The Vango Comet 3-in-1 Light is a rechargeable, telescopic lighting solution designed to meet the varied needs of campers, festival-goers, and outdoor enthusiasts. With its ability to function as a torch, table light, or stand light, the Comet offers a rare blend of portability, adjustability, and multi-use practicality. In this detailed review, we’ll explore its design, performance, usability, and how it compares to other campsite lighting options.
Design and Build Quality
The Comet Light features a telescopic body mounted on a sturdy tripod base, allowing users to adjust both the height and angle of illumination. This design makes it suitable for a wide range of scenarios—from lighting up a tent interior to illuminating a picnic table or acting as a directional torch.
The build quality is solid for a portable light. The tripod legs are stable and well-balanced, and the telescopic mechanism extends smoothly without feeling flimsy. The casing is made from durable plastic with a matte finish, and the light head rotates to direct the beam where needed.
At 0.74kg, the Comet is lightweight enough for easy transport but heavy enough to stay upright in breezy conditions. It’s compact when collapsed, making it ideal for car camping or festival setups where space is limited.
Lighting Modes and Brightness
The Comet Light offers multiple brightness settings, allowing users to tailor the illumination to their environment. Whether you need soft ambient light for reading or a brighter beam for cooking or navigating the campsite, the adjustable output makes it highly versatile.
While exact lumen ratings aren’t specified, user feedback suggests the light is bright enough for general campsite use without being harsh or blinding. The ability to switch between modes—torch, table light, and stand light—adds to its flexibility and makes it suitable for solo use or group settings.
The light head’s design allows for directional lighting, which is useful for tasks like cooking or gear organisation. In torch mode, it functions as a handheld beam; in table mode, it provides downward-facing light; and in stand mode, it acts as a freestanding lantern.
Power and Charging
The Comet Light is USB-C rechargeable, with a charge time of approximately 5 hours. This modern charging standard ensures compatibility with most power banks, solar panels, and USB outlets, making it easy to recharge on the go.
Battery life varies depending on brightness setting, but users report reliable performance for evening use and overnight lighting. It’s ideal for weekend trips or multi-day festivals where access to power may be intermittent.
The inclusion of a USB-C cable in the box is a welcome touch, and the charging port is protected by a rubber seal to prevent dust and moisture ingress.
Real-World Use Cases
The Vango Comet 3-in-1 Light excels in a variety of outdoor scenarios:
- Tent lighting: Use in table mode for soft, ambient illumination inside your shelter.
- Cooking station: Stand mode provides directional light for food prep and cleanup.
- Night walks: Torch mode offers a focused beam for navigating trails or campsites.
- Festival camping: Compact and rechargeable, perfect for multi-day events.
- Van life: Doubles as a reading light or portable lamp in confined spaces.
Its telescopic design and tripod base make it more stable and adaptable than traditional lanterns or hanging lights, especially on uneven ground or windy nights.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Here’s how the Comet stacks up against other popular campsite lights:
| Product | Weight | Modes | Rechargeable | Price Range | Key Features | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vango Comet 3-in-1 Light | 0.74kg | Torch, table, stand | USB-C | £50 | Telescopic, tripod base, multi-mode | Vango Official Site |
| BioLite AlpenGlow 500 | 0.6kg | Colour, white, strobe | USB-C | £70–£90 | Colour modes, IPX4 water resistance | — |
| Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 | 0.5kg | 360°, dimmable | USB + solar | £60–£80 | Hand crank, solar panel compatible | — |
| Coleman BatteryGuard 600L | 0.7kg | High/low | AA batteries | £30–£45 | Long battery life, rugged build | — |
The Comet stands out for its tripod stability, multi-mode versatility, and modern charging interface, making it a strong contender for campers who want more than just a lantern.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Three-in-one functionality (torch, table, stand)
- Telescopic height adjustment
- Stable tripod base
- USB-C rechargeable with 5-hour charge time
- Lightweight and compact for transport
Cons:
- No official lumen rating provided
- Not waterproof (best used in dry conditions)
- Single colour light (no warm/cool options)
Final Verdict
The Vango Comet 3-in-1 Light is a thoughtfully designed, multi-functional lighting solution for outdoor use. Its telescopic body, tripod base, and USB-C charging make it ideal for campers, festival-goers, and van lifers who value flexibility and ease of use. While it’s not the brightest or most feature-rich light on the market, its stability and versatility set it apart from standard lanterns.
For those building a modular camping setup or looking to upgrade from basic lighting gear, the Comet is a smart investment that adapts to your environment and needs.
