An OoC Review: Biolite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern  – The Lantern You Didn’t Know You Needed

A quirky, bright, innovative, versatile lantern made for all occasions.

The Highlights –  Biolite AlpenGlow 500 $79.95

So First off, does the world need another lantern?  What makes this Biolite AlpenGlow 500 Lantern one so unique?  This is a feature-heavy, mood-inspiring “lite” made for literally any occasion.

• 5-200h Battery life 
• Phone Charging Capabilities
• A simple touch turns it on/off 
• Shake Feature to change modes
• Cool/Warm/Candle Flicker/Multi-Color
• Creates inspiring scenes perfect for indoor and outdoor use
• Ridiculously bright
• Fireworks Mode
• Easy to hang (Built-in Hook)
• Expandable lighting/link up with Satellite String 

The Specs 

• 500 lumens
• 6,400 Mah
• 5.4 x 3.8in 
• Weight 13.4oz
• Water-Resistant 
• ChromaReal broad-spectrum LED
• Charge time 3hrs

Fashion // Function –

• When purchasing a product, something that comes to mind is always packaging, how was it packaged, how does the unboxing process make me feel?  Biolite nailed their packaging on this, from the little hanger on top to the way the box opens and the final product “reveal.”  Must note that the AlpenGlow 500 is packaged within a random plastic bag that feels like it could have been avoided.
• As far as how the AlpenGlow 500 works, It’s a simple well thought interface, one touch of a button and it lights up, double-tap unlocks another feature, triple tap, and even a QUAD tap, with every tap opening another color-way.  Give the Alpenglow a shake and unlock a flicker/dance party/ fireworks or half set.
• 
• The Alpenglow is as useful at the campsite as it is in the van and/or house, setting a proper ambiance for any occasion or lighting up the entire picnic table to finish that late-night game of cards.
• Although testing durability is always a tough thing to do, it’s easy for me to verify that the Alpenglow is built well and has no issue withstanding severe drops (may have dropped this from my van roof while attempting to hang)
• Small enough to fit in a bag for bike-packing/overnight trips and has the power to charge your phone.  Powerful enough to provide plenty of light for you and your friends.
• Easy-to-read battery indicator

All in All – 

• Scrolling through the modes can be confusing, and explaining it at camp could be frustrating until you get the hang of it.
• If you’re strictly using this as a camp lantern it can be a bit pricey, but it’s easy to find ways to use this lantern on a daily, whether it be working on your car, creating an ambiance for dinner, or just hanging out in the garage this is a well made do it all lantern.
• To put it simply the Biolite AlpenGlow 500 feels as good as it looks, with multiple color modes, quick one-touch settings, and shake to unlock more modes it’s a must-have for any serious (or non-serious) camper.  

Reality (does it do what it says it does): 10  Function: 8  Fashion (swag): 7

Score: 8.3/10 – A score like this means it’s…

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Tagged as: biolite,  lantern.