As of this writing, the Vuann RL400 is a new contender to the LED flashlight marketplace.
A Simple Presentation
The whole RL400 package
As pictured above, the RL400 comes in a nondescript box with its vital statistics affixed to one side.
The flashlight is accompanied by a small accessory pack that includes 2 spare o-rings, a lanyard and a spare USB port cover. There’s also a nice belt sheath, a 2600mAh rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, and a USB cable. A pocket clip is already attached the barrel of the light.
Facts & Figures
The CREE XR-E R5 LED
- Just over 5″ long
- Weighs 158g (with 44g battery)
- Uses an XR-E R5 LED (producing a narrow beam)
- Light orange peel within the reflector produces a smooth beam pattern
- Runs on just 1 – 18650 rechargeable battery
- Made from aero grade aluminum alloy w/HAIII military grade hard-anodizing
- Impact resistant to 1.5 meters
- A constant current circuit providing maximum brightness
- 2 constant lighting modes, high (500 lumens) & low (100 lumens) plus strobe
- Convenient side switch handles all functions
- Waterproof to 2 meters
- Rechargeable
Easy Operation
The big stainless steel switch button on the head is the control center for the RL400.
RL400 beam pattern
Press and hold to get instant “high mode” illumination. Once on, a quick press activates low. A second quick press activates strobe. To turn it off from any mode…press and hold. There’s no memory, so high mode is always activated from the off position.
The LED
Although the XR-E LED was first introduced several years ago, it has remained somewhat popular due to its narrower focus. Its very precise, center hot spot, is responsible for above average throw. It’s also clean and white… without any unwanted hues.
Rechargeable
One of the big conveniences of the RL400 is that the battery can be charged inside the light! You can use either the included battery, or ANY 18650 cell to operate the light, and charge the battery.
I depleted the included battery and charged it within the light. I don’t know what amperage the light uses to charge at, but it was completed in just under 5 hours. The charged battery tested at 4.17 volts.
When the included USB cable is connected to the port (located on the opposite side of the switch) a corresponding LED lights up in red. When fully charged, the light turns green. The light remains fully functional while charging, although with a relatively short cable, you’re not venturing too far with it!
AC charging is possible of course, when the USB is plugged into a wall adapter. Otherwise wherever there’s a source of USB current…the Vuann RL400 can be charged.
The USB charging port
Charging
Charging complete
Beam Shot Images
Please click on each for a more detailed view
On low at 17ft
On high at 17ft
On low at 60ft
On high at 60ft
On low
On high
The Last Word
I’m recommending the Vuann RL400 on the basis of its simplicity and functionality.
The high output of 500 lumens is very modest. But the CREE XR-E LED throws the beam a good distance.
Charging the “on board” battery whether it be one of your own or the supplied cell is easy and convenient.
Curious enough to add the Vuann RL400 to your own collection? Then click here!
I bought one of these in February, 2016. I have only used it about 6 times and now it won’t work. The battery light is green so I think it is fully charged but the light itself is so dim you can’t even really see it. Don’t waste your money on this.
Thanks for sharing your experience Kathy. As a flashlight troubleshooter…I have to ask if you’ve tried a different battery? A reliable 18650 battery in ANY flashlight is key to proper operation. I’m not doubting there might be a problem with the light, but you must always START with the battery, and at least make sure it’s NOT that, that is causing the issue.
Having said that, the RL400 is an okay light, but not nearly as high quality as many of the other flashlights reviewed on this site.