I conduct tests on approximately two flashlights per week, which has become somewhat of a running joke in my household. Despite having numerous flashlights in my gear review arsenal, one stands out above the rest and consistently finds its way into my backpack or truck for every outing – the Fenix PD36R.
For over a year, the Fenix PD36R has remained at the top of our list of the finest flashlights, and despite a few competitors starting to catch up, it still holds its place as, in the timeless words of Tina Turner, simply the best.
Here’s why.
In brief: The Fenix PD36R Pro boasts a maximum output of 2,800 lumens in turbo mode, can illuminate up to 1,247 feet (380m), and features a 5,000mAh battery that can power the light for up to 42 hours on low. It is equipped with two tail switches for on/off, momentary on, and six lighting modes, making it user-friendly and one of the best interfaces I’ve encountered. With its durability, reliability, and USB-C rechargeability, this flashlight ticks off nearly every box.
If you’re in the market for flashlights, don’t forget to check out our purchasing guide for the best flashlights.
Fenix PD36R Pro: In-Depth Evaluation
When I hold the PD36R Pro, it feels just right. It extends about 2 to 3 inches from my hand with a substantial but not burdensome weight of a perfectly balanced 5.96 ounces. The textured surface on the side offers a secure grip without being too rough to slide into a pocket effortlessly.
Pressing the larger of the two tail switches activates the light momentarily. Further pressing it turns it on with a satisfying click. Changing the light intensity is as easy as pressing the smaller tail switch to cycle through different output levels.
The smaller tail switch activates strobe mode when the light is already on. Pressing it when the light is off triggers the strobe temporarily, a handy self-defense feature.
With the light on, the Luminus SFT70 LED emits a bright hotspot in the center with a broad spill for lighting up a wider area closer to the user. This illumination pattern works effectively for both close-up and long-distance tasks.
Despite its compact size, the PD36R Pro delivers potent and enduring illumination. Turbo mode begins at 2,800 lumens and diminishes to 1,000 after a few minutes but remains at 1,000 lumens for over 2 hours before tapering off considerably. The light stays cool at 1,000 lumens, a commendable trait for a light of its size.
When the battery runs out, recharging is swift thanks to the USB-C port. I recharged the light from empty to full in just over an hour. Additionally, it features a simple red or green indicator to indicate battery status.
An added perk, the PD36R Pro comes in various colors besides black, such as red and patterned orange, which would make them much easier to locate in the dark while rummaging through a bag.
My Experience with the PD36R Pro
My dog has a peculiar habit of needing to relieve herself in the middle of the night. Despite attempts to break this behavior, she often reverts to it. So, there I was at 2 a.m., outside my tent in my underwear, enjoying the night sky while my dog did her thing.
Then she started barking fiercely in a defensive manner, an unusual behavior. I swiftly used the PD36R Pro’s light to scan the surrounding woods in turbo mode. After a thorough search, I heard a distant group of coyotes. Perhaps my dog caught wind of something unsettling. By listening and scanning the area with the beam, I confirmed that nothing threatening was nearby.
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