As I was preparing for a camping trip, I thought having a lantern might help provide light without needing to wear my headlamp constantly. And, since I live in Florida, I wanted this lantern to double as an emergency lighting solution during the potential power outages that hit the state after somewhat frequent hurricanes.
When I was offered the chance to try the Duracell 3000L Tri-Power Lantern, I decided to accept. I was especially interested in the solar power feature, since keeping up with a supply of batteries can get expensive.
Here’s what I found.
3000L Tri-Power Lantern
Pros
- Lights up a large space.
- Solar powered feature works well.
- Great price.
- Can charge other devices, like your phone.
Cons
- No steady red light, only a blinking red light.
- Highest light setting drains the battery.
Specifications
- Lumens: 3000.
- Price: $35.99.
- Flexible power options: Rechargeable built-in batteries; compatible with 4 D batteries (not included).
- Multiple charging options: Supports Qi wireless charging capabilities, along with solar and rechargeable battery charging.
- Safety features: Includes an emergency red flasher for enhanced safety in critical situations.
- Extended runtime: Offers up to 50 days of runtime when utilizing eco mode with alkaline batteries.
First Impressions
When I received my lantern in the mail, I was pleasantly surprised to discover how compact it is. Due to the massive lantern my parents had in the garage for hurricanes, I was expecting a much larger item to tote around. But at just around 10 inches tall, it’s a relatively portable size.
Even though it’s compact, it packs an intense light. Its most powerful setting was more than enough to light up my entire bedroom with usable light. And it’s plenty of light to cover tents of almost any size.
The Best
My favorite parts of this lantern include:
Helpful Lighting Options
The most important part about any lantern is its ability to light up a room, and the Duracell 3000L delivers with 3,000 lumens.
At the highest setting, the lantern can effectively light up an entire bedroom or tent. If you need to tone down the brightness, you’ll find two lower levels to suit your needs. Plus, there’s a flashing red light setting.
Battery-free Operation is an Option
Keeping up with a box of batteries is a chore, and I never remember that I’m out until I need them. This lantern can charge in the sunlight, which makes my life so much easier.
If you don’t have enough sun for a charge but don’t want to buy a battery, you can also charge up this lantern with a USB cord. For someone who doesn’t want the hassle or expense of batteries, I was happy about each of these options.
Solar Charging That Actually Works
I was a tad skeptical that the solar charging feature would work, based on a solar phone charger that didn’t work out. But I was pleasantly surprised that this lantern charges up just fine in the Florida sunshine.
In fact, I left this lantern by my window and it charged up. I didn’t need to take it outside into the full sun for it to soak up the rays of the sun, although I imagine it might charge faster outside.
It has a handy light to indicate its level of charge, so you’ll know when it’s done.
Phone Charging Options
Whether you are camping or in an emergency, the ability to charge up your phone with this lamp is a game-changer. You don’t even need a charging cable to get your phone charging with this lantern because it offers a wireless charging feature.
I tested this out with my phone, and it worked like a charm.
The Worst
Of course, nothing is perfect. Here’s what I didn’t like.
No Steady Red Light
As a camper, I didn’t like that there wasn’t a steady red light feature. Although you can get the lantern into a blinking red light mode, the steady red light is missing. If you’re like me and prefer the red light for evenings in the tent to save your eyes, this could be a big issue.
But for emergencies, the lack of a red light won’t bother me.
3000L Tri-Power Lantern
In My Expert Opinion
The Duracell 3000L Tri-Powered Lantern is packed with helpful features that make it useful for camping trips, emergencies, or any time you need an outdoor light for a nighttime gathering. I do wish it had a steady red light feature, but other than that small gripe, it’s an excellent lantern.
