The STKR Flexit Solar 500 Lumen Flexible Flashlight is a versatile lighting tool that was designed for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. In a nutshell, this innovative flashlight features a 500-lumen spotlight with a flexible neck that allows you to adjust its position to accommodate different lighting situations.
Equipped with neodymium magnets, it can be securely attached to metal surfaces, and its built-in hook ensures attachment to non-metal objects as well. The flashlight offers dual charging options, including solar and a micro USB connection, making it a reliable companion for various lighting needs. I chose this product to spotlight for many of these reasons and more.
Don’t get me wrong, flashy specs and ideas are one thing, but the product needs to perform as advertised. That’s where I come in.
In this article, we’ll delve into the flashlight’s key features, explore its practical applications, and evaluate its overall value from the perspective of someone who lives outdoors year-round. Readers can expect a comprehensive overview that highlights the flashlight’s quality and versatility.
Table of Contents
Initial First Impressions
At first glance, I was impressed with the sleek design of the STKR Flexit Solar 500 Lumen Flexible flashlight; However, I was also concerned as the neck seemed a bit fragile. Over the past week and a bit, I’ve been moving this neck back and forth, and it has maintained its flexibility remarkably well.
The LEDs are bright, and they all function properly, although one does appear slightly off-color. The neodymium magnets are quite strong, offering a secure attachment to metal surfaces. However, I did experience one magnet popping out of its slot when removing the flashlight from a metal object. The outer material for the LED housing feels rugged, meaning it can probably handle a couple of falls.
The setup and operation of the flashlight are straightforward. A simple click of the middle red button powers the light on, and pressing the mode button beside it allows you to cycle through all of the lighting settings with ease. This intuitive design makes the flashlight user-friendly, even in challenging situations.
Key Features
The STKR Flexit Solar 500 Lumen Flexible flashlight boasts an impressive array of features designed for versatility and durability. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or dealing with an unexpected power outage, this flashlight has you covered with its robust technical specifications and user-friendly design.
Here are the key features at a glance:
- Brightness: 500 lumens
- LED Configuration: 12 Lumen-Tech white LEDs, 4 Lumen-Tech red LEDs
- Lighting Modes:
- High Spot & High Flood
- High Flood
- Low Flood
- Red Night Vision
- Strobe
- Charging Options: Solar panel, Micro-USB port
- Design: Fully flexible body with Shape-Loc frame
- Magnets: 2 Neodymium magnets with a non-marring rubber base
- Material: Durable A.B.S. body
- Buttons: On/off button, mode button
- Runtime: 70 hours on low setting
- Battery: Integrated Lithium-ion battery
- Size: 11.5 in. height x 5.75 in. width
- Weather Resistance: Weather resistant
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
The 70 Hours of battery life is pretty impressive, in my opinion. Unfortunately, I am in an area that is quite sunny all of the time and it gets charged by the sun regardless of use. So I was unable to test this properly. However, I feel like that is a pro for overlanders who are looking for something that doesn’t need to be charged by an outlet or battery.
Practical Applications
In my opinion, the STKR Flexit Solar 500 Lumen Flexible flashlight excels in a variety of practical applications, making it a useful tool for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities, needs reliable lighting in emergencies, or requires a versatile light source for daily tasks.
Whether you’re camping in the wilderness, setting up an overland expedition, or needing a spotlight at a hunting camp, this flashlight can meet your needs. Its bright LEDs and multiple lighting modes make it perfect for things you may not think about, like car repairs or a reading light. if it didn’t have the magnets and just the hook then I can see its uses being more limited, but thankfully that isn’t the case.
A noteworthy feature of this flashlight is its foldable design. It does make it incredibly easy to transport. While it might feel unusual to fold it in half at first, doing so won’t damage the LEDs, making it incredibly convenient for packing and storage. Since I started storing the flashlight folded in half, I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear, proving its durability and robustness.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Impressive Battery Life: The flashlight boasts an impressive 70 hours of battery life, providing long-lasting illumination for extended periods without the need for frequent recharges. This makes it exceptionally convenient for prolonged outdoor activities.
- Solar Charging Capability: The ability to charge via solar power is a major advantage, particularly for overlanders and outdoor enthusiasts who may not have easy access to electrical outlets. This ensures the flashlight remains operational even in remote locations.
- Versatile Lighting Modes: With multiple lighting modes, including a bright LED setting, this flashlight is suitable for a wide array of applications, from camping and car repairs to serving as a reading light. Its flexibility enhances its utility in various scenarios.
Cons
- Size in Full Form: Despite its foldable design, when fully extended, the flashlight can be somewhat bulky, which might be inconvenient for those looking to save space in their gear.
- Potential Overcharging Issue: In excessively sunny environments, there is a slight concern that the flashlight may overcharge, which could potentially affect battery longevity. From my experience with solar panels integrated into the products, the battery can get way too hot for comfort.
- Dependence on Sunlight: While the solar charging capability is a pro, it can also be a con in less sunny regions or during cloudy days where sunlight is insufficient to keep the flashlight charged. However, if you’re burning through 70 hours of life without sun then you have a different situation.
Final Thoughts
The STKR Flexit Solar 500 Lumen Flexible Flashlight impresses me with its portable, foldable design, and solar charging capability, making it highly suitable for extended outdoor activities. Its versatile lighting modes add to its functionality, catering to various needs from camping to emergency repairs.
However, its size when fully extended and potential battery issues from the built-in panel are points to consider. Only time will tell.
Overall, I like this flashlight and I feel it is a safe bet for overlanders, campers, and individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures and need a reliable light source in remote locations. With the convenience of solar charging, it ensures you always have light, even off the beaten path
