Olight i3T Plus: specifications and review observations

Historical review: observations concern the model and sample examined at the time. Check the exact model manual, safety notices, accessories and sales terms before purchase or use.

QUICK THOUGHTS:

This review covers the Olight i3T Plus, a slim tail-switch light powered by two AAA batteries. The observations and specifications concern the model tested and do not automatically describe later versions.

WHAT’S IN THE BOX?

1. Olight i3T Plus Flashlight – Uses a Luxeon TX LED
2. Two AAA alkaline batteries supplied with the review sample
3. Pre-attached dual-direction pocket clip
4. User Manual (17 languages)
5. "Read Me" Warning Card

Advertised modes and runtimes with two AAA batteries

1. Turbo
   • Output: 250 Lumens
   • Runtime: 1 minute at 100%, followed by 480 minutes at 40%
2. Low
   • Output: 15 Lumens
   • Runtime: 28 hours

OTHER SPECIFICATIONS:

• Maximum Throw: 70 meters – High mode
• IPX Rating: IPX8
• Impact resistance: 2 meters
• Luminous intensity (candela): 1240

ACTUAL PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS:

USER INTERFACE:

The i3T Plus is controlled by a single 3-position switch (off, momentary, and on). It is rubber-covered and features a textured surface. It protrudes slightly from the end of the flashlight body. By allowing the switch to extend a bit beyond the body, the light becomes very easy to activate, even while wearing gloves. That said, it never turned on accidentally in my pocket, though it is a possibility given the exposed button. There is no lockout mode on this light; even unscrewing the tail cap slightly does not lock it out. I don’t consider this a major issue, other than the potential for draining your battery. The default mode is "low," so there is no significant heat generated that would cause any problems.

Turning the light on and off is simple! You can fully press and release the tail switch to activate the low mode. To turn it off, simply press the switch all the way down and release it. To switch from the Low mode, you can turn the light off and back on within two seconds, and it will switch to the High mode. Subsequent full presses will simply cycle through the modes: Low -> High -> Low.

You can also operate the light using only the momentary position of the switch. Simply press the switch halfway down and hold it to activate the Low mode; release it, then press it halfway again to switch to the High mode. To turn it off, just release the switch. Subsequent half-presses will simply cycle through the modes: Low -> High -> Low.

The switch is very reliable and has worked perfectly for me; it provides an audible and tactile click when pressed all the way down. However, half-presses are completely silent. I really like the simplicity of the switch on this light.

BATTERIES:

The review sample uses two 1.5 V AAA batteries. Follow the manual, polarity and permitted battery types. Replace both together; do not mix new and used batteries or different chemistries.

• Power: two AAA batteries compatible with the model manual.
• Do not use 3.7 V 10440 lithium-ion cells in a model that does not permit them.
• For NiMH rechargeable cells or primary lithium batteries, confirm compatibility in the exact manual before use.

Furthermore, there is no support for lithium-ion batteries. Therefore, please do not insert a 3.6-volt 10440 lithium-ion rechargeable battery into this light, as it could fry it! It would have been nice to see support for lithium-ion batteries!

To insert the battery, simply unscrew the tail-cap switch and slide the battery in with the positive end facing toward the LED.

LIGHT OUTPUT:

The i3T Plus uses a high-performance LED paired with a PMMA optical lens. The i3T Plus produces a soft, balanced beam with settings of 250 or 15 lumens. It is significantly brighter than the i3E. The output is cool white, producing a well-defined hotspot. When left on the high setting for an extended period, very little heat is generated.

Indoor shots (1/18s 160 ISO)

    

Output

WHAT I LIKE:

• Size – In my opinion, it’s a large-sized EDC flashlight. It fits very well in your hands!
• Light output – For its size, 250 lumens is a great amount of light.
• Design – I like the swirling machined patterns. They are unique and provide a good grip.
• Tail cap and tail switch – The tail switch is easily my favorite feature of the light. It works perfectly and requires no learning curve.

WHAT I DON’T LIKE:

• Pocket clip – Although the two-way pocket clip is nice, it is almost impossible to remove without breaking or bending it. I advise against removing it.
• No lockout feature – There is no way to lock this light. Given its relatively low power output, the worst-case scenario if it were accidentally turned on would simply be a drained battery. Even if you unscrew the tail cap, the light will still function.
• Swirl-pattern machining – This design grips your pocket when clipped on, which might cause some wear to your trousers.
• No Lithium-Ion support – This light would have been excellent if it supported 10440-sized Lithium-Ion batteries. The manual contains a general warning against using Lithium-Ion batteries.

MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY:

The warranty terms reported during the review applied at the time. Consult the manufacturer and seller for the duration, regional coverage and procedure applicable to your purchase.

GENERAL COMMENTS:

The review highlights handling, low bulk and the tail switch. Cool-white light and the lack of a high colour-rendering option may matter for some tasks. An unauthorised battery is not an acceptable upgrade: use the power sources specified in the manual.

While the tail cap is quite well-constructed and well-machined, the threads—though square-cut—are rather sharp in places. Nevertheless, they screw on quite easily.

The review assessment favours the low weight and quick pocket access. Compare the clip, lack of lockout and battery choice with your use. Check the terms and price of the model currently offered.

Handling observations refer to the original review. This update does not present a new laboratory test.

i3T Plus

1. Delivering max 250 lumens output, perfect for taking care of everyday tasks;

2.With two widely available AAA batteries, it runs up to 28 hours at 15 lumens;

3.Slim Body for easily holding and inspecting narrow spaces.

4. The non-slip tail switch quickly turns the light ON/OFF or cycles through modes.

5. With a two-way pocket clip and a lanyard hole, you can securely clip it on or hang it around your wrist.

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