kj75
Enlightened
Fenixlight has updated the TK32 to the 2016-version. This latest version got the XP-L HI V3 and powerful color LEDS too. Especially the colors are interesting: how do they perform? Can the white LED reach the same distance out of a smaller reflector? In this review I'll give you the answers to these questions; and I'll compare also the light to a competitor. Of course, I'll show you too how the improved color LEDS perform, also side-by-side to the first version of the TK32. So a really a lot of beamshots in this review. Let's have a closer look at the latest TK-member!
the update to the Fenix TK32, the TK32-2016
about the same dimensions as the elder version
but three separate reflectors now, and powered by XP-L HI V3 and XQ-E LEDS
the tail is redesigned
and a new accessory: the AER-03 remote control
As usual, we'll start by looking at the manufacturer specs:
Features:
· Uses Cree XP-L HI V3 white light and XQ-E colored light LED with a lifespan of 50,000 hours
· Powered by one 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery or two 3V CR123A Lithium batteries
· Compatible with AER-03 remote pressure switch
· Digitally regulated output maintains constant brightness
· Low-voltage warning reminds when battery replacement is needed
· Intelligent over-heat protection to avoid high temperature of the surface
· Dual tail switch controls the tactical activation and output selection
· Made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum
· Premium type Ⅲ hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish
· Toughened ultra-clear glass lens with anti-reflective coating
Dimensions:
· 159mm length
· 25.4mm body diameter
· 52mm head diameter (6.3"×1.0"×2.0")
· 175 grams (6.2 oz), excluding battery
And the output specs:
Unboxing:
No surprise about the package to me here: the box in main black/orange/white is designed in Fenix-house-style. But it has some nice details too, for example the white, green and red sensible spots. Most specifications and features are mentioned, nice fact is that Fenix gives maximum distance and candela for all modes now. The package I got was ready-to go: it came including two CR123A's so I could start directly.. I was happy that the AER-03 remote control didn't arrive in a blister: I like the opportunity to restore my lights as neat as possible. So, both boxes are ok to me; please take a look at some pictures that show the packages!
neat cartons in Fenix house-style
the features and specifications mentioned on it
easy to restore the light
what's inside: warranty card/leaflets, TK32-2016, spare O-ring, lanyard, holster and two CR123A's
Impressions:
For about two years, I reviewed the first version of the TK32. About build-quality and finishing, Fenix didn't have to improve; like all lights of this brand, the TK32-2016 is excellent built and feels long-lasting. The light is little heavy because of the ticker tube. The anodizing is well-done, the laser-engraving is improved and looks better than the elder version. At first sight, the light looks the same as the 2014-version, but taking a closer look shows multiple differences. Striking are the redesigned body that has better grip, less cooling-fins to the new version, a new reflector (and also the lack of a blue LED) and new tail-cap. Please scroll down (after reading..) to watch a lot of side-by-side pictures. I couldn't detect any chip or defect at the TK32-2016's finishing, the reflector is clean and the XP-L HI V3 LED is perfectly centered. The XQ-E color LED have their own positions in separate reflectors, but are well-centered too. What I don't like about the TK32-2016, that it easily rolls off the table, so I'll ask Fenix to give the next generation a better anti-rolling design. No tailstand to this light, and a renewed tail-cap, designed to control the TK32-2016 easier. During unscrewing the cap, the threads run smooth and without scratching, but they need (like most Fenix-lights) some grease. High-quality parts and finishing inside the light too: no solder or glue rests, it look all fine. So we can conclude the TK32 is (again) a high-quality product made by Fenix. I made also a lot of impression- and detail-pictures, so please have a look below..
The TK32-2016: Fenix-looks…
and feels!
a pocket-sized thrower
only head-standing possible
a mid-sized torch
the TK32-2016 will easily roll off the table..
huge throw at white mode
powerful red color mode
and also impressive green!
excellent job an anodizing and finishing
each LED has its own reflector
a close up at the power and mode button
the threads are well-machined, but need some grease
the thick, "double-layer" body
a look into the body
the TK32-2016 feels like a Fenix
high quality and excellent finished
Fenix has improved the engraving, it looks better now to the elder version
the main white XP-L HI V3 LED
and the secondary XQ-E color-LEDS
the XP-L HI V3 is well-centered
with added-on lanyard
you can carry a spare battery in the holster
side by side to the first TK32
the TK32-2016 has better grip
less cooling fins
the head diameter is equal
no blue for the TK32-2016 and each LED has its own reflector
the button at the tail on the TK32-2016 are easier to locate
a new inner to the TK32-2016's tail-cap; also suited for a remote-controller
the TK32-2016 in the forest
one of the area's this light is meant for
this head reminds me to the "classic" TK70
User interface:
As shown in the impression-pictures, Fenix has redesigned the tube, and the TK32-2016 has better grip now. There's also a new tail-cap: the power button got a new structure and the mode button is also easier to locate. So, good improvements here. Although this light can't be hidden in your hand's palm, it is easy to carry and thanks to the rather big head it won't slip out of your hand.
The interface of this light is no-nonsense: Press the main switch for momentary-on, click for constant-on. Cycle through the white mode by using the mode button. Only last used white mode will be memorized. In standby-mode, press the mode button to enter red-high mode. By pressing again within 2 seconds, you can cycle through the color modes. If you wait longer than 2 seconds, the light will start again in red high. If needed, you can fix the chosen color mode by holding the mode-button and clicking the main switch at same time. This is a good improvement relative to the first TK32! But I would like to see that the light memorizes the last used color mode too… maybe in future..
I tested the TK32-2016 in combination with the AER-03 remote-control. Nice fact is that the controller allows you to operate silent, without clicks. The big buttons are easy recognizable in the dark because of the different shapes. A nice and recommended accessory in my opinion that can be used during cycling too.
Modes:
The TK32-2016 has total four white modes, in order of: LOW > MID > HIGH > TURBO. The spacing is good, but still I miss a real low. No instant white modes on this light. Strange is the lack of STROBE, this mode is a must for some users of light like this. The TK32-2016 has four color modes, in order of: RED HIGH > RED LOW > GREEN HIGH > GREEN LOW. Because the always starts at RED HIGH, we can call this an instant-mode. Neither a LOCK-OUT on this light, what is still a strange thing to me. If the light gets above 65 degrees on HIGH or TURBO, the light will downshift to a lower level. The will downshift to a lower level too if the voltage is low, if the cell is near to recharge the light will blink three times per five minutes.
Size comparison:
The TK32-2016 side-by-side to the first version, and shown also next to a direct competitor, the Nitecore MH27.
18650-cell, Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
the heads: XP-L HI V3, XP-L HI / XQ-E color and XM-L2 U2 and RGB 100mW
the tails: Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Tint:
The TK32-2016 has good coolwhite tint. The first version of the TK32 shows a bluish spill, the Nitecores' tint looks little greenish. Please check it at the picture below.
Beamprofile:
A "throwy" profile here: small and bright spot, a medium corona an large spill. Because the reflector is smaller than the first TK32, the light has a narrower beam. This is really an improvement: this beam won't blind your eyes at short distance and make it possible to view things further away. Because of the total three reflectors the white beam shows two "ears". Outside you can see this at shorter distance too, but this doesn't disturb. Same issue to the color LEDS, both have a "bit" in the reflector, so this is visible in the beam; there's a lobe in the beam, especially indoors. But for the rest both white and color beam are without defects or spots, and no PWM detected at any mode. Scroll down for the beamshots!
Beamshots:
Let's start this beamshot-session by projecting the TK32-2016 on a white wall. Starting with the white modes, followed by a GIF; after that the color modes (in order of LOW to HIGH this time), and also followed by a GIF-picture.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 1/200 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture
a GIF of the color modes:
Going outside now: First the four white modes shown in the forest here, followed by a GIF. After that a shoot-out against the Fenix TK32 XM-L2 U2, nice to see the difference in the beams here!
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 4.0 sec, 35mm
a GIF-picture of the white modes:
a comparison between the TK32's, both at Turbo-mode
The color modes now, in order of LOW > HIGH this time. Later an animation of all color modes together. The pictures show the impressive color output of the TK32-2016!
The color modes:
GIF-picture:
A "throw-shot" here now with the Fenix TK32, the TK32-2016 and the Nitecore MH27. Surprising here to see how the TK32-2016 performs by using such a tiny reflector. Distance to the top of the tree about 100 meters away.
the TK32 against the TK32-2016 and the Nitecore MH27, all lights at Turbo:
I went out another time and mounted the three lights on a bike to show you the output of the color modes. I went to a river this time, not completely dark here because of the industrial area, but however in my opinion a nice location. Starting with a GIF of all color modes of the TK32-2016, after the highest red and green mode compared to the TK32 and the Nitecore MH27. The distance across the river is about 210 meters.
the color modes of the TK32-2016
When we compare the color output modes to each other, you can see the impressive red and green output of the TK32-2016 compared to the TK32 and the Nitecore MH27.
a comparison of the highest red mode
a comparison of the highest green mode
Last picture… a throw shot of the three using white light. Nice to view here the difference between the wider XM-L2 U2 and the narrow XP-L HI V3-beams.
the three lights on white Turbo
Conclusion:
The updated TK32 is a big step forward, especially for the color modes. Fenix didn't have to improve that much about the build-quality and finished, because that was already very good. But the new version is easier to control and has better grip too. The new remote-control is a nice and well-operating accessory. Because the beam is narrower the light will reach (for human eye also) a farther away distance, good point. In contrast to the first version the color modes are usable now thanks to the impressive output.
What I wish on this light? A better anti-rolling design, a lock-out mode and I would like to see the blue color option back.
But I'm sure this pocket-thrower is one of the best multicolor lights there is!
Special thanks to Fenixlight and KATO for providing the TK32-2016!
the update to the Fenix TK32, the TK32-2016
about the same dimensions as the elder version
but three separate reflectors now, and powered by XP-L HI V3 and XQ-E LEDS
the tail is redesigned
and a new accessory: the AER-03 remote control
As usual, we'll start by looking at the manufacturer specs:
Features:
· Uses Cree XP-L HI V3 white light and XQ-E colored light LED with a lifespan of 50,000 hours
· Powered by one 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery or two 3V CR123A Lithium batteries
· Compatible with AER-03 remote pressure switch
· Digitally regulated output maintains constant brightness
· Low-voltage warning reminds when battery replacement is needed
· Intelligent over-heat protection to avoid high temperature of the surface
· Dual tail switch controls the tactical activation and output selection
· Made of durable aircraft-grade aluminum
· Premium type Ⅲ hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish
· Toughened ultra-clear glass lens with anti-reflective coating
Dimensions:
· 159mm length
· 25.4mm body diameter
· 52mm head diameter (6.3"×1.0"×2.0")
· 175 grams (6.2 oz), excluding battery
And the output specs:
Unboxing:
No surprise about the package to me here: the box in main black/orange/white is designed in Fenix-house-style. But it has some nice details too, for example the white, green and red sensible spots. Most specifications and features are mentioned, nice fact is that Fenix gives maximum distance and candela for all modes now. The package I got was ready-to go: it came including two CR123A's so I could start directly.. I was happy that the AER-03 remote control didn't arrive in a blister: I like the opportunity to restore my lights as neat as possible. So, both boxes are ok to me; please take a look at some pictures that show the packages!
neat cartons in Fenix house-style
the features and specifications mentioned on it
easy to restore the light
what's inside: warranty card/leaflets, TK32-2016, spare O-ring, lanyard, holster and two CR123A's
Impressions:
For about two years, I reviewed the first version of the TK32. About build-quality and finishing, Fenix didn't have to improve; like all lights of this brand, the TK32-2016 is excellent built and feels long-lasting. The light is little heavy because of the ticker tube. The anodizing is well-done, the laser-engraving is improved and looks better than the elder version. At first sight, the light looks the same as the 2014-version, but taking a closer look shows multiple differences. Striking are the redesigned body that has better grip, less cooling-fins to the new version, a new reflector (and also the lack of a blue LED) and new tail-cap. Please scroll down (after reading..) to watch a lot of side-by-side pictures. I couldn't detect any chip or defect at the TK32-2016's finishing, the reflector is clean and the XP-L HI V3 LED is perfectly centered. The XQ-E color LED have their own positions in separate reflectors, but are well-centered too. What I don't like about the TK32-2016, that it easily rolls off the table, so I'll ask Fenix to give the next generation a better anti-rolling design. No tailstand to this light, and a renewed tail-cap, designed to control the TK32-2016 easier. During unscrewing the cap, the threads run smooth and without scratching, but they need (like most Fenix-lights) some grease. High-quality parts and finishing inside the light too: no solder or glue rests, it look all fine. So we can conclude the TK32 is (again) a high-quality product made by Fenix. I made also a lot of impression- and detail-pictures, so please have a look below..
The TK32-2016: Fenix-looks…
and feels!
a pocket-sized thrower
only head-standing possible
a mid-sized torch
the TK32-2016 will easily roll off the table..
huge throw at white mode
powerful red color mode
and also impressive green!
excellent job an anodizing and finishing
each LED has its own reflector
a close up at the power and mode button
the threads are well-machined, but need some grease
the thick, "double-layer" body
a look into the body
the TK32-2016 feels like a Fenix
high quality and excellent finished
Fenix has improved the engraving, it looks better now to the elder version
the main white XP-L HI V3 LED
and the secondary XQ-E color-LEDS
the XP-L HI V3 is well-centered
with added-on lanyard
you can carry a spare battery in the holster
side by side to the first TK32
the TK32-2016 has better grip
less cooling fins
the head diameter is equal
no blue for the TK32-2016 and each LED has its own reflector
the button at the tail on the TK32-2016 are easier to locate
a new inner to the TK32-2016's tail-cap; also suited for a remote-controller
the TK32-2016 in the forest
one of the area's this light is meant for
this head reminds me to the "classic" TK70
User interface:
As shown in the impression-pictures, Fenix has redesigned the tube, and the TK32-2016 has better grip now. There's also a new tail-cap: the power button got a new structure and the mode button is also easier to locate. So, good improvements here. Although this light can't be hidden in your hand's palm, it is easy to carry and thanks to the rather big head it won't slip out of your hand.
The interface of this light is no-nonsense: Press the main switch for momentary-on, click for constant-on. Cycle through the white mode by using the mode button. Only last used white mode will be memorized. In standby-mode, press the mode button to enter red-high mode. By pressing again within 2 seconds, you can cycle through the color modes. If you wait longer than 2 seconds, the light will start again in red high. If needed, you can fix the chosen color mode by holding the mode-button and clicking the main switch at same time. This is a good improvement relative to the first TK32! But I would like to see that the light memorizes the last used color mode too… maybe in future..
I tested the TK32-2016 in combination with the AER-03 remote-control. Nice fact is that the controller allows you to operate silent, without clicks. The big buttons are easy recognizable in the dark because of the different shapes. A nice and recommended accessory in my opinion that can be used during cycling too.
Modes:
The TK32-2016 has total four white modes, in order of: LOW > MID > HIGH > TURBO. The spacing is good, but still I miss a real low. No instant white modes on this light. Strange is the lack of STROBE, this mode is a must for some users of light like this. The TK32-2016 has four color modes, in order of: RED HIGH > RED LOW > GREEN HIGH > GREEN LOW. Because the always starts at RED HIGH, we can call this an instant-mode. Neither a LOCK-OUT on this light, what is still a strange thing to me. If the light gets above 65 degrees on HIGH or TURBO, the light will downshift to a lower level. The will downshift to a lower level too if the voltage is low, if the cell is near to recharge the light will blink three times per five minutes.
Size comparison:
The TK32-2016 side-by-side to the first version, and shown also next to a direct competitor, the Nitecore MH27.
18650-cell, Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
the heads: XP-L HI V3, XP-L HI / XQ-E color and XM-L2 U2 and RGB 100mW
the tails: Nitecore MH27, Fenix TK32-2016 and Fenix TK32
Tint:
The TK32-2016 has good coolwhite tint. The first version of the TK32 shows a bluish spill, the Nitecores' tint looks little greenish. Please check it at the picture below.
Beamprofile:
A "throwy" profile here: small and bright spot, a medium corona an large spill. Because the reflector is smaller than the first TK32, the light has a narrower beam. This is really an improvement: this beam won't blind your eyes at short distance and make it possible to view things further away. Because of the total three reflectors the white beam shows two "ears". Outside you can see this at shorter distance too, but this doesn't disturb. Same issue to the color LEDS, both have a "bit" in the reflector, so this is visible in the beam; there's a lobe in the beam, especially indoors. But for the rest both white and color beam are without defects or spots, and no PWM detected at any mode. Scroll down for the beamshots!
Beamshots:
Let's start this beamshot-session by projecting the TK32-2016 on a white wall. Starting with the white modes, followed by a GIF; after that the color modes (in order of LOW to HIGH this time), and also followed by a GIF-picture.
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 1/200 sec, 35mm
GIF-picture
a GIF of the color modes:
Going outside now: First the four white modes shown in the forest here, followed by a GIF. After that a shoot-out against the Fenix TK32 XM-L2 U2, nice to see the difference in the beams here!
Camera settings: ISO100, WB daylight, F/2.7, 4.0 sec, 35mm
a GIF-picture of the white modes:
a comparison between the TK32's, both at Turbo-mode
The color modes now, in order of LOW > HIGH this time. Later an animation of all color modes together. The pictures show the impressive color output of the TK32-2016!
The color modes:
GIF-picture:
A "throw-shot" here now with the Fenix TK32, the TK32-2016 and the Nitecore MH27. Surprising here to see how the TK32-2016 performs by using such a tiny reflector. Distance to the top of the tree about 100 meters away.
the TK32 against the TK32-2016 and the Nitecore MH27, all lights at Turbo:
I went out another time and mounted the three lights on a bike to show you the output of the color modes. I went to a river this time, not completely dark here because of the industrial area, but however in my opinion a nice location. Starting with a GIF of all color modes of the TK32-2016, after the highest red and green mode compared to the TK32 and the Nitecore MH27. The distance across the river is about 210 meters.
the color modes of the TK32-2016
When we compare the color output modes to each other, you can see the impressive red and green output of the TK32-2016 compared to the TK32 and the Nitecore MH27.
a comparison of the highest red mode
a comparison of the highest green mode
Last picture… a throw shot of the three using white light. Nice to view here the difference between the wider XM-L2 U2 and the narrow XP-L HI V3-beams.
the three lights on white Turbo
Conclusion:
The updated TK32 is a big step forward, especially for the color modes. Fenix didn't have to improve that much about the build-quality and finished, because that was already very good. But the new version is easier to control and has better grip too. The new remote-control is a nice and well-operating accessory. Because the beam is narrower the light will reach (for human eye also) a farther away distance, good point. In contrast to the first version the color modes are usable now thanks to the impressive output.
What I wish on this light? A better anti-rolling design, a lock-out mode and I would like to see the blue color option back.
But I'm sure this pocket-thrower is one of the best multicolor lights there is!
Special thanks to Fenixlight and KATO for providing the TK32-2016!
Last edited:
