Olight Warrior Ultra Review
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The Olight Warrior Ultra is a tactical flashlight that aims to blend high performance with rugged durability, and it largely delivers on that promise. With a peak output of 2,500 lumens and a beam throw of 320 meters, it’s a powerhouse for its size, capable of illuminating vast distances with a well-defined hotspot and ample spill for peripheral vision. The Luminus SFT70 6500K LED provides a cool, bright beam that’s ideal for tactical scenarios or outdoor use, though some users might prefer a warmer tint for better color accuracy.
The build quality is a standout feature. Crafted from Olight’s proprietary O-Aluminum alloy, which is claimed to be nearly twice as strong as standard 6061 aluminum, the Warrior Ultra feels exceptionally solid and is rated for 2-meter drops and IPX8 waterproofing. The aggressive spiral texturing and knurled tail switch enhance grip, even with gloves, but the grippy finish can wear on pockets during extended carry. Available in Olive Green, Navy Blue, and Stealth Gray, the flashlight also sports a premium aesthetic with clean lines and a jagged strike bezel that doubles as a self-defense tool.
Operation is intuitive, with a dual-mode tail switch for tactical or everyday use and a large side switch for easy mode cycling. The user interface is straightforward, offering five modes (Moonlight, Low, Medium, High, Turbo) plus a strobe, though it lacks the timer functions found in other Olight models like the Baton or Arkfeld series. A proximity sensor automatically dims the light in High or Turbo modes to prevent overheating or accidental burns, which is useful but can be intrusive in situations like close-up inspections—there’s no permanent disable option, only a temporary override.
The Warrior Ultra runs on a proprietary 21700 battery with a 5,000mAh capacity, delivering up to 55 days of runtime in Moonlight mode (1 lumen). However, the proprietary design means you’re locked into Olight’s ecosystem, as standard 21700 cells won’t work, and the magnetic MCC charging cable, while convenient, feels like a missed opportunity compared to USB-C options on competitors. Runtime tests show Turbo mode steps down after about 2.5 minutes to a stable 675 lumens, which is still impressive for sustained use.
Compared to its predecessor, the Warrior 3S, the Ultra feels like an incremental upgrade—similar beam profile, same LED, slightly better regulation, but a higher price tag at $139.99. The fancier machining and OAL finish justify the cost for some, but others might find the 3S a better value with less aggressive texturing and clearer battery indicators. Against competitors like the Nitecore MT2C Pro or Surefire G2X Pro, the Warrior Ultra holds its own in brightness and build but sacrifices some versatility due to its proprietary battery.
Overall, the Olight Warrior Ultra is a premium tactical flashlight with excellent brightness, durability, and ergonomics, ideal for professionals or enthusiasts who need a reliable, high-output light. However, the proprietary battery, lack of UI timers, and occasionally finicky proximity sensor might deter those seeking maximum flexibility. If you’re already invested in Olight’s ecosystem or prioritize raw power and toughness, it’s a compelling choice.
