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Black Diamond Orbit Lantern Review
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Berg's Ski ShopOne of the coolest little lights that you will ever find...you no longer need a candle lantern as this baby puts lights out that you can maybe even see in orbit... A pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern, the Orbit is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial. The 84-gram (3 oz) Orbit compacts to 102 mm (4 in) and extends in height to 140 mm (5.5 in), yet still casts a broad, six-foot radius of light. The brightness of the Orbit's non-glaring 1-watt LED can be adjusted thanks to its dimming switch, while the dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow. Cleverly designed dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch. The lantern runs on 4 AAA alkalines, as well as Black Diamond's Orbit-specific NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit. Features: - 1 Watt LED and frosted globe create bright, non-glaring light
- Dual reflector system captures and maximizes light output
- Uses NRG2 Rechargeable battery kit(with battery power indicator) or 4 AAA alkaline batteries
- Unique dimming switch provieds adjustable brightness
- Compactible to 102mm (4 in); extended height is 140mm(5.5 in)
Awards: Outdoor Friedrichshafen's 2008 Silver Medal for Best New Product Backpacker Magazine Editor's Choice Award Tech Tips: What is a Lighting Reference System? Black Diamond, key headlamp suppliers and retailers came together recently to build a single system for measuring light output and burn times. That means that as you try to compare the brightness and battery life settings of headlamps of different brands you should find the measurements calculated using the same system, making it easier for you to cross compare models and make the right buying decision. The limits: It's impossible to find a measurement system that captures all the important features of light output and light duration. The current system favors lamps that have a strong center point of light and does not take into account the overall shape of the light output or the strength of the light output outside of the center point. Therefore a lamp that projects a very strong pinpoint of light with a very weak surrounding beam might receive a longer, farther distance rating than a lamp that offers a stronger wide beam with very strong pinpoint center. What does it measure? The first step in measuring light output is determining the minimal amount of light needed to perform an activity. We call this minimal amount of light usablelight. Usable light is defined as the light provided from a full moon on a clear night. As a base reference, this has been calculated to be 0.25 Lux (lumens per square meter). In all measurements of battery life and distance, 0.25 lux from a distance of 2 meters serves as the baseline. The Lighting Reference System rates headlamp performance based on two criteria: distance of the beam and battery life. Distance = Distance light can reach and still provide 0.25 lux of light at the center point. Battery Life = Battery life is measured as the amount of time the lamp will illuminate a single axis point with 0.25 lux measured from 2 meters distance. Testing Procedure for Distance: Five lamps are each tested with 2 sets of batteries of the same brand provided at retail. The average of the 10 data points collected is what is published on our packaging and website. To calculate the beam distance, measure peak intensity at 2 meters at the optical axis or brightest point in the beam pattern using a constant power source where the input voltage is equal to the battery input. SummitHut.comThe Black Diamond Orbit Lantern is the perfect gift for those who count every ounce in their pack and can't be bothered with ducking headlamp beams at basecamp. This collapsible mini lantern has a dimming switch and handy double hook that you can hang it from in your tent or from the nearest branch or you can put up both hooks to form for even more attachment options. Great for reading, cooking, or just sitting around and having a conversation. The Orbit is perfect for those situations where you need a little light but can't spare a hand to hold it. This is powered by four AAA batteries or the NGR2 rechargeable battery that can be used over and over again keeping your waste down. Perfect for use in areas where camp fires may not be available due to fire hazards, like many areas around Tucson in the summer or if you just want to keep your impact on the environment down. Features:- Brightness of 32 Lumens, with a 2-meter light radius
- Dual hooks on top allow the Orbit Lantern to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch
- Dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output while minimizing the lantern's shadow
- Non-glaring 1-watt LED has adjustable brightness thanks to a dimming switch
- Runs on 4 AAA alkaline batteries or Black Diamond's Orbit-specific NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit
Moosejaw A pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern, the Orbit Lantern by Black Diamond is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial. The 84-gram (3 oz) Orbit compacts to 102 mm (4 in) and extends in height to 140 mm (5.5 in), yet still casts a broad, six-foot radius of light. The brightness of the Orbit's non-glaring 1-watt LED can be adjusted thanks to its dimming switch, while the dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow. Cleverly designed dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch. The lantern runs on 4 AAA alkalines, as well as Black Diamond's Orbit-specific NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit. Features:- Collapsible hang loop
- Compactible to 102 mm (4 in); extended height is 140 mm (5.5 in)
- DoublePower LED with 45 lumens (max setting) enclosed inside a frosted globe produces bright, non-glaring light
- Dual reflector system captures and maximizes light output
- Unique dimming switch provides adjustable brightness
- Uses NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit (with Battery Power Indicator) or 4 AAA alkaline batteries
Mountain GearShed grams from your pack with a low-weight light source that fits into your pocket with the Orbit Lantern from Black Diamond. Perfect for fast-and-light adventures, this single watt LED with a frosted globe casts a non-glaring, bright light with a dual reflector system that maximizes light output. Features:- Adjust the brightness with the dimming switch
- Carry it with you on that next nighttime XC or snowshoeing tour, at a mere 3 ounces, you hardly notice that you're carrying it
- Despite it's size it casts more than enough light from a 1-watt LED with a dual reflector system that captures and maximizes light output; a frosted globe reduces glare
- Pack it away easily, at its extended height of 5.5 inches compacts to a mere 4 inches
- Power it up with an NRG2 rechargeable battery kit or with 4 AAA alkaline batteries
REIThe featherweight Black Diamond Orbit lantern lets you illuminate your backcountry adventure without weighing yourself down. - 1-watt LED with frosted globe creates bright, non-glaring light; dual reflectors effectively capture and output light
- Fine-tune your lighting needs with the dimming switch—simply hold down the on/off button to activate dimmer
- Collapsible design saves space in your pack and protects on/off button from accidental activation
- Unique double-hook hanging system on top provides a simple and secure thread-through or clip-in attachment point for string, fabric loops or branches
- Rubber feet stabilize lantern when set on table or ground
- Runs on 4 AAA batteries, sold separately; base of lantern unscrews to reveal battery compartment
- Also compatible with the Black Diamond NRG2 rechargeable battery kit, sold separately
- Backpacker April, ’09 says, “No, you don’t need a lantern. But you’ll want this one. It’s a kitchen light, campfire, and reading lamp wrapped into 4.4 ounces.”
Appalachain OutdoorsThe Black Diamond Orbit is a pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern that is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial. The 84-gram (3 oz) Orbit compacts to 102 mm (4 in) and extends in height to 140 mm (5.5 in), yet still casts a broad, six-foot radius of light. The brightness of the Orbit's non-glaring 1-watt LED can be adjusted thanks to its dimming switch, while the dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow. Cleverly designed dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch. The Orbit lantern runs on 4 AAA alkalines, as well as Black Diamond's Orbit-specific NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit. Campsaver.comA pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern, the Black Diamond Orbit Lantern is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial. The 84-gram (3 oz) Orbit compacts to 102 mm (4 in) and extends in height to 140 mm (5.5 in), yet still casts a broad, six-foot radius of light. The brightness of the Orbit's non-glaring 1-watt LED can be adjusted thanks to its dimming switch, while the dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow. Cleverly designed dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch. The lantern runs on 4 AAA alkalines, as well as Black Diamond's Orbit-specific NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit (Sold Separately). Al's SportsA pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern, the Black Diamond Orbit is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial. The 84-gram (3 oz) Orbit compacts to 102 mm (4 in) and extends in height to 140 mm (5.5 in), yet still casts a broad, six-foot radius of light. The brightness of the Orbit's non-glaring 1-watt LED can be adjusted thanks to its dimming switch, while the dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow. Cleverly designed dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch. The lantern runs on 4 AAA alkalines, as well as Black Diamond's Orbit-specific NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit.
Style number BD620705 Oregon Mountain CommunityA pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern, theBlack Diamond Orbit is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial. The 84-gram (3 oz) Orbit compacts to 102 mm (4 in) and extends in height to 140 mm (5.5 in), yet still casts a broad, six-foot radius of light. The brightness of the Orbit's non-glaring 1-watt LED can be adjusted thanks to its dimming switch, while the dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow. Cleverly designed dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch. The lantern runs on 4 AAA alkalines, as well as Black Diamond's Orbit-specific NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit. Ramsey OutdoorA pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern, the Orbit is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial. The 84-gram (3 oz) Orbit compacts to 102 mm (4 in) and extends in height to 140 mm (5.5 in), yet still casts a broad, six-foot radius of light. The brightness of the Orbit's non-glaring 1-watt LED can be adjusted thanks to its dimming switch, while the dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow. Cleverly designed dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be quickly and securely attached to a tent or tree branch. The lantern runs on 4 AAA alkalines. Backcountry.comWhen basecamp is set up and it’s time to kick back, pull out the Black Diamond Orbit Lantern and enjoy a six-foot radius of light for a mere three ounces. Whether you’re backpacking the John Muir Trail or preparing for a long alpine rock route, this collapsible lantern’s adjustable, 1-watt LED maximizes light with its frosted globe and dual reflectors. Thanks to the Orbit’s top hooks let you hang it from the tent or a tree branch while you sort gear or cook up dinner. Backpacker Magazine was so impressed that it offered the Editors' Choice Award in their gear guide. Bottom Line:Bright light, light weight. Backcountry EdgeThe pocket-sized, ultra-lightweight Black Diamond Orbit lantern utilizes a full 1-Watt LED bulb to provide ounce-counting backpackers with bright, non-glaring illumination. Despite weighing just 3 oz (not including batteries) the Orbit serves as a powerful, reliable light source. Features:- 1-Watt LED and frosted globe create bright, non-glaring light
- Available in 2 colors
- Dimming switch provides adjustable brightness
- Dual reflector system captures and maximizes light output
- Extended length is 5.5 inches and the collapsed size is 4 inches
- Uses NRG2 Rechargeable Battery Kit (available Spring 2009) or 4 AAA alkaline batteries (not included)
TahoeMountainSports.comThe Black Diamond Orbit LED lantern is a pocket sized led lantern powered by 4 AAA batteries that will last forever while providing low intensity light for any occasion
Truly small and light enough to make it on every excursion
Adjustable brightness and dimming switch
Dual reflectors and frosted globe maximize light output and minimize the lantern's shadow
Dual hooks on top of the Orbit allow it to be hung with ease in a tent or outside from a tree
A truly revolutionary product with multitudes of uses USOutdoor.comA bright, non-glaring, pocket-sized mini lantern, the ultra-lightweight Orbit is perfect for trekking and backpacking where gram shaving is crucial. GearxA pocket-sized, collapsible backcountry mini lantern, the Orbit is perfect for trekking and backpacking excursions where gram shaving is crucial.
Good, but Not terribly powerful
Matthew Haney-Utah at Backcountry.com Rated:  Nice light, but really no where near the power of the Apollo. It is great for personal use, but doesn't really light up the table at the campground very well.
One light little light
Joe Ballent at Backcountry.com on 08/02/2010 Rated:  The orbit can just about fit in your wallet, it's so tiny. Good power for such a small lamp, and the rechargeable battery option is neat. I generally prefer headlamps, and think that if you're going to spend $30 on a light, why not get one that stays on your head and goes with you? That being said, it all depends on your needs. If you're car camping and want a good dinner table centerpiece for nighttime card games or ghost stories with the kids, grab the Orbit for a great lightweight option. If you're going caving, you can get a great headlamp for the same price. It comes down to preference.
Amazing
Mike Throgmartin at Backcountry.com on 07/27/2010 Rated:  This little light is so cool. It will fit in the palm of your hand and is super lightweight. Has hooks to hang from the tent or about anything. Adjustable output for just about any situation.Runs off "AAA" batteries and a rechargeable battery pack can be purchased if needed. Prepare to be impressed with this light!
AWESOME
chris brown at Backcountry.com on 07/23/2010 Rated: This little light is BRIGHT! REAL BRIGHT! super light, super compact.
Highly recommend it. It's built tough and will last for years to come. make the investment in a good product and don't worry about your light situation for a long time.
Love it
Matt Zabriskie at Backcountry.com on 07/15/2010 Rated: Hardly weighs anything, incredibly small and still puts out ample light. The hooks on top are perfect for hanging in a tent.
What more do you need
Bronco at Campsaver.com on 07/07/2010 Rated: This thing is the perfect amount of light for inside a tent, the hooks on top let it hang in the tent for easy storage and top down lighting. Very Durable and compact. AAA batteries are the same as most headlamps so its easy to pack spares.
Tiny and bright
lessthanpete at Backcountry.com on 06/15/2010 Rated: This little light is great all around the campsite. Comes in handy when cooking, eating, playing games, hanging out in the tent. Puts out plenty of light, takes up next to no room, and can be placed or hung anywhere. Dimming option is a nice feature.
perfect
js1924119 at Backcountry.com on 06/02/2010 Rated: fantastic little lantern. Battery power is so much easier than propane. This lantern weights nothing, disappears in your pack, and has the perfect clips on top for hanging it on a tree branch or in your tent. The dim feature is pretty nice as well. I was debating giong for the apollo lantern (the bigger version of the Orbit) and ultimately went with the orbit. This lantern gives off plenty of light, and if you're backpacking it's not worth the weight and size of getting the apollo. If you have an orbit, or maybe even 2 if your partner has one, you are all set. Highly recommended for lightweight hikers. Have used mine upwards of 10 times now, no issues at all, and i'm still on my original batteries.
SO Small and Light
Brittany Lefler at Backcountry.com on 05/24/2010 Rated: I love, love, love this lantern! It really is smaller than you can imagine, but puts out a ton of light. I gave it to my husband for his birthday and he was a little concerned with the size, but when we took it camping for the first time, we were so impressed that we have decided to buy another one.
Love this thing
Pete at Campsaver.com on 05/05/2010 Rated: Love this little thing! Small, light ( I stick it in my pocket sometimes). The brightness can be adjusted but the run-time is great so far. Excellent for tent or small light source around campsite.
light and powerful
Dreadlock Rasta at Backcountry.com on 04/12/2010 Rated: It's a must have in a light packers arsenal. Many parks around here in Florida let you camp but not light fires. These give us plenty of lighting options. It also gets very hot here and we like to pack ultralight so I got 2 for me and my girl and we are loving them.
Brighter, Smaller than Expected
Dylster at Campsaver.com on 04/04/2010 Rated: After reading many reviews on this, I expected much worse light output and a larger size (I rarely bust out a ruler when viewing spec's). Instead, I found this to be smaller and brighter than I expected. Granted, for it's diminutive size, it's not a beacon that will be seen for miles. But it certainly pushes an even light across a small room/area. And there's no beating the size and extremely light weight. Impressive.
Nothing else needed
Barton Cooper at Backcountry.com on 03/29/2010 Rated: Great little light with a whole lot of light. Dim for subtle use or brighten it to walk through the woods at night. As the other reviews solidify, great product!!
Wrapped Up Like a Deuce
Ryan Flynn at Backcountry.com on 03/01/2010 Rated: What ever that means Manfred Mann.
This light is friggin' bright! hang it from the tail gate on the 4Runner, put it on the bench at the camp site, slip it in the light pocket in your Nemo Losi 3 tent, take it backbacking. Stands on its own, or has a genius mech. for hanging it. This little light is amazing. Not only does it produce a bright light, it also produces a strong, steady, and consistent glow. You can light up a picnic table at the campsite to see what you're eating, not so much what you're cooking, but that's why you'd buy the next biggest one.
This small, bright light slips in your pack and is most excellent for backpacking, especially when a bright light around your cooking/tent area is needed. It's also great for reading in the tent with the opposable metal rings that let you hang it from the gear loft area.
Great for Hammock Camping
Spurg1 at Backcountry.com on 02/14/2010 Rated: Great little light. Lightweight and very compact. Works great in my hammock at night. The frosted globe provides a soft light that's great for reading and other tasks. The top hooks make it easy to hang anywhere and the dimming function is nice for conserving battery life.
On my last trip it was nice having this lamp hanging from the ridgeline of my hammock. Didn't have to dig for my headlamp when my tarp came loose in the wind.
Not a good replacement for a headlamp or flashlight.
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