Premierlight Polycarbonate Keychain LED

Provided for review
by the kind folks at:

 
 
3 Stars
Good
         

Light Type: 5mm LED
Light Class: Pocket / Keychain

The PremierLight micro light is yet another offering in the "coin cell keychain light" category. I know what you're thinking: do we really need another one? However, this particular light has one key advantage that may make it more desireable relative to its competitors.

The body of the Premierlight micro light is made of polycarbonate plastc which is pretty tough stuff. On top is a rubbery plastic cover and a large switch which allows for both momentary and constant on operation. On the end is a nice metal clip for attaching the light to your keychain.

At the front of the light is a single recessed and protected 5mm white LED.

Output is in the form of a wide white spot. Great for close-up work, finding keyholes, seeing the path at your feet in a dark area, etc. The beam is typical of a 5mm white LED and it has the characteristic slight bluish tint.


Beam at one meter at target center (enhanced for clarity)

Runtime Plot: 50% at 16 minutes. No surprises here. The little lithium coin cells just don't store that much power. Since it's not meant to be used really as a constant-on primary light, momentary use of a few seconds at a time will allow this light to go a long time before you really need to change the batteries. 25% was reached after about 2 hours.


Runtime completed with included 2016 coin cell batteries. More information on runtime plots is available HERE.

The switch is where this light stands out relative to other similar lights. First off, it's LARGE. It is very easy to use. No need to fumble around with your fingernail here! It has both constant-on and momentary capability. Slide it back for momentary use. It will spring back forward when you release it. Slide it forward until it clicks for constant-on use. This is by far one of the easiest switched keychain lights to use.

Water Resistance is minimal. I ran a light similar to this through the wash once with no ill effects except for dead batteries. If it gets wet, disassemble it and let it dry.

Ergonomics: It is small, but the switch is one of the largest I've seen on a light this small. For big hands or older folks with dexterity problems, this could be a big advantage.


Size compared to a common 2AA aluminum light

The Premierlight takes two 2016 coin cell batteries for power which will run the light for a couple of hours. To replace the cells, remove the rubbery gray cover with your fingernail or a ballpoint pen. The switch should lift up and off. Carefully remove the 2 cells and replace with 2 new cells, observing polarity. Replace the switch and the gray cover, pressing around its edges.

What I Liked: Tough/impact resistant, Relatively easy battery change - no tools needed, Lightweight, Nice clip, Constant and momentary operation

What I Didn't Like: Not really water resistant

Conclusions: For being "one more addition to the keychain light arena", this is a pretty nice little unit! The switch really makes it stand out - large and easy to operate.


Quick Facts Table:

Review Date ............................. April 2005
Case Material ........................... Polycarbonate plastic
Case Features .......................... Clip for keychain
Case Access Type .................... Pop off case cover
Switch Type ............................. Slide, momentary and constant-on
Reflector Type ......................... None
Lens Type ................................ None
Bulb Type ................................. 5mm white LED - recessed for protection
Beam Type ............................... Directional flood
Beam Characteristics ............... Smooth, bluish tint
Throw (Lux) at 1m (click for description) ~ 19 at beam center. (4.36 Comparison Chart equivalent)
Overall Output (click for description) ~ 100 (1.00 Comparison Chart equivalent)
Battery / Power Type................ 2 x 2016 coin cells
Battery Life (advertised) ........... Unknown
Battery Life (test results) ........... ~ 15 min to 50%, ~2 hours to 25%
Environmental Protection ......... None
Weight (oz.) with batteries ....... 0.4 oz.
Special Items of Note ............... Batteries included and installed
Warranty .................................. Unknown
Retail Cost ................................ 8.95 at time of review at PocketLights.com
 

 

 
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