverse polarity protection, to protect from improper battery installation
· Digitally regulated output maintains constant brightness
· Made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum
· Premium type Ⅲ hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish
· Toughened ultra-clear glass lens with anti-reflective coating
Dimensions:
· 72mm (2.83'') length
· 21.5 (0.85'') mm head diameter
· 45-gram weight (1.59 oz) excluding battery and charging cable
And the output specs:
Unboxing:
I'm happy that it seems Fenix has banned out their blister-packages. The RC09 comes in a nice, transparent box. Through the window we have a look at the RC09, the accessories, leaflets and manual are hidden in a white carton. I like these packages: it looks neat and attractive. The light and RC09 and the parts can be (re)stored neatly. Above this, the box is complete and ready to go: All parts you need are there! Have a look at the pictures that show what's inside!
this is the new Fenix house-style
an attractive transparent box
almost all features are mentioned
all-in: this package is complete!
Impressions:
First impression: A sweet little one! I'm a lover (and not the only one I'm sure off) of little lights like this. This is really a tiny rechargeable! And it's a Fenix, that means: Excellent built, machined, anodized and finished, and the well-known "sturdy" feels. I couldn't detect any defect at first look. The grey laser engraving is well done, but personally I don't like the CE and the trash at the tailcap engraved. I think this is needed because of the "rules", but it doesn't have the looks. The clip seems a big one because of the little length of the light, but is sturdy and will prevent against accidentally loss. The smooth reflector is clean and the XM-L2(U2) is perfectly centered. More about the surprising beam later in this review! The magnet in the tailcap is a handy feature to use the RC09 hands-free. The RC09 has stable standing (to use it as a candle) also because the lanyard hole on the side. Good point! The lubed threads run smooth and also inside the RC09 is finished well. Summarizing I can tell you the overall quality and my impressions of the RC09 are very good. Please scroll down for more impression-pictures!
the RC09, a tiny Fenix
the clip is about two thirds of the light
easy to carry, easy to hide in your hand
the clip added on reverse here
stable standing to use the RC09 as a candle
the smooth and clean reflector
machining and finished (again) excellent done
runs on a 16340 cell
mind to remove the cell protection!
personally I prefer a button that has stiff structure
not my favorite: the engraving at the tail
a close up to the magnetic charging port
the reflector brings a surprising beam
the well centered XM-L2(U2) led
nice looks and black color!
a look inside the tube and the head
stable standing, even with added lanyard
runs on 16340-cell
but CR123A can also be used
hidden in the holster
with added-on lanyard
blinking during the progress, steady when fully charged
the cable can charge the light and (for example) a smartphone, but not both at same time
hands-free working thanks to the magnet in the tailcap
a "sweet" little Fenix
User interface:
The RC09 is a lightweight torch that is easy to hold and carry. The shape of head (around the button) and the knurling at the body will give good grip. Because the clip is rather big, some users prefer to remove it and add a lanyard.
Charging the light works fine and without problems. Handy that the cable can charge a micro-usb device too. Charging both isn't possible. Normally, it takes about 1,5 – 2 hours to charge a completely empty cell.
Controlling the RC09 isn't a difficult job: All modes are controlled by the same button. To turn the light on or off a long press (about 1 second) is needed. When on, short presses will guide you through the four normal modes. This works all fine and without problems. But personally, I would like to see some extra features: For example instant-low / turbo and an illuminated button to locate the light in complete darkness. The button has some special functions too: Press and hold (both from on and off) to enter strobe. Good and safe function, that can be helpful in threatening situations. Also a good feature, and a must on an "edc-light": A quick double press will (de)activate the lock-out function. The light can be locked-out by releasing the head a little too. So, the RC09 is an easy light to work with, but I have some wishes that I would like to see in future!
Modes:
The RC09 has total four normal modes, starting with: LOW > MID > HIGH > TURBO. The spacing is good, but all Fenix –fans would like to see an extra mode (1 lumen or less). One special mode, STROBE, no SOS this time. To prevent accidentally-on, the RC09 has in total two LOCK-OUT-modes. The RC09 has LOW-VOLTAGE warning mode too: If stepped down to lowest mode, the light will blink (3 times every 5 minutes) to notify the cell has almost run out of power. As expected, no momentary-on here. So, most needed modes are there, but I would prefer some extra ones.
Overheat protection:
After about 5 minutes working at turbo, the RC09 will have a step down to high. If wanted, you can directly turn to turbo again. For me, turbo is a nice feature on a light like this, but I don't use it often for longer times, because tiny lights like this aren't made for this.
Size comparison:
A comparison to some lights that have equal size and / or output. This shows also how compact this rechargeable RC09 is. I took for this the PD22UE brother and the Klarus RS16 with XP-L led.
16340-cell, Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
XM-L2(U2), XP-L (V5) and XP-L
the tails: Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
Tint:
The coolwhite tint of the RC09 isn't bluish (like the PD22UE) and less neutral than the tint of the Klarus RS16. Check the picture below!
Beamprofile:
As I mentioned earlier, the profile has surprised me. The combination of this reflector and the used led result in a big hotspot, medium corona and also a lot of spill. This will give the RC09 a nice, some floody beam with wide angle. Very useful at shorter distance, and that what a light like this is made for. The beam is clean, without defects. No PWM found at any mode. Please scroll down to see the outdoor pictures too!
Beamshots:
Will start my beamshot-session by shining at a white wall. Distance to the wall about 0,75 meters. Starting with the four output modes, followed by a GIF.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 1/125 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
Going outside now. I'll show you the output of RC09 when shining in the forest. Mind the wide beam here. After that some GIF's that show the RC09 against the PD22UE-brother and the Klarus RS16.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 4.0 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
the RC09 compared to the PD22UE, both lights at highest mode:
the RC09 against the Klarus RS16, both at highest mode:
Location 2; tree at about 35 meters:
Conclusion:
I can say it in a few words: The RC09 will replace my actual edc-light. This tiny, lightweight Fenix, that can easily be recharged, is built well, feels durable and has a nice profile and enough output. For the price of around € 65,- (in my region) you'll receive a complete package, ready to go.
Compared to the PD22UE, I would pick the RC09 because of the size, the magnetic cap and the beamprofile; but I prefer PD22UE's interface above the RC09's. Again I would ask Fenix for a moonlight-mode and an illuminated or glow-in-the dark switch.
The magnetic charging will ensure waterproofness and simple charging. Only contra is that you'll always need the special cable, this is the advantage of a micro-usb charging port. Maybe Fenix will bring this as an accessory, for example to take it with you as spare-cable.
I can recommend the RC09 for those who look for a new edc!
Special thanks to Fenixlight and KATO for providing the RC09!
the baby-member of the RC-series, the RC09
that has magnetic charging
powered by XM-L2(U2)
an "every-day-carry-light"
As usual, we'll start by looking at the manufacturer specs:
Features:
· Utilizes Cree XM-L2 U2 LED with a lifespan of 50,000 hours
· Powered by one 16340 rechargeable Li-ion battery or one CR123A Lithium battery can be taken under emergency circumstance
· Magnetic suction charging port in the neck, one included 16340 rechargeable Li-ion battery
· Tailored magnetic charging cable also available in portable MICRO USB devices
· One-switch for fast and convenient operation
· Specialized two-position body clip, magnetic suction bottom
· Lock-out function avoids accidental operation
· Intelligent over-heat protection to avoid high temperature of the surface
· Low-voltage warning reminds when battery replacement is needed
· Reverse polarity protection, to protect from improper battery installation
· Digitally regulated output maintains constant brightness
· Made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum
· Premium type Ⅲ hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish
· Toughened ultra-clear glass lens with anti-reflective coating
Dimensions:
· 72mm (2.83'') length
· 21.5 (0.85'') mm head diameter
· 45-gram weight (1.59 oz) excluding battery and charging cable
And the output specs:
Unboxing:
I'm happy that it seems Fenix has banned out their blister-packages. The RC09 comes in a nice, transparent box. Through the window we have a look at the RC09, the accessories, leaflets and manual are hidden in a white carton. I like these packages: it looks neat and attractive. The light and RC09 and the parts can be (re)stored neatly. Above this, the box is complete and ready to go: All parts you need are there! Have a look at the pictures that show what's inside!
this is the new Fenix house-style
an attractive transparent box
almost all features are mentioned
all-in: this package is complete!
Impressions:
First impression: A sweet little one! I'm a lover (and not the only one I'm sure off) of little lights like this. This is really a tiny rechargeable! And it's a Fenix, that means: Excellent built, machined, anodized and finished, and the well-known "sturdy" feels. I couldn't detect any defect at first look. The grey laser engraving is well done, but personally I don't like the CE and the trash at the tailcap engraved. I think this is needed because of the "rules", but it doesn't have the looks. The clip seems a big one because of the little length of the light, but is sturdy and will prevent against accidentally loss. The smooth reflector is clean and the XM-L2(U2) is perfectly centered. More about the surprising beam later in this review! The magnet in the tailcap is a handy feature to use the RC09 hands-free. The RC09 has stable standing (to use it as a candle) also because the lanyard hole on the side. Good point! The lubed threads run smooth and also inside the RC09 is finished well. Summarizing I can tell you the overall quality and my impressions of the RC09 are very good. Please scroll down for more impression-pictures!
the RC09, a tiny Fenix
the clip is about two thirds of the light
easy to carry, easy to hide in your hand
the clip added on reverse here
stable standing to use the RC09 as a candle
the smooth and clean reflector
machining and finished (again) excellent done
runs on a 16340 cell
mind to remove the cell protection!
personally I prefer a button that has stiff structure
not my favorite: the engraving at the tail
a close up to the magnetic charging port
the reflector brings a surprising beam
the well centered XM-L2(U2) led
nice looks and black color!
a look inside the tube and the head
stable standing, even with added lanyard
runs on 16340-cell
but CR123A can also be used
hidden in the holster
with added-on lanyard
blinking during the progress, steady when fully charged
the cable can charge the light and (for example) a smartphone, but not both at same time
hands-free working thanks to the magnet in the tailcap
a "sweet" little Fenix
User interface:
The RC09 is a lightweight torch that is easy to hold and carry. The shape of head (around the button) and the knurling at the body will give good grip. Because the clip is rather big, some users prefer to remove it and add a lanyard.
Charging the light works fine and without problems. Handy that the cable can charge a micro-usb device too. Charging both isn't possible. Normally, it takes about 1,5 – 2 hours to charge a completely empty cell.
Controlling the RC09 isn't a difficult job: All modes are controlled by the same button. To turn the light on or off a long press (about 1 second) is needed. When on, short presses will guide you through the four normal modes. This works all fine and without problems. But personally, I would like to see some extra features: For example instant-low / turbo and an illuminated button to locate the light in complete darkness. The button has some special functions too: Press and hold (both from on and off) to enter strobe. Good and safe function, that can be helpful in threatening situations. Also a good feature, and a must on an "edc-light": A quick double press will (de)activate the lock-out function. The light can be locked-out by releasing the head a little too. So, the RC09 is an easy light to work with, but I have some wishes that I would like to see in future!
Modes:
The RC09 has total four normal modes, starting with: LOW > MID > HIGH > TURBO. The spacing is good, but all Fenix –fans would like to see an extra mode (1 lumen or less). One special mode, STROBE, no SOS this time. To prevent accidentally-on, the RC09 has in total two LOCK-OUT-modes. The RC09 has LOW-VOLTAGE warning mode too: If stepped down to lowest mode, the light will blink (3 times every 5 minutes) to notify the cell has almost run out of power. As expected, no momentary-on here. So, most needed modes are there, but I would prefer some extra ones.
Overheat protection:
After about 5 minutes working at turbo, the RC09 will have a step down to high. If wanted, you can directly turn to turbo again. For me, turbo is a nice feature on a light like this, but I don't use it often for longer times, because tiny lights like this aren't made for this.
Size comparison:
A comparison to some lights that have equal size and / or output. This shows also how compact this rechargeable RC09 is. I took for this the PD22UE brother and the Klarus RS16 with XP-L led.
16340-cell, Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
XM-L2(U2), XP-L (V5) and XP-L
the tails: Fenix RC09, Fenix PD22UE and Klarus RS16
Tint:
The coolwhite tint of the RC09 isn't bluish (like the PD22UE) and less neutral than the tint of the Klarus RS16. Check the picture below!
Beamprofile:
As I mentioned earlier, the profile has surprised me. The combination of this reflector and the used led result in a big hotspot, medium corona and also a lot of spill. This will give the RC09 a nice, some floody beam with wide angle. Very useful at shorter distance, and that what a light like this is made for. The beam is clean, without defects. No PWM found at any mode. Please scroll down to see the outdoor pictures too!
Beamshots:
Will start my beamshot-session by shining at a white wall. Distance to the wall about 0,75 meters. Starting with the four output modes, followed by a GIF.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 1/125 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
Going outside now. I'll show you the output of RC09 when shining in the forest. Mind the wide beam here. After that some GIF's that show the RC09 against the PD22UE-brother and the Klarus RS16.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 4.0 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture:
the RC09 compared to the PD22UE, both lights at highest mode:
the RC09 against the Klarus RS16, both at highest mode:
Location 2; tree at about 35 meters:
Conclusion:
I can say it in a few words: The RC09 will replace my actual edc-light. This tiny, lightweight Fenix, that can easily be recharged, is built well, feels durable and has a nice profile and enough output. For the price of around € 65,- (in my region) you'll receive a complete package, ready to go.
Compared to the PD22UE, I would pick the RC09 because of the size, the magnetic cap and the beamprofile; but I prefer PD22UE's interface above the RC09's. Again I would ask Fenix for a moonlight-mode and an illuminated or glow-in-the dark switch.
The magnetic charging will ensure waterproofness and simple charging. Only contra is that you'll always need the special cable, this is the advantage of a micro-usb charging port. Maybe Fenix will bring this as an accessory, for example to take it with you as spare-cable.
I can recommend the RC09 for those who look for a new edc!
Special thanks to Fenixlight and KATO for providing the RC09!
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