Are you looking to replace your old propane lantern? Are you looking for a lantern that you can use anywhere, anytime? If so you need to look into the Fenix CL25R. With the CL25R Fenix has introduced a powerful and portable design that takes camping lanterns to the next level. With its small size, many people are surprised at how powerful this all-season camping lantern is. Keep on reading to find out everything this Fenix CL25R Review has to offer.
Before You Buy
Comparing different lanterns is helpful in finding the right lantern for your needs. Before you can start comparing lanterns you will need to look at specific performance factors. Two of the factors you need to consider are runtime and lumens. Look for a lantern that offers different brightness levels with an adequate run time. Size and weight should also be considered. Bulky or heavy lights are not a concern for car camping, but for other activities they can be a hindrance. Batteries also need to be looked at. Some batteries perform better in colder temperatures than others. The information you need can be found under the specs section of the lantern.
Fenix CL25R
The Fenix CL25R is an all-season rechargeable lantern that takes camping lanterns to another level. The 3.9 inch Fenix CL25R lantern might be small in size, but it can emit up to 350 lumens and light up an area of 82 feet. The CL25R is well known for its versatility. The Fenix CL25R offers four white light output modes and two red light output modes. Intelligent memory circuit recalls the last white light mode used when turned on.
The Fenix CL25R is one of the first lanterns to offer a cold-resistant design. The CL25R can work in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. The lantern features a special battery holder for better low-temperature performance. The lantern is compatible with CR123A batteries, as well as the Li-Ion rechargeable 18650 battery. For colder temperatures, Fenix recommends used the CR123A battery for better performance.
Pros:
- Red and white light
- Rechargeable
- Moonlight mode
- Single button switch
Cons:
- On/Off switch has to be held down
Specs:
- Dimensions: 3.9 inches tall and 2.0 inches diameter
- Weight: 4.5 oz without batteries
- Lowest Setting: 0.8 lumens for 600 hours
- Highest Setting: 350 lumens for 2 hours and 15 minutes
Fenix CL25R Features & Benefits
User Interface
A battery operated lantern should be easy to use. The Fenix CL25R meets that expectation, as it is controlled via a single switch. The quick and easy operation is made better as the switch is luminous. A luminous switch is easier to find in the dark. Turning the light on or off is done by holding the switch for 0.8 seconds. With the light on you can cycle through the four brightness levels by pressing the switch until the desired mode is found. Switching between white and red light can be done by double pressing the switch when the light is on. To access flashing red press the switch once when the red light is activated.
Rechargeable
The Fenix CL25R comes with a single 18650 Li-ion rechargeable battery. The Fenix 18650 battery does not need to be removed for charging. To charge the battery plug the included Micro-USB cable into the charging port. The charging indicator will turn red when charging. The indicator light will turn green when charging is complete. While charging the lantern can be used in mid output, moonlight, and red light mode. A built-in protective circuit protects the lantern from over discharging and overcharging.
Moonlight Mode
Often times when you are camping you need a soft glow of light. Using lower lumens ensures you won’t destroy your night vision. With the Fenix CL25R, users have the ability to select Moonlight mode. This mode provides a soft glow of light, only 0.8 lumens. The low level of light is perfect for a nightlight inside a tent. The low level of lumens also means an extended runtime on a single 18650 battery. On Moonlight mode the lantern will run for 600 hours.
Social Proof
Many reviews that I have read have nothing but positive things to say about the Fenix CL25R. This isn’t surprising as Fenix has long been an industry leader in lighting. Fenix took things to an entirely different level when they introduced the Fenix CL25R. Reviews make note that the CL25R might have been designed for camping; it is versatile enough to be used for so much more.
The overall opinion on the Fenix CL25R is good, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. One of the weak points is the USB charging port. Even with an IPX-6 rating, the port needs to be closed to prevent any damage. The IPX-6 rating protects the lantern from rain and heavy splashing. Some complain about having to hold the switch down to activate the light, but that lowers the risk of accidental activation.
Alternatives
Fenix CL30R
For those of you who need something a little more powerful, something that can be used as a lantern or a work light, the Fenix CL30R is an excellent choice. The Fenix CL30R is one of the most versatile lanterns on the market. The lantern can be powered by one, two, or three rechargeable 18650 batteries. The Fenix CL30R offers five brightness levels, plus Turbo and Flash modes. The lantern can emit up to 650 lumens and will easily light up an area 114 feet wide. Compatible with two CR123A batteries the CL30R features a cold-resistant battery compartment. The Fenix CL30R is not only a light; it is also an independent charging station for other devices.
Streamlight Siege AA
If you need something a little less powerful the Streamlight Siege AA is an excellent choice. The Streamlight Siege AA offers one C4 LED for white light and two red LEDS for red light modes. The C4 LED can emit anywhere from 50 to 200 lumens of white light. The polycarbonate cover is designed to reduce glare and provide soft and even light distribution. The cover can be removed to light up larger areas. The Streamlight Siege is powered by three ordinary AA batteries and can run up to 37 hours on the lowest setting. A battery indicator light will change from green, to yellow, and to red to indicate when the batteries need replacement.
Black Diamond Apollo
The Black Diamond Apollo lantern is an excellent choice for those who need a little less light. The Apollo is powered by four AA batteries and is compatible with rechargeable NRG batteries. The Apollo features a power meter that displays the charge status for the rechargeable NRG batteries or the battery level for ordinary AA batteries. The Black Diamond Apollo utilizes a QuadPower LED that emits 200 lumens of bright light. The lantern features a unique dimming function allowing users to adjust the brightness. The fold down legs increases the height of the lantern allowing for better light dispersion.
Fenix CL25R Review Final Thoughts
If you need an all-season camping lantern that goes above and beyond what you would expect the Fenix CL25R is an excellent choice. Most lanterns can be hung or sat on a table, but the CL25R can be mounted three different ways: magnetic base, lanyard, and tripod. The small, but powerful light offers red and white light modes ranging anywhere from o.8 to 350 lumens. Now that you know what the Fenix CL25R has to offer go on out and add one to your collection today.
Thank you for visiting BestTacticalFlashlights.net. If you like any of the flashlights that you see in this article, please click on one of the Buy Now buttons to make your purchase on Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate, we make a small commission off any purchase made from a click through from our website, which is how we are able to provide you with these informative articles. You will not pay more on Amazon by clicking through our website because the price is the same as if you go to Amazon directly. Please take a look at our our Fenix Flashlight Buyers Guide or all other flashlight reviews or our Best Flashlight Buyers Guides for all your flashlight needs.