IMALENT MS32 Review: The World’s Brightest Handheld Flashlight
IMALENT’s MS32 isn’t just another big‑battery torch—it pushes portable lighting into the stratosphere with 200,000 lumens, a 1,618 m throw, and pro‑grade features like an OLED display, 100 W USB‑C charging, and a three‑fan cooling system. Whether you’re a search‑and‑rescue pro, cave explorer, or enthusiast EDC aficionado, this review will unpack everything you need to know about the MS32’s specs, performance, real‑world value, and how it stacks up against the competition.
Table Of Content
Quick Verdict – ★★★★☆ (4.3/5)
Pros:
- Industry‑Leading Brightness: Peak 200,000 lm output, sustaining 40,000 lm for 45 s then 25,000 lm for 1 hr
- Massive Range: Throws a tight, intense beam up to 1,618 m—ideal for long‑distance search
- Smart OLED Display: Real‑time mode, runtime, voltage, temperature, and lock status at a glance
- Rapid USB‑C Charging: PD100 W support refills the 12× 21700 battery pack in just 2 hours
- Robust Cooling & Build: Three shark‑fin fans plus copper radiator; aerospace‑grade aluminum body with IP56 water resistance
Cons:
- Weight & Size: At 3.1 kg with battery, it’s more backpack tool than pocket EDC
- Cost: List price $749.95 (on sale $524.97)—a serious investment
- Thermal Management: Turbo mode limited to 45 s to prevent overheating, requiring cooldown
Key Features & Specifications
Spec | Details |
---|---|
LEDs | 32× CREE XHP70.2 |
Lumen Output | Turbo: 200,000 → 40,000 lm (45 s); High III: 90,000 → 40,000 lm (70 s + 42 min); Moonlight: 80 lm (345 h) |
Beam Distance | 1,618 m |
Battery | 12× 21700 4000 mAh cells, replaceable |
Runtime | Up to 345 h (Moonlight); 1 h 35 m at High I (18,000 lm) |
Charging | USB‑C PD100 W rapid charger (2 h full) |
Interface | 0.96″ OLED display; dual tail‑switches |
Cooling System | 3× shark‑fin fans + copper radiator |
Body | Aircraft‑grade aluminum; IP56 waterproof; mineral glass lens |
Dimensions & Weight | 242 × 149 × 67.5 mm; 3,096 g (with battery) |
Price | $749.95 (MSRP), on sale $524.97 |
Real‑World Use Cases & Benefits
- Search & Rescue: The MS32’s 1.6 km throw and sustained high‑output modes help search teams illuminate distant ravines or forest clearings, reducing search times and improving safety.
- Caving & Exploration: Underground adventurers benefit from the adaptive cooling and long runtimes, ensuring reliable illumination in cold, damp environments.
- Industrial Inspections: Oil rigs, pipelines, and large‑scale infrastructure inspections require intense beams—MS32 reveals details other torches miss.
- Security & Emergency: Law enforcement and security teams use the “blinding” Turbo mode for suspect deterrence, switching quickly via the dual tail‑switch system.
- EDC Enthusiasts: Though hefty, MS32 doubles as a portable power bank, charging phones via its battery pack—ideal for extended outdoor trips.
User Testimonials & Social Proof
“The MS32 is absurdly bright. I tested it at 800 m and could clearly see objects I’d never lit up before. Charging is fast, and the OLED UI is genuinely useful.”
— John D., outdoor enthusiast
“We deployed two MS32s on our night‑watch shift. They lasted through the full 12‑hour patrol in mixed modes with no issues.”
— Officer Maria S.
With 67 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, buyers consistently praise its raw power and professional features.
Expert Insights / Industry Commentary
- Outdoor Gear Lab crowned the MS32 “Best Ultra‑Bright Flashlight 2024,” highlighting its record‑setting throw and thermal management.
- Flashlight Guru underscores the “well‑implemented OLED display” for troubleshooting in the field.
- NomadsWhoCamp notes that while “heavier than an EDC,” the MS32’s performance justifies its pack weight for serious adventurers.
Comparison with Top Alternatives
Feature | IMALENT MS32 | Fenix LR40R | Olight X9R Marauder | Acebeam X80 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Peak Lumen | 200,000 lm | 12,000 lm | 25,000 lm | 60,000 lm |
Sustained Output | 25,000 lm @1 hr | 3,300 lm @2 hr | 2,000 lm @2 hr | 5,000 lm @1 hr |
Beam Distance | 1,618 m | 550 m | 960 m | 1,100 m |
Display | OLED | Digital UI | OLED | No |
Charge | USB‑C PD100 W | USB‑C PD45 W | Dual‑MC charger | USB‑C PD60 W |
Weight | 3,096 g | 2,040 g | 4,400 g | 3,100 g |
Price (On Sale) | $524.97 | $299.95 | $499.99 | $599.00 |
The MS32 leads in raw output and UI sophistication. Fenix offers lighter, more affordable options, while Olight’s dual‑charge system adds convenience.
Pricing & Value Analysis
- MSRP: $749.95; Sale Price: $524.97 (30% off) imalentstore.com
- Bundle Options: Battery and charger combos with discounts
- Warranty: 30‑day returns, 5‑year warranty on body, 1 year on electronics
- Shipping: Free over $49, global coverage from regional stores (UK, DE, FR, AE)
Considering its class‑leading brightness, advanced cooling, and smart interface, the MS32 offers compelling value for professionals and serious hobbyists.
Who Should—and Shouldn’t—Buy
Ideal for:
- Search‑and‑rescue teams and law enforcement
- Industrial inspectors and infrastructure surveyors
- Adventure photographers and videographers
- EDC collectors prioritizing ultimate brightness
Not ideal for:
- Casual users seeking pocket‑friendly form factors
- Budget buyers needing only basic illumination
- Minimalists overwhelmed by complex UIs
FAQs
Q: How long does the MS32 last on Turbo?
A: Turbo yields 45 s at 200,000 lm before throttling to 40,000 lm, then steps down to prevent overheating.
Q: What batteries are required?
A: 12× 21700 4000 mAh high‑drain cells; IMALENT recommends its branded pack for optimal performance.
Q: Can I use the MS32 as a power bank?
A: Yes—the battery pack offers USB output to charge phones and devices in the field.
Q: Is it waterproof enough for rain?
A: The MS32 is rated IP56 (protected against heavy rain and dust) but not submersible.
Final Verdict & Next Steps
The IMALENT MS32 redefines handheld illumination with its 200,000 lm output, 1.6 km throw, smart OLED interface, and professional‑grade cooling. While it demands a higher budget and pack weight, its unmatched performance makes it the ultimate tool for search‑and‑rescue, industrial inspection, and hardcore outdoor use.