Fenix PD36 TAC vs Fenix HM65R-DT
Quick take: The Fenix PD36 TAC is brighter (3,000 vs 1,500 lm); the Fenix PD36 TAC throws farther (335m vs 268m); the Fenix HM65R-DT runs longer on high (3 vs 2 hrs).
| Spec | Fenix PD36 TAC | Fenix HM65R-DT |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $100 | $100 |
| Rating | — | — |
| Type | Tactical | Headlamp |
| Lumens | 3,000 lm | 1,500 lm |
| Candela | 28,000 cd | 18,000 cd |
| Beam distance | 335m | 268m |
| Runtime | 2 hrs (high) | 3 hrs (high) |
| Battery | 21700 | 21700 |
| LED | Luminus SFT-70 | Luminus SFT-40 + SST-20 |
| Beam type | Balanced | Balanced |
| Modes | 5 Stepped | 5 Stepped |
| UI | Dual Switch | Simple |
| IP rating | IP68 | IP68 |
| CRI | 70 | 70 |
| Weight | 3.7 oz | 3.5 oz |
| Dimensions | 5.4 x 1.1 in | 4.8 x 1.2 in |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
What owners report
Fenix PD36 TAC
- ✓Tactical selector switch lets you configure behaviour for the job
- ✓3,000 lumens with good spread — usable close up and at distance
- ✓Sized well: secure in the hand without being heavy
- ✓Controls reachable in every grip, with a firm click that doesn't tire the thumb
- ✓Holster, cable and a 5,000mAh 21700 included
- ✗No battery indicator at all
- ✗Duty mode remembers the last level used, which might be eco or turbo
- ✗Charging takes around 3.5 hours because of the cell capacity
- ✗The tail switch action is relatively stiff
- ✗Large for anything other than duty or outdoor use
Fenix HM65R-DT
- ✓Magnesium alloy body — light for its durability, at 53 g for the head unit
- ✓Rated from -31 to 113°F with two metres of impact resistance
- ✓SPORT headband holds it without bounce
- ✓Removable rechargeable 18650, so a spare cell extends any trip
- ✓Dual beam reaching beyond 150 m
- ✗The switch shroud means tilting the lamp forward to reach the controls
- ✗Only three to four hours on high
- ✗Reviewers advise against it for running despite the trail branding
- ✗Fiddly to operate with gloves
- ✗Runtime at high output doesn't suit full-night use