The Fenix LR50R V2.0 drops now with a headline figure of 18,000 lumens, up from 12,000 in the previous model. That sounds impressive, but the catch is simple: maximum throw distance has gone down from 1,040 to 925 yards as the beam widens to light up more surroundings.
- Boosted brightness to 18,000 lumens but shorter 925-yard range
- New OLED display offers black and white detailed info
- Battery jump: 115Wh pack triples runtime to 195 hours
- Proprietary removable “battery stick” with dual USB-C charging
Fenix’s new battery design swaps the old pack for a “battery stick”—a removable module that doubles as the grip. Classified as a 46950 cylindrical cell, it’s technically replaceable but proprietary. This thing is hefty: 115Wh capacity, up from 58Wh last time. That’s a double-edged sword. Runtime skyrockets, but the battery now exceeds the 100Wh airline limit, triggering special approval requirements.
Charging gets interesting: two USB-C ports handle up to 63W combined—one maxes at 18W supporting Qualcomm Quick Charge and PD at 5, 9, and 12 volts, the other hits 45W via USB PD at 15 volts, 3 amps. You can use both simultaneously, a rare feature shared by only a handful of power banks. Fenix claims a full recharge in 3 hours, but real-world numbers could vary depending on conditions.
Light modes get a modest update. The main white LED supports both spot and flood, and the flashlight adds UV and red lights for specialized uses. The OLED display shows runtime and brightness info, but it’s black and white—functional, not flashy. The flashlight retails for about $370 from Fenix’s US online store, placing it in the upper mid-tier for specialty flashlights.
Flagship Power, Mid-range Compromises
On paper, 18,000 lumens is a beast of output. However, the drop in max throw distance suggests the beam is now less focused and more about flood coverage. That means you get more light spread but less reach. For search-and-rescue or tactical use cases where distance matters, this trade-off could be a dealbreaker.
The battery upgrade is notable. Tripling runtime to 195 hours is impressive, but the jump to a 115Wh pack means you’re carrying a chunkier, heavier battery that’s not exactly travel-friendly. Airlines will flag this, so don’t expect to toss it in your carry-on without hassle.
Three Hours to Full Charge? That’s the Trade-off
The dual USB-C charging ports and simultaneous charging capability are a smart addition. Most portable power banks don’t allow this. Still, the 3-hour full charge time is optimistic. Charging speed depends on the charger quality and environmental factors. Also, proprietary batteries mean you’re locked into Fenix’s ecosystem for replacements.
The inclusion of UV and red lights broadens the flashlight’s utility but feels like an afterthought rather than a core feature. The OLED display, while practical, isn’t a game-changer—black and white means minimal eye candy.
GizmoIndo’s Take
The Fenix LR50R V2.0 pushes the envelope on lumen output and battery life but at the cost of portability and range. The wider beam compromises throw distance, and the large 115Wh battery complicates travel plans. Charging flexibility is a plus, but the reliance on a proprietary battery stick limits convenience.
At around $370, this isn’t an impulse buy. It’s for users who prioritize long runtimes and high output over compactness or maximum throw. If you need a flashlight that can flood a wide area for extended periods and don’t mind the baggage, the LR50R V2.0 fits the bill. Otherwise, there are better-balanced options out there that won’t ground your gear at the airport.
(Via)
