Choosing the right illuminated pen requires more than a glance at lumens. This detailed comparison dissects four of Olight's premium writing tools—the O’Pen 3, O’Pen 2, O’Pen Pro, and O’Pen Glow—across every critical category, from light sources and battery performance to ergonomics and intended use cases.
1. Core Functionality & Light Sources
This is the most significant differentiator. The models vary from a simple 2-in-1 design to a comprehensive 4-in-1 professional tool.
| Light Source / Function | O’Pen 3 | O’Pen 2 | O’Pen Pro | O’Pen Glow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Light | Max.120 lm | Max.120 lm | Max.120 lm | Max.120 lm |
| Secondary White Light | Yes, Pen Tip light | No | No | Yes, Pen Tip light |
| Red Light | Yes | No | No | No |
| Beam/Pointer | Green Laser | No | Green Laser | Green Laser |
| Total Functions | Pen, 3 lights, laser | Pen & Light | Pen, Light, laser | Pen, 2 lights, laser |
Key Takeaway: The O’Pen 3 is the undisputed feature king with its pen-tip light and professional-grade laser. The O’Pen Glow offers similar versatility adds a charging dock. The Pro and 2 are more focused on the core pen-light combo.
2. Detailed Performance Specifications
Beyond headline figures, runtime and output vary significantly by mode.
White Light Output & Runtime:
| Model | Max Output (High) | Runtime (High) | Most Efficient Mode | Runtime (Efficient) | Throw (Max) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| O’Pen 3 | 120 lm | 14 min + 25 min | Moonlight (2 lm) | 26 hours | 14 m |
| O’Pen 2 | 120 lm | 20 min | Low (5 lm) | 10 hours | 16 m |
| O’Pen Pro | 120 lm | 23 min | Low (5 lm) | 8 hours | 14 m |
| O’Pen Glow | 120 lm | 14 min + 21 min | Moonlight (5 lm) | 5 hours | 14 m |
Specialized Light Sources:
| Model | Red Light | Pen Tip Light | Laser |
|---|---|---|---|
| O’Pen 3 |
5 lm (Low) / 10 lm (High), |
0.4 lm | ≤0.39 mW (Class 1) |
| O'pen 2 | No | No | No |
| O’Pen Pro | No | No | Green Laser |
| O’Pen Glow | No | 0.2 lm | Green Laser |
Key Takeaway: For sheer white light endurance, the O’Pen 3’s 26-hour moonlight mode is unmatched. The O’Pen 2 has the longest throw (16m). The O’Pen 3 is unique with its red light for night vision preservation.
3. Physical Design & Usability
How the pen feels and operates daily is crucial.
| Design Aspect | O’Pen 3 | O’Pen 2 | O’Pen Pro | O’Pen Glow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 156 mm | 145 mm | 153 mm | 155 mm |
| Diameter | 12.7 mm (0.5 in) | 12.7 mm (0.5 in) | 12.7 mm (0.5 in) | 12.7 mm (0.5 in) |
| Weight | 33.5 g | 32 g | 35 g | 38 g |
| Activation | Main button + Mode selector | Top switch + L-type bolt for pen | Single L-type bolt controls pen & light | L-type bolt with switch |
| Charging | Hidden USB-C port | USB-C port | USB-C port | USB-C + Dedicated Charging Base |
| Body Material | A6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy | Aluminum Alloy | Aluminum Alloy | AL6061-T6 Aluminum Alloy |
Key Takeaway: The O’Pen Pro and Glow solve the beam-blockage issue with a clip-mounted light. The O’Pen Glow’s charging base is a unique convenience feature. The O’Pen 3 offers the most sophisticated grip and controls.
4. Target User & Ideal Use Case
| Model | Primary User Profile | Ideal Scenario | Why It's The Best Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| O’Pen 3 | The Professional & Prepared Enthusiast | Presenting in a boardroom, charting at night, emergency kits, tactical use. | The only model with a red light (SOS) and a regulated laser, making it a true multi-mission tool. |
| O’Pen 2/O’Pen Pro | The First-Time User & Value Seeker | Everyday carry, gift, keeping in the car, general outdoor use. | Simple, reliable, and cost-effective. It does the core job (pen + good light) very well without complexity. |
| O’Pen Glow | The Desk Professional & Tech Enthusiast | Home office, bedside table, creative workspace, daily organizational carry. | The charging base ensures it's always full, and the pen-tip light is perfect for writing in low light without glare. |
5. Battery, Extras
| Category | O’Pen 3 | O’Pen 2 | O’Pen Pro | O’Pen Glow |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 130mAh | 110mAh | 110mAh | 110mAh |
| In the Box | Pen, USB-C cable, refill | Pen, USB-C cable, refill, manual | Pen, USB-C cable, refill, manual | Pen, Charging Base, USB-C cable, refill, magnetic badge |
Key Takeaway: The O’Pen 3 offers a larger battery and a superior warranty in key markets. The O’Pen 2 and Pro provide an extra refill. The O’Pen Glow bundle is unique with its base and badge.
Final Recommendation Grid
- Choose the O’Pen 3 if: You need a professional-grade, do-everything tool and value the red light for night vision and a precision laser above all else.
- Choose the O’Pen 2/O’Pen Pro if: You want a no-fuss, reliable pen-light at a likely lower price point. It's the essence of the series.
- Choose the O’Pen Glow if: Convenience and desk presence are paramount, and you love the idea of a dedicated docking station for a multi-function pen.
Each O’Pen model is engineered for a distinct priority. By aligning the specific features and strengths outlined above with your personal daily routines and needs, you can select the perfect illuminated pen to reliably "write in light."
