Q's about the Fenix Digital L1D and Infinity Defender

[1203]

Hi, I'm wondering what the real runtimes on high for the Fenix Digital L1D (107 lumens) and the Infinity Defender (130 lumens?) are using the Energizer E2 lithium battery.

Is the Infinity worth the extra money compared to the Fenix? I kind of like the idea of spending less money so when I show people my sweet flashlights they don't have to spend $80+. I also like the idea of having the best light possible and I really like the way the Infinity looks.

Also, where's the best place to buy the Infinity?

Any input you have is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[qip]

this really depends on how bad you want the NDI :devil: from what ive seen i think the NDI has a little more output but roughly 30 minutes less runtime on E2...now the extra lumens is not exactly mind blowing but its still a little more ooomph but 30 minutes is not too bad a loss but it still can feel like an eternity when you need 30 minutes...if the NDI had an hour less runtime for that little more output then i say stick with fenix but with the 30 minutes its iffy and up to you to decide which you want more

runtime on nimh here for basic comparison as well as lightreview but lightreview has 3 NDI with different confusing runtimes as 2 have over 40 minutes on eneloops but one has 26 minutes yes E2 would most likely double or triple what eneloops do but you get a base runtime and add off that for comparison......so it could be a lottery draw on what you get

 

[yekim]

I have 2 NDI's and no L1D's, but I do have an L2D CE (p4). Brightness difference between them are negligible. The NDI looks cool, but with the heavy Knurling and sharp points it does not pocket carry as well as I would expect the L1D to. Frankly, the excitement I had for the NDI's has waned a bit. I'll probably regain some of that when I can figure out a decent carry method.

 

[xcel730]

Both lights have their merits and demerits. The L1D is a good value light with 5 predefined modes. You could purchase an L2D or P2D body, giving you the option of using 1 x AA, 2 x AA, or 1 x CR123a batteries. The NDI is more expensive, 2 programmable modes, and some people think it looks nicer (beauty is in the eyes of the beholder), and the knurling makes it not as slippery.

I'm sure you'll be happy with either one. If you're patient, you may be able to pick an NDI from CPF marketplace for about $60 - $65. If you decide to go with L1D, buy it from Fenix-store.com. .. they offer lifetime warranty for all fenix lights purchased from their store. Don't forget to use the discount code (CPF8) for 8% off.

 

[selfbuilt]

From my NDI review:

 

[qip]

20 minutes ... thats nice...if i had $$ i get both...my issues with L1d is that it doesnt look as good as NDI...NDI issues is that no tailstand & only 2 levels i need that 3rd for low,med,max


selfbuilt was that L91 graph always there..how did i miss that

 

[MKLight]

Both are great lights (and if/when you can, you should get them both), but the Fenix is more durable in my own experience. I always seem to accidentally drop a new light...only when its new...yeah it sucks. Anyway, I dropped the NDI twice. One of the 3 crenaltions (sp?) bent inward. On the second drop the rear lanyard attachment bar bent in. I'm very disappointed in its seem lack of durability. Overall, I really like the light due to its programmability that the Fenix lacks. With the Fenix, when I've dropped it, there's been slight chips into the aluminum, but nothing major. Overall, its a very durable light.

Either choice and you'll be happy. If you want the programmability, go for the NDI. If you want overall durability (in my mind...), go for the Fenix.

Thanks,
Mike

 

[qip]

denting easily that is very disconcerting:thinking:

 

[Raindog-]

I think that NDI was specifically developed for use with 14500's.

If your intention is to use just AA batteries I think is better option L1D.

 

[1203]

denting easily that is very disconcerting:thinking:

Yes it is. L1D it is guys. Thanks for helping me make a good decision. I'll ask for it for Father's day and we'll see what happens. Thanks everyone!

ETA: Should I go with the smooth or textured and how does the olive color look? It looks like the Q5 is the way to go too.

 

[Lite_me]

I think that NDI was specifically developed for use with 14500's.

If your intention is to use just AA batteries I think is better option L1D.

Emphasis mine:
I think I'd have to disagree with this statement. The NDI is almost as bright on a AA as it is with a 14500. There is very little difference. Not nearly as much as one would think going from 1.5v to 3.7v. I would be more inclined to say it was tweaked for AA's.

 

[selfbuilt]

selfbuilt was that L91 graph always there..how did i miss that

Don't feel bad - that's the only review where I've included L91 data, so it's easy to miss. Unfortunately, I've never tested L91 at lower output ranges, so don't know what to expect there.

I also agree with Lite_me that the NDI is well optimized for NiMH in addition to 14500 Li-ion (it is intentionally designed not to run full out on 14500, due to the heat that would be generated).

The L1D-Q5 is a great light, and very efficient. For the NDI, you trade some degree of output/runtime efficiency for its wider output range (i.e. low lo mode and continuously variable circuit) and greater battery flexibility (i.e. wider voltage input range). And mine seem very sturdy - no failures or chips, despite repeated drops.