Most of us probably have a Maglite of some sort sitting around the house. Known for their superior build quality and durability, Maglite is considered to be the everyday premium flashlight. We will be taking a look at Maglite’s LED line of flashlights featuring the latest Luxeon Rebel LED.
Form Factors
Step 1: Determine the Series The serial number is located on the flashlight's barrel near the front. Mine is a 'D' series. There is also a 'DL' series. Madrid History Events: Date: Code: Description: 2014-06-26: RENWL: INTERNATIONAL REGISTRATION RENEWED: 2014-06-12: ADDCH: CHANGE OF ADDRESS RECEIVED FROM IB: 2010-09-20.
The LED Maglite is available in several form factors and with two kinds of LEDs, and the type of LED is something that should be given some thought as there is a significant difference.
LED
Older lights are frequently still seen on the shelf, so the kind of LED should be noted. The current LED Maglites use the Cree XP-E LED, and previous generation LED Maglites use the Philips Lumileds Luxeon Rebel or Luxeon III LED. The Cree XP-E is brighter and more energy efficient than both Luxeon LEDs, however, older models are often mixed with new stock on retail shelves.
The Luxeon III (left) is larger than the Luxeon Rebel (right). The Cree XP-E is mounted similar to the Luxeon Rebel, and the main difference is the square base of the XP-E. The only way to differentiate between the models is to look down the business end of the light through the clear plastic packaging.
With the D-cell lights, the serial number also indicates the type of LED inside. If the serial number begins with DLXXXXXXXXX, it is either Cree XP-E or Luxeon Rebel. If the serial number begins with DXXXXXXXXXX, it is the Luxeon III. Also, if the packaging mentions interchangeability with incandescent bulbs, then it is the Luxeon III.
Sizes
Here’s the breakdown of the sizes that are available based on LED type:
| Luxeon III | Luxeon Rebel | Cree XP-E |
| 2 AA | 2 AA | 2 AA |
| 3 AA | ||
| 2 D | 2 D | 2 D |
| 3 D | 3 D | 3 D |
| 4 D |
The 2AA light is an exception and is actually available in three different form factors. There are two types of the 2AA with the Luxeon Rebel – one with the flat tail cap (old), and one with the lanyard tail cap (current), similar to the regular 2AA Mini Maglite. The lanyard tail cap is preferable to the flat tail cap due to increased reliability, as well as compatibility with regular Mini Maglite tail caps (making aftermarket accessories such as “clickie” switches usable).
A common question is 2D or 3D? The gist of that decision is personal preference. The 3D is a hefty light, but it has, by far, the longest runtime. The 2D is more compact, but runtime is shorter due to the need for voltage boost. The difference in brightness between the two is not very significant, so considerations should fall on runtime and size.
Pricing & Ordering
Compared to other premium flashlights, Maglites have one major advantage – local availability. At the time of writing, regular price for the 2AA is usually around $20.
Frys and Lowe’s also sell the lights online, but after reading the previous section, you will know that ordering online is not a good idea. I was able to pick up several 2AA lights for about $10 each, at Lowe’s and Home Depot during the year-end holiday sale.
The 2D and 3D models are a little more expensive, at around $30 for either. If you are a Costco member or know someone who is, Costco has a 2AA and 3D twin-pack that is a great deal for $29.99. Again, prices vary by time and location, so this should only be interpreted as an estimate.
In The Box
For the 2AA, included in the blister packaging are: Maglite LED 2AA flashlight, 2 x AA battery, and belt holster.
For the D-cell models, only the light is included.
Batteries
While the 2AA includes two alkaline batteries and the instructions specify that only alkaline batteries should be used, it is not recommended to use alkaline batteries. The reasoning behind this is that no matter the brand, alkaline batteries can and will leak! If the light is stored in extreme conditions, such as in the glove box of a car, the chances of leakage are much higher. Instead, lithium primaries or low self-discharge (LSD) NiMH rechargeable batteries are better alternatives.
Lithium primary batteries, such as Energizer Advanced or Ultimate Lithium, are more expensive, but last longer than alkaline, perform better in cold temperatures, do not leak, and are approximately 1/3 lighter than the average alkaline. The voltages of these batteries are also slightly higher, which leads to increased output compared to alkaline.
LSD NiMH rechargeables, such as the Sanyo Eneloop that popularized low self-discharge, are able to retain charge up to one year. One thing to note about LSD rechargeables is that Duracell Pre-Charged rechargeable batteries that have a white top on the positive end are re-packaged Eneloops, and these are preferred over the black top counterparts. If you’ve ever used rechargeable batteries, you’re probably aware of the extremely high self-discharge rate that could leave the battery half-empty in a short amount of time. LSD rechargeables are an investment that will definitely pay itself off if the light is used frequently.
For D-cell lights, options are more limited, and quality alkaline batteries are a good choice. Rechargeable LSD NiMH D-cells are quiet expensive and difficult to find, though AA to D adapters can be purchased online so that primary or LSD AA’s may be used. Some adapters offer the ability to hold 2 AA’s in parallel, which will greatly increase runtime. In addition, 2 AA’s will be lighter than a D-cell.
The Light
Amazon Mini Maglite
Head
The head features a plastic lens and a smooth reflector. The beam can be focused with a quick turn of the head, and the D-cell models feature continuous cam action so which direction the head is turned will not matter.
For the 2AA model, brightness will decrease beyond a half-turn due to increased distance between the LED and the reflector, but the head can be unscrewed all the way and the light converted into “candle mode”
Body
The entire light is type-II anodized aluminum inside and out. The anodizing helps prevent corrosion, and also electrically insulates the light. (Picture below shows lights with optional anti-roll ring accessory.)
The 2AA light sports a multi-mode switch with four modes: 100%, 25%, blink, and SOS. If the light is needed for an extended period of time, one set of batteries will last for more than a day on 25% mode.
The D-cell lights feature a three position on/off switch: momentary, on, and off.
Tail Cap
D-cell lights with the Luxeon III will have a spare incandescent bulb in the tail cap. For the Luxeon Rebel models, the tail cap is not very interesting and consists of only a spring.
Performance
If you’re an incandescent Maglite user, you will certainly be surprised with the output of the LED Maglite. LEDs give off a cool white color, do not generate as much heat, and are brighter. As with incandescent Maglites, the larger models can be used as a baton if needed, although using the head as the striking surface would not be best as the LED cannot be replaced like a bulb! Below are some beamshots of the lights in spot focus:
Below are ANSI technical specifications for most of the Maglite product line.
| Model | Bulb Type | Lumens | Runtime (High) | Runtime (Low) |
| Solitaire (1 AAA) | Krypton (Standard) | 2 | 3h 45m | – |
| XL50 (3 AAA) | LED (Luxeon Rebel) | 104 | 8h 45m | 36h |
| XL100 (3 AAA) | LED (Luxeon Rebel) | 83 | 5h 15m | 201h |
| XL200 (3 AAA) | LED (Cree XP-G) | 172 | 2h 30m | 218h |
| MAG-TAC (2 123A) | LED (Cree XP-G) | 250 | 4h 30m | TBD |
| 2 AAA | Krypton (Standard) | 9 | 2h 30m | – |
| 2 AA | Krypton (Standard) | 12 | 5h 15m | – |
| 2 AA | Xenon (Optional) | 14 | 5h 15m | – |
| 2 AA | LED (Luxeon Rebel) | 69 | 18h | 31h |
| 2 AA | LED (Cree XP-E) | 63 | 9h 30m | 24h |
| 2 AA Pro | LED (Cree XP-G) | TBD | TBD | – |
| 2 AA Pro Plus | LED (Cree XP-G) | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| ML100 (2 C) | LED (Cree XP-E) | 119 | 11h | 43h |
| ML100 (3 C) | LED (Cree XP-E) | 101 | 35h | 98h |
| ML125 (3 C or NiMH) | LED (Cree XP-G) | 186 | 8h 30m | 30h |
| 2 D | Krypton (Standard) | 19 | 10h | – |
| 2 D | LED (Luxeon Rebel) | 114 | 9h 15m | – |
| 2 D | LED (Cree XP-E) | 134 | TBD | – |
| 3 D | Krypton (Standard) | 45 | 10h | – |
| 3 D | LED (Luxeon Rebel) | 104 | 72h | – |
| 3 D | LED (Cree XP-E) | 131 | TBD | – |
| 4 D | Krypton (Standard) | 72 | 10h | – |
| 5 D | Krypton (Standard) | 113 | 11h | – |
| 6 D | Krypton (Standard) | 136 | 11h | – |
| MagCharger (NiMH) | Halogen (Standard) | 221 | 3h | – |
All of the LED Maglites are regulated, which means that as the batteries are depleted and voltage drops, more current is drawn from the batteries to offset the lower voltage, resulting in consistent brightness until the batteries are completely depleted.
Runtime
If you haven’t read our article about runtime graphs and the ANSI FL1 Standard, please click here.
Accessories and Upgrades
Maglite offers a decent variety of OEM accessories for their lights, ranging from belt holders to lamps to traffic wands. I purchased a D-cell and an AA accessory pack, which came with a rubber anti-roll ring that also protects the head and lens from scratches when set down head-first, as well as a set of red, blue, and clear lenses. The D-cell accessory pack also came with a pair of mounting brackets, which I found to be convenient for storing the light. The mounting brackets are quite firm and the light snaps in with a solid THUNK.
For those with incandescent Maglites, Maglite offers a 3W drop-in LED upgrade for the 2-cell, 3-cell, and 4-cell C or D lights, which uses the Luxeon III LED. This upgrade is being discontinued due to the older LED used, but there are aftermarket upgrades (including some with the Luxeon Rebel LED) available from manufacturers such as TerraLUX. For Mini Maglites, there are no OEM upgrades, but TerraLUX and Nite-Ize make 1W LED upgrades that will certainly improve the light’s usefulness.
Conclusion
These lights are certainly quite handy to have around! The size of the 2AA makes a great every-day carry (EDC) light, or could be handy to keep in glove boxes or emergency kits (with lithium batteries installed, of course). Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or just wandering around the house late at night trying to find your bedroom, these lights are great value and will come in handy, ready for action, for years to come.
Related Links
Are you looking for smarter MagLite lumens?
If you have an old MagLite lumen, that you are emotionally connected to, you can easily upgrade it with a MagLite LED Convert kit. They are readily available and straightforward to install, as well. They are really effective for hunting.
5 Best MAG-LITE LED Conversion Kit Comparison Chart
5 Best MAG-LITE LED Conversion Kit Reviews
- Mag Lite LED Bulb Maglight LED Conversion Kit
- Mag Lite LED Bulb Maglight LED Conversion Kit LED Replacement Bulbs LED Flashlight Bulb White 2-3 C and D Cells 2-Pack
- LudoPam High Power LED Upgrade Bulb 3W DC 4-12V Replacement Part LED Conversion Kit Bulbs 3-6 Cell C&D for MagLite Flashlights Torch
- TRLIFE Maglite LED Conversion Kit
- LudoPam Maglite LED Conversion Kit CREE XP-G3 Upgrade Bulb 3 4 5 6 Cell D/C Torch Flashlight
1. ABN Maglight LED Conversion Kit LED Replacement Bulbs LED Flashlight Bulb Pure White 3-6 C and D Cells
ABN Maglite Flashlight Conversion kit bulb provides much brighter white LED lights for standard cell Maglite flashlights.
This LED bulb has a long life. The replacement bulb offers a beam pattern when adjusted from spot to flood. It protects overheating and shock-resistant.
It is easy to install, just simply unscrew the flashlight head, remove the color and old bulb, and insert the new LED bulb.
Key Features
- Easy to install
- Longer life
- Replace Dull Bulbs
- Protect overheating
- One year warranty
Pros
- Durable
- Much brighter
- Cell Maglite
- Installation easy
Cons
- The front diameter of the bulb is too large
2. Ludlam High Power LED Upgrade Bulb
It uses a torch, Flashlight, and headlight. It converts C and D 3-6 cell incandescent flashlights. This type of bulb is a long-lasting, upgrade bulb. This is a Maglite bulb with LED technology.
This type of bulb is efficient and easy to upgrade with an LED replacement flashlight bulb. It offers a much longer battery life.
This type of bulb is reliable. It provides high Power lumen output. It is an incandescent bulb, 3watt Power, LED type bulb.
This type of bulbs, installation is very easy. These are cell Maglite.
Key Features
- Flashlight LED Upgrade Bulb
- High Power and long-lasting bulb
- LED lights are bright
- Much longer battery life
- LED Replacement flashlight bulb
Pros
Check Maglite Serial Number
- High Power
- Easy to install
- Incandescent bulbs, LED upgrade
- Light output
- Brighter than the original
- Works fine
Cons
- Light on the left side two cell Maglite
- Dull yellow
3. TrLife Maglite LED Conversion kit, LED Flashlight Bulbs Replacement
It has a great light source and improves battery life. This is an LED type bulb. This bulb can’t work in 2 D and C cell Maglite flashlights.
It is an LED clip, long-lasting bulbs. Flashlight bulb replacement is a negative ring, positive tip.
This type of bulbs is fit for standard D and C 3-20 cells Maglite flashlights.
Key Features
- LED lights are bright
- Negative-ring, positive-tip
- 3-watt Power
- Cells Maglite Flashlight
- Two-year warranty
Pros
- It is fit
- Works great
- Installation easy
- Longer battery life
Cons
- Need to be a lot brighter
4. Ludlam Maglite LED Conversion Kit Cree XP-G3 Upgrade Bulb 3 4 5 6 Cell D/C Torch Flashlight
This type of bulbs are uses for torch and flashlights. Its color is white. This type of bulb can’t match with Mag-num star xenon, Xenon bi-pin bulb lights.
This type of Maglite bulb has a negative ring, positive tip. These are only fit for standard 3 4 5 6 Cell D or C Maglite flashlights.
It is a Maglite compatible LED bulb with outstanding heat dissipation and performance. It has a 280-lumen output and white lightening.
This replaces the bulb by unscrewing the flashlight head from the body. It removes the retaining collar. It is reliable.
Key Features
- Upgrade Bulb is long-lasting
- Reliable
- High brightness
- It is compatible with Maglite flashlights
Pros
- Heat dissipation
- Outstanding performance
- Super bright
- White lighting and a 280-lumen output
- Removing the retaining collar
Cons
- Bulb is small
5. MagLite LED bulb Maglite LED Conversion Kit LED Replacement bulbs 2-3 C and D cells
It is better with Maglite standard incandescent bulbs. This type of bulb has great efficiency and longevity. These bulbs are durable. These are simple to use and easy to install.
This is safe and designed to eliminate overheating and is shockproof. This type of bulb has 220-lumen outputs, and it is bright. Download mac os 13.
This Conversion kit fits only standard D and C Maglites. It offers an even beam pattern. It is designed with high efficiency, overheating protection, and shockproof.
Key Features
- Get much longer life
- Allows to replace 3 watt LED
- High efficiency
- Beam pattern
- Protects overheating
- One year warranty
Pros
- Durable
- Easy to use
- It is shockproof
- Much brighter
- Cell Maglites
Cons
- The bulb is too wide in diameter.
Buying Guides
To get the best Maglite LED conversion kit for the money. You should think about some factors while buying.
So let’s see the critical requirements of an ideal LED conversation kit is :
Size
When buying a Maglite LED conversion kit, you must ensure that it is the right size.
Durable
While buying a conversion kit, you have to ensure that it is durable, reliable, and shockproof.
What is Meglight?
Maglite is a kind of Flashlight with a variable-focus beam.
This includes belt holsters, mounting brackets, colored and glass lenses, attachable fiber optics extensions, higher-powered incandescent bulbs, and LED conversion modules.
It has several colors like black, blue, red, purple, silver, green, gold, and many other different colors. This is used for Krypton, xenon incandescent bulbs.
Led is a model of Maglite. It is patterned and able to burn brighter and up to 60 times longer than an incandescent.
MAGLITE LED Conversion Kit
LED conversation kit is the upgrading form of a cheap incandescent bulb to an LED bulb. This type of conversation doesn’t require any tools, only unscrew the head of the light.
Then unscrew the incandescent lamp and replace it with Maglite LED bulb upgrade.
Bulb upgrade
Older flashlights had conventional incandescent bulbs. But you can easily retrofit them with an LED.
All Maglite flashlights have the same design. First, Remove the Batteries. Then remove the glass cover to get the bulb.
There is a metal collar around the bulb. Grasp it and turn clockwise. When you remove it, the bulb will come out with it.
Installing a New Bulb
While replacing an incandescent bulb with an LED, you need to replace the collar. Then insert the bulb or two-pin socket into the collar.
After that holding the collar with your fingers, turn it clockwise so that it is tight. Then screw the head back onto the Flashlight.
Replace the Batteries, and test the Flashlight.
What is ANSI:
The most familiar name is ANSI stands for the American National Standards Institute. It is a federation formed by standards writers and users that manages the United States’ voluntary standards system.
Cree xp-g2 flashlight:
Nitecore CREE XP-G2 led Flashlight has 440 lumens. It contains five individual light sources; these are two main LEDs plus secondary red, blue, and green LEDs. This Flashlight comes with dual side switches control white and colored LEDs independently.
Terralux tle flashlight:
This Flashlight comes with 200 lumens. The upgrade lightbulb of this product is super bright and emits a consistent light output. This is a long lasting Flashlight. It saves money. You can easily install it.
Trlife Maglite Flashlight:
It is energy efficiency. The LED replacement bulb of this Flashlight is brighter than your old incandescent bulb. It is durable and long lasting. The lifespan of this flashlight is more than 50,000hrs.
NiMH rechargeable batteries:
A nickel-metal hydride battery (NiMH or Ni–MH) is a type of rechargeable battery. The life span of these NiMH batteries is two to three years.
FAQs
Question: Are alkaline batteries better?
Answer: Alkaline batteries come with a longer shelf life and a higher energy density. https://evjesvilig.tistory.com/1. Finally, the Alkaline cells have an Extra Power Formula. It helps to maintain Power for a longer period in high-drain devices.
Question: why does the bulb in the packaging look different?
Answer: It’s an LED element, not a filament-type incandescent bulb. Better, brighter, and longer-lasting.
Question: Will this replace a pr 2 type bulb? The Flashlight does use 2 C cell batteries.
Answer: It should. It works on all C and D Maglites with two or more batteries.
Question: Will this fit Sears 3 cell flashlights?
Answer: If your Sears flashlight was made by Maglite, then it should fit.
Conclusion
The above five Products are top of the best Maglite LED conversion kit.
When buying a Maglite LED conversion kit, you ensure that how much money you consider.
Hopefully, our reviews and buying guides will help you to find the right one.