The Eveready LED Camping Lantern X-250 comes in a two-pack, aimed at campers, emergency preppers, and anyone who needs reliable portable light. With a claimed 100-hour runtime and included batteries, it promises convenience and longevity. But how does it perform in real-world scenarios? We took a closer look at the specs and typical user experiences to provide an honest assessment.
In use, these lanterns are most at home in a tent, a backyard, or during a power outage. The X-250 is compact enough to sit on a picnic table or hang from a loop, and the two-pack means you can light two areas at once. The light output is bright enough for tasks like cooking, reading, or navigating a campsite after dark, though it’s not going to illuminate a large area like a propane lantern. The red and black color scheme is a nice touch for visibility, but the plastic body feels less rugged than some metal alternatives.
Key features include a push-button switch that cycles through high, low, and off (some versions also have a flashing mode). The lantern runs on three D-cell batteries (included), which contribute to the long runtime. At low setting, 100 hours is plausible, but on high, expect closer to 20-30 hours. The light is a cool white LED, which is efficient but can feel harsh; it’s not a warm, cozy glow. The lantern is water-resistant (IPX4), meaning it can handle rain splashes but shouldn’t be submerged.
One limitation is the lack of a dimming feature or adjustable focus. You get two brightness levels, and that’s it. Also, the plastic construction may not survive repeated drops onto hard surfaces. Compared to rechargeable lanterns like those from Goal Zero or Black Diamond, the X-250 lacks USB charging and is heavier due to the D-cell batteries. However, it wins on initial cost and battery availability—you can find D cells at any drugstore, whereas rechargeable models require a power source.
Who is this for? Casual campers, families, and those building an emergency kit will find the two-pack practical and affordable. It’s also a good choice for kids’ rooms or closets. Who is it not for? Backpackers counting ounces will find it too heavy (around 1.5 pounds with batteries), and those wanting a premium, long-lasting light might prefer a rechargeable model with a metal body. Overall, the Eveready X-250 is a no-frills, functional lantern that gets the job done without fanfare.
