kj75
Enlightened
Last summer I got the Nitecore TM16 and I was real impressed output the combination of output and throw. At the end of the year 2015 Nitecore launched an GT-upgrade on the TM26 by changing the XM-L2 U3 to the "throwy" XP-L HI V3 leds. The next upgraded TM-member I hoped for was the TM16….what should this one bring with XP-L HI's? Recently it came out, and for me it's the first light powered by four leds that should reach 1000 meters distance… I couldn't wait to compare it to the TM16-brother and will share you my experiences in this review!
the "tuned" version of the Nitecore TM16, the GT-brother
powered by four XP-L HI V3 leds
a unique combination of big output and long distance
thanks to the used leds and the deep reflectors
So let's start, as usual, with the manufacturer specs, given by Nitecore:
Features:
· Utilizes 4 CREE XP-L HI V3 LEDs
· Maximum output up to 3600 lumens
· Features advanced temperature regulation (ATR) technology
· Boasts a peak beam intensity of 252,000cd and a throw distance up to
1003 meters
· Dual-switch user interface ensures easy one-handed operation
· Features 5 brightness levels and 3 special modes
· High efficiency circuit board provides max runtime up to 610 hours
· Integrated power indicator light displays remaining battery power
(Chinese Patent: ZL201220057767.4)
· Built-in power indicator displays battery voltage (accurate to 0.1V)
· Direct access to ultra-low or turbo ensures flexibility and convenience
· Reverse polarity protection prevents damage from incorrectly inserted
batteries
· Rear tripod receptacle brings extra funtionality
· Toughened ultra-clear mineral glass with anti-reflective coating
· Constructed from aerograde aluminum alloy
· Sturdy HAIII military grade hard-anodized
· Waterproof in accordance with IPX-8 (two meters submersible)
· Impact resistant to 1.5 meters
· Tail stand capability
Dimensions:
· Length: 7.17" / 182mm
· Head diameter: 3.5" / 89mm
· Tube: 2.09/ 53mm
· Weight: 18.38oz / 521gram (without batteries)
And the output specs:
and, for comparison, the TM16 "normal-version" specs:
Unboxing:
My experience with Nitecores: the largest and most impressive members are packed in simple, colorless, brown cartons. This is the same box as the TM16 came in and the carton has the same contents too. This means still no holster, I really hope Nitecore will add this soon! Furthermore a neat box that, thanks to the protecting foam inside, the TM16GT will shield against damage. Some pictures below!
simple carton…
but often these kind of boxes content nice torches!
good protection against damage
inside: only a few spare parts and no holster
Impressions:
Because I earlier had my hands on to the TM16, this GT-brother has no surprises for me. Except the emitters the light has exactly the same parts. While having your hands-on to this searchlight, it feels "Nitecore". This means good build quality and finishing, thought-out details and user friendly. The reflectors are smooth and clean, and the leds are centered sufficiently. Machining is well done, threads are lubed well and no solder or glue rest can be found in the cap and inside the tube. Anodizing is well done, but especially with big lights like this, often the protective layer will have its weak points at the lights'edges. After some use, you will detect some chips at the anodizing. This is normal at most lights I own, but because I always take good care of my lights, it hurts... Some differences at the engraving: except the GT-addition also "Throw Boost" is mentioned on the GT. The TM16 was named "Palm-size Searchlight". Furthermore, I can't detect differences, both lights are equal, both shape and interface. Please have a look at the pictures below that tell you more about the TM16GT!
the Great Throw?-version of the Nitecore TM16
impressive, but compact
stable standing and tripod-connetable
nice proportions
can't be hidden, but is easy to control by one hand
the upgrade to XP-L HI V3 will give the lights' throw a boost
use only 18650's, no CR123A's!
anodizing and engraving well done
big buttons, easy to find
a close-up to the tripod-connector
after some (heavy) use the edges will lose the anodization
inside the tube: only button-tops!
a look into the tailcap
the leds are sufficiently centered
a close-up to the flat XP-L HI's
no strap, only a (sturdy) lanyard
the TM16GT in cold conditions
I like the looks of this big one!
taking a shower
waterproof to 2 meters depth
according to IPX-8
TM16-brothers
good interface and easy to control
User interface:
The TM16 is a big light that can't be hidden in an (average) coat-pocket. But because it is rather compact it is easy to hold in one hand and also easy to control by your thumb. I recommend to put the lanyard around your wrist; this will make the light easy portable.
As said, controlling the TM16GT by your thumb works well. The light has two buttons, one for on/off and one for mode selection. They are, equal to the TM16, separated by a notch and easy to recognize. The big buttons are easy to locate in darkness, also thanks to "standby-beacon": one flash per three seconds will help you to find your light in complete darkness. I'm really a fan of Nitecores' interface: Simply press the power button (below one) to turn the TM16 on, after that select the desired mode by using the upper button. Last used mode is memorized, except the( three) special modes. Press and hold the power button while shutting off to activate standby-beacon. With the light on, press and hold to enter the special modes, starting with strobe. In strobe mode, you can cycle through the special by short pressing the mode-button. The TM16 has also three instant modes: With the light off, press and hold the on/off button to enter LOWER, or press and hold the upper button to enter TURBO. Quick double-press the mode button to enter instant STROBE. Especially I like the direct-low and direct-turbo, I mostly start the light at one of these modes.
The buttons (both will flash) have a built-in voltage indicator. There are two ways to check the actual voltage: A quick check by short pressing the mode/upper button while the light is off. The button will flash up to three times: One time means critical, two below 50% and three above 50%. Second way to check is to unscrew the tailcap and tighten again. The indicator will inform you, accurate to 0.1 volts, about the actual voltage. I like the second way because it's more detailled. In future, I like to see the indicator that, for example the MH27 has: always accurate to 0.1 volt and activated by pressing two buttons together for a short time. Summarizing I can say this is still one of my favorite interfaces. Works well, and is easy to control by one hand. Good job Nitecore!
Modes:
The TM16GT has in total five normal modes: starting with LOWER > LOW > MID > HIGH > TURBO. Like its TM16-brother, it should be a very good addition when you could cycle up and down through the modes. Again, I refer here to the MH27-brother…The special modes are: STROBE > LOCATION BEACON > SOS. Enough modes for most situations. Also three instant-modes at the TM16: INSTANT LOWER > INSTANT TURBO > INSTANT STROBE. Good point that the TM16GT has a lock-out mode: Press and hold both buttons (when the light is off) for more than one second to enter this (until the light flashes one time). Same way to activate the light again. Personally I'd like to have a lockout by unscrewing the tailcap too. No momentary here, but for that function you need a tail-clicky. For me, on a light like this, it's not a major lack.
ATR:
Nitecore has built in Advance Temperature Regulation. This means: When the light gets overheated (mostly while using turbo or high for a longer time) the output will decrease dynamically to prevent the TM16GT against damage. This means that the light will not switch a full step down from (for example TURBO to HIGH), but actual mode will continue with less output.
Size comparison:
The TM16GT side-by-side to its TM16-brother, and also compared to two big XP-L HI-throwers: the Olight SR52UT Intimidator and the Acebeam T20 XP-L HI.
18650 cell, Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
XP-L HI, 4x XM-L2(U2), 4 x XP-L HI (V3) and one XP-L HI
the tails: Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
Tint:
The TM16GT has compared to the TM16 a cooler tint. Luckily no green, like earlier (dedomed) XP-L leds. There's difference in the spill: The TM16 has some blue in the spill, the TM16GT's spill is more neutral. The Acebeam is an exception: I never saw a XP-L HI that has such a warm tint! The difference in profiles is also clearly shown here!
Beamprofile:
The upgrade to XP-L HI V3 gives the TM16GT a throw boost and of course an altered profile, but it's not that much. Compared to the TM16 a reduced hotspot, but still a nice mixed beam. It's unique to see this light has so much throw but also a useable beam too. Scroll down for indoor and outdoor beamshots!
Beamshots:
First the TM16GT's beam projected on a white wall. Distance to the wall about 0,75 meters.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 1/125 sec, 35mm
animation picture
Now, a lot of outdoor pictures. Let's start by looking at the five output modes of the TM16GT!
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 4.0 sec, 35mm
animation
Another location now. These pictures show the difference between the TM16GT and the TM16 at the five output modes. Only GIF-pictures here.
A comparison here between the Nitecore TM16, the TM16GT and two real throwers, the Olight SR52UT Intimidator and the Acebeam T20 XP-L HI. Check also the cooler tint of the TM16GT here.
Location 3: the illuminated tree is at about 250 meters distance. I forgot to close my cars' door here, sorry for that :shrug:. Advantage of this mistake is that it shows the flood of the TM16!
animation
Conclusion:
The TM16 is a good searchlight, but the TM16GT clearly outperforms it. It's unique that a light that has so much output will reach also such a big distance! This makes the TM16GT a very good choice for those who love both throw and flood. Which is clearly that the TM16GT isn't a real thrower: other lights powered by XP-L HI (like the Acebeam T20) will, also thanks to the narrow beam, throw out the TM16GT. But the TM16GT will beat them all, when we look at total illuminated area.
I would like to see the MH27 (button)-interface on a light like this. And Nitecore should deliver a strap and a holster too. But, except a rechargeable function, you almost get it all at the TM16GT: Output, flood, throw, a bunch of well-spaced modes. This is one of the most impressive lights I got until now!
Nitecore TM16GT provided for review
the "tuned" version of the Nitecore TM16, the GT-brother
powered by four XP-L HI V3 leds
a unique combination of big output and long distance
thanks to the used leds and the deep reflectors
So let's start, as usual, with the manufacturer specs, given by Nitecore:
Features:
· Utilizes 4 CREE XP-L HI V3 LEDs
· Maximum output up to 3600 lumens
· Features advanced temperature regulation (ATR) technology
· Boasts a peak beam intensity of 252,000cd and a throw distance up to
1003 meters
· Dual-switch user interface ensures easy one-handed operation
· Features 5 brightness levels and 3 special modes
· High efficiency circuit board provides max runtime up to 610 hours
· Integrated power indicator light displays remaining battery power
(Chinese Patent: ZL201220057767.4)
· Built-in power indicator displays battery voltage (accurate to 0.1V)
· Direct access to ultra-low or turbo ensures flexibility and convenience
· Reverse polarity protection prevents damage from incorrectly inserted
batteries
· Rear tripod receptacle brings extra funtionality
· Toughened ultra-clear mineral glass with anti-reflective coating
· Constructed from aerograde aluminum alloy
· Sturdy HAIII military grade hard-anodized
· Waterproof in accordance with IPX-8 (two meters submersible)
· Impact resistant to 1.5 meters
· Tail stand capability
Dimensions:
· Length: 7.17" / 182mm
· Head diameter: 3.5" / 89mm
· Tube: 2.09/ 53mm
· Weight: 18.38oz / 521gram (without batteries)
And the output specs:
and, for comparison, the TM16 "normal-version" specs:
Unboxing:
My experience with Nitecores: the largest and most impressive members are packed in simple, colorless, brown cartons. This is the same box as the TM16 came in and the carton has the same contents too. This means still no holster, I really hope Nitecore will add this soon! Furthermore a neat box that, thanks to the protecting foam inside, the TM16GT will shield against damage. Some pictures below!
simple carton…
but often these kind of boxes content nice torches!
good protection against damage
inside: only a few spare parts and no holster
Impressions:
Because I earlier had my hands on to the TM16, this GT-brother has no surprises for me. Except the emitters the light has exactly the same parts. While having your hands-on to this searchlight, it feels "Nitecore". This means good build quality and finishing, thought-out details and user friendly. The reflectors are smooth and clean, and the leds are centered sufficiently. Machining is well done, threads are lubed well and no solder or glue rest can be found in the cap and inside the tube. Anodizing is well done, but especially with big lights like this, often the protective layer will have its weak points at the lights'edges. After some use, you will detect some chips at the anodizing. This is normal at most lights I own, but because I always take good care of my lights, it hurts... Some differences at the engraving: except the GT-addition also "Throw Boost" is mentioned on the GT. The TM16 was named "Palm-size Searchlight". Furthermore, I can't detect differences, both lights are equal, both shape and interface. Please have a look at the pictures below that tell you more about the TM16GT!
the Great Throw?-version of the Nitecore TM16
impressive, but compact
stable standing and tripod-connetable
nice proportions
can't be hidden, but is easy to control by one hand
the upgrade to XP-L HI V3 will give the lights' throw a boost
use only 18650's, no CR123A's!
anodizing and engraving well done
big buttons, easy to find
a close-up to the tripod-connector
after some (heavy) use the edges will lose the anodization
inside the tube: only button-tops!
a look into the tailcap
the leds are sufficiently centered
a close-up to the flat XP-L HI's
no strap, only a (sturdy) lanyard
the TM16GT in cold conditions
I like the looks of this big one!
taking a shower
waterproof to 2 meters depth
according to IPX-8
TM16-brothers
good interface and easy to control
User interface:
The TM16 is a big light that can't be hidden in an (average) coat-pocket. But because it is rather compact it is easy to hold in one hand and also easy to control by your thumb. I recommend to put the lanyard around your wrist; this will make the light easy portable.
As said, controlling the TM16GT by your thumb works well. The light has two buttons, one for on/off and one for mode selection. They are, equal to the TM16, separated by a notch and easy to recognize. The big buttons are easy to locate in darkness, also thanks to "standby-beacon": one flash per three seconds will help you to find your light in complete darkness. I'm really a fan of Nitecores' interface: Simply press the power button (below one) to turn the TM16 on, after that select the desired mode by using the upper button. Last used mode is memorized, except the( three) special modes. Press and hold the power button while shutting off to activate standby-beacon. With the light on, press and hold to enter the special modes, starting with strobe. In strobe mode, you can cycle through the special by short pressing the mode-button. The TM16 has also three instant modes: With the light off, press and hold the on/off button to enter LOWER, or press and hold the upper button to enter TURBO. Quick double-press the mode button to enter instant STROBE. Especially I like the direct-low and direct-turbo, I mostly start the light at one of these modes.
The buttons (both will flash) have a built-in voltage indicator. There are two ways to check the actual voltage: A quick check by short pressing the mode/upper button while the light is off. The button will flash up to three times: One time means critical, two below 50% and three above 50%. Second way to check is to unscrew the tailcap and tighten again. The indicator will inform you, accurate to 0.1 volts, about the actual voltage. I like the second way because it's more detailled. In future, I like to see the indicator that, for example the MH27 has: always accurate to 0.1 volt and activated by pressing two buttons together for a short time. Summarizing I can say this is still one of my favorite interfaces. Works well, and is easy to control by one hand. Good job Nitecore!
Modes:
The TM16GT has in total five normal modes: starting with LOWER > LOW > MID > HIGH > TURBO. Like its TM16-brother, it should be a very good addition when you could cycle up and down through the modes. Again, I refer here to the MH27-brother…The special modes are: STROBE > LOCATION BEACON > SOS. Enough modes for most situations. Also three instant-modes at the TM16: INSTANT LOWER > INSTANT TURBO > INSTANT STROBE. Good point that the TM16GT has a lock-out mode: Press and hold both buttons (when the light is off) for more than one second to enter this (until the light flashes one time). Same way to activate the light again. Personally I'd like to have a lockout by unscrewing the tailcap too. No momentary here, but for that function you need a tail-clicky. For me, on a light like this, it's not a major lack.
ATR:
Nitecore has built in Advance Temperature Regulation. This means: When the light gets overheated (mostly while using turbo or high for a longer time) the output will decrease dynamically to prevent the TM16GT against damage. This means that the light will not switch a full step down from (for example TURBO to HIGH), but actual mode will continue with less output.
Size comparison:
The TM16GT side-by-side to its TM16-brother, and also compared to two big XP-L HI-throwers: the Olight SR52UT Intimidator and the Acebeam T20 XP-L HI.
18650 cell, Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
XP-L HI, 4x XM-L2(U2), 4 x XP-L HI (V3) and one XP-L HI
the tails: Olight SR52UT, Nitecore TM16, Nitecore TM16GT, and Acebeam T20 XP-L HI
Tint:
The TM16GT has compared to the TM16 a cooler tint. Luckily no green, like earlier (dedomed) XP-L leds. There's difference in the spill: The TM16 has some blue in the spill, the TM16GT's spill is more neutral. The Acebeam is an exception: I never saw a XP-L HI that has such a warm tint! The difference in profiles is also clearly shown here!
Beamprofile:
The upgrade to XP-L HI V3 gives the TM16GT a throw boost and of course an altered profile, but it's not that much. Compared to the TM16 a reduced hotspot, but still a nice mixed beam. It's unique to see this light has so much throw but also a useable beam too. Scroll down for indoor and outdoor beamshots!
Beamshots:
First the TM16GT's beam projected on a white wall. Distance to the wall about 0,75 meters.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 1/125 sec, 35mm
animation picture
Now, a lot of outdoor pictures. Let's start by looking at the five output modes of the TM16GT!
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 4.0 sec, 35mm
animation
Another location now. These pictures show the difference between the TM16GT and the TM16 at the five output modes. Only GIF-pictures here.
A comparison here between the Nitecore TM16, the TM16GT and two real throwers, the Olight SR52UT Intimidator and the Acebeam T20 XP-L HI. Check also the cooler tint of the TM16GT here.
Location 3: the illuminated tree is at about 250 meters distance. I forgot to close my cars' door here, sorry for that :shrug:. Advantage of this mistake is that it shows the flood of the TM16!
animation
Conclusion:
The TM16 is a good searchlight, but the TM16GT clearly outperforms it. It's unique that a light that has so much output will reach also such a big distance! This makes the TM16GT a very good choice for those who love both throw and flood. Which is clearly that the TM16GT isn't a real thrower: other lights powered by XP-L HI (like the Acebeam T20) will, also thanks to the narrow beam, throw out the TM16GT. But the TM16GT will beat them all, when we look at total illuminated area.
I would like to see the MH27 (button)-interface on a light like this. And Nitecore should deliver a strap and a holster too. But, except a rechargeable function, you almost get it all at the TM16GT: Output, flood, throw, a bunch of well-spaced modes. This is one of the most impressive lights I got until now!
Nitecore TM16GT provided for review
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