Nitecore E4K 4400lm LED Torch: Review

Amazon - amzn.to/3O1ogik (USA/Can/Europe)
Nitecore new E4K has a huge 4400lm output, a high capacity 21700 cell with type C charging port built in. On paper it sounds impressive, but as ever I look at the light and pick out the good and weaker points of this model.
Test includes run time in turbo, extensive exterior beam shots, WR test, charging speed of battery and up close in detail look at the light
Sample supplied via Nitecore for unbiased testing and review
If you want to support honest reviews, and you found this helpful please consider a small donation via Patreon - / mrbazreviews

[@MrBazReviews]

Amazon - amzn.to/3O1ogik (USA/Can/Europe) Nitecore - flashlight.nitecore.com/product/e4k Help support real reviews! - www.patreon.com/mrbazreviews

[@urayoanmiranda]

Thanks for the review. Got to tell, the comparison at the end of the video is spot on. Help me out decide witch one i want and the real difference between both.

[@MrBazReviews]

No problem 👍

[@TallysVids]

Excellent review, and definitely a torch I would consider, when I am next looking at getting a small pocket sized torch. Absolutely love Nitecore torches.

[@MrBazReviews]

It's quite good, the UI has changed though I made a video on it. I prefer the new UI myself

[@outbackeddie]

Very nice review. I just bought the E4K and I really like the textured switch on this light. It's easy to find in the dark without having to look at the flashlight or fumble around. Many of my other flashlights have a smooth switch that is flush with the body of the light and that kind of switch is very difficult to find in the dark. When I pull a flashlight out of my pocket I want to put it to use immediately and a hard to find switch is a deal-breaker for me.

[@MrBazReviews]

Switch is nice and big easy to find, though I'd half turn the base/tail cap in a pocket if you have stuff in there, just to be sure it won't come on

[@squashum778]

Love this torch, powerful , big battery capacity and when turn on with the nice easy big button, Just press and hold and voom 4400 . Every you need.

[@MrBazReviews]

It's quite a popular one still to this day, I think the compact size and large button are important to users.

[@joekasperek1086]

Nice job, see what you mean about the ui. But has a nice beam!! Thx for sharing Mr.B

[@MrBazReviews]

Beam is pretty nice, UI I was never a fan of that one myself. Thanks for stopping by!

[@johnysummers87]

There are two ways to change brightness settings: While OFF: Press and hold to power on and cycle through brightness levels While ON: Double click the power button and hold on the second click to cycle through the brightness levels

[@michaelmelling9333]

Mine arrives tomorrow from Amazon, of course. I didn't really need to buy this light but on another video about it it was stated that it comes with a 5-year warranty which to my mind seems terrific, if true. The other thing is that besides the immense power of it in such a small package, I like the idea of having such a powerful strobe as an excellent defense tool in case some gomer(s) decide to mess with me if I'm out for a walk at night going around a nearby pond or just out for a walk to wherever. I may be alone in this, but, I never cease to be amazed at what a great time we live in with how so many bright, capable people out there are creating such wonderful products whereby a simple schmuck like me can lay down a modest amount of money and have them to own. Pocket knives, fountain pens, radios, ... ad infinitum!:-)

[@MrBazReviews]

Lights are fun I get it 100% I like playing around with them no question. So yeah why not people get stuff they don't really need. Pal of mine had 20 guitars, you don't need 20 guitars honestly you don't (maybe some session guy even then half a dozen would do it) Nitecore have always done a good strobe selection, 3 modes on most lights I like that. Let me know what you think of it when it turns up (it's a not bad price for a 21700 light)

[@michaelmelling9333]

@@MrBazReviews I got it but haven't had much time to check it out but when I do I'll let you know what I think. I will at least say the build quality is very nice!

[@sumtingwong2138]

Excellent review!

[@MrBazReviews]

Thank you, I try to show as much as I can with some critique!

[@TopDog8762]

Great review I am excited to receive this, already ordered. I want to see how it stacks up to my IMALENT DM70 . Similar lumens, roughly kinda the same distance. Want to see the difference in beam patterns.

[@MrBazReviews]

I've not used that Imalent on paper it should have a bit more range, let me know what you think of the Nitecore when it turns up

[@TopDog8762]

@@MrBazReviews I will try to remember. I ordered it from Banggood so it will take months for it to show up.

[@Captainelduke]

@@TopDog8762 Did you receive the Nitecore yet?

[@uniquesoundsolutions]

Just got my E4K yeaterday. Thank you for your spot on review. I DO NOT LIKE the U.I. The E4k was to replace my Nitecore MH20 as my EDC. The MH18 is a great light. I was being greedy wanting more light and i love flashlights. The light is still new but its exactly the type of flood light i need for work. Why this strange U.I? I will get used to it. I have to. This is a $90 light. The MH20 is the earlier version than the MH23. Great light. Easy U.I. Again thx for the review. Im going to contact Nitecore and inquire about the U.I.

[@MrBazReviews]

I'm not fond of the UI, all I can say is as with the EC30/Concept 1, you can get used to it. But it's far from intuitive at the start. I guarantee if you hand the light to someone, they'll be mashing the switch and not have a clue how to use it. I don't blame people for not liking it, once you get used to it, it's bearable (the light is quite nice I get on well enough with it). The MH UI is way better, just far more obvious and you can still get quick access to ultralow/turbo. But you can change power with it on. Someone suggested a double press, to change power that works it still turns the light off for a short time though. Not really sure why Nitecore don't get a good UI and stick to it across most of their lights.

[@uniquesoundsolutions]

@@MrBazReviews Yeah i have to get used to it. Its an expensive light and i own it. I rarely return things because i tend to spend alot of time researching. But it is a great flashlighy

[@pebs1070]

I just got mine, put it together, turned it on and blinded my self. The thing is super bright be careful folks

[@MrBazReviews]

It's quite pokey output that's for sure

[@mariomenjivar2024]

Awesome video, but I have a question for you, is it normal for this flashlight to get really hot using turbo mode only for a few seconds? I just got mine today and I can't switch to another mode but turbo and moonlight.

[@MrBazReviews]

It gets pretty hot quite quickly due to the high power in Turbo. The user guide is shown in the video the UI takes some getting used to, you have to have it on to change power levels

[@dlg8042]

With the light on, double press and hold the second press to cycle through modes without having to turn the light off.

[@MrBazReviews]

You can do that, but it is turning the light off as one press turns it off. Same on the EC30 concept 1, no different to this

[@Sarrienne]

Jeez, Baz.... I love your reviews and how consistent your presentations are, but what are you doing to that poor cat? WIth all the mega-lumen torch reviews you've done, how is the little thing not utterly blinded??!! :-D

[@MrBazReviews]

Cat loves the lights, it's not at super high power so they're alright ;-D Hopefully the Russian light will turn up soon, not had any other light samples sent

[@Captainelduke]

Can the 21700 cell be charged using a smart battery charger or is it only recommended to use the included cable to charge it? Thank you

[@MrBazReviews]

You can use a charger if you want, won't make any difference. Charging speeds vary but result is the same most are 4.17-4.20v, they do vary a bit

[@Captainelduke]

@@MrBazReviews Thank you for your response Mr Baz.

[@tyronewalker5764]

Love the music!

[@MrBazReviews]

I try to find catchy stuff if I can

[@garywillis8737]

Beam pattern looks similar to the Olight seeker 2. Very useable. Quick step down makes turbo almost like a gimmick?!

[@MrBazReviews]

Beam pattern is pretty nice, I'd like a bit more range (EC30 has more range despite a lot less power, and the MH23 quite a bit more). Not shocking a 4400lm light in a small form factor drops down pretty quick. I guess if they made it 2000lm turbo it wouldn't sound quite as exciting. There is a marketing element they've all jumped on. On the other hand you don't have to use it, the high of 1050lm is probably more useful (seems to hold output pretty well)

[@garywillis8737]

Mr Baz Reviews Agree. On a totally off topic. I am looking forward to see what Olight will replace the X7R with. 😄

[@tyronewalker5764]

Any idea how this compares to the Olight Seeker-2?

[@MrBazReviews]

I did videos on those lights, they are quite different though all are fairly wide beam

[@Domineering666]

will the E4K run off a Samsung INR21700-50E (discharge cueent 10A)?

[@MrBazReviews]

You need 15A to hit turbo so you can use it but it won't hit the top output

[@surgicalshot]

Great reviews mine comes in 2 days what song is that.? it's driving me crazy I must know!

[@ugurgenc6545]

hello my friend nitecore e4k in high mode (1050 lumens) 3 hours 15 minutes continuous 1050 lumens? Or will it subside after a few minutes? Thanks

[@MrBazReviews]

A run time test in turbo is shown in the beam shots that's why I advise watching the entire video ;-D

[@ugurgenc6545]

I watched it all, thank you. However, in other videos, there were expressions such as starting from 800 lumens after turbo and starting from 750 lumens. Nitecore e4k video does not show how many minutes after 4000 lumens burned out 1050 lumens, so I asked

[@ugurgenc6545]

😇🙏👍

[@waylee264]

mine didn't come with a charging cable. can i use any usb c cable?

[@MrBazReviews]

I think C to C cables work on this battery, can't remember 100% though

[@lcaday]

If you have to choose one which one would you choose Nitecore E4k or MH23?

[@MrBazReviews]

They are quite different the E4K is floody light v the pocket thrower of the MH23. I prefer the UI and small size of the MH23 it is a nice light if you want something with a bit more range. Shame neither come in N/W though ;-D

[@lcaday]

Mr Baz Reviews thanks for the info

[@SEC0NDTW0N0NE]

I want a light like this or similar to this but where do you get them in the UK? As I have only seen one on eBay and that says it’s coming from China so I will probably end up with more than the light. I will end up with lights out!!!!

[@MrBazReviews]

I just checked link is gone, it was on Amazon UK but even with a search it's not there I did search other sites and it seems to be out of stock there too (UK), so it seems a supply problem - unless they sold a ton of them and ran out or had an issue with the covid thing and manufacturing. I'll updated links when I find them

[@SEC0NDTW0N0NE]

Mr Baz Reviews thanks that’s really nice you having a look. Basically after one like that or similar. I want something smallish what’s really bright but also don’t want it to be overly expensive. What do you recommend? I have seen ones where you can pull out the battery and charge that through a USB port. Can’t remember what that was or how bright it was. I want one as bright as can be but will fit in my pocket. Thanks again for replying

[@Sigrafix]

I've been watching reviews of every single Nitecore flashlight looking to buy a new one.. and after seeing everything, I think I'm just going to buy the 2015 model P12 again.. for the 5th time. Wish Nitecore would just make a new 3000lm single LED P12.. Lol.

[@MrBazReviews]

It's fun but I'm not a fan of the UI much, so I would say use what you like using most. UI is kinda important to me

[@Sigrafix]

@@MrBazReviews Me too.. which is why I keep buying P12's. Your videos were helpful tho, thanks a lot. I wanted something with more Lumens but ultimately it came down to the UI and the P12 is my favorite with the rear cap button, half press temp on, longest battery life on turbo mode and last mode memory. p.s. I decided to try the "New P12" this time with the custom 5000mAh battery.

[@vincenzopromedia]

Why does it say 30 minutes for 4400lm?

[@MrBazReviews]

It's a theoretical run time if it was able to run at 4400lm, obviously it can't so it drops down Some makers list a run time or add a graph, Nitecore don't hence I do a quick test myself to give an idea

[@justme19852]

What's the colour temperature in kelvins?

[@MrBazReviews]

Around 6500K

[@justme19852]

Pity, they don't do neutral white, I'm surprised that lots of torches don't state temperature 🤔

[@MrBazReviews]

@@justme19852 I know I prefer N/W by far, Nitecore don't do many N/W lights I wish they did

[@derektodd4126]

Can't get it to play, just buffering symbol.

[@MrBazReviews]

Try reloading the browser I've had it a few times watching videos

[@derektodd4126]

No joy. Restarted both phone & tablet, plays an add then goes to circle buffering.

[@A-Fern]

The UI is the whole reason I’ve stayed away from the e4k. Nitecore could have had a winner with this light but they ruined it with that horrible UI

[@MrBazReviews]

I'm not a big fan of it, no idea why they used it on this light it could be a much better UI. I still quite like it the form factor, but yeah the UI is not going to be ideal for many

[@patricj951]

I have several Nitecore flashlights and a headlamp. HC30 and EA4 are great otherwise but the UI sucks. Both have the same UI with memory and shortcuts for firefly and turbo. That would be good if not even firefly and turbo become memorised. So annoying and unneccesary: it removes the point with having memory for the regular modes. Thrunite got it right and uses memory for the regular modes and firefly and turbo INSTEAD have shortcuts. Therefore I abandoned Nitecore and now Thrunite is my favorite brand. It's a pity because EA4 is otherwise the best 4AA flashlight I know. It does not only look good but is compact and perfect in the hand with a very good and punchy beam. UI is indeed a very important part of a flashlight and headlamp!

[@michelj.gaudet5048]

You do not 'maybe' damage a battery by QUICK CHARGING, you actually DO!!! No, I am not saying you HURT the battery regarding its output, at least not initially, but when you QUICK CHARGE any battery... ANY battery... you shorten the number of cycles for that battery. So, instead of getting the battery's expected 800-to-1200 (some, not all) charge/discharge, charge/discharge, charge/discharge for that many cycles, you MIGHT be lucky to get say 500 or so. Also, SOME battery types will develop something called, I THINK, 'dendrites'; don't quote me on that. But, these particles compound over time, and can cause the battery to EXPLODE due to a short circuit! I believe this is usually a Lithium-Ion type. My understanding is that you should avoid ANY type of 'system' boasting HIGH CHARGE RATES as a default, unless there is a SLOW CHARGE rate you can select. What I absolutely DO know is, the slower (overnight) you charge, the longer the battery will work as expected. And, there truly is NO SUCH THING as a battery that is MADE for FAST CHARGE, other than perhaps it lasting a bit longer than 'other' batteries. The so-called FAST RATE could have (would have?) lasted MUCH longer without the fast charging. Oh, and if you want the battery to truly LAST as long as possible - NEVER FULL-CHARGE and store the thing. ESPECIALLY 'LITHIUM ION' TYPES!!! Full charge a battery, then discharge down to ABOUT 60%-80% for 'long' storage. Check it after a few months, charge it back to 100%, back it down to the 60-80. Your batteries will last a TON longer than you may have been experiencing... I give you my word. Now, who am I to claim the above. Oh_ just someone who worked within the industry for a tad...17 years for 'Delco Remy', and then 'Sanyo', the makers of the best rechargeable out there, IMHO, the "eneloop". Amazon has their own branded one, made by the same company, I BELIEVE. If you KNOW batteries, you KNOW the "eneloop" is KNOWN for the LONGGGGGG time the charge can hold. Charge 'em up, and a year later, d@mn near close to an 80% charge!!! Any of y'all flying the small 'copters' that take the small 'LiIon' batteries? Are your batteries getting FAT? Better get rid of them. You have been 'Long Storage' charging them wrong, and if one of them 'pops' and starts a fire, any & all the others in the same box or bag are extremely likely to go POOF, making a truly possible life changing situation. Stay safe, people.✨🤗✨

[@MrBazReviews]

Keeping it short it depends on the cell and current, some cells can handle a bigger charger current, some cannot. A 21700 is pretty safe to charge at 1.5A, it doesn't mean you should charge it at 0.5A

[@aggaviriyo790]

You can't change the lumens level when it's on? That's kinda stupid

[@MrBazReviews]

You said it!

[@aggaviriyo790]

@@MrBazReviews unfortunately I bought one couple of days before and it's supposed to arrive tommorow... my bad habit of clicking the buy button before watching a lot of review...

[@MrBazReviews]

@@aggaviriyo790 You might like it, you can get used to it, but I've never really liked the UI on this or the EC30/Concept 1 same thing.

[@aggaviriyo790]

@@MrBazReviews yeah, I feel like Nitecore should work on their UI. It's the worst thing about them

[@aggaviriyo790]

@@MrBazReviews soooo... my E4K just arrived and as expected, I hate the UI😅

[@JohnJames0204]

Nice light and it's a complete package but that UI, ugh. Pass.

[@MrBazReviews]

You can live with it after a while, but 100% guaranteed if you give the light to someone they'll be smashing the button and not have a clue what's going on. I do wish they put the MH23 UI which is way easier to use

[@docdriscoll8302]

Don't waste your money ! I bought one and was totally disappointed and sent it back..It will only run on turbo for 20 seconds at best , also the switch is very confusing and is a joke .. Basically a high dollar 1000 lumen light , there are many better and less expensive lights out there so do your self a favor and get something different

[@MrBazReviews]

Turbo time is pretty short, unfortunately that's what you'll get with small lights, I'm not a fan of the UI as I mention

[@marklaqua9457]

which light would you recommend that provides high lumen for some minutes ?

[@docdriscoll8302]

Mark LaquA : depends on your budget and how and what your going to use it for Like do you want a thrower or flood or one that does both ?

[@marklaqua9457]

Flood one would be good. Also light weighted as I wanna use it on a drone...

[@vincenzopromedia]

It would be nice if they just said it ran for 20s on turbo, or just made a 1050lm light that ran for 3 hrs. Don't have to lie about it.

[@ryudecade9989]

Pls saves that white cat....

[@MrBazReviews]

White cat is well cared for don't worry!