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| Flextail Zero Lantern with 360-degree illumination as a lantern and an upward-facing flashlight |
This tiny powerhouse combines a 300-lumen flashlight with a 360-degree camping lantern, and it weighs less than two AA batteries.
When you're packing for a backcountry adventure, every gram counts. The age-old dilemma of choosing between a focused flashlight for trail navigation and a soft lantern for camp comfort might finally have a definitive answer. Flextail, a brand known for pushing the boundaries of ultralight outdoor gear, has just released the Zero Lantern—a 2-in-1 lighting solution that weighs a staggering 56 grams (1.98 ounces).
We've been putting this diminutive illuminator to the test to see if it truly delivers on its ambitious promises.
First Impressions: Shockingly Small
The Zero Lantern measures just 32 x 69 mm (1.26 x 2.72 inches), making it one of the most compact dual-function lights on the market. In the hand, it's almost absurdly light—you might double-check your pocket to make sure it's still there. The aerospace-grade aluminum unibody construction gives it a premium feel that belies its weight, while the carabiner clip integrates seamlessly into the design for instant attachment to backpack straps, tent loops, or belt loops.
Dual-Purpose Lighting: Two Lights in One
The genius of the Zero Lantern lies in its bifurcated design philosophy. The head houses a conventional flashlight beam that produces a concentrated, long-range throw. This is ideal for spotting trail markers in the dark or navigating tricky terrain after sunset. The beam is unusually cool at 9,000 Kelvin, which provides a crisp, clinical light that enhances contrast and visibility on the trail.
Flip the switch, and the transparent handle section illuminates to create a 360-degree lantern. This warm white light at 3,000 Kelvin is perfectly calibrated for camp life, casting a soft, even glow that makes tent interiors feel cozy and shared campsites more inviting. The dual color temperature system is calibrated to CIE standards and delivers up to 90 CRI (Color Rendering Index) for true-to-life color rendering in both modes.
Illuminating Performance: Brightness and Runtime
Flextail has made an interesting strategic decision with the Zero Lantern, prioritizing extended runtime over blinding brightness. The flashlight mode provides at least 5 hours of continuous use at 200 lumens, dropping the output to 50 lumens for a remarkable 15-hour runtime.
The lantern mode offers even greater versatility. At the maximum output of 300 lumens (which, according to Flextail, achieves up to 2x class-leading brightness for its size), you'll get around 3 hours of use. Dial it down to 10 lumens, and the Zero Lantern will keep your camp glowing for an impressive 35 hours. This makes it an exceptional companion for multi-day trips where charging opportunities are limited.
Both modes feature adjustable intermediate brightness levels accessed via a rotating ring with Hall-effect sensing and tactile feedback. This is a particularly satisfying interface—you can feel each click as you dial in exactly the right amount of light.
Beyond Basic Illumination: Ambient and Strobe Modes
The Zero Lantern isn't just about standard lighting. The ambient mode is a standout feature, creating a gentle "breathing" effect that slowly pulses the flashlight's brightness. This isn't just for setting a moody campsite atmosphere; it's ideal for tent usage where a constant light might be too distracting, or for use as a subtle nightlight. Flextail doesn't specify the exact runtime for this mode, but given the low power draw, it's likely substantial.
For safety-conscious adventurers, the strobe mode transforms the Zero Lantern into an effective emergency beacon. This is particularly valuable when clipped to your backpack during night hikes in remote areas.
Technical Specifications: Under the Hood
Powering the Zero Lantern is an automotive-grade 1100mAh (4.07Wh) 16340 cylindrical battery. Flextail's promotional materials suggest the battery is replaceable, though this isn't explicitly confirmed on their homepage—an omission we hope they'll clarify soon. The integrated USB-C port is built directly into the lantern itself (not the battery), allowing for convenient charging without removing the cell.
The Apex™ flagship LED and imaging-grade Fresnel lens work together to minimize optical loss, delivering a cleaner, more natural beam pattern in both modes.
Built for the Field: Durability and Practicality
With an IPX5 water resistance rating, the Zero Lantern can handle rain and splashes without issue. Flextail also claims it's tested to withstand 1-meter drops, making it suitable for the rough and tumble world of outdoor adventures.
The carabiner hook deserves special mention—it's not an afterthought. It snaps on effortlessly and secures firmly, allowing the lantern to be hung from a tent peak or clipped to a pack strap. This transforms the flashlight into a hands-free work light or a highly visible signal while hiking.
The Verdict: A Compelling Case for Ultralight Minimalism
The Flextail Zero Lantern solves a real problem for weight-conscious adventurers: how to carry both a task-focused flashlight and a comfortable camp lantern without compromising on either. Its 56-gram weight, dual lighting capabilities, and impressive runtimes make it a compelling addition to any backpacking, hiking, or motorcycle camping kit.
For a more detailed look and to explore the full specifications, visit the official product page: Flextail Zero Lantern
Currently available through the Flextail online shop for approximately $37, the Zero Lantern should also be appearing on Amazon soon. If early customer reviews are any indication—with users praising it as "small but mighty" and noting it "punches above its weight"—this little light is destined to become a staple in ultralight gear lists.
What We Like:
- Exceptional 56g weight
- Versatile 2-in-1 functionality with 360° lantern and focused flashlight
- Impressive 35-hour maximum runtime
- Premium build quality with aerospace aluminum
- Intuitive dimming ring with tactile feedback
- IPX5 water resistance
Areas for Improvement:
- Replacement battery details could be clearer
- Ambient mode runtime not specified
- 9,000K flashlight beam may be too cool for some users
The Zero Lantern represents a thoughtful approach to minimalist outdoor lighting. If you're looking to shave weight without sacrificing utility, this tiny 2-in-1 deserves a spot in your pack.
Source : Flextail Zero Lantern