Acebeam's $25 UC3A is a multifunction flashlight powered by USB-C or AAA battery

The newly launched Acebeam UC3A is an exceptionally versatile flashlight despite its compact and lightweight design, measuring just 7.1 x 3.1 cm (2.8 x 1.22 in) and weighing a mere 63 g (2.22 oz). Its flexibility begins with its power source: Acebeam includes a 3.7 V 10440 cylindrical cell with an integrated USB-C port that must be charged outside the flashlight.

However, if this rechargeable battery runs out, you can swap in a standard 1.5 V AAA battery to keep the light running in a pinch. Acebeam only provides runtime information for the USB-C battery. With the white LED enabled, battery life ranges from roughly 40 minutes to 23 hours. As is typical for an Acebeam device, the high settings – offering a beam distance of up to 85 m (278.9 ft) and 900 lumens – are only available when the battery is fully charged. Additionally, the maximum brightness level is limited to 14 seconds, meaning it may no longer be accessible even when the UC3A has been used briefly. The table below is taken from the instruction manual and provides an overview of the various runtimes.

Controls are also somewhat complex because the UC3A features not only a white main light but also several signal modes via a side light. This auxiliary light source can illuminate in RGB or white. In RGB strobe mode, the flashlight can last between 17 and 53 hours, making it useful, for example, as a tail light on a backpack during hikes.

Since the UC3A packs so many options, Acebeam has included two buttons to help you more easily cycle through various light modes: one for the main light and another for the auxiliary light. As illustrated by the image below, the controls are quite involved for such a tiny flashlight. There is a fair amount to remember, but navigating the different modes should become easier with some practice.

Besides a belt/hat clip, the flashlight also has a magnetic tail for sticking to some metal surfaces, such as the inside of a PC case, allowing you to keep your hands free for work.

Available in an outdoor-ready signal orange, the Acebeam UC3A is currently listed on the official online store for $24.40 / €23.18.