Batteries : 4 AA not included, NRG compatible
Max Burn Time : 60 H
Lumens : 56
Weight Without Batteries : 220 g, 7.8 oz
IPX Rating : 4
A bright, non-glaring, soup-can sized backcountry lantern with rechargeable capabilities.
- TriplePower LED with 56 lumens (max setting) enclosed inside a frosted globe produces bright, ambient light
- Dual reflector system captures and maximizes light output
- Power meter displays charge status or battery level for rechargeable NRG Battery Kit or 4 AA alkalines
- Unique dimming switch provides adjustable brightness
- Distinctive fold-down legs increase lantern height to 24.1 centimeters (9.5 in), maximizing light dispersion
Using alkaline batteries not only hurt ones pocket if you are constantly in outdoor but you have to carry enough spare batteries for your trip. Previously I was using the Sanyo eneloop rechargeable batteries (read my review) now I have my own DIY rechargeable batteries for the lantern.
Black Diamond makes rechargeable batteries for the lantern but after reading some reviews claiming that the rechargeable batteries did not have enough juice to keep it lighted, I decided to DIY my own rechargeable version. According to Black Diamond rechargeable batteries specification, they only use 3 batteries. Probably that was the reason it can't provide enough burn time.I decided to engage Mr Battery who is station in Kaohsiung to rig up a battery bank (4 batteries) using Sanyo eneloop batteries. They are specialised in all kind of gadget battery. Now my lantern can be charged using Mr Battery Ti3450 portable battery which have voltage selection from 5V to 19V. The DIY rechargeable batteries is 6V either 7.5V or 9V is able to charge the lantern DIY rechargeable batteries through the lantern charging port.
I did notice that during charging, I was not able to use the lantern. I am unsure if this is the same if using Black Diamond rechargeable batteries. Also the light indicator cannot indicate if it is charging however if I leave it over night charging it will still do the job
APOLLO AND ORBIT COMPARISON
After purchasing the Apollo back in 2007, a year later Black Diamond came out with Orbit. It is smaller and lighter. Having both these lanterns, I must say that I prefer the Orbit, it is compact and ring hook makes it easy to hang the Orbit anywhere, a great mini lantern for over night hike. The brightness between both these lantern has little difference 56 and 45 lumens. But do note the burn time for the Orbit will be lesser as it uses AAA batteries. If you prefer more brightness maybe you should look at the new Titan with 250 lumens which will be great for family camping.
photo from tetonat.com
Apollo and Titan
