Fenix E35R vs Fenix PD35 V3.0
Quick take: The Fenix E35R is brighter (3,100 vs 1,700 lm); the Fenix PD35 V3.0 throws farther (357m vs 253m); the Fenix PD35 V3.0 runs longer on high (2.4 vs 2 hrs).
| Spec | Fenix E35R | Fenix PD35 V3.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $80 | $80 |
| Rating | — | — |
| Type | EDC | Tactical |
| Lumens | 3,100 lm | 1,700 lm |
| Candela | 16,000 cd | 31,900 cd |
| Beam distance | 253m | 357m |
| Runtime | 2 hrs (high) | 2.4 hrs (high) |
| Battery | 21700 | 18650 |
| LED | Luminus SST70 | Luminus SFT-40 |
| Beam type | Balanced | Throw |
| Modes | 5 Stepped | 5 Stepped |
| UI | Simple | Dual Switch |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| CRI | 70 | 70 |
| Weight | 3.5 oz | 3.0 oz |
| Dimensions | 4.8 x 1.1 in | 5.4 x 1.0 in |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
What owners report
Fenix E35R
- ✓3,100 lumens and 246 m of throw from a genuinely pocketable body
- ✓TIR lens gives a precise, uniform beam
- ✓Top-notch fit and finish with even weight distribution
- ✓Built-in USB-C charging on the current version
- ✓Strobe available for self-defence use
- ✗No shortcuts to eco or turbo — you have to cycle through modes
- ✗The magnet is strong enough to collect keys and other metal
- ✗Slippery in the hand without the pocket clip
- ✗No holster included
- ✗Not a tactical light despite the output
Fenix PD35 V3.0
- ✓SFT40 upgrade takes maximum output from 1,000 to 1,700 lumens
- ✓Excellent regulation, plus thermal and reverse-polarity protection
- ✓Well-balanced 18650 tube sized for one-handed two-switch operation
- ✓High-quality accessories included: lanyard, USB cable and holster
- ✓Beam and tint both draw consistent praise
- ✗Cool white only — no neutral or high-CRI option
- ✗The 5-lumen eco level is too bright for genuine darkness
- ✗The side switch changes modes but can't switch the light on
- ✗Ships with a lower-capacity cell than Fenix's own 3,500mAh option
- ✗Highly focused beam — some prefer more spill for EDC