Fenix TK16 v2.0 Review - 3100 Lumen Flashlight

[@mikeadams2304]

Love the fact that you charge the actual battery. Any device with a external charge port, covered by a flimsy piece of rubber, will eventually become a problem. Rubber cover WILL break off. My phone case is an otter box with a rubber cover over the charge port. It broke off after a couple of months, as does most folks. Thanks Fenix

[@WildStuff]

Exactly what happened to my PD36R.

[@stephenklein3141]

The full charge light on the 21700 battery comes on before reaching a full 4.20 charge. I top mine off with a Nitecore UMS4 Intelligent 4 Slot Charger. A great investment if you have multiped sizes and types of batteries. It charges everything from 10040s to 21700s in Li-ion, IMR, LiFePO4, Ni-MH, Ni-CD in AA, AAA, AAAA, C and D. It also has an LCD screen telling you everything going on inside the battery, in independent cradles. I use it all the time and it's cheap on Amazon. I got mine with a coupon and on sale for $50 bucks. You can find it right now (11/30/2022) for that price without a discount. It's already paid for itself in bringing back over a dozen 18650 batteries that were marked for recycling. It comes with AC or USB powering and a quick charge QC 2.0, 3Amp AC plug in, which really helps when 4 cradles are full of different types of batteries. Sometimes you have to buy the QC 2.0 separately. www.amazon.com/dp/B07QMP3L2X?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

[@mariankoleszko6149]

Great review, right to the point no bulshit, wish we have more reviews like that when doing research. As a side note I have TK16 v.2 and just recently took it on a trip to Karijini and Ningaloo up north of Western Australia. Torch proved to be all it claim to be. Highly recommended. My son now want one as well after seeing its performance. I also going to get one more for my wife, she loves it. Another bonus is for us in Australia that you can legally carry it with you for brilliant self defence as opposed to other weapons. Keep up good work.

[@WildStuff]

I love comments like these. Cheers Marian!

[@Gadgetdad007]

Although the light has no lockout switch you can mechanically disable it by slightly rotating the battery compartment by a quarter of a turn.

[@WildStuff]

I might actually start using this method, especially if it saves burning a hole in my pants.

[@-joo3033]

This works on almost all fenix models...I have been doing it for 4 years with my HL60R headlamp

[@billhill3526]

I ordered one yesterday, with an extra battery. It's going to be my new cordless flashlight LOL. Can't wait.

[@AlwaysWatchin0.0]

Did it meet/exceed your expectations?👀

[@davebaker4620]

If you want to stand it on its end - use the red cap off a can of wd40

[@R3CIP3S]

Just got one. It’s the best torch I own hands down. Easy to use, powerhouse, and perfect for non lethal self defense. Imo.

[@WildStuff]

I still rate it above their bigger lights, eg. TK20R v2 and TK22 TAC. The TK16 v2 and PD35 v3 are the 2 best flashlights ever made if you ask me.

[@abufaisal325]

I bought one after this video i used it in desert 1st time my friends buy the same tk16v2.0 it is perfect small item huge result....thank you very much

[@WildStuff]

It's still the best light in its class, in my opinion, despite several newer TK models being released since.

[@SMRo7]

Nice review I'm ordeing one right now! Thank You!

[@WildStuff]

Glad I could help!

[@AR9ify]

It needs firefly/moonlight mode to be a tactical flashlight. Would be great if it had 0,3-0.5 lumen low mode.

[@dkin]

This is a tactical light...

[@stephenklein3141]

Actually, the battery tube can be reversed for a heads up, or heads down, belt, pocket or holster carry. So, the carry clip is reversable using this method.

[@WildStuff]

Clever! I just tried it out, and it works.

[@FlashBro-r4w]

I ripped my USB C silicone cover flap off 2 years ago and haven’t looked back. I submerge the pd36r and everything. Still works perfectly.

[@waddac2]

Great review. I am needing another tactical torch for work and so use to older LED Lenser which broke down on me. I need to zoom in to other buildings we have that are about 200m away and also flood. So is this the torch for the job buddy?

[@WildStuff]

In terms of the Fenix line-up, this is pretty much the most powerful light they make that can still fit comfortably in a trouser pocket. They do have some smaller lights with more throw (eg. PD32 v2) and some with wider flood (eg. PD36 TAC, E35 v3), but the TK16 v2 is the best mix of both throw and flood, and if you like a tactical style of light then you will definitely love it. If you want bright dazzling details from hundreds of metres away on a regular basis I would also suggest checking out bigger lights such as the LR35R or LR50R, but they are considerably pricier and aren't going to fit in your pocket anymore.

[@catchthewind8563]

This is the only one I have found that has the highest lumens with the longest run time. Right around 3.5 hours

[@victorortega2718]

Great review man i think ill buy this one over the pd40 now would you buy the tk16 over the pd36r?

[@WildStuff]

I would definitely buy the TK16 instead of the PD40R. The PD36R is a little smaller and more pocket-friendly, but if the size doesn't bother you then yes the TK16 is the better light.

[@paradoxicalcat7173]

Great reviews!! After looking around for a high-powered pocket torch, I'm torn between the PD36R and the TK16v2. Which would you recommend? I want it as a light for inspections of equipment at night, so it might get bumped a bit.

[@WildStuff]

If you're happy with the size of the TK16 v2.0 (some might feel it's a bit big for their pocket) then it's a no brainer - it's the most amazing torch I have ever owned. If you're considering the PD36R on account of it being a little more compact, then cross the PD36R off your list and check out the PD35 v3.0 (full review also on my channel). It has replaced the PD36R as my favourite compact EDC light, and in a side-by-side test its throw is comparable with the TK16 v2.0.

[@paradoxicalcat7173]

@@WildStuff Thanks! Yes, I've watched all your review videos for these torches! :D How does the spill compare? The TK16v2 seems to have a wider hotspot and more spill area than the PD35v3? I'm not looking for area illumination, but the slightly wider area is definitely a plus for my use.

[@WildStuff]

@@paradoxicalcat7173 Yes the PD35 has a distinctly narrower, tighter beam with a lot less spill than both the TK16 and the PD36R, so it's not the best for area lighting, but it will light up a specific object just as good as any other pocket-sized light I've seen.

[@paradoxicalcat7173]

@@WildStuff Sounds like the TK16v2 would be more suitable in my case then. Are the buttons on the rear sturdy? I note there isn't a bezel to protect them unlike the other two.

[@WildStuff]

@@paradoxicalcat7173 They feel fine to me. Having said that though, the rear tail cap switch on my original TK16 (version 1) did mysteriously die on me some years back, and they sent me a replacement tail cap. I suspect maybe it was from being mashed sideways against my car seat belt buckle while in my trouser pocket, without me knowing, due to a lack of protective bezel. I've been more conscious of this since the new cap arrived, and have had no further issues with either the original TK16 or the version 2.

[@Supr4b]

what about TK22UE is it better?

[@WildStuff]

The TK16 V2 is a newer light with higher specs, so I would hope it's better, but I don't have a TK22UE to compare it with.

[@Supr4b]

@@WildStuff ok thanks

[@SimpleAdventuresLLMSX]

Hey Steven. Awesome review my friend. Keep it up 👍

[@WildStuff]

Cheers Lee!

[@ImNoBSING]

Will this light illuminate targets out to 150m, under boost mode? I guess HT18 should be better for all-around use and it would also be ran continuously too but I dislike the larger head size a bit.

[@WildStuff]

It has a claimed range of 380 metres, and lights up the trees in my video like daylight from 50 metres away. I'd say it would have no issue letting you see something from 150 metres away, but not sure if it would light it up clearly and brightly. The HT18 is a monster thrower (214,000 candela vs 3,000 candela on the TK 16 v2.0) but the HT18 isn't going to fit in your pocket like the TK16 can. The PD40R v2 has a bit more throw than the TK16 v2, so is worth checking out, but bear in mind you can't use turbo mode once the battery gets down to about 85% charge :(

[@jjay718]

Have you reviewed the Fenix TK20R V2.0 yet? I seen someone else compare it to the TK16v2 and the throw was a bit better. They said it also did not get hot as fast as the TK16v2. It is a bit larger/heavier though. I have a TK16v2 coming in the mail today and cant wait to try it out.

[@WildStuff]

My TK20R v2 is in the mail as we speak. From the specs it does appear to have a much longer throw than the TK16 v2, (closer to the LR35R) and is also a bit chunkier than the TK16 v2. A full review is planned.

[@jjay718]

@@WildStuff awesome! I like the tk16 so far. I only wish Fenix had the option of different color temperatures.

[@WildStuff]

@@jjay718 I think the TK16 v2 is the best flashlight ever made... followed closely by the PD35 v3. Fenix will have a tough job to beat either of them.

[@jjay718]

@@WildStuff I have the pd35 as well. I really like the dual tail switch on the tk16. Battery indicator is nice to have on the 35 mode switch.

[@thaafanai123]

Please compare tk16v2 and tk22 ue..which one is brighter...

[@WildStuff]

I'd love to, but unfortunately I don't have a TK22UE. My TK20R v2 should be arriving soon though, and there will be plenty of comparisons with that.

[@Headgear]

Definitely torn between the tk16 2.0 and pd40 2.0

[@WildStuff]

The TK16 2.0 is the way to go.

[@WildStuff]

Go to my review of the PD40R v2.0 and read the post-review update in the description - I learned something about that light after I had completed my review which I think is important to know before buying.

[@Headgear]

@@WildStuff appreciate the info sounds like ill be getting a tk16 👍

[@tibozino1671]

Pd 40 v2 is my trusty friend. Charging without dedicated chargeport is a big no for me

[@victorortega2718]

Same here man dont know what to do! Like i like the fact that this one you can use at the highest mode even if the battery isnt at 100% the pd40 if its 85% or less you cannot use at 3000 lumes which sucks because 85% still like ... a damn full battery lol help!!

[@MemphisMojo15s]

This light is their smallest pocket light powerhouse. The only other light this size with this output is the PD40R Correction;E35 V3.0 is smaller and puts out 3k lumens. It wins as a true pocket light powerhouse

[@kivenkantania]

Is a battery without usb port suitable? It is a little bit shorter

[@WildStuff]

I haven't encountered a battery being a little bit shorter than another on account of not having a USB port. I've only used the Fenix brand batteries, and the batteries with a USB port are the same size as the ones without, (as long as they're both the same class of battery) and I can swap them between lights no problem at all. I'd be cautious about using a battery with different physical dimensions - it sounds odd to me.

[@mikoteevee]

does the thyrm switchback 2.0 fit this flashlight?

[@WildStuff]

I've never used one. Check with Thyrm on that one.

[@mikoteevee]

@@WildStuff yup just checked... it's not compatible... only the tk16 version 1... tnx sir 👍🙂👍

[@nomadinneverland6832]

Hi, which flashlight would you recommend for spotlighting to find and photograph nocturnal animals? the tk16 v2, pd36r or tk11 tac or any other recommendation? Is there a flashlight that I can charge with a powerbank to keep it going for longer time?

[@nomadinneverland6832]

also can I lay them in shallow water to maybe see snakes swim past?

[@WildStuff]

@@nomadinneverland6832 My #1 pick at the moment would be the TK16 v2.0. There are bigger/brighter lights available but not in this pocket sized form-factor. There would be no problem using a powerbank to charge the included battery - but you need to remove the battery, so you cannot charge it while in use, if that's what you mean. A single battery will already get you several hours of run-time - if in doubt, just buy an extra battery to swap in. And yes they can handle submersion in shallow water. I often place a random Fenix light from my collection on a step in my swimming pool at night, perhaps 50cm underwater - it lights up the whole pool. I'm also currently playing with the PD35 version 3 and am VERY impressed with it, especially for it's long throw and spotlighting abilities. A video review will be coming soon.

[@nomadinneverland6832]

@@WildStuff thanks for the response!

[@jonasv328]

They all have low CRI emitters, not recommended for photography.

[@mariankoleszko6149]

@@nomadinneverland6832 Yes you can and in turbo mode as well for as long as battery lasts. I tested it myself in the pond, water cooling prevents overheating. Cheers

[@theprofessorheist]

what other 21700 batteries have u tried and worked for the TK16 v2?

[@WildStuff]

Just the included battery and the one from my PD40R v2.

[@hong9977]

Nice review!

[@clinicadaslanternas3897]

good warrior video i work with flashlight repairs

[@tmidlane1]

What as the step down time from turbo to the next setting?

[@Mrwillyface69]

1second

[@abdullahyldrm7861]

I can't decide between tk 16 v2.0 and tk 22ac which one should I get?

[@WildStuff]

If you're looking for a powerful light with some nice tactical features but can also be used as an everyday multi-purpose light, and fits reasonably comfortably into a trouser pocket, definitely go the TK16 v2.0. If you're looking for sheer long-range throwing power for outdoor spotlighting and don't care about size, pocketability, or the lower power modes, then get the TK22 TAC. You'll want to wear it in its belt pouch, or carry it in a bag or a larger coat pocket, and I find the TAC switch quite clumsy/fiddly for switching between the lower modes.

[@abdullahyldrm7861]

What do you think of the tk 35 ue 3200 lumens?

[@WildStuff]

@@abdullahyldrm7861 I haven't tried one. I remember looking at the spec sheet (for both v1 and v2) and being put off by its tactical mode not being as bright as its duty mode. I opted for the LR35R instead - no tactical features but overwhelmingly more powerful.

[@abdullahyldrm7861]

I ordered the TK 22 Tac. Thank you for helping. i will buy another flashlight nitecore mt10 or fenix e18 r. Which one do you think makes sense?

[@WildStuff]

@@abdullahyldrm7861 I'm not familiar with the Nitecore, but I do like my E18R v2.

[@dib85]

Great review

[@fruitypebbles803]

Thanks for not wasting our time with googled stats!

[@wrealestate8778]

Great review thank you

[@WildStuff]

Good to hear, thank you.

[@kevinsmith2267]

What is the Charge time?

[@WildStuff]

Not sure of the precise time, depends how empty iit was and your charger speed. I'd guess a couple of hours?

[@dkin]

3 - 4 hours

[@wendersantos8570]

É melhor que a PD40 R?

[@WildStuff]

It is better than the PD40R? Yes. On the TK16 v2.0, turbo mode continues to function well even as the battery drains.

[@ayokay123]

How long on turbo before step-down?

[@paradoxicalcat7173]

It doesn't step down is what I'm reading!

[@ayokay123]

@@paradoxicalcat7173 It has to either step down or shut off, otherwise it'll burn itself out or burn your hand off. :D

[@vladimir79214]

I think 3-4 minutes

[@Madman6505]

You can lock it out by loosening the tail cap slightly. The only real con for me is there's apparently no battery indicator... unless I'm mistaken.

[@WildStuff]

Correct, there is no battery indicator.

[@dariopieterson]

Witch its better the nitecore p20i of fenix tk16 v2.0

[@WildStuff]

The Fenix has some higher specs but I don't have a Nitecore P20i to do a real life comparison.

[@Studat]

PD40R v2 is crap, sold mine due to the 85% battery issue and its the reason I never picked up another Fenix. Great review

[@MemphisMojo15s]

That's because you chose the worst lights they've ever made... You're just a Fenix hater, end of story. Why even watch and comment? Stick to O"no"light

[@WildStuff]

I was disappointed in the PD40R v2 for the battery issue too, even more so because I didn't pick up on it until after I made the review and I could only really add it to the description. Luckily none of the other Fenix models I have tried have the same issue.

[@Studat]

@Wild Stuff you're reviews are on point. I am just crazy fussy. First day I used it I know it was off.

[@WildStuff]

@@Studat Fair enough. Did you end up getting something different to replace it?

[@Studat]

@Wild Stuff I collect torches so I have about 50 of them, I have nearly every olight and really like them but I found Nitecore to be really good. Two in particular being the MH25S for a nice throw combo beam and the P20Ix for flood.

[@choongyifeng1626]

But body of flashlight will become very hot if operate in 3100 lumen more than 5 minute.

[@-joo3033]

So will every other 3000lm light at this size

[@WalterDavidRiffmon]

Doesn't Tail-Stand ...... I don't know why it hasn't beed done....Come up with a Tail-Stand-STAND. A cheap plastic platform to stand-tail your otherwise unstandable- light! I might make one myself for my TK16 V2.0 Where are the designers...maybe they already exist?

[@WildStuff]

Now there's an idea for someone with a 3D printer. I don't begrudge Fenix the inability to tail-stand the TK16 v2, or the new TK20R v2, as they're marketed as tactical lights with dual tail switches rather than compact every-day-carry lights. But it would have been reeeaaally nice on the PD35 v3 which lives in my pocket every day and gets used for absolutely everything, down to rummaging through the freezer or looking for the last tube of toothpaste at the back of the bathroom cupboard. I keep using the PD32 (2016) as an example of what I'd like to see again (a flat tail switch).

[@stealthstar4]

"Bright"..., is a con? People will say anything for a review. 😦

[@WildStuff]

Care to elaborate?

[@grominwithrob1339]

Peddling crap for Felix hurts your credibility.

[@WildStuff]

And leaving dumb comments on videos you're obviously not interested in works wonders for yours? How is this any different to me singing the praises of the Grom and the ADV150 ?

[@happyknife8785]

@@WildStuff Yeah don't listen to knob jockey above.