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Flashlights are not something I have written about extensively in the past. But, like all tech, there is a huge range of options out there covering every possible requirement and a passionate community of flashlight fans.
One popular brand is Nitecore, which was established back in 2007 and produces a wide range of flashlights that are sold worldwide.
Earlier this year, NiteLab/Nitecore cooperated with an industrial partner to jointly develop the ultra high-intensity UHi LED Series specially designed for flashlights, which includes UHi 10, UHi 20, UHi 40, and other models that can fit different flashlight head sizes.
The Nitecore MH12 Pro flashlight, fitted with the new UHi 40 LED, can produce a maximum lumen output of 3300 with a maximum throw distance of 505 meters, all in a flashlight just 138.5mm and 27mm in diameter.
Nitecore MH12 Pro Specification
The Nitecore MH12 Pro boasts impressive specifications that make it stand out in the flashlight market:
- LED: UHi 40 LED
- Maximum Output: 3300 lumens
- Peak Beam Intensity: 63,500cd
- Maximum Beam Distance: 505 metres
- Battery Compatibility: 1 x 21700 Li-Ion battery (5,300 mAh), 1 x 18650 battery, or 2 x CR123/RCR123 batteries
- USB-C Rechargeable
- Waterproof Rating: IP68 (2 metres submersion)
- Impact Resistance: Up to 1 metre
- Weight: 82 g (battery not included)
- Size: Length – 138.5mm, Head Diameter – 26.8mm, Tube Diameter – 26.0mm, Tail Diameter – 27.0mm
- Warranty: 60 months free repair, limited warranty beyond 60 months
Nitecore MH12 Pro Features
The Nitecore MH12 Pro flashlight is packed with features designed for both everyday and tactical use:
- UHi 40 LED with ultra-high light density
- A combined optical system with crystal coating and Precision Digital Optics Technology (PDOT)
- Tactical mode and daily mode
- Tactical tail switch and mode button to control 5 brightness levels and 3 special modes
- Random frequency STROBE mode for enhanced dizzying effects
- Power indicators next to the mode button to display remaining battery charge
- Level indicators next to the mode button to show the current brightness level
- Intelligent Li-ion battery charging circuit with USB-C charging port
- Highly efficient constant current circuit for stable output
- Advanced Temperature Regulation (ATR) module
- Electronic protection against polarity reversal
- Optical lenses with anti-scratch coating on both sides
- Made of aeronautical aluminium alloy with HA III military-grade hard-anodised finish
Design and Build Quality
The Nitecore MH12 Pro flashlight is a testament to Nitecore’s commitment to producing sturdy and durable products. It is made from aeronautical aluminium alloy, providing a robust and resilient build. The finish is a hard anodised, military-grade HA III, which adds to the flashlight’s toughness and durability.
One of the standout design features of the MH12 Pro is its aggressive knurling on the body. This not only gives the flashlight an appealing aesthetic but also enhances grip, ensuring it won’t easily slip from your hand in wet conditions.
The MH12 Pro also features a tactical tail switch and a side mode button, both of which are easily accessible and straightforward to use. The side button is surrounded by LED indicators, which show the remaining battery charge and the current brightness level.
One minor issue with the build is that this is only rated for 1M drop resistance. This seems to be relatively normal for many flashlights, including competing brands such as Fenix. I have had no problems with the durability, but I have seen some people criticise this.
LED, Lens and Reflector
The Nitecore MH12 Pro is the first flashlight from Nitecore to utilise the UHi 40 LED, an innovation developed by NiteLab and NITECORE. This LED stands out for its ultra-high light density, which allows the flashlight to emit a maximum output of 3300 lumens.
The UHi 40 LED delivers a maximum throw distance of 705 metres depending on the flashlight, which surpasses the reach of LEDs of comparable power by 21.5%. Additionally, it achieves 50% of the throw distance offered by an LEP flashlight. This enables standard compact flashlights to overcome size constraints and achieve longer-range throw capabilities than previously possible.
The UHi 40 LED has a round light-emitting surface (LES), which pairs perfectly with the round reflector in the MH12 Pro. This design enables high light conversion efficiency and a bright, clear hotspot.
Additionally, the flashlight has a proximity sensor adjacent to the LED. This sensor limits the light output to 300 lumens when it detects an obstacle at close range, preventing accidental ignitions and unwanted consumption.
Performance and Run Time
When it comes to performance, the Nitecore MH12 Pro certainly holds its own. With a maximum output of 3300 lumens, it provides an intense light that is ideal for a variety of situations, from emergencies and self-defence to outdoor activities and patrols.
The flashlight offers five brightness levels and three special modes, which can be easily controlled via the tactical tail switch and the side mode button. The highest brightness level (Turbo mode) is particularly impressive, providing a peak beam intensity of 63,500cd and a maximum throw of 505 metres.
I noticed on Reddit that some users have a preference for the colour temperature of a flashlight, with this using a cold white. I have no preference myself.
The illumination itself is quite focused /directional. Nitecore also sent along the EDC27, which has a similar lumen output of 3000 (when used in strobe mode), but it uses dual luminous SST40 LEDs which have a much wider spread, but the beam distance is less than half at 220 meters.
I can’t say which style of illumination I prefer as I don’t use flashlights a lot of the time. Both clearly have their advantages. I think I will likely find the MH12 Pro more useful as I would use it for things like routing around my loft in the dark or generally looking for things outside in the dark, where the brighter focused beam will be helpful. My brother often walks down country roads at night, so I think he will find the wider beam of the EDC27 more useful for safety.
One of the key selling points of the MH12 Pro is its outstanding run time. When powered by a 21700 Li-Ion battery (5,300 mAh), the flashlight can run for up to 650 hours on its lowest brightness level (Ultra-Low mode).
At the maximum output of 3300 lumens, the run time drops down to just 30 mins. This mode is only available when using a 21700/18650 rechargeable li-ion battery with a discharge current over 15A.
This long-run time, coupled with the flashlight’s USB-C rechargeable feature, makes the MH12 Pro an ideal choice for prolonged use.
Price and Alternative Options
While the Nitecore MH12 Pro priced at £94.95 in the UK and is available directly from Nitecore.
Flashlights are not my speciality, so I researched popular options recommended on the Internet rather than products I have personal experience with.
- Nitecore EDC27: This is the EDC model I have been using, which is a similar price, it’s 3000 lumen output is limited to strobe mode and can do 1000 lumens for its normal high output. The dual Luminus SST40 LEDs provide a wider spread of light but a shorter throw distance of 220 metres.
- Nitecore MH12SE: This special edition model has a maximum output of 1800 lumens and a maximum beam distance of 186 metres. It is also USB-C rechargeable and compatible with 21700, 18650, and CR123 batteries.
- Fenix UC35: This flashlight delivers a maximum output of 960 lumens and a beam distance of 200 metres. It features a micro-USB charging port and is powered by a rechargeable 18650 Li-ion battery or two CR123A batteries.
- Fenix E35R: This compact flashlight offers a maximum output of 3000 lumens and a maximum beam distance of 240 metres. It is USB-C rechargeable and powered by a 21700 Li-ion battery.
- Fenix PD36R Pro: This high-performance flashlight delivers a maximum output of 1600 lumens and a maximum distance of 283 metres. It is USB-C rechargeable and powered by a 21700 Li-ion battery.
Overall
The Nitecore MH12 Pro flashlight is an excellent flashlight that combines power, performance, portability and versatility.
With its robust build quality, innovative LED technology, and extensive run time, it should be a serious consideration for anyone wanting a high-performance flashlight in a portable package.
I have been using the Nitecore EDC27 alongside the MH12 Pro, which I will be reviewing in the next couple of days. They are similarly priced flashlights.
The MH12 Pro has superior peak output, as the EDC27 is limited to 3000 lumens when in strobe mode, and the MH12 Pro has a better battery. This has a very focused beam, which is good for intense illumination of a smaller area or illuminating something very far away.
The Nitecore EDC27 is classed as an everyday carry (EDC ) torch, and the flat design is certainly more pocket-friendly. It lacks the brightness of the MH12 Pro, but it has a wider spread, which I think is probably more useful for casual users who just want to be able to see where they are going in the dark.
Both are superb flashlights, and this is coming from someone who has never really thought that flashlights could be interesting or exciting pieces of consumer tech!
Nitecore MH12 Pro Flashlight Review
Summary
The Nitecore MH12 Pro flashlight is an excellent flashlight that combines power, performance, portability and versatility. With its robust build quality, innovative LED technology, and extensive run time, it should be a serious consideration for anyone wanting a high-performance flashlight in a portable package.
Overall
85%-
Overall - 85%85%
Pros
- Ultra bright with 3300 Lumen output
- USB-C charging
- Good battery life
Cons
- Beam is very directional
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
