gunga
Flashaholic
Updated 6/10/2008: IncenDio V2 info, Lumapower IncenDio: Detailed review
for submission in the Reviews forum:
Lumapower IncenDio Review
Well, here is my review of the Lumapower Incendio, an excellent new CR123 light that promises great features in a nice, compact package. I don't have the equipment for runtimes and lumens measurements so will leave that to the experts.
The light was purchased directly from Lumapower since deliveries from China can be faster than deliveries from the states (Canada post is odd)!
I will try to post some pictures but I see that Ernsanada has already posted a multitude of great shots already!
My overall impression is that this is a great light with a wealth of features and a few quirks. These aren't deal breakers, just a few things that were worth mentioning.
So let's get into the details!
-------------------
Incendio Features and Benefits
Small size. Lumapower is generally known for somewhat overbuilt lights that are bigger than the competition. I'm happy to say that this is welcome exception. My Fenix L1D (AA) and Olight T10 (CR123) dwarf the tiny Incendio. The Incendio is about the length of a Fenix L0D, with just enough width to fit a CR123 cell. It still retains Lumapower's great build quality too.
Beam quality. The Incendio has a nice smooth beam. It is not white wall perfect (the tell-tale Cree Q5 ring exists) but you will not notice in normal use. I do note that the transition from spot to spill is quite distinct, giving a slightly throwier beam than my Fenix L1D. Tint is warm, but not green. Nice.
Useful levels. I'm a fan of 3 level lights so the Incendio is a nice option. The high is quoted to be around 130-160 (emitter) lumens and seems accurate. I have compared the beam to my L1D Q5 running on 3V, and it is a bit dimmer than the turbo mode (180 lumens) and brighter than the high mode (107 lumens).
Battery compatibility. My biggest gripe with Fenix P1/2D and Surefire lights is the lack of RCR123 compatibility. I'm a big believer in rechargeables so I'm glad to see that all modes work with 4.2V RCR123s. They even work with the extra-long silver/grey Ultrafire protected cells. Excellent. Please note that ALL levels are higher using RCR123s. This can be considered a plus (high mode) or a minus (low mode).
Knurling. It's nice that the Lumapower has a healthy amount of knurling! Great to see. Wonder why Fenix has such issues with lack of knurling.
Forward clicky! Yep, the oft requested feature is found here. It works well but is not a "tactical clicky" though (see below). Note that the light does wobble when off but tailstands fine when on. Switch feel is firm and positive.
A good clip. A nice bezel down clip. It works well and is a great anti-roll device.
Glow goods! Glowring in the bezel and a glow clicky. These are options I like on all my lights, so great stuff!
Current regulated. No PWM flicker and runtimes are also excellent, on par with market leader Fenix.
Holster. I prefer a holster with a Velcro cover, so this is a plus. It's a bit bulky but functions fine.
Upgradeable? The light engine is not potted and seems to be removable. An emitter swap may be tough since the Cree emitter seems to be soldered from below. A replacement light engine could be a future upgrade perhaps?
The light warms up on high, but never gets too hot. I was able to run continuously for an hour. Good runtimes for high mode too.
AR coated glass lense, and textured aluminum reflector. These are pretty much the norm for this class of light, but good stuff nonetheless.
Neutral points
Finish. I prefer a natural colour, hard anodized finish. The black type 2+ anodized finish is well done and quite durable though. I have an Avenger with the same finish which seems to hold up better than the typical Fenix "hard anodized" black finish.
EDIT: Lumapower has replied stating that the Avenger is type 3 and the Incendio is Type 2+. Wonder why they switched?
Modes. I prefer to start on low, ramping up. The Incendio starts on high. Luckily the memory mode makes this less of a concern.
Knurling. I would prefer a more aggressive knurling, say Arc or Surefire level. Also more knurling at the head would increase the family resemblance to the slim sister Avenger!
No Strobe/SOS. I don't like SOS, but can think of a few occasions strobe would be useful, as long as it's hidden! No strobe/SOS here. I have not found any "hidden" SOS mode yet. Maybe after further testing.
Lower levels. I prefer a lower low, though I believe that may be difficult to implement at times. Olight, for instance, has stated that they were not able to produce a stable output below 5 lumens on their multimode lights. Could be a limitation of certain multi-mode circuits. In any case, the low is very usable for many tasks and lasts up to 35 hours!
Reflector/Led not perfectly centred, a minor point for me.
IncenDio Quirks/Possible Improvements
Memory mode. I find the memory mode implementation a bit unpredictable. The way it works is that the light must be ON for 2 seconds (every time it is switched on) before the mode is locked. If you accidentally tap the switch when off and flash the light for an instant, you start the mode change. Perhaps the mode changes coupled with memory are a bit hard to implement with a forward clicky. It works fine in normal use, but will frustrate those wanting a "tactical" clicky. In any case, this is not meant to be a tactical light.
Switch module. The switch seems permanently sealed with the press-fit stainless steel ring. The switch is not removable for cleaning, boot replacement, or repairs. Any problems will require a whole new light body. I've been informed this was meant to reduce overall size, but I still question the overall logic because I believe switches should be serviceable. Perhaps Lumapower has found a more reliable forward clicky?
No lanyard attachment. I know you can add a lanyard to the clip, but I prefer the option of a dedicated lanyard ring/clipless option, similar to the Avenger. I find it a cleaner design.
---------------------------
So, as you can see, I think the Incendio is an excellent compact EDC light. With a few tweaks, it could be near perfect.
Good stuff Lumapower! Hopefully you can put this circuit into an AA or perhaps AAA light? (Just like Jetbeam, Fenix, Olight., Liteflux…)
One can speculate right?
--------------------------------
UPDATE: Oct 6th, 2008. IncenDio V2 received
Well, I purchased an updated version of the IncenDio directly from Lumapower (please note the comments about shipping to Canada above!).
First off, I have to say kudos to Lumapower for listening to the flashaholic crowd and implementing some of our requests. I think this makes a very good light even better. There are a few other changes I would make myself, but we'll get to that in a minute.
Overall Change: Subtle Refinements, Better Functionality
I was actually expecting more of a visual change from V1 to V2, but was surprised to see very little difference. The changes are quite subtle. They are, however, quite substantial in function.
Here is what I can see that has changed:
- Serviceable clicky and removable clip. I really appreciate this and I'm quite impressed that the light stayed the same size even with the serviceable clicky. The clicky feel has improved, as it is much firmer and more positive; it also tailstands properly, even when off. The removable clip is a nice, but no lanyard ring is provided, so this is not too useful unless you make your own lanyard ring. Hopefully Lumapower can offer lanyard rings as an accessory?
- 1 Second memory. This is a major change and makes the light much more functional. I still would prefer the light to start on low and ramp up (it doesn't, it still starts on high), but at least the memory mode is better implemented. You have to keep the light on for 1 second to lock the mode into memory, so it would not work too well for signaling (trying to flash SOS would cause the light to change brightness settings on every quick flash). Still, I think this is not a real issue with normal edc use.
- Reverse polarity protection. The positive contact in the head now has a raised plastic collar that should provide reverse polarity protection. A very nice touch.
- Build quality? Well, my V1 Incendio was well put together with no gaps and smooth anodizing. My V2 IncenDio has some areas of missing anodizing on the tail edge. I also notice that the reflector section on the head of my light does not screw in fully, leaving a small gap. Not a huge deal but a little disappointing. It's all sample variation however.
- Extras and packaging. The box has changed a bit and is nicer. The extras now include a glow ring for the head (nice) and some pretty sturdy tweezers to service the tailcap (an unexpected bonus). A couple spare o-rings are included and the holster is now an elastic sided, open top pouch, about the same as what came with the ConnecXion but a downgrade from the nice holster found in the IncenDio V1. Overall it's about the same.
What Stayed the Same: Modes, Lumens, Finish
Well, now that we've gone over the differences, I can highlight what stayed the same..
- Tiny size: This is one of the smallest EDC lights out there, being a touch slimmer than the EX10 and a touch longer than the tiny Bitz, so it just disappears in the pocket!
- Three Modes, starting on high. Well spaced, practical modes. Could use a lower low, and start on low, but good overall. Efficiency is good too.
- RCR123 compatibilty. Yep, regulated with free lumens. Excellent.
- Somewhat smooth knurling and smooth finish. I would appreciate more aggressive knurling and perhaps a less slippery finish, but this is a personal opinion.
- Flush Clicky. The clicky is nice and compact but I can see those with big thumbs having issues activating this light. I did not note any problems however.
- Type 2+ anodized finished. Yes, it's tougher than standard type 2, but it's still not hard anodized. A little disappointing. You could always get the special edition nickel plated if you wanted though.
- Good tint and smooth beam. I find the tint quite white, maybe slightly warm, but just barely. The cree ring is present but the overall beam is smooth with no artifacts. Transition from spot to spill is quite distinct.
- No lockout. I like having a lockout option on my lights, especially on forward clickies. The clicky is quite firm and flush though, so I noted no problems with accidental activation.
So there you have it: a nice refinement to an already good little light. If you like defined levels (instead of ramping up and down all the time) and prefer a smoother, elegant light with a pocket friendly smooth finish, you will appreciate the updates to the IncenDio.
Pictures to follow!
for submission in the Reviews forum:
Lumapower IncenDio Review
Well, here is my review of the Lumapower Incendio, an excellent new CR123 light that promises great features in a nice, compact package. I don't have the equipment for runtimes and lumens measurements so will leave that to the experts.
The light was purchased directly from Lumapower since deliveries from China can be faster than deliveries from the states (Canada post is odd)!
I will try to post some pictures but I see that Ernsanada has already posted a multitude of great shots already!
My overall impression is that this is a great light with a wealth of features and a few quirks. These aren't deal breakers, just a few things that were worth mentioning.
So let's get into the details!
-------------------
Incendio Features and Benefits
Small size. Lumapower is generally known for somewhat overbuilt lights that are bigger than the competition. I'm happy to say that this is welcome exception. My Fenix L1D (AA) and Olight T10 (CR123) dwarf the tiny Incendio. The Incendio is about the length of a Fenix L0D, with just enough width to fit a CR123 cell. It still retains Lumapower's great build quality too.
Beam quality. The Incendio has a nice smooth beam. It is not white wall perfect (the tell-tale Cree Q5 ring exists) but you will not notice in normal use. I do note that the transition from spot to spill is quite distinct, giving a slightly throwier beam than my Fenix L1D. Tint is warm, but not green. Nice.
Useful levels. I'm a fan of 3 level lights so the Incendio is a nice option. The high is quoted to be around 130-160 (emitter) lumens and seems accurate. I have compared the beam to my L1D Q5 running on 3V, and it is a bit dimmer than the turbo mode (180 lumens) and brighter than the high mode (107 lumens).
Battery compatibility. My biggest gripe with Fenix P1/2D and Surefire lights is the lack of RCR123 compatibility. I'm a big believer in rechargeables so I'm glad to see that all modes work with 4.2V RCR123s. They even work with the extra-long silver/grey Ultrafire protected cells. Excellent. Please note that ALL levels are higher using RCR123s. This can be considered a plus (high mode) or a minus (low mode).
Knurling. It's nice that the Lumapower has a healthy amount of knurling! Great to see. Wonder why Fenix has such issues with lack of knurling.
Forward clicky! Yep, the oft requested feature is found here. It works well but is not a "tactical clicky" though (see below). Note that the light does wobble when off but tailstands fine when on. Switch feel is firm and positive.
A good clip. A nice bezel down clip. It works well and is a great anti-roll device.
Glow goods! Glowring in the bezel and a glow clicky. These are options I like on all my lights, so great stuff!
Current regulated. No PWM flicker and runtimes are also excellent, on par with market leader Fenix.
Holster. I prefer a holster with a Velcro cover, so this is a plus. It's a bit bulky but functions fine.
Upgradeable? The light engine is not potted and seems to be removable. An emitter swap may be tough since the Cree emitter seems to be soldered from below. A replacement light engine could be a future upgrade perhaps?
The light warms up on high, but never gets too hot. I was able to run continuously for an hour. Good runtimes for high mode too.
AR coated glass lense, and textured aluminum reflector. These are pretty much the norm for this class of light, but good stuff nonetheless.
Neutral points
Finish. I prefer a natural colour, hard anodized finish. The black type 2+ anodized finish is well done and quite durable though. I have an Avenger with the same finish which seems to hold up better than the typical Fenix "hard anodized" black finish.
EDIT: Lumapower has replied stating that the Avenger is type 3 and the Incendio is Type 2+. Wonder why they switched?
Modes. I prefer to start on low, ramping up. The Incendio starts on high. Luckily the memory mode makes this less of a concern.
Knurling. I would prefer a more aggressive knurling, say Arc or Surefire level. Also more knurling at the head would increase the family resemblance to the slim sister Avenger!
No Strobe/SOS. I don't like SOS, but can think of a few occasions strobe would be useful, as long as it's hidden! No strobe/SOS here. I have not found any "hidden" SOS mode yet. Maybe after further testing.
Lower levels. I prefer a lower low, though I believe that may be difficult to implement at times. Olight, for instance, has stated that they were not able to produce a stable output below 5 lumens on their multimode lights. Could be a limitation of certain multi-mode circuits. In any case, the low is very usable for many tasks and lasts up to 35 hours!
Reflector/Led not perfectly centred, a minor point for me.
IncenDio Quirks/Possible Improvements
Memory mode. I find the memory mode implementation a bit unpredictable. The way it works is that the light must be ON for 2 seconds (every time it is switched on) before the mode is locked. If you accidentally tap the switch when off and flash the light for an instant, you start the mode change. Perhaps the mode changes coupled with memory are a bit hard to implement with a forward clicky. It works fine in normal use, but will frustrate those wanting a "tactical" clicky. In any case, this is not meant to be a tactical light.
Switch module. The switch seems permanently sealed with the press-fit stainless steel ring. The switch is not removable for cleaning, boot replacement, or repairs. Any problems will require a whole new light body. I've been informed this was meant to reduce overall size, but I still question the overall logic because I believe switches should be serviceable. Perhaps Lumapower has found a more reliable forward clicky?
No lanyard attachment. I know you can add a lanyard to the clip, but I prefer the option of a dedicated lanyard ring/clipless option, similar to the Avenger. I find it a cleaner design.
---------------------------
So, as you can see, I think the Incendio is an excellent compact EDC light. With a few tweaks, it could be near perfect.
Good stuff Lumapower! Hopefully you can put this circuit into an AA or perhaps AAA light? (Just like Jetbeam, Fenix, Olight., Liteflux…)
One can speculate right?
--------------------------------
UPDATE: Oct 6th, 2008. IncenDio V2 received
Well, I purchased an updated version of the IncenDio directly from Lumapower (please note the comments about shipping to Canada above!).
First off, I have to say kudos to Lumapower for listening to the flashaholic crowd and implementing some of our requests. I think this makes a very good light even better. There are a few other changes I would make myself, but we'll get to that in a minute.
Overall Change: Subtle Refinements, Better Functionality
I was actually expecting more of a visual change from V1 to V2, but was surprised to see very little difference. The changes are quite subtle. They are, however, quite substantial in function.
Here is what I can see that has changed:
- Serviceable clicky and removable clip. I really appreciate this and I'm quite impressed that the light stayed the same size even with the serviceable clicky. The clicky feel has improved, as it is much firmer and more positive; it also tailstands properly, even when off. The removable clip is a nice, but no lanyard ring is provided, so this is not too useful unless you make your own lanyard ring. Hopefully Lumapower can offer lanyard rings as an accessory?
- 1 Second memory. This is a major change and makes the light much more functional. I still would prefer the light to start on low and ramp up (it doesn't, it still starts on high), but at least the memory mode is better implemented. You have to keep the light on for 1 second to lock the mode into memory, so it would not work too well for signaling (trying to flash SOS would cause the light to change brightness settings on every quick flash). Still, I think this is not a real issue with normal edc use.
- Reverse polarity protection. The positive contact in the head now has a raised plastic collar that should provide reverse polarity protection. A very nice touch.
- Build quality? Well, my V1 Incendio was well put together with no gaps and smooth anodizing. My V2 IncenDio has some areas of missing anodizing on the tail edge. I also notice that the reflector section on the head of my light does not screw in fully, leaving a small gap. Not a huge deal but a little disappointing. It's all sample variation however.
- Extras and packaging. The box has changed a bit and is nicer. The extras now include a glow ring for the head (nice) and some pretty sturdy tweezers to service the tailcap (an unexpected bonus). A couple spare o-rings are included and the holster is now an elastic sided, open top pouch, about the same as what came with the ConnecXion but a downgrade from the nice holster found in the IncenDio V1. Overall it's about the same.
What Stayed the Same: Modes, Lumens, Finish
Well, now that we've gone over the differences, I can highlight what stayed the same..
- Tiny size: This is one of the smallest EDC lights out there, being a touch slimmer than the EX10 and a touch longer than the tiny Bitz, so it just disappears in the pocket!
- Three Modes, starting on high. Well spaced, practical modes. Could use a lower low, and start on low, but good overall. Efficiency is good too.
- RCR123 compatibilty. Yep, regulated with free lumens. Excellent.
- Somewhat smooth knurling and smooth finish. I would appreciate more aggressive knurling and perhaps a less slippery finish, but this is a personal opinion.
- Flush Clicky. The clicky is nice and compact but I can see those with big thumbs having issues activating this light. I did not note any problems however.
- Type 2+ anodized finished. Yes, it's tougher than standard type 2, but it's still not hard anodized. A little disappointing. You could always get the special edition nickel plated if you wanted though.
- Good tint and smooth beam. I find the tint quite white, maybe slightly warm, but just barely. The cree ring is present but the overall beam is smooth with no artifacts. Transition from spot to spill is quite distinct.
- No lockout. I like having a lockout option on my lights, especially on forward clickies. The clicky is quite firm and flush though, so I noted no problems with accidental activation.
So there you have it: a nice refinement to an already good little light. If you like defined levels (instead of ramping up and down all the time) and prefer a smoother, elegant light with a pocket friendly smooth finish, you will appreciate the updates to the IncenDio.
Pictures to follow!
Last edited:
