The original XL is my favorite all-around flashlight. This model has been "improved" but I like it less than before. The LED is now regulated. This means the brightness should remain constant over a longer period. Unfortunately, the original seems brighter when loaded with fresh batteries. The head has been changed so there is now a black band around the edge of the lense. The refector is smaller. The overall shape is still the very best for holding in your hand and the regulator should enable the use of rechargeable NiMH batteries so I'll give it four stars (but just barely).