Acebeam K1 EDC Flashlight Delivers Multi-Function Versatility in a Compact Package
I’m a flashlight junkie and own an almost embarrassing number, ranging from high-output to super-compact models. Those compact models are helpful but tend to be limited in both output and features. The Acebeam K1 EDC Flashlight got my attention by bucking that trend. I finally got one in my hands, and I’ll show you what stands out and help you decide if its illuminating design is worth adding to your loadout.
Acebeam K1 EDC Flashlight Light Modes
The Acebeam K1 has three light modes that I’ll dive into in just a second. But first, let’s consider the power source. It’s powered by a single lithium 14500 1000mAh battery.
Having a rechargeable power source always gets a thumbs up in my book, but there is one minor caveat on this model—you have to remove the battery for charging. While that’s not unusual in the compact class, it’s more convenient to charge while installed in the flashlight.
To recharge, you plug a USB-C cord directly into the side of the battery, and an LED light on the top keeps you updated on your charge status.
The cool thing about this particular lithium battery size is that you can swap it for a standard AA alkaline battery as a backup power source.
LED Flashlight
At the most basic level, the K1 features a CREE XP-LR 6500K LED flashlight. It tops out at 1000 lumens with a 223-meter throw, which is impressive for a flashlight this size. There are also 200-lumen and 9-lumen modes.
Considering the battery size, 1000 lumens is a lot to ask, so there are some built-in down steps to protect it. Here’s what that looks like for each mode:
| Mode | Output | Runtime |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 9 lumens | 60 hrs |
| Medium | 200 lumens | 2 hrs, 40 min |
| High | 1000 –> 650 -> 110 lumens | 1 min -> 30 min -> 30 min |
| Strobe | 1000 –> 650 -> 110 lumens | 1 min -> 30 min -> 4.5 hrs |
To change modes, you need to give the tail switch a full double-click off and back on again. While models with half-click mode changes are easier, it’s not a complicated process.
Getting into strobe mode is a little different, though. From the normal flashlight mode, quickly turn the dial to the laser and back to the flashlight to engage strobe. To disengage it, either switch to the laser and back slowly or click the tail switch off and back on.
Laser Pointer
The laser pointer is straightforward—simply turn the rotary magnetic switch one click from the flashlight mode. The beam is a high-visibility green that’s easier to see at distance than red during the day and cuts through the darkness like the Enterprise jumping to warp speed.
This is a particularly useful mode for tradesmen on larger projects. As you’re doing walkthroughs, it makes it easier to target points of interest or concern for your crew to address. Of course, having it directly connected to a standard flashlight means you can also quickly inspect as you’re going along.
There aren’t any intensity levels to switch between, and you can expect to run the laser up to 20 hours on a charge.
UV Light
A 1000mW, 365nm UV light wraps up the light modes. This mode is useful for picking up blood and other body fluids that are invisible to the human eye. For hunting and police field work, it’s helpful to have on hand.
You might also find it handy if you want to check the cleanliness of your hotel room. On the other hand, if you want to sleep well at night, maybe it’s better that you don’t know what’s there.
There are two modes to work with. Low is helpful for close inspection, while high is better for following a blood trail while you walk. While there aren’t specific lumen output ratings, there are runtime estimates. Note that high mode has a step-down similar to the flashlight mode.
| Mode | Runtime |
|---|---|
| Low | 180 min |
| High | 3 min -> 120 min |
Acebeam K1 EDC Flashlight Design
Construction
The K1 sports an anodized aluminum alloy housing sealed with quality O-rings to prevent water and dust intrusion. The design earns an impressive IP68 ingress rating, meaning it’s completely dustproof and can handle being submerged underwater at 2 meters (6.6 feet) for up to 30 minutes.
So, yes, you could use this light underwater to a limited depth. More importantly for most folks, the durable construction can handle itself in your toolbox, tackle box, glove box, or just about anywhere you’d like to store it, including marine environments. It’s even tough enough to survive 1.5-meter drops.
Size and Weight
At this point, you’ve probably noticed how small this model is. With the battery, it weighs just 2.7 ounces, and is 4.3 inches long with a 1-inch head diameter.
It can fit almost anywhere you might want to keep a flashlight. It’s easy to throw in your carry-on backpack when you’re flying, and the included clip makes it extremely pocket-friendly. Plus, there’s a tether strap in the box if you want it on your wrist while you’re using the light or a more secure connection to your pack.
Should You Buy It?
Of the compact lights I own, the Acebeam K1 EDC Flashlight is my current favorite. Its high-quality construction, rechargeable battery, and multiple light modes are a combination none of my other lights have, and it’s right up my alley.
If you’re looking for a compact EDC flashlight, it’s a really compelling design. Even if you don’t need all three light modes, the rest of its characteristics still make for a solid choice. It’s also a nice backup for your larger primary flashlight on outdoor adventures.
It’s not for everyone, though. If you need high output consistently, this isn’t your flashlight. The same goes if you’re looking for something that can be your primary light with extended runtime.
If this one checks all the right boxes for your needs, you can grab the K1 for $54.90 directly from Acebeam or on Amazon. It comes in black or teal colors and is backed by 10-year warranty.
