REVIEW: Element E-Lites

LEDs in silicone are currently very popular: the original from S&S Precision is called V-Lite (HERE is the review of the original) and has already been cheaply copied (FMA V-Lite, HERE is the review of the Chinese clone). New Element has also tackled the topic and worked on it themselves. The result is the E-Lites, which we want to take a look at for you. (All images clickable for enlargement.)

Here is the full range of Element E-Lites: available colors are Blue, Red, and Green - and especially, the second from the right: Infrared. This E-Lite can only be observed while working with night vision equipment. More than 140 hours of continuous light are promised. The modes are: OFF, (click) continuous light, (click) blinking, (click) OFF.

Here are the components disassembled: silicone wedge with circuit board, LED, and CR 2032 battery inside (left), the plastic base (2nd from left), next to it the back with a very good and firmly adhesive Velcro on the back. For the E-Lite on the far right, you can also see the cord that comes with it and can be attached to any of the lights. The size comparison makes it clear: the E-Lite has significantly more volume than the V-Lite.

Attempt on the MOLLE loop: only the silicone wedge fits perfectly into a MOLLE. But with the base, there is no chance. But it is intended to attach it to the E-Lite with Velcro, for example, to the helmet.

CONCLUSION: Element did not just copy the V-Lite, but also developed it further: the E-Lite is wider, there is an IR version, and you can also recognize the colors of the E-Lites in the switched-off mode by the color of the circuit board in the silicone (e.g. red circuit board for the red E-Lite), which is very practical. In terms of workmanship quality, Element is on par with the genuine V-Lite, there are no inconsistent castings and air inclusions like in the FMA Chinese clone. In terms of luminous performance, the different silicone lights do not differ, although with this one there is a slight impression that the extra mass is not fully illuminated. Overall, an excellent product designed for practical use. Probably also interesting for divers to take as a position light into the depths.

In Germany, you can get the Element E-Lites at SNIPER AS for 14.90 euros. Otherwise, at various Asian shops starting from 14 dollars per piece.