EDC17: Nitecore unveils flashlight with laser, UV and regular light

Nitecore has just announced the EDC17, an all-in-one flashlight. It is likely to compete directly with the Arkpro von Olight, as well as with the Acebeam K1, which is equipped with replaceable batteries.

In a flat housing format familiar from the EDC2x series, Nitecore has incorporated a UV light and a green laser in addition to a classic flashlight. Another typical feature of Nitecore's EDC series is the built-in 1,500 mAh battery, which has a presumed capacity of around 5.5 watt hours. The batteries in Nitecore's EDC series cannot be replaced.

One of the special features is that the UV light can be selected in three levels. In addition, the laser can be used both individually and in conjunction with the white light of the flashlight (maximum 1,500 lumens, 230 meters, 12,400 cd/sqm).

Operation of the flashlight differs significantly from the previous EDC series in that Nitecore now uses a slide switch that offers different levels from the off position to the maximum setting. There is also a button for the laser pointer (press and hold for additional use), which can also be used to switch between light sources. The laser complies with Class 1 standards in Europe.

Battery life depends on the light source. Nitecore specifies a minimum runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes at maximum power. However, this was tested in a laboratory without temperature control. In practice, the EDC17 is not designed for continuous operation at 1,500 lumens.

In 1-lumen mode, 260 hours is supposedly possible. Nitecore highlights that the flashlight requires little standby power. Although no data is available here, this typically means that the flashlight can be stored for a long time without significant discharge. It can be charged via USB Type C. Runtimes are also specified for the UV light and the laser. For the former, it is between 2 and 13 hours, depending on the power setting. The laser (on the US model) lasts for 72 hours. There is no information on the Class 1 laser yet.

The EDC17 does not have a display. Instead, the battery capacity is indicated by LEDs on the top. The approximately 12 cm long flashlight is robust and IPX7 rated, meaning it can withstand drops from a height of two meters. It weighs 106 grams.

The EDC17 flashlight is currently shipping for around $95.