PD36R or PD35? - Fenix PD36R Flashlight Review

[@TheOutdoorGearReview]

Flashlights are great and all but Adventures are better! See you all on Friday for a cold, windy and snow one! - Luke

[@marklewis9057]

Nothing but great things to say about Fenix. I have several and been using them for years. .... Great job

[@jyo8914]

Self-proclaimed flashaholic here. I LOVE my PD36R. It's my everyday carry. The PD35 Tac was my EDC previously. I really dig the Fenix stuff. Excellent pricepoint vs quality vs features. I've dropped my flashlights many times and it's been 100%. I use it all of the time.

[@mrq1701]

I love my PD36R. I like the fact the rear button is used to turn power on and off, while the side copper button is used to cycle through the different modes. I usually set it to one of the mid level modes and leave it there. It isn't a big deal to press the side button a couple of times for high or turbo mode

[@coolmoodee]

I have both of those . I explore old mines a few times a year. Fenix has never let me down.

[@photofire100]

Thank you for a great review. I just received my PD36R today and I'm quite impressed. As a retired firefighter, I'm always up for another quality flashlight and this beauty fills the bill. Bought the Fenix ALP MT to belt carry it however it is a prefect size for an EDC pocket piece. Keep up the fun reviews.

[@CodyDadman]

Here 2 years later because i just bought my PD36R. I value your opinion and im definitely happy with the purchase!

[@davewhaley6917]

I bought this flashlight about a month ago and I have absolutely no complaints

[@vytautasmackunas552]

I've watched about 10 reviews and this is the first one to answer my question about memory mode.

[@MemphisMojo15s]

Just wondering, does Fenix not have any info on their website? I haven't fully flash light shopped for a long time. TIA

[@rustyfisher2081]

They typically do, but i guess since memory mode is so universal on good flashlights they might've not included it in the page

[@FenixLightOfficial]

@@MemphisMojo15s We're rebuilding website. For any product information, welcome to check out our dealer website.

[@MemphisMojo15s]

@@FenixLightOfficial thank you! I just got the 36R. Love it

[@Mizpah61]

Just watched this video again and just ordered the PD36...looking forward to trying it out! Thanks for your honest and agenda free reviews!

[@mattsmith6828]

i bought the PD36R for my dad a year ago and after playing with it myself, i decided to get it for myself as well. like you said, there's really not much to talk about. it's well built, easy to use and SUPER bright. i wasn't always a "gear" guy until recently, so when I think of flashlights, I think of how cool the "new" MagLites with LEDs were! LOL

[@TwitchRadio]

I'm getting one now.. Thx for brimg this to my attention.. If it wasn't for ppl like you on KZbin I would have to spend hours online looking around.. Give my best to the lovely sueie and kids.. strength and honor brother

[@lindawoods6841]

I do like that PD36R ..Great flashlight..everyone needs a flashlight,,and that one would be worth it..thanks again.

[@coolerjoel101]

Thank you so much for your review. Your video help me deciced to purchase this light. Some friends tell me im crazy for buying a $100 flashlight. Trust me i wont regret it cause im a outdoor guy hiking at night or camping for days definitly need a good light

[@robertkristinsson]

02/06 update Been using this light as my main light for duty use. Can’t say enough good things. Met Fenix at the 2020 Shot Show. They have a rechargeable battery that you plug a usb type c directly into and fits this light. Keep up the awesome work with this channel. Just ordered one, see how it does for a midnight shift worker. 11/22 light arrived. 20% off if you sign up with their subscription page. Excellent quality. Trying it tonight at work. Keep up the awesome videos.

[@robertkristinsson]

Pajama Jammer so far I like it. Fits in side pocket nicely. The memory feature is nice. Staying on the last used brightness setting. Only two days in with it. But it’s a keeper.

[@watcher63034]

Owned mine for over a year, and hardly ever need to charge it! I agree about the eco mode, would be nice to have a 1 lumen moonlight mode, but hard to have everything you want. To me the 1600 lumens isnt a big deal as I find the 800 lumens to be very comparable in throw and spill. You dont get twice the light, or at least it doesnt look it. Close to 6 hours on 800, and 115 hours on 30 lumens, which is enough to walk a trail.

[@redsorgum]

That’s a nice flashlight, I like that you can charge it.

[@jpisme9082]

With my budget its a bit high price but buying cheaper flashlights that poorly preform and have to be replaced often it will be a good investment. Thanks for the informative review.

[@KimberlyGreen]

The UC35 is the USB--rechargeable variant of the PD35. It uses microUSB thought, rather than USB-C. I have two of them and love them.

[@ashishsharma8950]

Hey. How's the performance of USB battery. One seller told me that using a regular battery is better than using a USB battery. Did u face any issues with usb battery so far???

[@orhanabd1724]

I love the UC 35 V2.0 beam but i hate the mode switch and no shortcut to turbo!

[@photofire100]

Hi Luke. I purchased the Fenix PD36R two months ago. What an awesome light. I also picked up the Fenix Flashlight Holster at $14 as well. They both are in incredible pair. Now I'm also looking at the PD40R V2.0. It's pretty cool in the yellow Don't Tread On Me version. Your review was a big part of my choice to make this purchase. Thank you for your wonderful reviews. I'm a subscriber and follow your videos.

[@PickledAmericano]

Misleading - the PD35 runs on rechargeable 18650 cells. Both are rechargeable, but you need a separate charger for the PD35 battery i stead of just plugging a cable into the body as with the PD36

[@davidlabedz2046]

I have the PD36R. It is a great light for all reasons you mentioned. The ECO mode of 30 lumens is a matter of personal preference. Great reviews!! Thank you.

[@kodyking3090]

What does the light default to when you haven't used it in a while? For example, if you haven't used it in 1-3 hours and turn it on again, does it default down to medium? Or can you turn it off on high and know that when you go back to turning it on, it'll be on high just like the way you turned it off. Some of my flashlights default to a 300 lumen mode after 10 minutes of it being off.

[@ronnietarnacke5153]

@@kodyking3090 it goes back to the setting you were on when you turned it off, except for strobe . No matter how long it is off , even if you open it up and change the battery.

[@johnnyboy5976]

The rechargeable capability sold me on this light.

[@grizzlycountry1030]

They make a pd35r which is also rechargeable. Not sure why he wouldn't compare 2 rechargeable models.

[@1979Spica]

Just picked up at PD35 V3. I have had an E35UE for the past 10 years almost. It has been good to me, but i wanted something with more throw. Side by side comparison shows their totally different character. The E35 has a much wider spot with a lot more spill between it and the outer cone. The light colour is softer as well. The PD35 has a smaller but much more crisp spot. The cutoff to the outer cone is well defined. This lends well to long throwing. It throws a beam much further and brighter. I also like that i can ping with this due to the tail clicky. This version 3.0 has really improved a lot. Eco mode still runs over 200 hours, but turbo mode can throw 1700 lumens at an effective 31900 candela over 350m for about an hour and a half. Also, they made it a bit shorter. This new light is the greatest thing for edc. I have an HT18 as well (1500lm @ 214000 candela) for search and rescue but its big head isn’t suitable for edc. It does throw a beam nearly a kilometre though!

[@oni_goroshi]

Just ordered one from Fenix with free 3 to 5 day shipping, 20% off, and it came with a smaller flashlight for just under $80. I've been carrying the uc35 for years, now it will be my back up light and the pd36r will be my everyday carry!

[@soslan1812]

which one proved to be better? thanks.

[@bc_usa]

Out of all of my tactical lights this one is my favorite. I really like the run time and most importantly it doesn't get hot when on medium for hours at a time.

[@ronradmer3573]

I have both the pd35 1.0 and 2.0. I use them both for work over the last five years and I absolutely love them. I have dropped both of them on many many occasions and they are absolutely indestructible. I think 1600 lumens is just Overkill. I've lit up suspects and almost a hundred yards with my pd35 with no problem on the highest setting. I leave it on the highest setting so if I am Outdoors or if I should happen to run inside a room I can keep it at the same Lumen and not have to screw around with the selector and change the lumens. I find that 1000 lumens is the perfect number to identify suspects indoors and out.

[@MrMilirocksvlogs]

I m using since 9 years now Fenix rocks....

[@JWG2014]

I bought one, two weeks later I got another. Great light

[@jimmythegeekstickeyrice6062]

Just purchased $74 free shipping listed at $99 on their site asked about veterans discount the obliged. They also offer 20% first time buyer if you register you cannot stack discounts. Considered Olight but wanted USB charging and a common battery vs proprietary battery and magnetic charging some owners had issues with. No need to wait for flash sales Customer service very friendly

[@Nappis3]

I have professionaly used Fenix TK11 1 GEN and TK15 1 GEN for years and still going strong. We also have couple Fenix CL20R’s for camping and for nightlights for kids :D I just the Fenix lights, great quality etc. Next purchase will be couple of HM65R Superraptors for trailrunning, hiking etc

[@LeoInterHyenaem]

Two questions: 1. Has the PD36 a blind spot right in front of it (if mounted on a bicycle)? 2. Has the PD36 a wide enough beam to be used as a bike light? Thank you.

[@FlashBro-r4w]

Hell yes. The Fenix pd36r is a power house. Youl have PLENTY of light

[@scottjackson5505]

It’s my go to flashlight! Unbeatable!

[@MrWmburr7]

I've had mine about a year. My only minor complaint is that the sheath is a VERY tight fit; well made, but tight!

[@patrickdolan.]

I wish Fenix would make their flashlights tailstand capable. I cut a little notch in the side of the case so I can fit the tail end in the bottom of the case to do a tail stand tho so it works but just wish they'd finally do that

[@MemphisMojo15s]

The E series lights, and any of their side switch only lights, tail stand. The PD, TK, LD lights, for example use rear switch activation and won't tail stand.

[@patrickdolan.]

@@MemphisMojo15s they could make their tail pieces a millimeter longer to do it like other companies that have tail buttons

[@Prim--]

Luke, the PD36R looks like the smart decision in comparison to the PD35. Being able to recharge on the fly and not need to break apart and change batteries is always a plus, it reduces the chances of introducing moisture and dirt in some cases. I guess it comes down to actually being able to keep it around and not losing it on the trail or in a pack. We all have the best intentions when purchasing anything of value but when it's lost buyers remorse sets in. Carrying a few light sources when heading out is a good option to get in to the habit of. When it's dark it's dark and there is no readily available substitute in the forest to take the place of a good RELIABLE light source. Great review as always and looking forward to the next. Cheers!

[@poolboy22v]

Got this light for Christmas. Love it

[@groosha6]

I'm a fan of Fenix. I don't like flashlights that have charging ports, looks like both of these don't tail stand, yes 30 lumens is way too high for the lowest mode (I have a light with the lowest setting at 0.4 lumens and that really is useful) and I prefer lights that run on 18650's.

[@tracyrreed]

Been looking forward to my first 21700 light. This might be it.

[@albieclementi]

I know I am late to the party here, but I recently found your channel and have been enjoying it greatly! I have the PD36R, and one of the cool features that you missed is the clip itself...if you look closely, it is 's' shaped so it can be clipped either direction in your pocket...the clip does not need to be interchangeable and is a nice solution in my opinion. Awesome vids, wonderful adventures, and great reviews! So glad I found your channel!

[@justinuriahphoto]

Good review but wouldn't you agree the PD36R is a lot more than slightly more powerful? At 1600 lumens that's almost double the PD35. Plus, the 5,000 mah battery is just shy of being double the runtime of the 2,800 battery. I'd say HUGE difference in the two lights. I own the PD36R and it has replaced my Surefire EDCL2-T.

[@BigJesse579]

Love my 36R. Yanked the charging port cover off after 8 months. It sucks. Doesn’t close easily. Other than that A+

[@ronaldrose7593]

Hello Luke, another great review, thank you for sharing. Please keep your great reviews. The best to you and Susie. 🤗

[@stevestreeter4387]

Nice review Luke. I'm the same on flashlights. They're kind of addictive for me as well. This one looks like a winner. Great features for the price.

[@Jcool721]

I have the 40R which is the best because it has usable 1000 lumen level offering 2 hours running time. I use it in mtb on my handlebar. Please don't believe running times, they are just BS. In the 36R the running time is about 5 minutes in turbo. I would use the 36R in 800 lumens which should go about 2.5 hours. Thanks, great video!

[@FlashBro-r4w]

I haven’t confirmed this for myself yet but I do have the pd36r and an online reviewer test high 845 lumens at 5hr 54min with relatively flat regulation.

[@karlkaiser7803]

It's ok,I am happy with my 35..

[@abcchannel1709]

Me too "love the flashlights"

[@MemphisMojo15s]

Well, I bought this today and the 40R yesterday 🤷 I'll try the 36R tonight. The 40R is awesome. (Update:) sold the PD40R. Waste of money over time. Turbo makes the light scorching hot and it steps down and runs the battery down way too fast. It is not worth the money. Thanks for the video.

[@sheepdogoutdoors7006]

Thanks

[@MemphisMojo15s]

​@@sheepdogoutdoors7006the 36R has been a solid light. I still have it and it gets used on mountain walks

[@adrianotero7963]

Went with the Fenix PD 35 V3.....like the fact that I can use two different types of batteries....18650 dead ? You can use two 123's....find them anywhere.....

[@DanielSparten]

I heard this flashlight is also one of the first flashlights to have the ability to truly charge from USB C to USB C. Most flashlights that has a USB C charge port, only support charging from USB A to USB C. Big plus and great by Fenix.

[@johnpombrio]

I am currently charging the flashlight from my C port on my computer to the C port on the flashlight, heh.

[@johncoleman7031]

Luke, the PD36R looks great! Definitely going on my Christmas list!!! (Catch that family???) Thanks for another great review!!!

[@greygoose3936]

I'm tired of buying cheap flash lights that use multiple cheap AA batteries that will fail to keep a charge throughout a long camping trip. $100 was a little shocking for me but I figured it'll be a good investment. Plus I actually got mine for $75 after signing up as a new member on their website. Can't wait to receive it.

[@GenVirtu]

Got it for my Jeep wrangler TJ for EDC. Love this flashlight

[@HeadBassVTEC]

looks nice, had fenix in the past the usb-c is nice but you can actually get 21700 cells with integrated usb-c charge port so any 21700 flashlight can have the same practicality

[@gdmt]

Been a nitecore fan but after seeing this, I think il give Fenix a shot

[@mikewhite255]

Why do I always become obsessed with gadgets ? I absolutely need this and about one million others because it's important for my life lol.

[@ChoppsyV]

I feel your pain man 🤷🏻‍♂️😆

[@otrdriver6767]

I am all about being prepared. Thank you.

[@chadcarrington1218]

Check out the Olight M2R Pro Warrior. It's got a great UI and is rechargable. Same huge battery.

[@indycharlie]

IMO it looks like a winner !

[@grizzlycountry1030]

Should have compared the pd36r to pd35r to make it a relevant comparison.

[@Yaxez]

I've always liked the look, quality and features of Fenix lights, but I can never motivate myself to pay that much. I usually end up buying something cheaper, which is a shame.

[@julianapalafox3420]

Yup especially when the other one won’t last and you’ll have to replace it eventually. Buy once cry once.

[@greggorter]

Hi Luke, I recently bought the NiteCore MH25GTS Cree XHP35 HD USB Rechargeable torch. I have found this very worthy, and by the looks of things very similar to this one you have reviewed ! thanks for the videoAwesome mate, we love the TOGR 🤘😎🤘🇦🇺

[@Bulldog2108]

I have been using fenix for around 12 years. I have the TK10 (my first ever purchase) the HP30R headlamp, HT18 and he HM65R shadow master. I am looking for a more compact hand held torch like the PD36R and thats why I am here. Looks fantastic! I'll probably add it to the list! Thanks

[@privateeye7855]

A good Video! Got the same! 🤗 Before there was a LED-Lenser P 7.2 (4xAAA), a P 5 (1xAA) and a much older ASP Triad (2xCR123a) (And a big, old but good Maglite in the 90s...). Of course i don't throw away my old flashlights, they will be in use at home and bicycle/car or for backup. But my new first choice for edc will become the new fenix pd36r. It's a good all-around flashlight. 👌 kindly regards Eye

[@MartyInLa]

Is there a good way to lock the flashlight off? Another reviewer had his light accidentally turn on in the holster, and it melted his holster!

[@fvahamonde]

I really needed this review. Heart set on the PD36R. Hard to imagine 1600+lumens and justify paying $>100. My $16.40 AA Maglite Mini puts out 335 lumens. That seems like all the light I'll ever need and it won't ruin my day if it's lost or stolen.

[@discostu333]

Great review, thanks. I'm still using the older v1 PD35 but looking for something new. This review has swayed me.

[@ericgauthier8695]

I own 4 of the PD36R moon beams and they are tough as nails ... Home / Vehicle / EDC / and Bug Out Bag

[@hackcult3738]

“Moon beam” You should like a US Marine.

[@danjunipero5713]

Great review. Mine is on the way. Subscribed btw. Cheers!

[@michaels3860]

Question is: Can you set it on a table to stand vertically?

[@TacGeorge]

Hi luke, can you review the "Fenix TK22 V2". It uses the same type of battery with the same lumens but it can reach up to 400meters throw.

[@bc_usa]

It looks very bulky compared to this one. Not pocket friendly.

[@hackcult3738]

I have the p35v2 and I love it. Fenix lights are my go to. I want to buy another one to mount on my crossbow. Not sure if I want the p36r or the p35v2. What do u guys think. What led is more reliable?

[@davestelling]

It's a great light, but...I'll keep my PD-35...It's never let me down...

[@PardyN2]

35 is definitely a great flashlight, I have both due to my job, got the 36 because my backup flashlight failed so now my 36 is my main and the 35 is my backup/spare/one I still use sometimes 😄

[@johnpombrio]

I lost one of my 6 PD35 flashlights and purchased this PD36R. Note that neither of these flashlights can stand up vertically on its end due to the bottom switch protruding out too far. The one accessory from my PD35 that works with the PD36R is the white diffusor that can be mounted to the BOTTOM of both of the flashlights and lets them stand vertically, heh. The diffuser does not fit the front of the PD36R nor does the red filter. The case for the PD35 does not fit the thicker PD36R ( I barely got it squeezed into the case but usable? No way). The PD36R is brighter than the PD35 in all of the modes, from low to turbo. The pocket clip is better on the 36R. I am not sure about the USB C cover lifetime and it looks to be a pain to replace. Winner? PD36R but I still use my PD35 all the time as well.

[@FlashBro-r4w]

Are u talking about the fenix pd35 V3?

[@nomadinneverland6832]

Would this be good enough to spotlight to find nocturnal wildlife (far away) or would a (pistol grip) flashlight with higher lumens be better?

[@stuartnamiki2148]

great review thanks! Gonna pick one up based on your vid..please tell me - where was the video shot? Beautiful trails!

[@loweaguirre454]

What is a good flashlight that doesn't have a strobe mode?

[@subaruforester5062]

Olight m2r pro. It's got strobe but it's hidden away so it does show up in regular modes

[@loweaguirre454]

@@subaruforester5062 I will have to check it out Brad. Thanks for your help.

[@MemphisMojo15s]

@@loweaguirre454 check out Klarus G10. It has the simplest UI and mode selection, and the extra features are strobe and SOS, hidden in the mode selection. 1800 lumens, 4 brightness levels, and palm sized. Comes with a sheath, battery, and cable for around $60. I bought 4 of them for work and so far they're excellent. USB charging built in on the light itself. Well worth it. IPX8 rated as well. While I'll not switch from Fenix as my choice, the Klarus is definitely worth a look

[@loweaguirre454]

@@MemphisMojo15s l definitely will check it out for sure. Thanks for replying.

[@loweaguirre454]

@@MemphisMojo15s Whatt Fenix do You have?

[@jeanmartox3570]

Hello to France, thanks you, i decide to buy thé 36r. Excellent revue. Merci.

[@taser1076]

I went on the site and found this. It said 2way clip. Included: Fenix ARB-L21-5000 rechargeable Li-ion battery, two-way body clip, USB Type-C charging cable, lanyard, holster, spare O-ring

[@twosix_00]

I just bought a Fenix ​​Bc26r(1600 Lumens) bike light, it has a Luminus SST-40 And I have another Magicshine Allty1000(1000 Lumens) light that has a CREE XP-L V6, Do you know how efficient it is compared to this one? In terms of light output, efficiency, performance, etc, which one is better and why?

[@FlashBro-r4w]

Depends what battery those other bike lights use. If it’s 21700 battery youl have good runtimes

[@Justoneoftheguys]

Very impressed. Have you tested the Fenix TK22 V2?

[@lonetrader1]

Still never bought a fenix, always been curious to em. Might have to grab one sometime.

[@jhonguzman4534]

hi, i have a question the battery's pd36r is interchangeable with the pd35??

[@Divorceization]

I wish someone knew if the PD35 tail switch pressure switch for weapon mounts worked on the PD36R...

[@SJ-ut5ll]

Larger batter probably means larger housing and tailcap so i doubt it would wotk

[@JeffNewton508]

Sounds like a decent flashlight, the USB port sounds like usable feature. I would likely get a flashlight with the features you described.

[@robertcarloszelaya]

Fenix make a UC35, that's the USB rechargable version of the PD35 if you want the thinner smaller package along with the sub rechargable

[@Solo_Wish]

I would really like to have a diffuser for my PD36r but it's not available , is it?

[@drfawad]

Very impressive flashlight. Luke, you should also review Lumos and Lumos maxima.

[@rhubba2]

Does this flashlight’s Mode Memory apply to the strobe function? Meaning: once in strobe mode, when you click the tailcap button to Off and then click the tailcap button back On, will it remain in strobe mode?

[@PardyN2]

No

[@TheKATON132]

My question is if water gets into the USB port, will it just kill off the USB or will it totally disable the entire light? I like rechargeable batteries but that USB port on the side wigs me out a little. If water just messed with the USB but the light still worked i wouldn't worry.

[@tommyrojas1571]

This seems like the most logical upgrade from the s2r baton 2

[@derektodd4126]

Think my Olight X7R Marauder was using usbC awhile ago.

[@Distorted-Vision]

Are Samsung 21700 50E compatible with the PD36R?

[@kprice399]

Awesome review thx!

[@Wordsmyth8]

My rechargeable OLIGHT Baton flashlight, which I’ve had for at least a year, has a USB-C charging port right on the flashlight.

[@EKEACRES]

I Like Nitecore.

[@black_shadow3299]

How do these flashlights do with heat dissipation?

[@geovannisarabia9943]

I love flashlights too

[@Vilemirth]

The charging port is exactly why I wouldn't go with the PD36R. Convenient? Sure, if you charge everything via USB cables. (I don't. It would be my only USB device in the sticks...) It also is vulnerable. ANY open port to the outside world is inviting dirt and moisture into the system. I don't trust little rubber flaps for water proofing... The PD36R is rated to 115 hours on eco mode. The PD35, 430 hours. The PD35 uses the far more common and less expensive 18650 battery (which you only have to take out of the flashlight to recharge, so saying that it is not rechargeable is a misleading statement. Better phrasing would be, the PD36R is rechargeable without having to remove the battery.) They're both IP68 rated for water resistance, if the USB cover was properly closed on the PD36R when it hit the water. The PD36R is much brighter in high mode. Frankly, I think it would be nice to have a plain PD36 option, without the charging port. Everything is a compromise. You have to weigh the pro's and con's for how you're going to use it. I'm not sold on the PD36R for my purposes. That said, it may be the best fit for others and I won't disparage that decision. That's the great thing about having options, most everyone can find the compromise that best suits them.

[@indycharlie]

Yeah , the exposed , but covered charging port always gives me some pause . But it does give at least one option the 35 doesn't . For backpacking you can carry an anchor or equiv 5000 mAh power bank ( or more mAh ) and charge it on the trail . I supposed you could with the 35 if you carried a battery charger & a bank though . The 35 you could carry a spare battery I guess , but a power bank allows you to charge a flashlight , phone or even a notebook . As you stated though , compromises for each . IMO you gave some very insightful input . BG

[@AverageReviewsYT]

Matt smith threw a light with the port open in the washer. It worked fine after. So for fenix? I wouldn't doubt it would work. I'd be surprised if it didn't. I have had lights with charge ports in storms and in puddles and I have never had any issues.. Idk. Jsut my experience.. As for dust and debris.. That's something I would be more concerned about. But once again just clean the port out

[@puneet812]

Awesome flashlight I want to buy this nice video sir

[@naishkiter10]

How long in turbo mode before it goes into a lower lumen ?