Raising the bar for LED flashlights once again, the new Mini Maglite Pro and Pro+ feature simple user interfaces yet deliver remarkable performance. It’s back to the basics with the Mini Maglite Pro’s single output mode for an impressive 226 lumens, but an additional, motion-controlled, low mode can be found in the Pro+ model. With an expected retail price of under $35 for the Mini Maglite Pro+, there’s no wonder there’s been much anticipation for these lights, so read on for more details!
Key Specifications
- Output (Pro): 226 lumens
- Output (Pro+): 245 lumens high, 61 lumens low
- Intensity (Pro): 4,880 candela
- Intensity (Pro+): 5,600 candela
- Runtime (Pro): 2h 30min
- Runtime (Pro+): 2h 15min high, 27h low
- Battery: 2 x AA
- Length: 6.61″
- Diameter: 1.0″ bezel, 0.71″ body
- Weight with Batteries: 4.15 oz.
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
- MSRP: $29.99 (Pro), $32.99 (Pro+)
- Actual Pricing: ~$30
Pricing & Ordering
MSRP for the Mini Maglite Pro is $29.99, with the Pro+ priced slightly higher around $32.99. Black is only available at the moment, but both models will be available in black, grey, blue, red, silver, or UCP camo.
In The Box
Included in the blister packaging are: Mini Maglite Pro/Pro+ LED Flashlight, 2 x AA Duracell alkaline batteries, and holster.
Batteries
Like the original Mini Maglite LED, both the Pro and Pro+ operate on two AA batteries. ANSI FL1 specifications for the lights are for alkaline batteries, but NiMH rechargeable and lithium primaries can also be used.
The Light
Head
The head features a plastic window and a deep smooth reflector. Optimal focus can be achieved with a quarter turn of the head, or the head can be removed for “candle mode.”
A glass window may be installed using Mag Instrument part #108-617.
Body
The entire light is type-II anodized aluminum inside and out, which prevents corrosion and also electrically insulates the light.
Knurling along the body of the lights ensures a solid grip but do not prevent the light from rolling when set on its side.
Tail Cap
Since these are twist-operated lights, there’s only a lanyard hole on the tail cap.
Modes
Multi-mode operation differentiates the Mini Maglite Pro+, which uses an accelerometer for selecting the power-saving low mode, from the single output Mini Maglite Pro.
Full Power (Pro+)
100% brightness at 245 lumens.
Power Save (Pro+)
Simply point the light straight down before turning it on for 25% brightness, or 61 lumens.
Performance
Using the same Cree XP-G LED as the XL200 and ML125, the Mini Maglite Pro and Pro+ are rated for 226 and 245 lumens, respectively. Not only is this an incredible amount of output compared to the current 77-lumen Mini Maglite LED, but the Pro and Pro+ holds ground even when compared to tactical CR123 or rechargeable lights.
At the point when the light turns on, the beam pattern tends toward that of a floody work light, which is ideal for work in a Pro-fessional environment (pardon the pun) where light is often needed at close range. With another quarter turn of the head, the beam reaches optimal spot focus.
Since the LED module is disconnected when the head is fully tightened, we’re pleased to report that there’s no parasitic standby drain to be found on either light.
Runtime
If you haven’t read our article about runtime graphs and the ANSI FL1 Standard, please click here.
As efficient as LEDs are, heat is still produced and has to be dissipated, so step-down regulation is used to prolong battery life and reduce heat. This behavior does not give accurate comparisons for one runtime cycle, so we conducted an extended runtime test where we power cycled the lights to reset the timer.
If the lights are operated with a 90% duty cycle (13.5 minutes on, 1.5 minutes off), maximum output is maintained for a shorter amount of time and the runtime graph resembles that of a flashlight without an automatic energy-saving step down.
Accessories
Maglite includes a basic open-top holster with blister pack versions of the Mini Maglite, and the Pro/Pro+ are no exception.
An optional closed-top, open-bottom holster is available as an OEM accessory (useful if you plan to attach a lanyard to the light, since it may not fit in the included holster), and most Mini Maglite accessories such as anti-roll rings and glass windows are compatible.
Conclusion
Maglite has been continuously updating their product line over the past couple years, not only bringing performance and functionality to new levels, but also value. It’s no exception with the Mini Maglite Pro, which offers an unprecedented 200+ lumens for under $30. Priced only slightly higher than the Pro, the Mini Maglite Pro+ includes an accelerometer for intuitive mode-switching.
One thing that we would really like to see is an OEM tail cap switch upgrade, since the twist operation does require re-focusing the light each time it’s turned on. To put things into perspective, the low mode of the Mini Maglite Pro+ is about the same brightness as the high mode of the Mini Maglite LED. Even though these lights have impressive peak performance, they are also designed to be economical for everyday use.
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Seems The Mini Mag Pro Plus Is Difficult To locate at Retailers Such As Meijer, Walmart, Lowes, Home Depot, and target. I know Walmart Home Depot and target carry the pro for sure. I was told at Lowes does but the associate could not find it in the store or on their website. is the Pro Plus one of these items that you have to track down online? I started doing searches to see if it is been discontinued. also I just bought my mag light Pro the other night late December 2013. do I have to worry about the tail cap screwing the whole light up. I really don’t want to have to go out and buy another light just for the end cap that seems a bit ridiculous.
I meant to say I was told I could get those items at Lowes but they don’t care either one according to a store associate checking online. and I was told by people that I work with that I can get them at Walmart or Home Depot, but when I went online I could not locate the Pro Plus at a single one of the stores is what I meant to say. Amazon came up in another website that I haven’t heard of but there was nothing in any of the stores that I looked up myself or in a couple of cases such as Lowes and Home Depot that I called.
Marc,
You will be able to get a better price online, and I would recommend checking Amazon.
Tail cap issues affect the first generation Mini Maglite LED (2006), and the design has been fixed since the updated multi-mode version (2009).
Common issues with the current model are usually from user error, such as not fully screwing on the tail cap, or dirty contacts. Both of these are easily fixable or avoidable.
Robin
I bought the Pro at Lowes, wow, I just can’t believe how much light can we get from 2 AA batteries?
Where could I find a Switch for a MINI MAGLITE MFG By Mag Instrument Ontario CA USA ? Many thanks for informations – G.Borgarello
Giancarlo,
What kind of switch are you looking for? Is the light not working, or you want a tailcap switch?
There is the TerraLUX TCS-1 tailcap switch, but it’s a reverse clicky (meaning that you can’t use it for momentary activation).
Robin
Hi Robin! Do you have any info about a new 2AA model? Maybe a side switch version? How is your MM Pro working after 2 years? Any issues?
I haven’t heard anything about a new 2AA. The next release is probably going to be the MAG-TAC Rechargeable.
Robin
Nevermind…twist operation is not a problem for me.
After a 2 years delay, I bought the minimag pro.
By comparison with some Fenix and Nitecore 2AA lights, the MM Pro is the one that best fits my taste.
Mine’s worked flawlessly for two years. Good tint, too.
Things I’d like to see Mag to implement:
-second o-ring beneath the head
-light OP reflector
I’ve seen MM Pro and 2D with updated emitters at local hardware stores. XP-G2 and XP-E2, respectively.
I just picked up the PRO at Walmart today for $18.88. Package claims 272 lumens, 163m, 6613cd, 2h30m.
I don’t know why people are so thrilled about this particular Maglite. Yes it’s fairly bright, and the construction is solid as most Maglites are which is why it gets 2.5 stars. However, I’m guessing that none of these reviewers have any use for the Spot Focus vs. Flood feature, which is painfully subpar. This is no acceptable spot focus lensing for a pro flashlight. Maglite made this LED version completely at the sacrifice of the functionality that has made it’s standard models better than most others. I hope they dedicate some time to improving that functionality, because it would be great to have a flashlight that is strong, energy efficient, and has a decent spot focus (not a weird spot/flood mix) functionality. I would return it if I could.
I got the new mini maglite LED Pro 272 lumens from Big 5 Sporting Goods. $24.99 its great and i love it. Its my first pro flash light and i think it will last for many years.
@Andrew:
What is the benefit of “second o-ring beneath the head” and “light OP reflector”?
Dear Robin,
the “Clear lens” for Mini MaglitePro LED is not good i think. I have been using mine since September and now i see it has several scratches, considering that i only put it in my pocket without any keys or coins.
I read this comment in Amazon too:
“The cheap plastic lens, they originally included on the flashlite, scratches with even a paper towel. Now that I have a truely clean lens it is even brighter…..”
What are you thoughts about:
http://www.amazon.com/MAGLITE-108-889-Glass-Lens-AA/dp/B0024NLH6C#productDetails
Amir,
I’ve used the Maglite OEM glass windows for the Mini Maglite, and it works pretty well. Just keep in mind that it’s glass and not as durable as polycarbonate (with regards to shattering/cracking).
Robin
Thanks, so you mean its better to just leave it there, and don’t change the default lens on my MagMiniPro?
By the way, I have a friend going to US, and where he can get the http://www.led-resource.com/2013/02/dorcy-metal-gear-xlm-41-0435-led-flashlight-review/?
If he goes to any BestBuy or Target store, can he find it?
I like Dorcy’s Metal Gear XLM, sine it uses common alkaline AA batteries.
Do you have any recommendation, about buying better, or newer product ( considering that your review of it is for February 15, 2013) from other brands or that model by Dorcy is just perfect for that kind of light ( 618 lumens)?
Amir,
It depends, polycarbonate is better for reliability if the light is frequently being used (and the chance of damage is likely). If beam quality matters and shadows from scratches bother you, glass is better.
As for the Dorcy Metal Gear XLM, we would not recommend it. It’s unregulated and could overheat the switch, causing permanent damage. Take a look at the latest Maglite D-cell models, which is called the ML300L. You can use D-cells or AA-cells in plastic adapters. It’s a fairly new product, so it might not be available from retail stores yet.
Robin
Thanks Robin. What do you mean by unregulated?
Thanks for your info on MAGLITE ML300L 3-Cell D LED Flashlight. I see that it can be ordered online on Mag’s website. And it has 406 Meters of Beam Distance comparing to the Dorcy Metal Gear XLM having 363 Meters. So I will ask my friend to order this one.
By plastic adapters, you mean Plastic Battery Holder Adapter? I don’t know how it can be useful.
oh, i got it. you mean the Maglite ML300L, can be used with D-cells or AA-cells in plastic adapters.
I think i will use my Maglite ML300L with AA-cells.