MQ5X

YSMART LONDON frames the MQ5X around the idea of "reliable light that blends into everyday life." The company says it has previously been backed by more than 20,000 supporters and has shipped over 100,000 flashlights, and that the MQ5X addresses feedback on its earlier model, such as buttons that were hard to find, charging that was a hassle, slow charging and a limited choice of LEDs. The MQ5X is presented as a Kickstarter project.

Pull to light

The headline feature is what the maker calls the Magnetic Quick-Release system. Tug the MQ5X off your keychain with one hand and the magnet lets go while the LED switches on at the same moment: no button, no twisting, and no click. The maker pitches this for moments like finding a keyhole in a dark car park while holding an umbrella, and says the release mechanism was tested and tuned repeatedly.

Charging and power

Instead of a cable and port, the MQ5X uses magnetic wireless charging: place it on its dock and charging starts automatically. The maker says around 30 minutes brings it close to a full charge, enough for a day of use, and an LED indicator changes colour when charging is complete. Inside is a 10220 lithium-ion cell, which the company describes as resistant to degradation over repeated charge cycles.

Three LED options and a magnetic base

Buyers choose one of three LED types. According to the maker, white suits everyday tasks, red helps preserve night vision at camp, and UV is intended for jobs like spotting stains, checking banknotes or lighting up fluorescent-painted gear. A magnet in the base lets the light stick to toolboxes, car bonnets, tent poles or fridge doors, with the angle adjustable, freeing both hands for work.

Size, materials and finishes

The MQ5X measures 5.5cm long and weighs 16g in aluminium or 22g in titanium. The maker says it has been drop- and durability-tested and that water resistance was taken into account. Material options are aluminium or Grade 5 titanium, offered in four finishes:

• Shadow Alu: matte black aluminium
• Stone Titan: stonewashed titanium
• Azure Titan (Deluxe Edition): electric blue titanium
• Mosaic Titan (Deluxe Edition): multicolour titanium

YSMART LONDON also says each unit's function is inspected before shipping as part of its quality control.