Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two popular EDC (Everyday Carry) flashlights: the Fenix E18R V2.0 and the Olight Baton 3. Both are compact, rechargeable, and pack a serious punch in terms of brightness, but they each have their own unique features and quirks. So, which one should you choose? Let's break it down.

Size and Portability

When it comes to everyday carry, size matters. You want something that's easy to slip into your pocket or attach to your keychain without weighing you down. The Olight Baton 3 definitely wins in this category. It's noticeably smaller and lighter than the Fenix E18R V2.0. The Baton 3 is incredibly compact, making it almost disappear in your pocket. It's perfect for those who prioritize minimal bulk. The included magnetic charging cable also adds to its convenience, allowing you to easily top it off wherever you have a USB port available.

On the other hand, the Fenix E18R V2.0, while still compact, is a bit thicker and heavier. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, as some people prefer a light with a bit more substance. It feels more robust in hand, and the slightly larger size allows for a more comfortable grip. The Fenix also features a two-way pocket clip, giving you more options for how you carry it. You can clip it to your pocket, hat, or backpack strap with ease. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference. If you want the absolute smallest and lightest option, the Olight Baton 3 is the way to go. But if you prefer a light with a more substantial feel and versatile carry options, the Fenix E18R V2.0 might be a better fit.

Brightness and Performance

Now, let's talk about brightness! The Fenix E18R V2.0 boasts a maximum output of 750 lumens, while the Olight Baton 3 reaches 1200 lumens. On paper, the Olight seems to have a clear advantage. However, lumens aren't everything. It's important to consider the beam pattern and how the light performs in real-world situations.

The Olight Baton 3 does indeed throw a brighter beam, especially at its highest setting. This can be useful for illuminating larger areas or seeing things at a distance. However, the beam is also more focused, which can create a hotspot in the center and make it less ideal for close-up tasks. The Fenix E18R V2.0, on the other hand, has a smoother, more diffused beam. This makes it better suited for general use and close-up work, as it provides a more even illumination without harsh shadows. Additionally, the Fenix offers a lower low mode than the Olight, which is great for preserving your night vision and extending battery life when you don't need maximum brightness. Both lights offer multiple brightness levels, allowing you to adjust the output to suit your needs. But the Fenix E18R V2.0 have better performance because of the smoother beam, make it more versatile for a wider range of tasks, while the Olight Baton 3 excels in situations where maximum brightness is required.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is crucial for an EDC flashlight, especially if you rely on it for emergencies or extended use. Both the Fenix E18R V2.0 and the Olight Baton 3 are rechargeable, but their battery capacities and charging methods differ.

The Olight Baton 3 uses a proprietary magnetic charging system, which is incredibly convenient. Simply snap the magnetic charging cable onto the tail of the light, and it starts charging. The cable is small and easy to carry, and it can be plugged into any USB port. However, the downside is that you're reliant on this specific cable. If you lose it, you'll need to purchase a replacement. The Fenix E18R V2.0, on the other hand, uses a standard USB Type-C port for charging. This is a huge advantage, as you can use any USB-C cable to charge it. This means you're less likely to be caught without a way to charge your light. Plus, USB-C cables are becoming increasingly common, so you probably already have several lying around.

In terms of battery life, both lights offer decent runtimes. The Olight Baton 3 has a slightly larger battery capacity, which translates to slightly longer runtimes on some modes. However, the difference isn't significant. Ultimately, the charging method is the more important factor to consider. If you value convenience and don't mind being reliant on a proprietary cable, the Olight Baton 3 is a good choice. But if you prefer the flexibility of a standard USB-C charging port, the Fenix E18R V2.0 is the better option.

Durability and Build Quality

An EDC flashlight needs to be able to withstand the rigors of daily use. You want something that's durable and can handle being dropped, bumped, and exposed to the elements. Both the Fenix E18R V2.0 and the Olight Baton 3 are well-built and feel solid in hand.

Both lights are made from aircraft-grade aluminum and have a hard-anodized finish, which provides excellent protection against scratches and corrosion. They're also both water-resistant, so you don't have to worry about using them in the rain. However, the Fenix E18R V2.0 has a slightly higher impact resistance rating than the Olight Baton 3. This means it's more likely to survive a drop from a greater height. The Fenix also features a more robust tailcap design, which is less likely to be damaged if dropped on its end. Overall, both lights are durable and well-built, but the Fenix E18R V2.0 has a slight edge in terms of impact resistance.

User Interface and Features

The user interface is an important aspect of any flashlight. You want something that's easy to use and allows you to quickly access the modes you need. The Olight Baton 3 has a simple and intuitive interface. A single button controls all the functions, including turning the light on and off, cycling through the brightness levels, and accessing the strobe mode. The button is easy to find and press, even with gloves on. The Fenix E18R V2.0 also has a single-button interface, but it's a bit more complex. In addition to the standard functions, it also has a lockout mode to prevent accidental activation and a memory function that remembers the last used brightness level. Some users may find the Fenix's interface to be slightly more complicated, but it also offers more features.

One unique feature of the Olight Baton 3 is its magnetic base. This allows you to attach the light to any metal surface, which can be incredibly useful for hands-free use. The Fenix E18R V2.0 doesn't have a magnetic base, but it does have a two-way pocket clip, which provides more versatile carry options. Ultimately, the best user interface depends on your personal preference. If you want something simple and straightforward, the Olight Baton 3 is a good choice. But if you want more features and don't mind a slightly more complex interface, the Fenix E18R V2.0 might be a better fit.

Price and Value

Finally, let's talk about price. The Olight Baton 3 typically retails for around $70, while the Fenix E18R V2.0 is priced at around $80. So, the Olight is slightly more affordable. However, it's important to consider the overall value you're getting for your money. Both lights offer excellent performance and features, but they cater to different needs and preferences.

If you prioritize compactness, maximum brightness, and a magnetic base, the Olight Baton 3 is a great value. But if you prefer a more versatile beam, a standard USB-C charging port, and a more robust build, the Fenix E18R V2.0 is worth the extra investment. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Conclusion

So, which flashlight is the winner? It really depends on what you're looking for. The Olight Baton 3 is the king of compactness and brightness, while the Fenix E18R V2.0 offers a more well-rounded package with a versatile beam, USB-C charging, and a slightly more durable build. Consider your needs and preferences, and choose the light that best suits your EDC lifestyle. Both are excellent options, and you won't be disappointed with either one!