Olight Baton 4 Review: Premium Powerful EDC Torch

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I’ve been hands-on with various Olight products over the past few months, from torches to bike lights, and they’ve consistently delivered on quality and performance. Now, as we’re amidst the shorter days and longer nights of winter, a dependable torch is more important than ever. The new Olight Baton 4 is the latest in their line-up of EDC torches. It’s designed to be a powerful, pocket-sized companion that offers convenience without compromise.

In this review, we’ll examine the features that Olight promises with the new Baton 4—its impressive brightness, robust battery life, user-friendly design and upgraded performance. We’ll see if it lives up to the hype and whether it’s the right choice for those who demand reliability in their everyday carry.

Design and Build Quality

In the realm of EDC torches, the Olight Baton 4 stands out with its compact and robust design. The torch’s body is engineered for durability without sacrificing aesthetics, featuring a sleek, casing that speaks to its premium positioning, available in a variety of great colours that make a welcome change to the usual black. The size of the Baton 4 is particularly noteworthy—it’s small enough to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand or slide into the smallest compartments of a bag.

A significant upgrade in this model is the new metal switch. This isn’t just a cosmetic enhancement; it’s a functional one, offering improved tactile feedback and long-term durability compared to its predecessors. Alongside this, Olight has incorporated laser micro-perforated indicators that allow users to visually gauge brightness and power levels—an intuitive addition that eschews the need for guesswork.

The Baton 4 doesn’t just feel sturdy; it’s also designed with practicality in mind. The torch is equipped with a magnetic tail cap that attaches securely to metal surfaces for hands-free use, a feature that many will find useful in a variety of scenarios. In terms of charging, Olight continues to utilise a magnetic charging cable, ensuring that topping up the battery is hassle-free.

Overall, the design and build quality of the Olight Baton 4 suggest a torch that’s built to last and perform. With a thoughtful approach to user interaction and a body that can withstand the rigours of daily use, it sets a high bar for what users can expect from a portable lighting solution.

• Read our Olight Seeker 4 Torch Review

Performance and Features

At the heart of any torch review is how it performs when it matters. The Olight Baton 4 doesn’t disappoint with its max output of 1,300 lumens, casting a beam up to 170 meters. This level of brightness is more than enough for an EDC torch, ensuring that whether you’re navigating trails or need clarity during a power cut, the Baton 4 is more than up to the task.

The torch’s power source is equally impressive—a 5000mAh battery providing substantial runtime. Olight states that the battery case can recharge the Baton 4 up to five times, giving a combined maximum battery life that could span over half a year on intermittent use—ideal for those who plan to use it frequently or for prolonged periods.

User interface design is a critical aspect often overlooked in torches. Olight has addressed this by integrating a digital display button on the case that not only indicates remaining power but also enables direct lighting. The inclusion of stepless dimming is a welcome feature, allowing users to fine-tune the brightness to their specific needs, a function that’s activated with a long press.

Another notable feature is the Baton 4’s multi-functional nature. It’s not just a torch; it’s also a power bank. The Type-C port on the case means in an emergency, you can use it to charge other mobile devices—a versatile addition to your tech toolkit.

Compatibility extends beyond its own model; the included charging case is also designed to work with the Baton 3, S1R II, Perun Mini, and Perun 2 Mini. This forward-thinking approach from Olight ensures that users who upgrade or own multiple products can do so without the need for additional accessories.

The Olight Baton 4 is a serious contender in the EDC category, with features that cater to convenience and versatility without compromising on the light’s core functionality.

• Read our Olight GoTorch X Mountain Bike Light Review

User Experience

The Olight Baton 4 excels in its ease of use, which is apparent from the moment you pick it up. The torch turns on with a quick press of the metal switch, offering immediate illumination when needed. The intuitive laser micro-perforation on the body provides visual cues for the brightness levels and remaining power, a subtle but significant feature that enhances the user experience.

The torch’s magnetic tail cap is a standout for practicality, allowing users to go hands-free by attaching the torch to any metal surface. This feature proves invaluable when you’re working on tasks that require both hands, from car repairs to setting up camp at night.

Charging the Baton 4 is straightforward, thanks to the USB magnetic charging cable. It snaps on effortlessly and charges the torch quickly, so it’s ready to go when you are. The inclusion of a Type-C port on the charging case adds a layer of modern convenience, offering the ability to charge your phone or other devices, ensuring you’re never left without power in critical situations.

Olight’s thoughtful design extends to the Baton 4’s case, which not only charges the torch but also serves as a neat storage solution. The case’s compatibility with other models in the Baton series reflects Olight’s understanding of their users’ needs for a cohesive and versatile lighting system.

In daily use, the Baton 4’s compact light doesn’t weigh you down and is barely noticeable until needed. Its operation is reliable and consistent, with a range of lighting modes to suit various scenarios—whether you’re reading maps in the dark or signalling for help. The stepless dimming feature allows for precise control over light output, ensuring you have just the right amount of light for any situation.

The Olight Baton 4 demonstrates a refined approach to the torch user experience, balancing advanced features with practical, everyday functionality.

Comparative Analysis

The Olight Baton 4 is the latest in a lineage of high-quality torches known for their reliability and innovation. To understand its place in the market, it’s essential to compare it with its predecessor, the Baton 3, and other similar models.

Immediately, the Baton 4’s increased lumen output and extended beam distance set it apart. The 1,300 lumens are a step up from the Baton 3’s 1,200, and the beam’s reach extends 170 meters, outshining the previous 166-meter distance. These enhancements are not just numerical improvements; they translate into tangible benefits, providing clearer vision further into the dark.

Battery life is another area where the Baton 4 shines. The included 5000mAh lithium-ion battery offers a comprehensive solution to power needs, outlasting the previous generation’s capacity. The charging case itself is a portable power bank, ensuring that both the torch and your devices stay powered. This dual functionality is a game-changer for those who rely on their gear in remote locations or during extended periods away from power sources.

In comparison to other brands, the Olight Baton 4’s unique combination of power, durability, and user-focused design places it at the forefront of the EDC torch category. Its ability to serve as a power bank further sets it apart, offering a level of versatility that is rare in portable lighting solutions.

Practical Applications

The real test of any EDC (Every Day Carry) item is its utility in real-world situations. The Olight Baton 4 isn’t just a tool for the occasional camper or hiker; its versatility extends into numerous everyday applications.

For the outdoor enthusiast, the Baton 4’s high light output and long battery life make it an essential piece of gear. Whether it’s for setting up a tent after dusk, navigating trails, or as a backup light source on a paddleboarding adventure, the reliability of the Baton 4 is evident. The torch’s weather-resistant construction means it can handle the unpredictable British weather, from sudden downpours to frosty mornings.

The practicality of the Baton 4 also shines in urban settings. Its compact size makes it an ideal light for evening dog walks, late-night commuting, or as a just-in-case light source in your vehicle. The magnetic tail cap can attach to the body of a car or the inside of a bonnet, providing illumination for roadside repairs or inspections.

Emergency preparedness is another area where the Baton 4 proves its worth. The power bank feature is not just a convenience; it’s a lifeline when power is scarce. Charging your phone or GPS device could be crucial in a critical situation, and the Baton 4 delivers this capability.

The Olight Baton 4 meets the demands of various daily scenarios, proving itself as a multifaceted tool that offers more than just illumination—it provides peace of mind, knowing you have a reliable light source at your fingertips.

The Bottom Line

For anyone in the market for a reliable, high-performance EDC torch, the Olight Baton 4 is a strong contender. It’s not just a tool but a companion for those who require consistent and powerful lighting in a variety of situations. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a professional needing a dependable light source, or someone who likes to be prepared for any eventuality, the Baton 4 is up to the task.

The Olight brand continues to deliver with the Baton 4, combining innovation, performance, and convenience into a sleek, portable package. It stands as a testament to Olight’s commitment to providing high-quality, versatile lighting solutions that cater to the needs of a diverse range of users.

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current torch or invest in your first, the Olight Baton 4 deserves consideration. It’s more than just a torch; it’s an investment in your safety, productivity, and peace of mind – and it would make the best gift for your favourite adventurer.

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