14 DAY TRIAL // It would seem that photo and video accessories' manufacturer Joby is more and more active in the field of flashlights as well, because the company has just outed yet another addition to their Gorillatorch series, namely the Switchback model, whose main selling point is the fact that it can be used either as a standard flashlight or, need-be, as a headlamp.
The device is built around a CREE XLamp XP-G LED spotlight engine, that packs 2 while LEDs, as well as 2 red ones, used for night vision.
And, in fact, the level of brightness this device can generate is pretty impressive, ranging between 5 lumen (minimum) and 130 lumen (maximum), while the beam distance reaches 23 meters.
The Switchback is powered by 2 AA batteries, whose estimated functioning time is set at 72 hours, although we're pretty sure that using the torch at maximum brightness will result in a significantly lower life span.
Anyway, moving to the physical features, it's important to point out that carrying the device around shouldn't prove to be much of a problem, since the lantern with headlamp installed measures 4.5 x 3.3 x 2.1" /115 x 85 x 54mm when closed and 6.5 x 3.3 x 2.1" /166 x 85 x 54mm while open, the weight reaching 8.8oz/250g (lantern + headlamp + 2 AA batteries).
Since the flashlight/headlamp combo from Joby has been designed specifically for outdoor use, it's manufactured from rugged ABS plastic, nylon and polycarbonate with aluminum headlamp housing and 92% ultra-efficient holographic lens, while the stand sports ABS plastic with TPE grip rings and feet.
Last, but certainly not least, we'll have to point out that Joby's not even asking that much for their Gorillatorch Switchback “transforming” flashlight, the device being listed for just $59.95, which is quite an OK price point, given the level of functionality it provides.