The Klarus G20 is a small but powerful 3000 lumen LED flashlight that is unique in that it comes with a built in integrated micro USB charging port that is able to charge the included 5000mAh 26650 at a charging rate of 2000 mAh when used with the included KLARUS 2A adaptor cord.
The G20 would be very fitting for your EDC (everyday-carry). With the built in 2 amp high current charging port, charging time will be cut in half, making the Klarus G20 a valuable resource for just about any outing or adventure, providing quick charge time whenever necessary without having to remove the battery.
It comes with all the standard features such as different brightness outputs, solid body, rechargeable batteries, and many more as we’ll explore in our Klarus G20 review below.
Specs (Specifications)
Output and Runtime
The Klarus G20 LED torch offers 4 different brightness outputs with varying degrees of runtimes as well as a pair of tactical outputs that include Strobe and S.O.S. modes:
- Turbo mode
- Output: 3000 lumens
- Runtime: 45 minutes
- High mode
- Output: 650 lumens
- Runtime: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Medium mode
- Output: 160 lumens
- Runtime: 19 hours
- Low
- Output: 15 lumens
- Runtime: 150 hours
- Strobe Mode
- Output: 3000 lumens
- Runtime: 1 hour 30 minutes
-SOS Mode - Output: 160 lumens - Runtime: 51 hours
It is quite impressive to see such a compact flashlight showcasing such a wide range of brightness capabilities. Despite its small size, the G20 delivers power that would rival larger high-performance lights. It has a good mix between everyday modes as well as a pair of tactical modes that together create an impressive combination of power and practicality.
For frequent everyday use there are the low-high modes and for defense, tactical, and emergency use there are the turbo and strobe modes. At 3000 lumens it is extremely bright and would confuse and attacker or intruder. We’re also impressed by the good choice of mode spacing that is offered by this light. The lower mode provides great focused illumination for searching a glove box or knap sack.
One of the few downsides the Klarus G20 has is the increase in temperature while in turbo mode. However, it is not too extreme and is protected by Klarus’s thermal management system. This is not too much of an issue, and is significantly overpowered by its other great features such as substantial run times.
Throw Distance
The G20 uses a CREE XHP-70 N4 LED bulb. The XHP-70 is a 4 die LED so you are getting 4 single LED’s joined together, which is why this LED can output the massive amount of light. The G20 has an orange peel textured reflector lens, giving this light a maximum throw distance of 150 meters.
Peak Intensity
At a peak beam intensity of 5625 candela per lumen (cd/lm) the Klarus G20 offers a good balance of a spot/flood beam making it versatile for most situations. This torch would be great for illuminating relatively long distances with a decent amount of focus.
Functionality
The Klarus G20 has both a side and tail switch with independent dual switch control which provides maximum versatility. For the side switch, one quick press will activate from low to turbo. Strobe can be accessed by double clicking in any mode and SOS can be activated by double clicking a second time.
You can get a burst of Turbo at any time by pressing and holding the switch but it will not lock in turbo unless cycling through all the modes. The side switch also has a memory feature that recalls the last mode used once it is turned off. The tail switch can access one-touch low mode at any time but has no memory capability.
It has a strong dependable body crafted from sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, hard-anodized with square knurling and a stainless steel bezel. The tail cap allows you to tail-stand the light for hands free use.
Battery
Unfortunately, unlike other compact EDC lights, the G20 doesn’t use common batteries like triple AAA or double AA batteries. The battery (which they include) is a 3.7v 26650 (5000mAh) lithium rechargeable. Since the working voltage only goes to 5, it won’t accept any double-combination of batteries.
It uses this large battery to shoot its 3000 lumens out to 150 meters. This substantial sized battery also provides for the generous runtimes provided by this smaller sized light.
Dimensions and durability
Size
The G20 flashlight is no bigger than a can of soda. It is less than 4.88 inches long and about half the width of a typical can of Pepsi. It is compact and light and can easily fit in the front pocket of a bag for every day carry convenience. Its weight with the battery installed is around 219 grams.
Water Proof / Water Resistance
Like many high quality Klarus flashlights, the G20 is IPX-8 rated waterproof and submersible up to 2 meters underwater.
Impact Resistance
The body is made from aerospace-aluminum alloy, with TypeIII anodizing, which of course makes it pretty tough. For impact resistance it’s a bit less than other lights, at one meter. If the light is dropped or banged a few times it is likely to survive with little marks or scratches.
Accessories
The Klarus G20 is a relatively inclusive package that comes with a number of excellent accessories. These include a 5000 mAh 26650 Li-Ion Battery, Micro-USB Charging Cable (2.0A charging current), Holster, Spare O-Ring, and lanyard. This light comes with pretty much everything you need without having to purchase anything separately.
Conclusion: Our Klarus G20 Review
The Klarus G20 is a compact EDC that comes with the features that many regular sized flashlights have as well as a built in integrated USB charging port. It also features Lock-Out mode to prevent accidental power-on and discharging battery for safety, a state of the art ITS Temperature Control System that guarantees safe operation and protects LED and internal circuitry from overheating, Reverse-Polarity Protection which prevents accidental damage from incorrect battery installation, and a battery power level indicator.
This light, although relatively small, packs a lot of punch with its super brightness, long runtime, indestructability, and convenience. It also would present well as a gift given it’s inclusivity of the battery, charger, and accessories.