New Nitecore EDC33 Compact EDC Flashlight

Having a standalone light in one’s everyday carry is an essential tool that some might not consider. However, having a flashlight has been helpful to me when I have needed to rummage around a vehicle or look under a porch. Nitecore’s EDC33 is one such light that can round out an EDC kit and prevent you from relying on your phone’s light.

“The Nitecore EDC33 is an EDC flashlight that boasts an amazing brightness and throw, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry.” ~ nitecore.com

EDC33 Overview

Starting at the EDC33’s head is the UHi 20 MAX LED and a built-in proximity sensor. At the light’s end is a pocket clip that also serves as the tie-down point for the included lanyard. Besides the pocket clip, there is a lockout switch. This feature is handy to prevent accidental discharges when storing the light in a bag or pocket. Nitecore also has included a “Half Lockout” mode, which locks most flashlight modes but still gives users access to the spotlight and floodlight modes.

The lights end also has a built-in indicator off the side of the power switch. Above the lockout switch is the USB-C charging port for the built-in battery. Nitecore has a rotary cover to protect it from when the port is not needed. The final item at the EDC33’s end is the tail button, which controls the on/off functions and the six modes, two temporary and four permanent.

At a compact size of 4.55 inches and a weight of only 4.48 ounces with the clip attached, the EDC33 easily fits into any pocket. ~ nitecore.com

The first temporary-on mode is the floodlight mode, which Nitecore calls LUMIN SHIELD^TM, which has a brightness of 4,000 lumens and a throw of 400 meters. The following temporary mode is the spotlight mode, also called the SEARCH mode, which has a brightness of 1,700 lumens and can reach up to 450 meters. The third mode, which is the first permanent-on mode, is ultralow, which has five lumens and a throw of 25 meters. The low mode follows the ultralow mode with 70 lumens and a throw of 93 meters. Next is the mid mode, with a brightness of 300 lumens and a throw of 182 meters. Finally, there is the high setting with 1,200 lumens and a throw of 208 meters.

Nitecore EDC33 Features & Specifications

• Max output of 4000 lumens with 492 yard throw
• 4 brightness modes plus Search and Lumin Shield
• Easy to use tail switch
• Hidden USB-C charging port
• Features a Half and Full lockout function
• Lanyard
• USB-C Charging Cable
• Clip
• LED – UHi 20 MAX LED
• Maximum Brightness:4000 lumens
• Peak Beam Distance: 492 yards
• Peak Beam Intensity: 40505 cd
• IP Rating: IP68
• Impact Resistance: 2 m
• Length:4.55”
• Head Diameter:1.00″
• Tube Diameter: 0.94”
• Weight (with clip): 4.48 oz
• MSRP: $69.95

Performance and Thoughts

After using the EDC33, I have found it a handy light to have in my pocket or a bag. The flashlight allows users to choose either a temporary light or permanently turn on the light. The SEARCH mode’s flood can show targets, but it is harder to identify targets or objects. The hotspot for the Search mode has a decent spread, and it works well when detecting objects.

The LUMIN SHIELD^TM has a wider flood than SEARCH and is brighter than SEARCH’s flood. The ultralow and low modes are good choices for working up close, but they struggle to identify objects far from me. The mid mode can show targets, but it is harder to recognize any features.

One item that I had a problem with several times was the proximity sensor. The problem with the sensor was that the flashlight would not decrease from the high to mid modes at certain times. However, this issue may be a user/operator problem. On the other hand, I like the addition of the lockout switch and the half lockout mode to prevent accidental discharges.

For $69.95, the EDC33 is a decent light for users on a budget. If you’re looking for a new EDC flashlight or backup light for emergencies, check out the EDC33.