Fenix CL22R Lantern Review: Why We Picked This Compact Light

For anyone spending time outdoors, reliable lighting is a must, and the Fenix CL22R Compact Lantern doesn’t disappoint. This compact, USB-C rechargeable lantern boasts 500 lumens, versatile lighting modes, and durable construction. It’s a valuable addition to your outdoor gear—whether you’re an avid camper, RV traveler, or just someone who loves a well-lit campsite.

Get your Fenix CL22R Compact Lantern here

Versatile Lighting Options for Different Outdoor Needs

The Fenix CL22R isn’t just a typical camping lantern; it’s built with versatility to meet a range of outdoor lighting needs. Its 360-degree light output is powerful enough to illuminate a wide campsite area, reaching up to 21 yards in diameter, making it ideal for lighting up an entire campsite for cooking, setting up tents, or social gatherings after dark. The down-facing light option is particularly useful for focused tasks like reading, preparing meals, or playing games around a table without disturbing others nearby.

The CL22R offers seven unique lighting modes tailored for diverse scenarios. Beyond just brightness levels, these modes include white light and two red light settings—perfect for maintaining night vision or adding a low-visibility safety light without startling wildlife or fellow campers. The two ambient color options provide a fun twist; you can set a calming atmosphere in your tent or add a festive touch to your campsite. For those needing a more intense brightness, the white light’s high setting delivers a strong 500-lumen output that effectively covers a large area, while the medium and low settings help conserve battery life on longer trips.

With a color temperature of 3000K for the 360° lighting mode and 6500K for the down light mode, the Fenix CL22R can provide either a warm, inviting glow or a clear, bright beam, depending on your needs. This range of options makes it an excellent companion for a variety of outdoor activities—from camping and fishing to hiking and backyard get-togethers. Whether you need maximum visibility to safely navigate around camp or a subtle ambient light for a relaxed setting, the CL22R adapts effortlessly.

Ambient and Task Lighting in One Compact Lantern

The lantern offers both ambient lighting for setting a mood around the campsite and task lighting for focused work, like setting up your tent or preparing food after dusk. Unlike traditional lanterns, the CL22R combines white, red, and colored ambient lighting, giving you a choice between practical illumination and an aesthetic glow. When I’m camping with family, I use the ambient lighting mode to set a relaxed mood, while the downward task light is perfect for functional lighting without glare.

For example, in a remote campsite with minimal light pollution, the red light mode helps preserve night vision—ideal for stargazing or keeping things low-key without disturbing wildlife. Meanwhile, the red flashing mode offers an emergency signal feature, which can be a crucial safety tool when you’re out on solo trips or exploring unfamiliar terrain.

For more lighting tips, read our comprehensive guide to understanding lumens and lighting brightness to choose the right level of illumination for every outdoor scenario.

Practical Uses for the Fenix CL22R in Outdoor Adventures

The Fenix CL22R is built for convenience and durability, making it an invaluable companion on a variety of outdoor excursions. Its compact design and lightweight build—at just 4.76 ounces—mean it can easily fit into any backpack, or even attach to a bag with its included snap hook. Designed with durability in mind, the CL22R holds up in challenging outdoor conditions, thanks to its IP65 waterproof rating and impact resistance up to 1.5 meters. Here are a few ways it excels on outdoor adventures:

• Extended Camping Trips: The CL22R’s long battery life and multiple light modes make it an excellent choice for multi-day camping trips. The low and medium settings conserve battery life, while the red and ambient light settings help maintain night vision and create a relaxing atmosphere.
• Nighttime Hiking and Trail Navigation: For evening hikes or exploring after dark, this lantern provides a stable, 360-degree light source. It’s also useful for setting up a clear path or perimeter lighting around your campsite.
• Fishing Excursions: The downward-facing light is especially helpful for night fishing, allowing you to illuminate your working area without disturbing the surrounding environment or scaring away fish.
• Backpacking and Lightweight Packing: Weighing less than 5 ounces, the CL22R is compact and easy to carry. Its low weight makes it ideal for those looking to keep gear lightweight, such as backpackers and minimalist campers.
• Emergency Preparedness: With its rugged design, the CL22R is a reliable addition to an emergency kit. Whether you’re weathering a storm or handling an unexpected power outage, this lantern’s variety of light modes and long runtime provide dependable lighting.
• Outdoor Gatherings and Campsite Setup: Use the 360-degree white light to set up a shared gathering area, while the ambient color options create a unique atmosphere in your tent or around the campsite.

With its portability, durability, and versatile light modes, the Fenix CL22R is a multifunctional tool for any outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re trekking through rugged terrain or just setting up a comfortable evening at camp, this lantern’s practical features enhance safety and convenience.

Regular maintenance can keep your lantern shining bright for years to come; learn essential camping lantern care tips to extend its lifespan and ensure reliable lighting on every trip.

Battery Life Built for Extended Outings

One standout feature is the lantern’s long-lasting battery. On its lowest setting, the Fenix CL22R runs for up to 200 hours, allowing for several days of use without the need for recharging. This can be especially helpful for extended camping trips where power may be limited. Plus, with the USB-C charging port, recharging is faster and more convenient than with previous models.

To further extend battery life, you can limit usage to the lower brightness settings, which still provide sufficient light for most activities. Having experienced unexpected weather during an RV trip, I found the battery life invaluable, ensuring that our lighting needs were met even when charging wasn’t an option.

If you’re interested in other long-lasting lighting options for your campsite, see our review on the Fenix CL27R camping lantern for another reliable, high-performance choice.

Additional Features That Make the Fenix CL22R Stand Out

This lantern offers several thoughtful design features that add to its functionality. The hanging loop and double snap hook provide flexible hanging options, allowing you to secure it overhead or clip it to your gear. Whether you hang it from a tree branch for wide-area lighting or attach it to your backpack, it’s versatile enough for any setup. I generally hang a few lanterns around the campsite to provide illumination all over.

From camping to late-night hikes, finding the ideal lighting can make all the difference—learn how to choose the best outdoor lighting options here.

Fun Colorful Modes for Camp Ambiance

With its two disco light modes, the Fenix CL22R goes beyond being a standard lantern. These decorative light options add a unique touch to campsite gatherings, creating a colorful ambiance that’s fun for families and groups. You can change modes from red constant-on, red flashing, colors jumping, and colors morphing. The kids love the color-changing modes, and it helps to get them outside more at night.

Fenix CL22R vs. Other Camping Lanterns: Why This Model Excels

When compared to traditional camping lanterns, the Fenix CL22R’s lightweight design, combined with its powerful illumination, makes it stand out. While some lanterns rely on disposable batteries, the CL22R’s built-in rechargeable battery is both eco-friendly and cost-effective for long-term use.

This lantern’s balance between portability, brightness, and battery life makes it an excellent choice for backpackers, campers, and RV travelers alike. For those interested in a compact, durable lantern that provides excellent lighting without taking up space, this model is a reliable choice.

FAQ: Fenix CL22R Compact Lantern

1. How long does it take to recharge the Fenix CL22R?
With the USB-C port, the CL22R recharges faster than many other models. Expect a full charge in approximately 3 hours.

2. Can I use the Fenix CL22R in the rain?
Yes, with its IP65 waterproof rating, the CL22R is built to withstand splashes and light rain, making it ideal for outdoor use.

3. What’s the difference between the white and red light modes?
The white light provides clear, bright illumination for tasks, while the red light preserves night vision and offers emergency signaling options.

4. Is the disco light mode functional or just for fun?
The disco light mode is primarily for ambiance, creating a colorful atmosphere around the campsite. It’s a fun feature that adds character to your camping setup.

5. Can the Fenix CL22R be used as a flashlight?
Yes, with a directional down-facing light mode, the CL22R can serve as a functional flashlight, making it a versatile tool in your camping gear.

Conclusion: A Versatile Lantern for Any Adventure

The Fenix CL22R Compact Lantern is more than just a light source—it’s a multifunctional tool designed for various outdoor needs. From its robust lighting options to its compact and durable design, it’s ideal for campers, hikers, and RV enthusiasts. This lantern provides both functional lighting for tasks and ambient options for a cozy camp atmosphere.

For those seeking a high-quality, rechargeable lantern that’s built to withstand the elements, the Fenix CL22R is a worthwhile investment in any outdoor setup. Get your Fenix CL22R Compact Lantern here and light up your outdoor adventures with a lantern designed to last.