This is a real neat device, and one of the only crank flashlight/phone charger combos that incorporate a usb port instead of a DC port that I could find. Though the led lights don't provide very focused light, they serve well as an emergency backup light source. If it's light enough that you can't see any noticeable illumination from the flashlight, then you obviously already see perfectly fine. With 3 LEDs, I wasn't really expecting a flood light anyway.
My main use of this device is actually the usb charger. I have with me some power-hungry portable electronics, such as my PSP and my Droid phone, and some of their portability is negated by their limited battery power. Don't get me wrong, they'll last a good while on a full charge, but sometimes I'm not always in range of a power socket or car charger. This helps me out a great deal in this regard, and although not every device has a usb-friendly charge adapter, my Powermonkey-explorer kit (
Powermonkey eXplorer - Portable Charger with Solar Slave (Grey)
) expands that versatility greatly. The included battery has a female USB adapter which I can use to hook into my Clipray and charge up when the sun is down or on overcast days, and when a power socket is out of reach. These two products make a great team and have increased my satisfaction with both.
If you don't feel like dishing out $100 however, there are much cheaper standalone usb adapter kits out there as well.
Pros: - Power crank gives you a constant light source and USB power source for your portable electronics.
- Sleek, solid design ensures it will not fall apart easily.
- Featured clip makes it easy to attach to a belt strap, readily available when you're on the go.
- Cheap and affordable.
Cons: - 3 leds isn't much to work with, but they could have focused the light a bit better.
- External accessories (adapters/usb cords) required to unlock the full potential of this item, which may be to the dismay of some.
Overall: Great device, I'm extremely happy I could find a decent hand-crank USB charger, and the flashlight and clip are welcome additions. If you've got lots of power-hungry portable electronics, give this a look.
| Manufacturer | Eton |
|---|---|
| Part Number | ARCCR100RSNG |
| Item Weight | 4.9 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 6 x 1.25 x 2.25 inches |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Item model number | ARCCR100R_SNG |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Size | Single |
| Color | Red |
| Style | Single Pack |
| Finish | Red |
| Material | Plastic |
| Pattern | Charger |
| Power Source | Manual |
| Voltage | 5 Volts |
| Item Package Quantity | 1 |
| Type of Bulb | LED |
| Special Features | Portable, Lightweight, Sturdy |
| Included Components | Flash Light, USB Cable |
| Batteries Included? | No |
| Batteries Required? | Yes |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year Parts and Labor |
