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| The Acebeam W50 2.0 is a huge flashlight with a very long range |
In the world of high-performance illumination, Acebeam has once again pushed the boundaries with the release of its latest powerhouse: the Acebeam W50 2.0 LEP flashlight. This isn't your everyday EDC light; it's a serious piece of tactical and search equipment designed for one primary purpose: throwing an incredibly focused beam of light farther than most thought possible outside of military hardware. With a claimed range of 5 kilometers (over 3 miles), the W50 2.0 enters the conversation as one of the most potent portable lights available, albeit with a design and heft that demands respect.
Built Like a Tank: Rugged Design with Substantial Weight
The first thing you need to know about the W50 2.0 is its presence. This is a substantial, bulky device. Tipping the scales at 1,660 grams (approximately 3.7 lbs), it’s heavier than many modern laptops. This weight is a direct result of its ruggedized construction and the serious internal hardware required to generate its legendary beam. With dimensions of about 8.6 inches in length and a 3.3-inch head diameter, it’s built for purpose, not for a pocket. Acebeam includes a removable carrying handle to help manage the weight, and the body features a standard tripod mount for stationary use. An IP68 rating guarantees protection against dust and long-term immersion in water, ensuring it can handle harsh outdoor and professional environments.
Power & Charging: A Massive, Fixed Battery Pack
At the heart of the W50 2.0 is a formidable power source. Acebeam employs eight 18650 cells packed inside, offering an estimated capacity of 92Wh. Notably, this battery pack is not user-replaceable, shifting the focus to its USB Type-C charging capability. While Acebeam mentions a fast-charging mode, the specifics regarding USB Power Delivery (PD) support are not explicitly detailed in the available specifications. This leaves some open questions about optimal charging times. If charged via standard 5V/3A USB-C without PD, the process for a battery this large would be lengthy. Enthusiasts will be keen to see real-world testing on this front. For full official specifications and details, you can visit the Acebeam W50 2.0 product page.
LEP Technology: Laser-Sharp Focus for Unmatched Throw
The magic behind the incredible range is LEP (Laser Excited Phosphor) technology. Unlike traditional LED flashlights that strive for broad, floody beams, LEP uses a blue laser diode to excite a phosphor layer, creating an extremely focused, pencil-thin beam with minimal spill. This makes raw lumen counts less meaningful. The W50 2.0 produces 1,900 lumens in its spotlight mode, which is solely dedicated to achieving that staggering 5km distance.
However, such extreme performance has limits. Acebeam's typical step-down protocol is in full effect here: the max 5km mode lasts for only 50 seconds before stepping down to 1,050 lumens for 2 hours and 40 minutes. In a continuous, sustainable output, it delivers 650 lumens with an estimated effective range of around 2.5 miles. This makes it clear that the ultra-max mode is for brief, identification-at-distance moments, while the lower modes provide extended operational use.
Zoomable Versatility: From Pinpoint to Flood
A key feature of the W50 2.0 is its zoomable head. By adjusting the lens, the user can transform the laser-like spotlight into a more conventional, broad floodlight. In this flood mode, it outputs a maximum of 2,200 lumens, illuminating an area up to 486 yards away. This mode runs for 5 minutes before stepping down to 1,250 lumens for the remainder of its 2-hour 40-minute runtime. This flexibility is a significant advantage, making the light useful for closer-range scanning and area illumination, not just extreme long-throw tasks.
A Word of Serious Caution
It’s crucial to understand that this light is built around a Class 3B laser module. Despite the phosphor conversion, the concentrated intensity of the beam cannot be understated. It should never be pointed at people, animals, or aircraft. Acebeam includes strong warnings, and even in its intended use cases—like search and rescue or maritime observation—operators are advised to use lower power settings for initial scans to avoid potential retinal hazard. Responsible use is paramount.
Availability & Community Discussion
With such a specialized and powerful tool, the Acebeam W50 2.0 sits in a niche market. It is listed on the manufacturer's website with a price of $2,999, though availability through regular retail channels appears limited at launch. For in-depth technical analysis, beamshot comparisons, and discussions from flashlight enthusiasts, the ongoing thread on Taschenlampen-Forum provides valuable community insights and early impressions.
The Bottom Line
The Acebeam W50 2.0 is an uncompromising tool for professionals and serious enthusiasts who require the absolute longest possible throw from a portable flashlight. Its zoom feature adds valuable versatility, and its rugged build ensures reliability. However, its significant weight, non-replaceable battery, premium price, and the critical need for strict safety protocols place it firmly in the "extreme duty" category. For those with the need to see what's lurking three miles away, the W50 2.0 might just be the ultimate beacon.
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| Technical specifications of the W50 2.0 |
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| The flashlight has a spotlight and a floodlight mode |