Arc AAA vs Inova X1

Joined
Sep 20, 2003
Messages
373
I was going to pick up an Arc AAA but just noticed the X1 at New Graham and wondered if I should get that one instead. Is there a big difference between them?

You'll have to excuse me if there is an obvious answer to this question. I don't know very much about flashlights yet. :D
 
I would go for the ARC AAA with no hesitation. Simply because it's ARC! :)

The biggest differences are:

1, the x1 got lens
2, the x1 got push button
3, the AAA got superb coating---HA III(the best)
4, the AAA looks a lot cooler
5, the AAA is more compact (thanks McGill ):D
 
The X1 will have a tighter, focused beam pattern, while the Arc AAA will have a wider beam with more sidespill. So, I would imagine that the X1 would appear brighter. They also run off different batteries, X1=AA and Arc=AAA. The Arc measures at about 2.5", and the X1 is 3.9". The Arc is more of a keychain light, while the X1 seems more like a light to throw in your pocket; 3.9" is big to have on a keychain for me. Buy both..:D
 
I have both, yes there is a big difference, which has already been sumarized, the ARC AAA is a fine keychain light. The X-1 is a carry around in you pocket light.

I suppose you could put in on a keychain if you wanted to.
 
Originally posted by SMcGill
The X1 will have a tighter, focused beam pattern, while the Arc AAA will have a wider beam with more sidespill. So, I would imagine that the X1 would appear brighter. They also run off different batteries, X1=AA and Arc=AAA. The Arc measures at about 2.5", and the X1 is 3.9". The Arc is more of a keychain light, while the X1 seems more like a light to throw in your pocket; 3.9" is big to have on a keychain for me. Buy both..:D

This is a nice segue into a question I've been meaning to ask. Has anyone played with the Inova X1 or the Arc AA? It seems that they'd complement each other nicely since they both use AA batteries, and the light patterns seem to be different, so you could carry both around if you wanted.

James
 
I have an Arc AAA UV, and just received a white X1.

For a single AA cell light, the X1 ain't bad. The throw is not too far, but within it's range it is very usable. The X1 has a very focused and defined light disc. The one thing I do not like about it, is because the light is focused (appears to be focused by a lens), up close at a distance of a few inches, it is almost too bright. For example, if I was to use it for paperwork in a dark car, there would be a small, very bright, spot of light. The reflection would be uncomfortable to dark adjusted eyes - perhaps the red would be better for this. But, to find my way out of a dark room, it would be just fine.

To me, the Arc AAA is about the opposite. A nice wide flood for close range work, but not as much throw. The two lights are very much complementary.

I will also agree with the others here who have stated that the X1 is a bit too big and heavy for a keyring - especially car keys. I have seen ignition cylinders damaged from heavy, overloaded keyrings over time. The Arc AAA is better suited for keyring carry, the X1 needs a lanyard.
 
I have both the Arc AA and the X1. Because of the different beam patterns they really can't be compared to each other but they compliment each other nicely,I carry both.
 
Originally posted by mrd74
I have both the Arc AA and the X1. Because of the different beam patterns they really can't be compared to each other but they compliment each other nicely,I carry both.

Excellent. Thank you, sir. Now I can mosey over to the TAD store this weekend and get them with a clear conscience.

James
 
Back
Top