Fenix TK16 V2.0 | Expert Review by Koen van der Jagt
The Fenix TK16 V2.0 is the upgrade from a successful model which, as such, became three times as powerful. That sounds promising! Time to check it out!
My first impressions:
Smaller than expected for a light that can do so much! Smaller than its brother (the TK22 UE) and similar to the PD36R. Fenix was able to add a larger battery and stronger light source to an identical casing like the TK16. In terms of looks, construction quality I see a lot of similarities with the TK22 (UE). No frills, but a solid product that looks sleek. On the inside it also looks great: no leeway or creaking screw threads. The luminous SST70 LED light is nicely centred in the smooth reflector. Fenix once again shows its worth.
When and how:
Most suited for tactical purposes. Think of police, the army and security. But also investigative officers and forest rangers. The TK16 V2.0 enables you to position the light or strobe wherever you might want it within a fraction of a second. Thanks to the serrated ring on the head of the light you also immediately own an excellent weapon. Breaking a window will also be a piece of cake. You can also attach it to a rifle, for which you can purchase optional accessories, amongst which a remote control.
So not a light you place in your fuse box in case the power goes out. This, however, doesn't mean you cannot use it when you walk the dog. This light is happy to reside where action is needed.
How is the Fenix TK16 V2.0 in terms of controls and comfort:
Simply put: excellent! Even someone without experience can immediately start using this light. A Fenix works the way you would expect it to work. The 21700 battery has a built-in USB-C port, so needs to be removed from the light to be charged. Advantage: no water or dust in the USB-port. Disadvantage: those who use the light often need to open and close the light which requires more maintenance in terms of the screw thread and rubbers to make sure it stays waterproof.
The TK16 V2.0 feels great in hand and with your thumb you have control over everything. You use the large, round switch to turn the light on and off and for momentary light. You use the smaller, oval button for the light modes and the super-blinding stroboscope mode. This 'shortcut' for disorientation makes the TK16 V2.0 great for tactical and security work, even when wearing (tactical) gloves).
This is what I love about the Fenix T16 V2.0:
The fact that it is so easy to use is one of the best features of this light. The switches can be easily distinguished from each other thanks to their round and oval shape. The beam is nice and even, you won't quickly miss anything. The endurance in turbo mode is also surprisingly good. You might expect that a relatively small light such as this one won't last as long in the turbo mode, but the TK16 V2.0 doesn't disappoint.
This could be better:
The light needs to function at unexpected moments, preferably with a full battery. There is no built-in indicator that shows you the voltage, you only get a signal when it is almost empty. The safest option now is working with an additional battery. The included holster is a little flimsy; with a hard plastic one it won't be as difficult to put the light back on your belt.
Value for money?
Fortunately the light does not cost more than 100 euros, which I believe, is the max for such a relatively small light. On the other hand you do purchase a hulk from a brand that has proven to be a reliable partner for years. Because you can immediately charge the battery and you don't need to purchase an additional charger I think this set offers you enough value for money.
My conclusion
The TK16 V2.0 is a great light. In addition to the before mentioned features I also want to mention the High mode of 1000 lumens. This is an improvement compared to the last version because it enables you to use a high output for a long period of time. Despite the issue with the battery status I am very positive about this light. A flashlight with many light modes of which you never have to think: how does it work.
Also:
The TK16 V2.0 has various similar-sized brothers with a comparable output that are slightly less 'tactical'. Good to know when you are not a security or enforcement officer.
Last but not least. The beamshots:
Location: in the woods. The light profile is not completely round, but slightly angular. It is the result of the LED light used in combination with the reflector. Not a problem, by the way. Broad beam with a large and intense hotspot that gradually turns into the spill (residual light). The colour is nice and white, and doesn't contain a blue hue. Also pay close attention to the great balance in the available light modes.
Koen van der Jagt
Ever since he could walk Koen has been interested in lights, wires and batteries. As a child he was always working with dyno torches, bike lights and electrical boxes. The krypton and halogen lights were replaced by LED lights. A couple of years ago he discovered the ‘professional’ stuff. His first brands were Led Lenser and Fenix. Photography is also one of his hobbies. In addition to nature and meteorology Koen loves to show others what a light can do and what its beam looks like at night. Koen’s reviews can often be found on forums such as candlepowerforums.com and taschenlampen-forum.de. Throughout the years Koen has collected lights in practically any category: from small and compact to enormous powerhouses.
