The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight Made a Bold First Impression
The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight arrives as a compelling option in the ever-expanding world of micro flashlights. Olight, known for its innovation and quality, aims to deliver a potent everyday carry (EDC) illumination tool in a remarkably compact form. Boasting a rechargeable battery, aluminum construction, and a simple on/off operation, it seems poised to be a convenient and reliable light source.
As a seasoned outdoor professional, I’m perpetually searching for the ultimate backup light – something small enough to disappear in a pocket but capable of providing crucial illumination when needed. My search has been motivated by years of encountering situations where a larger flashlight was impractical or inaccessible. Think rummaging through a dimly lit tent for misplaced gear or needing a quick burst of light to check a map in the pre-dawn hours before a hunt.
The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight came packaged in minimalist, eco-friendly packaging. My initial impression was surprise at just how tiny it is; it’s smaller than many USB drives! The anodized black aluminum body feels solid and well-machined, lending an air of quality despite its diminutive size.
Compared to my Streamlight MicroStream and a generic keychain light I’ve used for years, the Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight immediately stood out. While the Streamlight offers a higher output and the keychain light is, well, a keychain light, the imini 2 promises a balance of portability, usability, and rechargeable convenience that the others lack. The imini 2’s magnetic charging also seemed innovative compared to the alternatives.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While 50 lumens doesn’t sound like much, the build quality and rechargeable functionality piqued my interest. I was eager to see if this tiny torch could live up to the demands of real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test environment for the Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight was during a weekend camping trip. I used it primarily for tasks around the campsite after dark, such as navigating to the restroom, searching for items inside my tent, and illuminating the immediate area while preparing meals. The conditions were relatively dry, with temperatures dipping to around 45°F (7°C) at night.
The imini 2 performed adequately for close-range tasks. The 50 lumens provided enough light to see what I was doing without being overly bright or blinding. Operation was simple – just detach the light from the USB plug to activate the light. It was easy to use even with gloved hands.
The biggest surprise was the surprisingly narrow beam. It created a concentrated hotspot which was ideal for some tasks. Initially, I wanted a wider beam.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily use, the Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight has held up remarkably well, with some caveats. The anodized aluminum body shows no signs of scratches or wear, despite being carried in my pocket alongside keys and other EDC items. The USB connector is still snug, and the magnetic charging function continues to work reliably.
Durability is good, though I wouldn’t recommend subjecting it to extreme abuse. The small size means it could easily be lost or damaged if not handled with care. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to other micro flashlights I’ve used, the imini 2 stands out for its consistent brightness and rechargeable battery. Cheaper lights tend to dim quickly as the battery drains, but the imini 2 maintains a relatively stable output until the end of its runtime. However, the one-hour runtime is a significant limitation, especially when compared to lights with replaceable batteries.
Breaking Down the Features of Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight
Specifications
The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight boasts the following specifications:
- Color: Black Anodized
- OAL: 2.17″
- Hand: Ambidextrous
- Material: Aluminum
- Run Time: 1.0 Hours
- Output: 50 Lumens
- Rechargeable: Yes
- Switch Type: Auto On / Detach USB Plug
- Battery Size: Rechargeable 10180 Lithium Battery 80 mAh
- Proofs: IPX6 Waterproof
- Modes: On / Off
- Power Source: Battery
- Body Diameter: 0.59″
- Bulb Type: LED
- Includes: imini 2 / USB Port Cover / Key Chain
- Lens Type: TIR
- Weight: 0.69 oz
- Range: 21 Meters
- Filter Color: White
These specifications dictate the light’s intended use case. The aluminum construction contributes to its durability and lightweight design, making it ideal for EDC. The 50-lumen output is sufficient for close-range tasks, while the one-hour runtime necessitates frequent charging. The IPX6 waterproof rating offers adequate protection against rain and splashes, making it suitable for outdoor use in moderately wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight performs its intended job adequately, providing a small but useful amount of light in a very small package. Its functionality is straightforward: detach from the USB plug to activate the light; reattach to turn it off and begin charging.
The primary strength is its small size and ease of use. It is a perfect keychain light for those times you need a small amount of light. The weakness is the low light output and relatively short run time.
The imini 2 meets expectations for a micro flashlight, but it doesn’t exceed them. If you want high performance, this is not the light for you.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is surprisingly good for its size and price. The aluminum body feels solid and well-machined, and the anodized finish provides a durable and attractive exterior. At just 0.69 oz, it’s barely noticeable when carried in a pocket or on a keychain.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is almost no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight appears reasonably durable, and should last for quite some time. It is easy to maintain and is unlikely to need any repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight comes with a USB port cover and a small keychain. There are no other accessories that come with the product. It’s not really designed for customization. Due to its specific charging method and compact design, it’s unlikely to be compatible with accessories from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight, perfect for everyday carry.
- Rechargeable via USB, eliminating the need for disposable batteries.
- Durable aluminum construction.
- Simple and intuitive operation.
- IPX6 water resistance for protection against splashes and rain.
Cons
- Limited 50-lumen output may not be sufficient for all tasks.
- Short one-hour runtime necessitates frequent charging.
- No adjustable brightness settings or beam focus.
Who Should Buy Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight?
Pros
- Extremely compact and lightweight, perfect for everyday carry.
- Rechargeable via USB, eliminating the need for disposable batteries.
- Durable aluminum construction.
- Simple and intuitive operation.
- IPX6 water resistance for protection against splashes and rain.
Cons
- Limited 50-lumen output may not be sufficient for all tasks.
- Short one-hour runtime necessitates frequent charging.
- No adjustable brightness settings or beam focus.
Perfect for: Urban dwellers, office workers, students, and anyone seeking an ultra-compact and convenient EDC flashlight for close-range tasks.
Who should skip this product? Those who require high-output illumination for outdoor adventures, tactical applications, or emergency situations.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A small USB power bank or wall adapter for convenient charging on the go. A lanyard can also be useful for added security.
Conclusion on Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight
The Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight offers a compelling combination of portability, convenience, and build quality in an incredibly small package. While its 50-lumen output and one-hour runtime may limit its utility for some users, its rechargeable functionality and durable construction make it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
At $19.99, the price is justified for its unique combination of features. It’s a convenient and compact light, and the price matches the light’s capabilities.
I would personally recommend the Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight to anyone seeking a reliable and unobtrusive EDC light for basic illumination needs. If you want to keep a small amount of light with you at all times, this is the light for you. Give the Olightstore imini 2 Black Anodized 50 Lumens White LED Flashlight a try and experience the convenience of a powerful light in an incredibly small form factor!