Fenix PD35 V3.0 vs Fenix HM61R V3.0
Quick take: The Fenix PD35 V3.0 costs $9.950000000000003 less; the Fenix HM61R V3.0 is brighter (1,800 vs 1,700 lm); the Fenix PD35 V3.0 throws farther (357m vs 195m); the Fenix HM61R V3.0 runs longer on high (268 vs 2.4 hrs).
| Spec | Fenix PD35 V3.0 | Fenix HM61R V3.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $80 | $89.95 |
| Rating | — | — |
| Type | Tactical | Headlamp |
| Lumens | 1,700 lm | 1,800 lm |
| Candela | 31,900 cd | 0 cd |
| Beam distance | 357m | 195m |
| Runtime | 2.4 hrs (high) | 268-300 hrs (max) |
| Battery | 18650 | 18650 |
| LED | Luminus SFT-40 | Luminus SST40-GEN2 + OSRAM 1414 CRI90 + Red |
| Beam type | Throw | Balanced |
| Modes | 5 Stepped | Spot + Flood + Red (11 modes) |
| UI | Dual Switch | |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| CRI | 70 | 90 |
| Weight | 3.0 oz | 5.9 oz (with battery and headband) |
| Dimensions | 5.4 x 1.0 in | 4.1 x 1.5 x 2.0 in |
| Warranty | Lifetime | 5 Year |
What owners report
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