I tested it and it remained on at pretty good brightness for about 5 hours or more in max light mode. When it is off, and the solar panel completely covered, the charging LED remains lit. This concerned me because, even though I know LEDs don't use much power I felt it would slowly discharge the lantern battery when stored away. I contacted the manufacturer and they stated it was not a problem and it would not drain the battery. I know LL Bean will replace it if it does fail so I will keep it and test it further.
This product idea - a lantern that charges with a hand crank or solar cell - is great. Execution... not so much. It was all plastic, and arrived with the handle broken (and it didn't seem like it would last that long before breaking even if it had come in one piece). The light was reasonably bright to see where you're going, etc., but not great for reading. I expected better quality from LL Bean - this is the first product I've bought from them that I'm returning for poor quality. Having now read some of the reviews, it sounds like I'm not the only one with this experience.
Bought this lantern after losing power during a storm. Throws off great light so I can see in even the darkest rooms and basement. And no battiereis to worry about. Even just a few cranks (after intitial charging) lights up the room. Thanks LL Bean.
