In Review: Fenix E03R V2

Perhaps it’s the Eagle Scout in me, but I always like to have a good flashlight with me. Looking at the desk where I’m writing this, I’ve got two within arms reach, and I’ve got a few more upstairs. Sure, you can use your phone in a pinch, but a dedicated light is definitely worth it. One that I’ve been spending some time with is the Fenix E03R V2.

What is it?

The Fenix E03R V2 is a compact, USB-C rechargeable flashlight that’s meant to live on your keychain, in a small pocket of your bag, or even in the coin pocket of your jeans. When I first saw it, it immediately reminded me of the Rovyvon E3 (reviewed here), due to the shape and button configuration. They’re somewhat similar, but the Fenix E03R V2 is much more compact, and does not offer the capability to power from a AAA battery. That’s neither good or bad, it’s just different.

Why we like it

Really, it’s the compact nature of the Fenix E03R V2 that is the selling point. With it being a thick rectangle, it fits easily into a number of spots. And if that means it’s in a pocket or a bag, the fact that the single power button locks (to prevent it accidentally turning on) is a great selling point.

Past that, you’ve got a number of great lighting modes. For the main light, you can have it output 5 lumens, 30 lumens, 150 lumens, or a pretty blinding 500 lumens. Of course, the brighter you turn the light the shorter battery life is. Still, 30 hours in the 5 lumen eco mode is pretty solid, as is the 1.4 hour estimate for the 500 lumen output.

You can also have the ring around the power button do a breathing pattern in either red or green. I found this to be less practical, as the light itself didn’t come with a clip that allows you to attach it to your belt or pocket. Still, if you need to set the light down and want to easily find it, that’s an easy way to locate it.

Would we recommend it?

The Fenix line of lights has long been at the intersection of affordability and functionality, and the Fenix E03R V2 definitely continues that. Sure, you could pick up some cheap option at the hardware store checkout line, but then you’re dealing with button cell batteries for the 3 months it works. With the Fenix E03R V2, on the other hand, you’ve got a solid and water resistant light that can be recharged, and should last for a nice long time. If you’d like to pick one up from the spot we got our review unit from, just head on over to flashlightgo.com and you can do just that for $29.99.

Specifications

500 Lumens Max White Light Output
White and Red Light LEDs
Breathing light function

Pocket Sized and Light weight
All Metal Keychain Light
USB Type-C Charging port

Outputs
- High – 500 Lumens, 1.4 hours, 295 ft
- Med – 150 Lumens, 2 hours, 164 ft
- Low – 30 Lumens, 6.6 hours, 65 ft
- Eco – 5 Lumens, 30 hours, 29 ft
- Red – 5 Lumens
- Red Flash – 5 Lumens
- Breathing Light – 1 Lumen
1 meter impact resistance