Armytek Elf C2 – Review – Links
Get the Armytek Elf C2 here 👇
https://www.armytek.com/flashlights/models/elf/armytek-elf-c2-warm/ (15% Off Coupon Code: “darrenyeo”)
I reviewed the Armytek Elf C2 – this is a versatile 4-in-1 flashlight that has a 10m drop and water resistance rating!
Armytek Elf C2 – Review
General thoughts after a week of usage/size comparison/practicality/interesting things:
• So Armytek has released a new multi-function flashlight recently – the Elf C2. I’ve been using it for about a week now and have been surprised at how versatile it is. It functions as a headlamp, EDC light, sports flashlight with extra shock and water protection, as well as an emergency lamp mode which allows you to power the light directly from a power bank. The first thing I noticed was the lack of magnetic charging – Armytek has switched over to USB-C charging. Though I like being able to charge a battery without removing it from the light, it also makes it less practical when traveling.
• What you get in the box: headmount, 18650 cell, deep carry clip, two spare o-rings, USB-C charging cable.
• Comparison with other headlamps / side-switch flashlights and convoy tail switch lights.
Overall Construction, LED, lens, bezel and reflector
• The construction quality is among the best I’ve seen – Armytek takes that extra care and attention to detail to make sure everything is done right, or over-engineered in some aspects like the dual springs in the head/tail + dual o-rings in the tail/sealed head. This results in an extraordinary 5 hours at 10m water resistance and 10m drop resistance rating. On top of that, you get a 10-year warranty. The body is machined well with no rough or sharp spots, and the anodizing is very grippy and my favorite among tactical lights – it’s a good thing Armytek also uses it on their EDC lights like the Elf C2. It’s effectively grippy even underwater or with wet hands.
• Single large side switch on the head – requires a firm press and feels more durable than other rubber switches I’ve seen on budget lights. The stainless steel ring is a nice addition. The USB-C charging port is also on the head, you need to remove the port cover. Tailcap is simple – with no tailswitch. It comes with a beefy spring and a strong magnet in the tail for hands-free use. It takes a decent amount of time to unscrew/screw in – this is due to the dual o-rings and extra water protection. Clip can attach in two spots, one spot allows you to deep carry the light, head down. The other spot allows you to mount the light in your pocket or on your bag with the head facing up.
• Armytek seems to focus on creating lights that have sustained output, rather than lumen monsters that produce a heap of output for only a few seconds. The driver in the Elf C2 produces constant output on all modes with no zig-zag pattern. Armytek is using a Samsung LH351D in this light, though you can’t see it due to the frosted TIR lens. I like that they include a glass lens and stainless steel bezel for added protection.
UI – modes
• Normal mode – Press once for on/memory mode. Hold the button from off for Firefly 1,2 then Main 1,2 and 3. The light will cycle through Main 1,2 and 3 afterward. Double press when on for turbo.
• Lamp mode – with the battery removed, you can use Firefly 1,2 and Main 1. Press once to turn on, then press and hold to cycle modes.
• Timer mode – unscrew the tailcap 1/4 turn, and press and hold the side switch while tightening. Press and hold the button for 5 seconds. Light will flash. 1 press = 2mins, 2 press = 5 mins, 3 press = 10 mins. Return to normal mode, unscrew the tailcap, press the side switch and release, and tighten the tailcap.
Performance – total output, beam profile, longevity, practicality
• Ceiling bounce test, CRI, CCT
• Floody beam with decent throw on turbo – the beam is about 120 degrees providing coverage into your peripherals. Soft, diffused light that is useful for most purposes.
Considerations
• The rubber port elastic design is questionable – the thinner parts are a weak point that could snap if damaged. However, the Elf C2 maintains its water resistance ratings even without the rubber cover.
• 1023 lumens – not a lumen monster, but Armytek’s focus is reliability and sustained output which you get in the Elf C2 – on turbo, there’s a minor stepdown with sustained output on all modes.
Verdict
The Armytek Elf C2 is a great all-in-one option if you’re after a versatile flood light that can be used as a work light, headlamp, camping light, and also for adventure and water sports. I like that it can take non-proprietary cells and standard USB-C charging. Though it only produces 1000 lumens, the conservative output allows for better heat management and longer runtimes. If you’re looking for an EDC flashlight that you can rely on and will hold up to some abuse, the Elf C2 is a solid option.
