MadMax+:
Definitely the brightest. Not regulated, so the light will get dimmer as batteries discharge. Will operate down to .8V, so it can also be used in "chopped" single AA applications. Continuous operation may be a concern due to inadequate heatsinking.
MadMax:
Less output than the + version, this is due to a less efficient inductor design.
BadBoy series:
Regulated. 400 drives the emitter at 400mA, 500 at 500mA (500 is brigher than 400). Regulated lights will offer more consistent light output over the life of the battery.
Any module that has an upgraded Q3_ emitter will be brigher than its standard counterpart, yet consume the same amount of power. People say that the BB400 Q3_ is brighter than the BB500 standard. I personally EDC a BB400 Q3_ and run NiMH rechargeables, excellent combination...I like the regulated light output.
