After receiving the Supernova 300, I decided to test it to be sure that all features worked and to know how long it would run on a set of rechargeable batteries. I put a set of freshly charged batteries in the unit and set it to the medium setting. It ran for 3 hours and then the light started to fade and then went out. I put another brand of freshly charged batteries in the unit to repeat the test to be sure the batteries were not the problem. The second time, it ran for 1 hour and the light went out. I was unable to find any loose connections.

I removed the batteries and returned the item to Amazon for a refund. I decided to not get a replacement, since I don't have much faith in the lantern, especially since I'm buying the lantern for use in extended power outages.

I ordered a second Tough Light rechargeable lantern to replace the Super Nova 300. I tested the Tough Light with the following results. 40 hours on the HIGH setting, 102 hours on the MEDIUM setting. The low setting is only 20 lumens, which is not useful to me, so I didn't test that setting. After the test, I ordered a second Tough Light. The lithium battery works well and gives a consistent light up to the time it goes out.

I got a full credit from Amazon in one day.

Holy crap is this thing bright. Seriously, LED' s have come a LONG way and the lumens DO kick out, so don't stare at it. The battery access on the bottom is a challenge to "twist-loc" and somewhat cryptic on positive and negative battery installation. It uses (4) size "D" batteries, which means LONG run time. I put a temporary cardboard shield on one side when I am doing attic or basement work, so it doesn't shine at ME, rather my work in front of me. It has a TINY little power light, so no worries.

I almost bought the 300 lumens model but for just ten dollars more the 500 lumens model is well worth it. This little lantern is BRIGHT! with it's compact size, low and high settings and emergency flash feature... This is simply the best lantern I have owned. Perfect for emergency power outages as this lantern lights up the entire living area and kitchen in our home... and no other lantern is better for the RV/campsite. Only need to use the low setting for camping. the only minor negative thing I found is putting the bottom back on over the batteries was a bit tricky.

Summary: These lanterns are bright, durable, and work very well with rechargeable batteries. If you do a good deal of camping with bigger campsites or want to illuminate a larger area with the power of the sun, the SuperNova 500 will deliver.
Pros: Lightweight and easy to pack; water resistant; can last ~14 hours of light using the low setting (which is very bright) and approx ~9 hrs on high on a single charge with rechargeable batteries
Cons: Light is bluish (typical LEDs). Bottom battery cover can be difficult at first, but very simple once you do it a couple times. The cover is tight to keep out moisture and the batteries from falling out should it take a hit.

I am a Boy Scout leader and did a great deal of research on lanterns to move our Troop from propane style lighting to something more sustainable and far less bulky for our monthly camp outs. We needed something that was durable, lightweight, very bright, and would support renewable energy using solar power.

The SuperNova 500 use 3x D cell batteries. After much testing and trial/error, I found a great pairing with these lanterns with the Powerex Imedion D cell batteries sold by Maha Energy (on Amazon). The batteries are not cheap, but they can be recharged 2000 times, and most importantly put out consistent bright light with these lanterns all the way up to full discharge. The lanterns can use typical alkaline batteries just the same, but we were after solar charging to teach the Boys about harnessing renewable energy.

I bought five of these lanterns and have used them on camping trips this spring. With about 20 boys, we really put them through the paces. They were knocked around, left outside in the rain, knocked off the table at least once, and were attacked by swarms of mosquitoes. Although we did not leave them in the rain for long, they did not have any issues and the seals kept the moisture out. Trust me - I was looking for weaknesses in design and ability to last. I have not found any and expect them to be a permanent feature at our camp outs for many more years to come.

One last note. Having a great product fairly priced is key, but backing that product with great customer service is a lost art these days as more companies race to the bottom to sell cheap junk by cutting corners. These lanterns come with a 5 year no BS warranty and the interaction I have had with Intervine has been phenomenal. They genuinely stand behind their products and have been very accommodating and supportive of the Boy Scouts of America. Here is a picture of these bright lanterns and few of Intervine's Halo lights getting prepped for camping. It was brighter than the midday sun with them all going inside the house.

The electricity in Nashville was out for 3 days two weeks ago-yep, 3 whole hot long days. I realized I had zip for emergencies and finally settled on this light. Love it-I tried to order another and it is sold out-still ordered and hopefully come in soon. I think having at least 2, maybe buy a few more, will help -cause there will be a next time. Candles just don't cut it. I haven't actually used it , thank goodness, but installing the batteries was straightforward and easy. Hopefully the order will be filled soon. I may buy then more as gifts. I looked too at the 500 and thought if it fades just buy more of this one. This is the second time here the power has been out for days. Also, I figure too if I had a few I could turn 1 on and then 6 hours later another and stagger them . Nice design and visually appealing also. Hurry up and make more!