Refreshing to see a new AA flashlight in a market dominated by lithium powered lights.

For many people, this light will be ideal as it runs off 2 readily available AA batteries. The light is happy with NiMh or alkaline, making it also attractive as an emergency option.

The first thing that strikes you about this light is how small it is. For those familiar with the older Fenix 2AA lights, this new E20 is a lot smaller, making it very pocketable. This new V2 version continues with Fenix’s new styling as seen in recent lights such as the LD30 and PD36R. Anodising on my light was flawless and very smooth. The subtle knurling on the body won’t damage any clothing, but still provides a decent grip.

The E20 V2 is operated using a ‘reverse clicky’ tail cap switch. Press once to turn the flashlight on, then lightly press to change brightness levels. Brightness levels are 5, 30, 150 and 350 lumens. Tail cap protrudes from the back, so light will not tail stand. The switch feels very positive and makes changing brightness very easy. There is no memory mode, so if you switch off, light will switch on again in lowest brightness.

The beam is quite floody, if you are after a ‘thrower’, look elsewhere. As a general purpose light, I think Fenix has got the beam right.

The light comes in a blister pack, which I feel is a shame. Wish Fenix would use their standard boxed packaging. Included are a removeable clip, wrist strap, spare O ring and 2 alkaline batteries.

Overall, this light is good for anyone wanting a low maintenance light or a light for an emergency kit. I wish there was a memory mode so the light remembered last used level. Also wish Fenix had included the usual belt holster, which is useful for storing the light when not in use.