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L.L.Bean Waterproof Solar Flashlight

rated 3.0 of 5 stars

I received this item in an "emergency bottle.' I've used this light for the last four years and am just now needing to replace the battery pack, if that's even possible. I hope it is, because the light has worked perfectly and I'd like to keep using it, the body is perfect, it works, why get rid of it because it needs new batteries?

Pros

  • Longevity
  • It works repeatedly
  • Keep it charged and it works

Cons

  • How do you replace the rechargeable batteries?

I received this light as part of an emergency bottle kit, typically used for backpacking. I had been putting together an emergency kit for my home, car, and camper and thought this would be a good addition to my personal "bugout bag".

I had had it in my kit for several months and was needed a light in my 5th wheel. I retrieved my light from the kit and charged it for 6 hrs and turned it on. Bam! Worked like a charm. It now has a special place in my 5th wheel window.

I use it every time I go to the camper. I even take it on vacation as an emergency light, remember Gilligan's Island, it started as a 3-hour tour. Sure would have been nice to have a solar powered flashlight.

Source: received it as a personal gift

Big Mistake—DO NOT BUY

Pros

  • Works OK when new

Cons

  • Relatively short service life (2-3 years)
  • Cannot be repaired

The batteries that hold the solar charge fail after a few years and cannot be replaced! Apparently, this product was never designed to have the rechargeable batteries replaced.

Sure, the item also runs on disposable backup lithium batteries, but then what is the point of the rechargeable solar feature. I am disappointed LL Bean sold these. 

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $20

Pros

  • Solar charge

Cons

  • Finding it W E A K after 3 or 4 years. I tho't sun would 'forever charge' I guess???

I too have this small solar flashlight and have been delighted with it. My batteries also need to be replaced I guess as it is not its 'usual self of light'. Do I just replace these 2/CR2032 Lithium Cell 3 V batteries?

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: @$25./LLBEAN

Pros

  • 2 years then got weaker and finally quit. Now it won't charge at all so no way to put in or change batteries.

Cons

  • Did not last over 2-3 years—solar quit and can't find a way to replace rechargeable batteries

Solar lantern is good.

Solar flashlight not so much!

Background

Have the lantern with same type LLBean solar panel—same age as flashlight, and it still works.

Source: bought it new
Price Paid: $25

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Specs

Price Reviewers Paid: $20.00-$25.00
Product Details from L.L.Bean »