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Using the company’s TrueBeam optical technology, which is claimed to capture 100% of the LED’s light output, these torches produce a brilliant evenly-illuminated white beam. Depending on model, Duracell claims that they are 20X or 10X brighter than “standard 5mm LEDs”.
The Daylite Tough 4AA and the Daylite 2AA, which are conventional in appearance, are most probably the two torches in the range that will appeal to most people. As the names imply they both use AA cells -- 4 and 2 cells respectively. Although they are both about 180mm long the former, which is encased in black rubber, is both heavier (250g) and is of larger (42mm) diameter. Furthermore, with its on/off push-button on the side it handles just like an ordinary torch. However the improved brightness and quality of the beam are readily apparent.
The 2AA, which has an RRP of £24.99, has a more stylish appearance. It weighs 160g, has a body about half the diameter of the 4AA and is in black anodised aluminium with a knurled grip. The end of the torch, which has the on/off pushbutton, has the typical copper coloured Duracell styling. The beam width is adjusted by rotating the head of the torch and so can range from a flood to a spot beam with a reach of 50metres or more. The makers claim that a pair of fresh batteries will last about 4.25 hours. This is far less than the 40 hours or so for the Tough 4AA which has a lower power non-adjustable beam.
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For those who only use a torch occasionally, the running cost of batteries may not be significant. Even so, rechargeables are far greener so that Duracell StayCharged batteries (4 x AA from Argos at £14.99) are ideal as they are claimed to retain 80% of their charge for up to a year. Consequently, if one is prepared to recharge them regularly every few months, one will always have a torch to hand with good run time. However, for those who make heavy use of a torch, there is no argument; ordinary rechargeables make sense.
But which torch is better? This cannot be answered as they have different features so that, in an ideal world, one would like to have both. However, for general use (unless one wants to search for urban foxes at the far end of the garden), I found that the Tough 4AA was a very good compromise. It is very convenient to use, it produces a good broad beam that reaches to 20metres or more and give good battery life.
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