Are you in need of a new EDC light? Are you looking for a light that can use alkaline or rechargeable batteries? If you answered yes to both of these questions it’s time to take a look at the new and improved Fenix LD09. The compact design of the Fenix LD09 doesn’t hinder its performance or output. If you want to find out more about what the Fenix LD09 has to offer, keep reading this review.
Before You Buy
The L series of flashlights manufactured by Fenix are designed around usability and performance. The lights in the L series, including the LD09, can be used for anything you would need a flashlight for. Whether you are on an outdoor adventure, belong to a search and rescue team, or just need something to find your keys in the dark the Fenix L series has a light for you.
If you didn’t know already the Fenix LD09 is an EDC style of light. When looking at EDC lights you want to look at a few key factors before deciding on the best one. Brightness is the most important thing to consider with an EDC. You need a light that is going to be bright enough to get the job done. Durability is also important. EDC style lights are used a lot. You want something that is going to hold up under heavy use. The last thing you want to consider is the price. EDC lights range in price, so there is something for every budget. Keep in mind the more features a light has the more expensive it will be. For more EDC options, please read our Best EDC Flashlight Buyers Guide here.
Fenix LD09
The Fenix LD09 2015 edition is the recently upgraded version of the original Fenix LD09. With this upgrade, Fenix added the EDC lights ability to accept a Fenix 14500 rechargeable battery. The ability to use a rechargeable battery adds value to the already powerful, yet compact light. Its simple design and compact size make it a favorite among those who believe in always being prepared. The stainless steel pocket clip secures the 3.7 inch inside your pocket, so you always have it when you need it.
Previous versions of the Fenix LD09 were able to emit a max of 130 lumens using the same CREE XP-E2 R3 LEDs. The 130 max lumens is still the same if you are using a Ni-MH or alkaline battery. With the introduction of the powerful 14500 rechargeable battery, users can now experience a max of 220 lumens with a one hour runtime. Made from durable aircraft-grade aluminum with a military grade anodized finish the LD09 is fully protected from corrosion and scratches. An IPX-8 rating protects the light from being submerged in 6.5 feet of water for 30 minutes.
Pros:
- SOS Mode
- Tail Stand
- Tactical Tail Switch
- 3 brightness levels
Cons:
- No memory mode
- No moon
Specs:
- Dimensions: 3.7 inches and 0.7 inch diameter
- Weight: 1.2 oz without battery
- Output: 3 lumens on low and 220 lumens on high
- Runtime: 58 hours on low and 1 hour on high
Fenix LD09 Features & Benefits
User Interface
With the Fenix LD09, you will be using a multi-function tail switch to control the light. Whether you are looking for momentary-on, output selection, or constant-on you will only be able to access them via the tail cap switch. Accessing momentary-on and switching between output modes is done by tapping the switch. To access constant-on or to turn the light off you need to click the tail cap switch. The LD09 does not have a memory mode. The light will always turn on in low output mode.
Tapping the tail cap switch multiple times allows you to cycle through the output modes without turning the light on. Once you find our desired mode give the tail cap a full click to engage it.
Batteries
The Fenix LD09 can be powered by three different battery types: Ni-MH, alkaline, and the 14500 rechargeable. Runtime and lumen output are directly affected by the batteries used. With a Ni-MH battery, the LD09 max lumens is 130 for a period of 1 hour and 45 minutes. With a regular alkaline battery, max lumens is 130, but the runtime drops down to 50 minutes. With the 14500 rechargeable battery, max lumens is 220 with a 1 hour runtime. The lowest setting emits 3 lumens with all three battery styles, but runtimes will vary. With the Ni-MH in low, you have a runtime of 70 hours, alkaline is 43 hours, and the 14500 rechargeable is 58 hours.
Intelligent Drive Circuit
With an EDC light you want the battery to last as long as possible, which battery drain is a problem in hybrid lights. To ensure you get the most life out of each battery you use Fenix uses an intelligent drive circuit inside the LD09. This allows the light to automatically detect what style of battery is loaded into the light. Once the battery style has been identified the light chooses the corresponding working mode to provide you with maximum efficiency.
Social Proof
The newly upgraded Fenix LD09 is a light that I strongly recommend. With the Fenix LD09, you have a compact light that is powerful enough to be used in a variety of situations. The LD09 has the ability to use three different styles of batteries: Ni-MH, alkaline, and the 14500 rechargeable. In reading what others have to say about this light, most agree it is an excellent EDC light. The biggest complaint that I have found is in the working order of the brightness levels. The new model runs low-mid-high. The other downfall to the light is it doesn’t feature a memory mode.
Alternatives
Fenix LD12
If you are looking for something a little bigger and powerful the Fenix LD12 is an excellent choice. With the 2017 upgrade, the Fenix LD12 can now use a 14500 rechargeable battery in addition to ordinary AA. Using a CREE XP-G2 R5 LED with neutral white light users will experience better color rendering. Emitting up to 320 lumens the 4.04 inch EDC light is one of the most powerful lights requiring a single rechargeable AA size battery.
Nitecore MT1A
Using a single ordinary AA battery the Nitecore MT1A can emit up to 180 lumens. The Fenix LD09 using the same battery can only emit 130 lumens. The subcompact size of this EDC light allows it to fit inside a pocket or purse with ease. The pocket clip secures the light to prevent it from being lost. The Nitecore MT1A comes with two preset modes and four brightness levels. These work together to provide the light with true versatility as the modes and brightness levels combine together to create a variety of levels. The U-shaped tail cap makes the light easier to use even when wearing gloves, plus protects against accidental activation.
Thrunite Archer 1A V3
Made from aerospace grade aluminum with a military grade Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish the Thrunite Archer 1A V3 is just as durable as the Fenix LD09. The CREE XP-L V6 LED emits up 200 lumens using a single AA battery. The Thrunite Archer 1A V3 offers five output modes, including Strobe ad Firefly. U-shaped groove at the tail end allows for easy activation and prevents accidental activation. The pocket clip is both reversible and removable based on user’s preferences. Momentary on is activated via the tail cap switch; switching between modes is done via the side switch.
Fenix LD09 Review Final Thoughts
If you need an EDC style of light that is small enough to fit in your pocket the Fenix LD09 is an excellent choice. Measuring less than 4 inches, don’t let the small size of the Fenix LD09 fool you. Using a rechargeable 14500 battery the LD09 can emit up to 220 lumens. Even with its small size the Fenix LD09 delivers everything that you need in an EDC style light. Now that you have seen what the Fenix LD09 has to offer, go on out and purchase one today!
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