This detailed review compares two Black Diamond lanterns: the Orbit and the Apollo. Both are designed for outdoor use, but cater to different needs and preferences. The Orbit, a compact and lightweight option, is perfect for backpacking and minimalist camping, offering surprising brightness for its small size. Its collapsible design and impressive battery life make it a highly efficient light source for those prioritizing weight and space.The Apollo, on the other hand, offers increased brightness and versatility. While slightly larger and heavier than the Orbit, it boasts features like adjustable stands, battery level indicators, and a DC input for charging, making it a more convenient choice for basecamp or car camping. This review delves into the specific features, performance, and overall value of each lantern, helping you determine which best suits your camping style and priorities.
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Black Diamond Orbit: The Compact Lantern
The Black Diamond Orbit is a remarkably compact and lightweight lantern, perfect for backpacking or minimalist camping setups. Its small size belies its surprising 45-lumen output, making it ideal for illuminating a small tent or providing ambient light. The use of four AAA batteries ensures convenient power sourcing.
One standout feature is its collapsible design. The Orbit shrinks down to a surprisingly small size for easy packing, approximately half the height of a standard Nalgene bottle. This makes it an excellent choice when space is at a premium.
Orbit's Functionality and Battery Life
The Orbit's operation is straightforward; a single button controls power and dimming. It lacks LED battery indicators, but a clever design compensates. When the battery gets low, the lantern will briefly turn off if set to full brightness. Simply turning it back on allows for dimming to extend battery life.
Surprisingly, despite its compact size, the Orbit provides around 24 hours of light at full power. This is quite impressive, considering its small battery capacity and 45 lumens output. The simple, effective dimming feature enhances this already excellent battery life.
Its weather resistance is another positive aspect. While not submersible, the Orbit stands up well against inclement weather, making it a reliable companion on camping trips.
Black Diamond Apollo: The Versatile Lantern
The Black Diamond Apollo is the larger sibling of the Orbit, offering increased brightness and versatility. Its 80-lumen output provides significantly more illumination. It maintains a compact design, but the added features such as adjustable stands and battery level indicators set it apart.
The adjustable stands allow for flexible placement – either upright or hung from a hook. This adaptability makes it suitable for various camping scenarios. The built-in LED battery indicators provide a clear visual representation of the remaining power.
Apollo's Functionality and Additional Features
Similar to the Orbit, the Apollo features a single button for power and dimming, using the same dimming function by holding the button down. The battery level indicators prevent the surprise of a dead battery during a crucial moment. The addition of a DC input allows for convenient charging via a power source, expanding its versatility.
It also features the same handy stainless steel hanging hooks, making it easy to attach to gear lofts or branches. Weighing in at 7.8 ounces, it remains relatively lightweight despite its increased size and features.
Conclusion: Which Lantern Reigns Supreme?
Both the Black Diamond Orbit and Apollo are excellent lanterns, each catering to different needs. The Orbit's compact size and surprising battery life make it an ideal choice for ultralight backpacking. The Apollo's added brightness, versatility, and battery indicators offer greater convenience for basecamp or car camping.
Considering price and performance, both are strong contenders. The Orbit offers exceptional value for its price, while the Apollo justifies its slightly higher cost with its extra features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual priorities and camping style.