Once you’ve seen enough of them, you can probably guess how a flashlight works and performs just by looking at it. Giant heads and bigger batteries throw long range, while smaller AAA lights usually trade lumen output for convenience and portability. But thanks to the progression of flashlight tech, bigger and better performance is starting to come from even the smallest platforms. Olight have been ushering in a new generation of functional EDC lights in recent years, with the I3T EOS bucking the trend of what we’ve come to expect from an compact light. It’s got style, power, functionality, and a rare appearance AAA light feature—a tailswitch—that makes it a compelling light for any EDC.
The first concern for AAA flashlights is usually their output. You’re probably used to seeing around 100 lumens out of AAA lights, but the I3T is able to output 180 lumens for over 20 minutes with its Philips LUXEON TX emitter. This is unheard of in terms of power and runtime from an AAA light, especially since it’s able to do it with a regular alkaline battery. Another welcome feature is the I3T’s forward-clicky tailswitch, which allows you to control its two outputs (5 and 180 lumens) from either an overhand or underhand grip instead of the usual twisty interface lights of class come with. The tailswitch also gives you momentary or always-on control for both outputs as needed.
A number of external features also let the I3T bring the AAA form into more modern styles. The first is the helix body knurling that gives it a distinct look (a new design feature of the rest of Olight’s new lights) while still providing ample grip for its entire midsection. The light comes with a pocket clip that attaches toward its tail, but allows 3 options of carry thanks to a 2-way design and a built-in lanyard hole. And finally there’s the knurled tail and rubber boot switch that, while prevents the I3T from tailstanding, allows for easier operation even while gloved. All-over anodized aluminum gives the light rugged IPX8-rated resistance while still keeping it an EDC-friendly 1.45 ounces.
Gone are the days of AAA lights being keychain backups—Olight proves that size doesn’t matter with the I3T’s potential as an EDC light. Pick one up today from Amazon at the link below.
