Klarus CL2 Camping Lantern Review
A versatile rechargeable camping lantern with strong battery life and practical emergency features.
The Klarus CL2 Camping Lantern is a compact rechargeable lantern designed for campers, outdoor adventures and emergency home use. Unlike basic lanterns that only provide simple illumination, the CL2 aims to be a more versatile lighting solution with adjustable brightness, multiple light modes and a built-in power bank feature.
For camping trips, power cuts and outdoor evenings, a reliable lantern can make a huge difference, and the Klarus CL2 does a good job balancing portability with practical lighting performance. Its combination of soft area lighting and directional torch-style output gives it more flexibility than many standard camping lanterns.
- Rechargeable 10400mAh battery
- Multiple lighting modes
- 360-degree lantern lighting
- Directional spotlight mode
- USB charging and power bank support
- Water-resistant outdoor design
- Compact camping-friendly size
One of the standout features is the large built-in battery. The 10400mAh capacity gives the lantern strong endurance for weekend camping trips or emergency backup use at home. Lower brightness settings can last a long time, making it practical for overnight tent lighting or prolonged blackout situations.
The lantern lighting itself is soft and evenly distributed, which is ideal inside tents, caravans or small rooms. Harsh directional light can become uncomfortable in enclosed spaces, so the more diffused glow here works well for relaxed evening use.
The additional spotlight mode increases its versatility considerably. This allows the CL2 to function more like a handheld torch when needed, useful for walking around campsites, finding equipment in the dark or navigating outdoor paths.
Another practical feature is its ability to act as a power bank. During camping trips or emergencies, being able to top up a phone or small USB device from the lantern battery adds real usefulness. While it will not fully replace a dedicated large-capacity power bank, it provides helpful backup charging when needed.
In terms of build quality, the Klarus CL2 feels solid and well suited to outdoor use. The body is compact enough to pack easily while still feeling durable. The hanging options also make it convenient for tents, awnings or indoor emergency use.
The water-resistant construction adds peace of mind for outdoor conditions. It handles damp weather and campsite use comfortably, although like most lanterns in this category it should not be submerged or heavily exposed to extreme conditions.
The lighting controls are generally straightforward, though cycling through multiple modes can take a little getting used to at first. Once familiar, however, it becomes easy enough to switch between brightness levels and lighting types quickly.
If you are building a camping setup, it fits naturally alongside other travel gadgets and portable outdoor tech.
- Pros:
- Excellent battery capacity
- Useful combination of lantern and spotlight modes
- Soft, comfortable campsite lighting
- Can charge phones and USB devices
- Compact and portable
- Cons:
- Slightly heavier than ultra-basic lanterns
- Mode switching takes some familiarisation
- Premium price compared to basic camping lights
The Klarus CL2 Camping Lantern is ideal for campers, caravan users, emergency preparedness kits and anyone wanting reliable rechargeable lighting during power cuts.
People needing ultra-light hiking gear may prefer something smaller, but for general camping and practical home backup use, the balance of battery life and versatility works very well.
Overall, the Klarus CL2 is a thoughtfully designed camping lantern that delivers strong real-world usefulness. Its long battery life, multiple lighting styles and backup charging ability make it far more capable than a simple budget lantern.