Convoy M21H Review: Unmatched Value in Flashlights
The Convoy M21H flashlight has garnered attention for its exceptional performance and affordability. This review will delve into the intricacies of the M21H, detailing its build quality, user interface, performance metrics, and overall value.
With the flashlight market saturated with options, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the M21H is crucial for potential buyers. This review will equip you with insights drawn from various user experiences and technical tests, providing a comprehensive overview of what to expect from this popular model.
Whether you are a flashlight enthusiast or a casual user, this guide will help you make an informed decision about the Convoy M21H.
Table of Contents
- Build Quality and Design
- LED and Beam Performance
- User Interface Overview
- Battery Life and Charging
- Performance in Real-World Conditions
- Comparisons with Competing Models
- FAQ
- Conclusion
Build Quality and Design
The Convoy M21H is a prime example of a well-constructed flashlight that balances durability with usability. Built from 6061 aluminum, the M21H features a Type III hard-anodized finish, which not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides resistance against wear and tear.
The design includes a series of heat-sinking fins that help dissipate heat during extended use, ensuring the light remains comfortable to handle even when operating at high outputs. The MAO finish available on some models provides a unique texture that improves grip, making it easier to hold in various conditions.
Materials and Finish
The M21H’s body is crafted from sturdy aluminum, ensuring longevity. Its anodized finish comes in both black and MAO (micro-arc oxidized) options, providing both durability and an attractive look.
Users have noted that the finish holds up well against scratches and dings, making it suitable for rugged use.
Ergonomics and Handling
When it comes to ergonomics, the M21H excels. The flashlight’s design includes deep cut-outs for grip and control.
The tailcap is flat, allowing for stable tailstanding, which is useful for hands-free illumination. While the e-switch is typically responsive, some users have reported that it can be mistaken for the charge port cover, especially in low-light situations.
Dimensions and Weight
Measuring approximately 131 mm in length and 40 mm in diameter at the head, the M21H fits comfortably in hand while being compact enough for easy carry. Weighing around 132 grams (without battery), it strikes a balance between heft and manageability.
Here are the specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 131 mm |
| Head Diameter | 40 mm |
| Body Diameter | 27 mm |
| Weight (Without Battery) | 132 g |
This table summarizes the dimensions and weight of the Convoy M21H, highlighting its compact design that enhances portability. Its balanced weight distribution makes it suitable for extended use without causing fatigue, which is appreciated by many users, especially during outdoor activities.
LED and Beam Performance
The M21H utilizes the Cree XHP70.3 LED, known for its high output and efficiency. With a maximum output of 3,000 lumens, it excels in both brightness and beam quality.
The flashlight offers a good blend of throw and spill, making it versatile for various tasks such as camping, search and rescue, and everyday carry.
Emitter Options
While the M21H primarily features the XHP70.3 emitter, users can opt for different color temperatures, including the popular 4000K version that enhances color accuracy and reduces harshness compared to cooler temperatures. This flexibility allows users to choose the emitter that best suits their needs, whether for general use or specific scenarios like photography.
Beam Pattern Analysis
The beam pattern of the M21H is designed to provide an even spread of light with a well-defined hotspot. The TIR lens paired with the XHP70.3 emitter creates a smooth transition from the hotspot to the spill, allowing for effective illumination of both close and distant objects.
Color Temperature and CRI
The M21H’s emitter is rated at approximately 5000K, offering a neutral white light that is generally preferred for outdoor activities. The Color Rendering Index (CRI) is rated at 90+, meaning it provides good color accuracy, which is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring true color representation.
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Output | 3000 Lumens |
| Beam Distance | 259 meters |
| Beam Intensity | 16,725 cd |
| Color Temperature | 5000K |
| CRI | 90+ |
This table provides a clear overview of the M21H’s performance metrics, showcasing its impressive brightness and beam characteristics. The values indicate that the M21H is capable of delivering a robust performance for a variety of applications, making it a strong contender in the budget flashlight category.
User Interface Overview
The user interface of the Convoy M21H is straightforward yet effective, designed for ease of use across different scenarios. It incorporates an electronic switch located near the head of the flashlight, providing multiple access modes and functionalities.
Mode Settings and Memory
The M21H features several modes, including a smooth ramping option and discrete steps of 1%, 10%, 40%, and 100% brightness. Users can easily switch between these modes, and the flashlight remembers the last brightness setting used, except for the moonlight and strobe modes.
Accessing Turbo and Moonlight Modes
For immediate access to the turbo mode, users can double-click the switch from any setting. The moonlight mode can be activated by pressing and holding the switch when the light is off, providing a low-output option for nighttime use without disturbing others.
User Feedback on UI
| UI Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Modes | 4 + Smooth Ramping |
| Turbo Access | Double Click |
| Moonlight Access | Press and Hold |
| Mode Memory | Yes (except Moonlight and Strobe) |
This table summarizes the key features of the M21H’s user interface, providing clarity on its operations. While the interface is functional, the feedback suggests that further refinements could enhance the overall user experience, particularly for those new to flashlight operations.
Battery Life and Charging
The Convoy M21H operates on a single 21700 lithium-ion battery, which provides a balance of size and power. The onboard USB-C charging feature is a significant advantage, making it convenient to recharge the flashlight without needing a separate battery charger.
Battery Compatibility
The flashlight is compatible with flat-top 21700 batteries, and users are advised to avoid using protected cells due to size constraints. The recommended options include high-quality brands like Samsung and LG, which can deliver the necessary current for optimal performance.
Charging Speed and Efficiency
The USB-C charging port allows for quick recharging, typically taking around 3-4 hours to fully charge a depleted battery. The charging circuitry is designed to handle up to 2 amps, which is efficient for the battery size and capacity.
Runtime Analysis
The M21H boasts impressive runtimes across its various modes. In the high mode, users can expect around 1 hour and 53 minutes of continuous use before the output begins to drop significantly.
The lower modes provide extended runtimes, with the 10% setting lasting over 8 hours.
| Runtime Mode | Estimated Runtime |
|---|---|
| Moonlight (0.2%) | ~100+ hours |
| 10% | ~8 hours |
| 40% | ~2 hours 12 minutes |
| 100% | ~1 hour 53 minutes |
This table illustrates the runtime capabilities of the M21H across its various modes, demonstrating the flashlight’s efficiency and longevity. The extended runtimes at lower outputs make it an excellent choice for users who require reliable illumination over long periods, particularly in outdoor or emergency situations.
Performance in Real-World Conditions
The Convoy M21H has been tested in various real-world scenarios, from camping trips to everyday tasks, showcasing its versatility and reliability. User feedback highlights its effectiveness in both outdoor and indoor settings.
Outdoor Use Cases
Indoor Performance
User Testimonials
| Use Case | User Feedback |
|---|---|
| Outdoor Activities | Highly effective, great brightness |
| Indoor Use | Convenient moonlight mode, ample brightness |
| User Interface | Functional but could be more intuitive |
Comparisons with Competing Models
Similar Models
Value for Money
User Preference Trends
| Model | Price (USD) | Max Output (Lumens) | Battery Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Convoy M21H | $35-$40 | 3000 | 1 x 21700 |
| Wurkkos TS23 | $40 | 3200 | 1 x 21700 |
| Convoy M21F | $40 | 4000 | 1 x 21700 |
FAQ
What is the maximum brightness of the Convoy M21H?
The Convoy M21H has a maximum brightness output of 3,000 lumens. This level of brightness is achieved with the Cree XHP70.3 HI emitter, which is known for its high efficiency and excellent performance in various operating conditions.
The flashlights’ brightness is suitable for a wide range of applications, from outdoor adventures to emergency situations.
How does the M21H compare to other Convoy models?
The Convoy M21H compares favorably to other models in the Convoy lineup, such as the M21F and M21E. While the M21H offers a maximum output of 3,000 lumens, the M21F can reach up to 4,000 lumens, making it brighter overall.
However, the M21H is often praised for its balance of performance and price, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious users.
What types of batteries can be used with the M21H?
The Convoy M21H is designed to use a single 21700 lithium-ion battery. It is essential to use a flat-top battery for compatibility.
While users can opt for brands like Samsung or LG, it is advisable to avoid protected cells due to their size, which may cause fit issues within the flashlight.
Is the M21H waterproof?
While the Convoy M21H features o-ring seals that provide some level of water resistance, it does not have an official IP rating. Users are advised to exercise caution when using the flashlight in wet conditions, as it may not withstand submersion or heavy rain.
It’s best to treat the M21H as water-resistant rather than fully waterproof.
How long does it take to charge the M21H?
The onboard charging feature of the M21H allows for convenient recharging via a USB-C port. Charging typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on the battery’s state of charge when connected.
This efficient charging system is a significant advantage for users who prefer not to carry a separate battery charger.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Convoy M21H flashlight stands out for its impressive performance, solid build quality, and user-friendly features, making it a great choice for both enthusiasts and casual users. Despite some minor drawbacks in its user interface, the overall value it provides is hard to beat at its price point.
This review aims to equip you with all the necessary information to determine if the M21H meets your lighting needs. As the flashlight market continues to evolve, models like the M21H set a high standard for budget-friendly options.
