Rectangular-Form Flashlights with Perpendicular Lenses

For manufactured objects, the cylinder is a powerful shape. They distribute pressure evenly, which is why airplane fuselages, soda cans, oxygen canisters and disposable batteries are cylindrical.The shape of a disposable battery has long dictated the shape of another object: Flashlights, which have traditionally been little more than a battery sleeve with a light source at the end. But now that battery technology has evolved, flashlight designers are free to imagine fresh forms that are better-shaped for certain user activities. Like this USB-rechargeable Slim+ model from Texas-based manufacturer Nebo. The rectangular form and perpendicular lens means you hold it differently than a cylindrical flashlight; this is less for illuminating dark paths, and more for examining engine bays and the like. The slim form fits easily in a pocket and doesn't roll when you set it down. Furthermore, it features both a magnetic base and a hanging hook for hands-free use. It's made of aluminum, is water- and dust-resistant, and puts out 700 lumens.A slightly larger Slim+ 1200 model puts out more lumens (you can guess the number). Both models above also feature laser pointers and can be used as powerbanks. Moving in the other direction, size-wise, the Slim Mini puts out just 250 lumens. It's way more compact but you lose the pointer and the power bank function. They also offer a Slim Mini UV, for those doing inspections. The Slim+ runs $45; the Slim+ 1200 is $60; and the Mini versions go for $20.

Mar 28, 2025 - 14:52

Rectangular-Form Flashlights with Perpendicular Lenses

For manufactured objects, the cylinder is a powerful shape. They distribute pressure evenly, which is why airplane fuselages, soda cans, oxygen canisters and disposable batteries are cylindrical.

The shape of a disposable battery has long dictated the shape of another object: Flashlights, which have traditionally been little more than a battery sleeve with a light source at the end. But now that battery technology has evolved, flashlight designers are free to imagine fresh forms that are better-shaped for certain user activities. Like this USB-rechargeable Slim+ model from Texas-based manufacturer Nebo.

The rectangular form and perpendicular lens means you hold it differently than a cylindrical flashlight; this is less for illuminating dark paths, and more for examining engine bays and the like. The slim form fits easily in a pocket and doesn't roll when you set it down. Furthermore, it features both a magnetic base and a hanging hook for hands-free use. It's made of aluminum, is water- and dust-resistant, and puts out 700 lumens.

A slightly larger Slim+ 1200 model puts out more lumens (you can guess the number).

Both models above also feature laser pointers and can be used as powerbanks. Moving in the other direction, size-wise, the Slim Mini puts out just 250 lumens. It's way more compact but you lose the pointer and the power bank function.

They also offer a Slim Mini UV, for those doing inspections.

The Slim+ runs $45; the Slim+ 1200 is $60; and the Mini versions go for $20.