This review delves into the ETEKCITY camping lantern, a budget-friendly option boasting surprising brightness and portability. We'll examine its performance, exploring its impressive illumination capabilities, adjustable light output, and surprisingly efficient battery life. The lantern's ease of use, thanks to its simple on/off mechanism and convenient hanging loops, will also be assessed. Construction and durability will be considered, noting any limitations.Ultimately, this review aims to determine if the ETEKCITY lantern provides excellent value for its low price point. We'll weigh its strengths – brightness, adjustability, and portability – against its weaknesses, primarily its lack of waterproofing. The conclusion will offer a clear recommendation, considering whether this lantern is a suitable choice for your camping needs and highlighting whether its affordability justifies its limitations.
Pros And Cons
- Lights up a 50-foot radius
- Modest battery consumption
- Two convenient hanging loops
- Brightness adjustable by opening/closing
- Small storage compartment
- Relatively inexpensive ($10 on Amazon)
- Battery compartment not waterproof
- Should be kept in dry conditions
Read more: Best Rechargeable Camping Lanterns 2024: Top 10 Reviews & Comparison
Brightness and Light Coverage
The ETEKCITY camping lantern boasts impressive brightness. With what I believe to be 18 LEDs, it illuminates a generous 50-foot radius. This makes it ideal for illuminating a campsite or providing ample light for outdoor activities.
The brightness is adjustable; you simply control the light output by opening and closing the lantern. Fully closed, it’s off; fully open, it’s at its brightest setting.
This adjustability is a significant advantage, allowing you to customize the light level according to your needs, conserving battery power when less light is required.
Battery Life and Design
The lantern runs on three D-cell batteries, and battery consumption is surprisingly modest. The reviewer mentioned still using the original batteries that came with the unit.
It features two convenient hanging loops for easy placement. The simple on/off mechanism—opening and closing the lantern—adds to its user-friendly design.
A small compartment at the top can be used for storage; though, it's not designed for extra batteries as the reviewer initially thought. The bottom unscrews to access the battery compartment.
Durability and Water Resistance
The lantern's construction seems reasonably durable for its price point, but it's important to note that the battery compartment is not waterproof.
This means it's best kept in dry conditions, making it more suitable for hanging inside a tent rather than directly exposed to rain.
While ideal for camping indoors or near a campsite, direct exposure to the elements might shorten its lifespan.
Overall Assessment and Value
The ETEKCITY camping lantern offers excellent value for its price. Purchased for around $10 on Amazon, it provides impressive brightness, adjustability, and portability.
The modest battery consumption and convenient design features make it a practical choice for campers. However, the lack of waterproofing is a notable limitation.
If you're looking for a bright, affordable, and easy-to-use camping lantern for dry conditions, this is a great option. Consider its limitations if you need something completely waterproof.