Olight Arkflex vs. EDC09

I keep an Olight ArkFlex in my toolkit. I use it in two ways: 1) as a work light – to illuminate the nearby area in which I'll be working, and 2) when I go walking before sunrise or after sunset, clipped to my hat. With the Flexhead, magnetic tail and double-bend clip, it is extremely versatile. But also now discontinued.

So naturally, I was interested in checking out the new Nitecore EDC09. I noticed the obvious advantages over the ArkFlex – USB-C charging and multi-color tint with a high CRI option. I just read the ZeroAIr review of the EDC09, and have drawn some conclusions based on the following observations.

• The ArkFlex is much floodier (2 candela per lumen vs. 5 for the Nitecore, Nitecore throws 40% farther).
• The ArkFlex usable medium lasts much longer (7 hours at 95 lumens vs. 3 hours at 120 warm /150 cool lumens for the Nitecore) as does low mode (38 hours at 15 lumens vs. 13 hours at 30 warm/50 cool lumens for the Nitecore).
• The ArkFlex is about half an ounce lighter with a better waterproof rating (IPX7 vs IPX6) but worse drop rating (1M vs 2M).

My conclusions:

• For my particular uses, the ArkFlex is better. I don't need throw in my work light or cap walking light. The longer run times on medium and low, albeit at less power, make the ArkFlex a better dedicated work light. The lighter weight and better water rating make it a better cap walking light.
• For general EDC including the occasional small work tasks, the EDC09 is better. But here, it is competing against a ton of other great EDC lights.
• Personally, I don't need to replace my ArkFlex for my uses, and I already have great EDC lights. The EDC09 is in a bit of a "no man's land" for me.
• If you don't have an Arkflex and want an occasional work light, the EDC09 will work fine for you and can be used for other purposes.