Last Updated on February 6, 2025
Choosing a quality EDC flashlight is never easy as there are various flashlights to select from. Fenix is one of the leading brands with many amazing lights on offer.
In this Fenix UC30 VS UC35 review, we will compare the Fenix UC30, and the Fenix UC35 LED tactical flashlights. These two lights share a lot of features, and they are great for everyday use or tactical use. This is because of their durable construction and versatility. The lights are also bright with different lighting modes.
Fenix UC30 VS UC35 Comparison table 2025:
Features |
UC30 |
UC35 |
Maximum Brightness: | 1000 lumens | 960 lumens |
Minimum Brightness: | 5 lumens | 14 lumens |
Beam Distance: | 253 Meters | 200 Meters |
Maximum Runtime: | 150 hours (5 lumens) | 150 hour (14 lm) |
Minimum Runtime: | 1 hour & 25 minutes (1000 lumens) | 90 minutes (960 lm) |
LED: | CREE XP-L HI V3 | Cree XM-L2 (U2) |
USB Recharge Option: | Yes | Yes |
Modes: | 5 (5, 50, 150, 350, 1000 lm) | 6 |
Battery Include: | Yes | Yes |
Length: | 130 mm | 150 mm |
Weight: | 77 grams | 99 grams |
Price: | ![]() |
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Fenix uc30 v2.0 VS uc35 v2.0
Features |
UC30 v2.0 |
UC35 v2.0 |
Maximum Brightness: | 1000 lumens | 1000 lumens |
Minimum Brightness: | 5 lumens | 1 lumen |
Beam Distance: | 253 meters | 266 Meters |
Maximum Runtime: | 150 hours (5 lumens) | 800 hours (1 lm) |
Minimum Runtime: | 1 hour & 25 minutes (1000 lumens) | 2 hours & 15 minutes (1000 lm) |
LED: | Cree XP-L HI V3 LED | Cree XP-L HI V3 LED |
USB Recharge Option: | Yes | Yes |
Modes: | 6 | 6 |
Battery Include: | Yes | Yes |
Length: | 5.1 Inches | 5.5 inches |
Weight: | 2.7 Ounces | 3.1 ounces |
Price: | ![]() |
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If you don’t know which flashlight to choose between, the Fenix UC30 1000 lumen tactical flashlight and the Fenix UC35 960 lumen tactical light, then continue reading our review to have a simple making a wise choice.
Features Comparison: Fenix UC30 VS UC35 Flashlight
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Fenix UC30 Rechargeable Flashlight
The Fenix UC30 is a nice and compact EDC light that produces an astonishing 1000 Lumens that is enough to blind an assailant. It has the indestructible and powerful CREE XP-L HI V3 LED that ensures you bet white light. This flashlight is easy to use as both the switch button and the mode button is one thing. Just turn on the light and continue cycling through the different 5 modes. It is also easy to recharge as it has Micro-USB charging. This is a great light for outdoor use and everyday carry.
Pros:
- It is compact and very portable
- Convenient to use with the built-in Micro-USB charging port
- It has a low-voltage indicator that blinks red when the battery is low
- UC30 is extremely bright as it produces a maximum of 1000 lumens
- It is easy to use light with durable single buttons controls
- The flashlight is versatile, with 5 light modes
- The lockout function prevents accidental lighting on
Cons:
- Identifying the light switch in the dark is very challenging
- The on/off switch is still the mode switch, and it is not very convenient
Fenix UC35 Tactical Flashlight
Just like the UC30, the Fenix UC35 is also a lightweight and compact light that produces bright light on a maximum of 960 lumens. The new version of this flashlight produces an astonishing 1000 lumens, just like the UC35. It is also sturdily constructed and thus can be used in all surroundings, be it cold, hot, or dry conditions.
Related: Fenix UC35 VS PD35 Comparison with Table
The unit is water-resistant with an IP68 rating and impact resistance as well. It uses either 18650 rechargeable batteries or two CR123A batteries. Additionally, it comes with 5 light modes, and its greatest throw reaches up to 656 feet. This is a great hunting, hiking, outdoor, or everyday carry light.
Pros:
- It is sturdily made to withstand tough outdoor conditions
- UC35 is water and impact resistant
- It comes with 5 brightness levels for versatility
- Has a lower-power warning function to let you know when to recharge the battery
- It is extremely bright with a maximum of 960 lumens
- Reverse polarity protection prevents bad battery placement
Cons:
- It takes around 3 hours to recharge the batteries, which is a long period of time
- Many users have complained about having difficulties getting the flashlight to charge
Differences between the Fenix UC30 and UC35
Number of Lumens
The Fenix UC30 tactical flashlight produces a maximum of 1000 lumens, while UC35 produces a maximum of 960 lumens. This shows that both of these flashlights are bright, but the UC30 is slightly brighter than the UC35 because of the extra number of lumens that it offers.
Since you will not be using the brightness level for so long, the UC35 is the best light in this category as it has the second brightest mode producing 480 Lumens while the UC30 produces just 350 lumens.
Tail switch
The tail switch helps you to switch on the light first and easily. With the UC30, it has no tail switch as the side switch is used to switch on/off the flashlight. This is quite a challenge to some people, especially when you are ambushed and need to turn on the light urgently.
Pocket clip
One of the advantages that the UC35 has over the UC30 is that it features a pocket clip while the latter doesn’t. This helps in attaching the light to the belt or pocket when not in use.
Weight
A good everyday flashlight should be reliable and lightweight. Both of these lights offer outstanding brightness, but the UC35 flashlight is slightly lighter than the UC30 LED light as it weighs around 3.13 ounces, while the latter weighs around 4.44 ounces.
Price
When it comes to price, the UC35 is a bit expensive than the UC30 due to the extra features that it comes with. So, if you want the better light between the two, the UC35 LED tactical flashlight is that light.
Conclusion
Overall, both of these flashlights are sturdily made and very powerful for use for your different daily errands. Whether it is hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, or jogging, the UC30 and UC35 flashlights will still deliver. They can function perfectly in adverse weather conditions, and they are very bright. Just pick a flashlight that meets most of your needs and budget.
FAQs
1. What are the main differences between the Fenix UC30 and UC35?
The Fenix UC30 and UC35 share similarities in design and functionality, but they differ in several key aspects. The UC35 has a higher maximum brightness output of 1000 lumens compared to the UC30’s 960 lumens. Additionally, the UC35 features a tactical tail switch for easier operation, whereas the UC30 relies solely on a side switch. Battery compatibility is also different, with the UC35 supporting both 18650 rechargeable and CR123A batteries, while the UC30 primarily uses an 18650 battery.
2. Which flashlight has a longer battery life: UC30 or UC35?
Battery life varies based on brightness settings, but overall, the Fenix UC35 tends to last longer on similar modes due to its more efficient power regulation. On lower brightness levels, the UC35 can provide extended runtime, making it a better option for prolonged use. However, both models perform well in battery efficiency, especially when using high-quality 18650 rechargeable batteries.
3. Is the Fenix UC35 better for tactical use than the UC30?
Yes, the Fenix UC35 is better suited for tactical use due to its tail switch, which allows for quick on/off operation and momentary activation. It also includes a strobe mode that can be quickly accessed, making it ideal for law enforcement, security personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts needing a reliable tactical flashlight.
4. Are both models waterproof and impact-resistant?
Yes, both the Fenix UC30 and UC35 have an IP68 waterproof rating, meaning they can withstand submersion in water up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. They are also impact-resistant up to 1 meter, ensuring durability in harsh environments.
5. Which flashlight should I choose between the UC30 and UC35?
Your choice depends on your needs. If you require a more compact, everyday carry flashlight with simple side-switch operation, the UC30 is a great option. However, if you need a tactical flashlight with a tail switch, better grip, and slightly higher brightness, the UC35 is the better choice. Both models offer excellent performance, but the UC35 is superior for tactical and emergency scenarios.
Still, have questions about this Fenix UC35 VS UC30 article? Comment below.