There was once a time when things used to be much simpler, a phone only had one function. Today it is all about cramming all the fancy gadgets into one distracting packaging. This can often lead to a subpar version, but they are a few exceptions like the Renogy E.Lumen 500 multifunction flashlight. As the name suggests It is not just a regular flashlight, it’s more like a Swiss army knife version of a flashlight. All the functions and features actually complement each other on a certain level.
Build and features
The E.Lumen 500 Weights in at 0.68 lbs. / 310 g comprised an aluminum body which helps give it a comfortable feel in the hand. For some, it may still be on the heavier side, but that’s a good trade-off given all the extra bells and whistles.
At first glance, you can tell this isn’t your regular flashlight. On one side of the head, there is a safety hammer for breaking glass, and on the opposite end a seat belt cutter. located in the middle of them is a magnetic strip for mounting the flashlight. These three features alone would come in extremely handy in an emergency situation, bower there is more!
Another noticeable feature that stands out is the middle section which comprises solar recharging panels and LEDs. Located and the lower end is a removable compass, which also serves as a cover for two hidden ports. The first port is A USB output which serves as a power bank for charging smaller electronics. The other is a micro USB, which offers a second option besides the solar panel recharging.
Light Modes: headlights, white flood light, and red strobe lights.
Switching between the three different light modes is all done using the power button located on the side of the E.Lumen 500. You can cycle between each mode by holding down the power button for 3 seconds. Each light modes also feature its own variations.
Headlights: One click activates the bright mode, two clicks activate the dim mode, and three clicks activate the strobe mode. The headlight covers a distance of 200 meters.
White Flood Light: hold down the power button for 3 seconds then release. Click a second time to activate the dim variation and a third time to turn it off.
Red Strobe Lights: hold down the power button for 4 seconds or until the red strobe light appears then release. Click a second time to activate the slow strobe variation and a third time to turn it off.
Charge and run time
Charging time from 0% using the solar panel takes roughly 29 to 30 hours which might seem a little excessive. However, that is understandable given the size of the panels. In any event, it is advisable to carry the micro USB charger since this would reduce the charging time to 6 hours.
Run time will vary according to usage and different light modes. Headlights:
- Bright (3-4 Hours) • Dim (5-6 Hours) • Strobe (5-6 Hours).
- White Flood Light: Bright (3-4 Hours) • Dim (6-7 Hours).
- Red Strobe Lights: • Fast Strobe (6-7 Hours) • Slow Strobe (6-7 Hours).
Final thought
The E.Lumen 500 multifunction flashlight is an all-around decent flashlight for keeping in the glove compartment or taking on a camping trip. Although it might have a lot going on, the extra does not take away from its main function.
