Fenix HT30R Review (2024 Updated) Tested This LEP Flashlight

Last Updated on October, 2024

Reviewing a laser flashlight has been a little bit of a personal goal, so it was a pleasant opportunity to come across yet another fantastic flashlight from Fenix.

Or was it?

I knew that 600,000 candela was a bold statement. But it is perfectly possible with the right LEDs. But I knew I had to inspect the HT30R to come to a conclusion.

So, I ordered mine anonymously, as always, and tested it myself.

Let me tell you everything about the Fenix HT30R so YOU can decide for yourself.

Let’s start with the key specs.

Key Specs of Fenix HT30R

Flashlight Type	EDC
Dimensions	Length: 7.05” (179mm)  Head diameter: 1.57” (40mm)  Body diameter: 1.02” (26mm) Weight: 9.31 oz. (264g) including battery
Light source	10W high-performance white Class 1 laser modules
Max output: Turbo mode	500 lumens — 2h 20 mins
Max beam intensity	600,000cd
Low mode	100 lumens — 7h 15 mins
Strobe	500 lumens
Max throw	1500m
Battery type	1* 21700
Max battery life	7h 15 mins
No. of modes	3
Rechargability type	USB-C
Average charging time	Approximately 3 hours
Waterproof rating	IP68 (2m submersible)
Impact resistance	1 m

What’s in the Box: Fenix HT30R

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• Fenix HT30R x 1
• ARB-L21-5000 V2.0 Li-ion battery x 1
• USB-C cable x 1 
• Holster x 1
• Pocket clip (attached) 
• Lanyard x 1
• O-rings x 2

Key Features of the Fenix HT30R

Build Quality and Dimensions 

Fenix added their signature knurling to the body to further enhance the flashlight’s grip. This textured surface provides a secure hold, even when your hands are wet or slippery. 

The usability convenience is further increased with the compact dimensions,

• Length: 7.05″ (179mm) 
• Head diameter: 1.57″ (40mm) 
• Body diameter: 1.02″ (26mm)
• Weight: 9.31 oz. (264g) including battery

As you can see, it’s a very compact and considerably lightweight flashlight.

For added convenience, the Fenix HT30R comes with an optional holster. This is particularly useful for those who prefer not to clip the flashlight onto their belt. With the holster, you can easily carry the flashlight wherever you go, ensuring that it’s always within reach when you need it.

What I mean to say is that, Fenix’s HT30R’s build quality is PHENOMENAL.

User Interface

When the flashlight is turned off, a half-press of the tactical switch provides momentary on, while a full press provides constant-on. Similarly, a half-press of the functional switch provides a momentary strobe when the flashlight is off.

When the flashlight is on, a single click of the tactical switch turns the flashlight off. Holding down the functional switch allows you to access the strobe mode, while a single click of the functional switch lets you switch between modes.

With its easy-to-use controls, the Fenix HT30R is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile flashlight.

In addition to its intuitive controls, the Fenix HT30R also features an impressive mode memory, allowing you to quickly and easily switch between modes. 

However, it’s worth noting that the flashlight will not remember the strobe mode. This is the industry standard for all but the most custom-made flashlights.

The user interface also includes a low voltage warning, which clearly indicates the flashlight’s remaining battery life. The light will blink every 5 minutes following stepping down until it shuts off. 

You’ll notice an indicator LED exposing the USB-C port by unscrewing the light’s neck. When you turn the switch on, the LED will flash either green (100-30% remaining) or red (30-1% remaining). That gives you the information to stay on top of your battery life.

While there is no electric lockout mode, the Fenix HT30R can be physically locked out by twisting the tail cap. This makes it easy to prevent accidental activation, ensuring your flashlight is always ready to go when needed.

Bottomline is that Fenix HT30 has one of the simplest and most comprehensive user interfaces I have ever seen.

Lumen Output

Saying the HT30R’s light is impressive is an understatement; it’s a marvel.

The Fenix HT30R flashlight is designed with a powerful lumen output perfect for precision targeting, signaling, and other related applications. 

It utilizes 10W high-performance white Class 1 laser modules that produce a broad-spectrum-safe white light. Unlike typical LED flashlights, this flashlight eliminates the harmful beam that a monochromatic light produces, which makes it a safer option.

The HT30R comes with three different modes: low, high, and strobe. 

The low mode produces a modest 100 lumens, but what’s fascinating is how this seemingly low output has a light intensity of 100,000 cd.

This is approximately 10,000 more than the typical light intensity range of EDC or tactical lights. This massive light intensity is a testament to the brightness of the white laser beam produced by the HT30R.

On the other hand, the high mode produces a bright light of 500 lumens with a staggering 600,000 candela light intensity. This brightness level is perfect for illuminating dark areas or signaling over long distances. 

Lastly, the strobe mode produces the same 500-lumen light, which can signal or disorient an attacker.

It’s safe to say that the lumen output of the Fenix HT30R flashlight is INCREDIBLY impressive. That’s what makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and powerful flashlight.

Battery, Runtime, and Charging

Given the massive throw and sky-high light intensity, the runtime features are phenomenal. In low mode, the flashlight can run for up to 7 hours and 15 minutes, providing ample time for extended use. 

In high mode, the runtime is reduced to 2 hours and 20 minutes, which is definitely above average compared to other high modes of competitive flashlights. After all, we shouldn’t forget it’s an ultra focussed laser light.

When it comes to recharging the battery, the Fenix HT30R includes a USB-A to USB-C charging cable that can be used to charge the light in about 3 hours fully. The flashlight’s charging port is hidden, ensuring maximum safety. 

Who doesn’t like a powerful flashlight with these specs?

Beam Throw 

So, if you’re new to flashlights, don’t think of the lack of a beam distance as a downside.

But rest assured, the beam distances of the Fenix HT30R are very impressive and bring a lot of value to the flashlight.

Resistance Against Water, Impact, and Temperature

The Fenix HT30R is a branded flashlight of the highest quality.

For starters, the HT30R is constructed with high-strength aerospace-grade aluminum, which provides superior durability and toughness. On top of all, the HAIII hard-anodized surface further enhances the flashlight’s ruggedness and ensures it can withstand harsh conditions.

The flashlight also has an IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating which means it is fully protected against dust ingress and can withstand being submerged in up to 2 m of water for 30 minutes. Standardized waterproof characteristics are pretty much fundamental for branded flashlights.

The flashlight has been tested to withstand impact from drops of up to 1.5 m, which makes it capable of handling rough handling and accidental drops.

The waterproof, dustproof, and impact resistance are standardized features. But Fenix has definitely gone the extra distance with the HT30R, as it is very resistant to hard temperatures. 

The Fenix HT30R will function flawlessly in temperatures between -35 and 45 degrees Celsius. So, if you’re someone who will expose this flashlight to extreme temperature conditions, you never have to worry about its functionality.

With that, we have covered all the features of the Fenix HT30R. 

Next, let’s look at the customer feedback on the flashlight.

Customer Feedback on Fenix HT30R

Amazon reviews is my go-to spot to get a first impression of any flashlight. This time too, let me give you a glimpse of the big picture.

Spotting flashlights are a big deal, and Falcon5000’s review here clearly shows the flashlight.

Dr. C here is so surprised with the power of the HT30R that he’s surprised it’s legal.

The power of HT30R is, again, praised by David, who talks about its capacity to light up a wide area.

Now, let’s get to the most important part; my experience with the light.

My Experience With Fenix HT30R

The first moment the light beam of the Fenix HT30R went out, I knew this was a phenomenal flashlight.

There is absolutely no question about the build quality or the convenience of the dimensions. Although, I would have personally wanted a little lighter flashlight. But still, it looks amazing and feels amazing. The cherry on top is that secure grip, even with wet hands or gloves.

The user interface is pretty straightforward; you’re good as long as you know how to use buttons. As I always say, bookmark this review in case you want to refresh how the UI works. 

But I personally would have appreciated a side switch and one tail switch; it’s merely a personal preference.

The three light modes are astonishing. I was surprised at how 500 lumens could throw that far. Yes, I checked the beam distance with the relative positioning of my town’s landmarks. The best thing? The light doesn’t feel uncomfortable to the eyes at all.

But it sure will if you shine that strobe mode at an attacker.

I dipped in my fish tank, held in under the shower, and used a high-pressure bidet shower on it. The result? The flashlight continues to perform AMAZINGLY with no change. But I do have to be honest; I couldn’t recreate the extreme temperatures.

And most certainly, I don’t feel like dropping my only unit to test impact resistance.

But all things considered, my experience with the Fenix HT30R was 5/5; that’s another way to say pretty amazingly.

Price, Warranty, and Return Policy: FENIX HT30R

There are a couple of things to remember with the Fenix HT30R; this is a laser flashlight with a light intensity of 600,000 candelas, whose beam throw is just under a mile.

It’s impressive, and it should ideally be somewhere in the $400-$450 range, in my experience.

But I was happy to see that even as a high-value brand, Fenix has priced the HT30R flashlight for just $279.95. 

In my experience, it’s a deal, but you can’t expect the highest quality for low prices. 

You get an outstanding limited lifetime warranty from Fenix for that price tag.

If you didn’t know, that basically means that you can have an unlimited number of service sessions for FREE from the company itself. If there is a payment, you only have to pay for replacement parts, which is more than fine.

That’s not all; that price also includes a return period of up to 15 days from the date of purchase receipt. This extends to 30 days if it is happening during holidays. 

Now, the biggest question is where to buy the flashlight from.

Where to Buy the Fenix HT30R?

For branded flashlights, buying from the official website is always risk-free. In my experience, all flashlight companies prioritize direct buyers. It’s how it always has been.

So, I suggest you make a risk-free decision and buy the HT30R from the official page: here’s the link. This is where I got mine.

If this is your first ever Fenix purchase, or if you didn’t know, you can become a member of Fenix and get 20% off from your first purchase.

In that case, the price of the HT30R drops to $223.96.

Pros and Cons of the Fenix HT30R

Other Fenix brand’s flashlight reviews:

• Fenix PD25R

In Conclusion 

You looked up an HT30R review because you wanted to know the details, but mostly if it was worth the investment. My conclusion is simple; the Fenix HT30 as a special flashlight is AMAZING and totally worth the money.

The overall design and performance superiority back up that claim. All you need to do is buy yours from the official website; that’s the risk-free path to experience the power of Fenix HT30R.

I hope this review was useful. See you in another!

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