MecArmy SGN1 USB rechargeable EDC flashlight review

REVIEW – I’m typing blindly right now because just I made the mistake of looking directly at the light from the MecArmy SGN1 flashlight that I’ll be talking about today. Note to self, don’t do that again. And with that warning, let’s check out this 530 Lumens flashlight.

What is it?

Well, this is awkward because I’ve already told you what it is. The MecArmy SGN1 is a  USB rechargeable flashlight that’s small enough for your keychain or stowed in your pocket with your other EDC items.

Hardware specs

LED:CREE XP-G2 S5 LED, max output up to 530 lumens
Material: Zinc alloy
Reflector: PC optical lens
Beam distance: 91m
Waterproof: IPX45
Dimensions: 2.165 x 0.724 x 0.55 inches (55 x 18.4 x 14 mm)
Weight: 1.13oz (32g)
Working voltage: 3.0V-5.0V
Battery: Rechargeable 230mAh lithium-polymer battery
Charging time: 2.5hrs

What’s in the box?

• SGN1 flashlight
• micro USB charging cable
• Keychain split ring
• User manual

Design and features

The MecArmy SGN1 is made of a Zinc alloy and is offered in 3 colors that include: black, grey, and stonewashed. I was sent the grey version of this mini USB rechargeable flashlight.

This flashlight is a chunky rectangular light with a large built-in metal loop on the end that you can use to clip it to a small carabiner, keychain, lanyard, etc.

There’s a large rubber button on top that controls the light and grooved sides that provide a good grip.

On the side is the charging port that is protected by a rubber cover.

Unfortunately, they are still using old school micro USB to charge the internal lithium battery.

While the SGN1’s battery is charging, an LED under the power button glows red.

Then when the charging has finished, the LED glows green.

Using the MecArmy flashlight is pretty simple. To turn it on, you just have to double click the power button.

It always starts up in low mode which is 5 lumens. In this mode, it can run for up to 10.2 hours on a full charge. Press the power button and it switches up to medium mode which is 50 lumens. It can run in medium mode for up to 2.8 hours. Another press puts it in high mode which is 220 lumens. In this mode, the battery will last for 58 minutes. One last press will put it in turbo mode which is obviously the brightest mode at 530 lumens and the battery should last about 55 minutes. In the image above you can see each mode with the first pic showing what it looks like with the lights off.

There is also strobe mode but the user manual does not say how long the battery will last in that mode. To turn off the flashlight, you just hold the power button for a few seconds.

What I like

• Small
• Pocket / keychain friendly
• Rechargeable battery
• Hard to accidentally activate in your pocket

What I’d change

• Add a battery level indicator

Final thoughts

Small flashlights like this one tend to be expensive, so it’s great to see a sub $30 flashlight with a sturdy metal case at this price. Add in the fact that it’s rechargeable so you don’t have to buy small expensive batteries and the MecArmy SGN1 USB rechargeable EDC flashlight becomes a worthy addition to your collection of useful EDC gear.

Price: $29.90
Where to buy: MecArmy and Amazon
Source: The sample for this review was provided by MecArmy.