Why the CL23 Is Hard to Replace Directly
The Fenix CL23 is discontinued, so you can't simply order another one. If you relied on its multi-directional lighting or its AA battery setup, a generic replacement may not match those specific traits. The CL23 combined a 360° glow, a front-facing light, and down light in one compact body—a mix that made it useful for both tent ambience and task lighting.
Rather than hunting for an exact successor, focus on the features that made the CL23 work for you. The checklist below is built from the CL23's own specifications so you can judge any camping lantern alternative on equal terms.
CL23 specs that define your replacement target
- Fenix CL23 Camping Lantern - DISCONTINUED: Max output of 300 lumens and a max beam distance of 66 feet (20 meters). Use these as baseline numbers: if you often lit a whole campsite with the CL23, look for a replacement that meets or exceeds 300 lumens and a similar beam reach.
Fenix CL23 Camping Lantern - DISCONTINUED - Fenix CL23 Camping Lantern - DISCONTINUED: Lighting modes include three brightness levels of 360° light, one front-facing brightness level, two down-light brightness levels, red, and red flash. This mode spread is the CL23's most distinctive trait. Decide which modes you actually used—360° for area light, down light for reading, red for night vision—and make sure the replacement covers them.
- Fenix CL23 Camping Lantern - DISCONTINUED: Runs on three included AA alkaline batteries, with a max runtime of 350 hours. AA batteries are easy to find and swap in an emergency. If you value that simplicity, prioritize a replacement that also takes standard AA cells; if you want to recharge, a built-in battery is a different trade-off.
- Fenix CL23 Camping Lantern - DISCONTINUED: IP66 rated protection and described as rain-resistant. This rating indicates the lantern can handle rain and splashes, which matters for camping. Check the IP rating of any alternative; a lower rating may not suit wet conditions.
What to compare in a camping lantern alternative
Use these criteria to evaluate any replacement, whether it's another Fenix model or a different brand. Each point ties back to a CL23 feature so you can decide what you're willing to trade.
- Power source: AA vs. rechargeable: The CL23 runs on AA batteries, which you can replace anywhere. A rechargeable lantern saves on disposable batteries but requires charging time and a power source. If you often camp off-grid for long stretches, AA compatibility may be more important than rechargeability.
- Light direction and modes: The CL23 offers 360°, front, down, and red modes. Some alternatives are 360°-only or have fewer brightness levels. List the modes you used most—if you never used the down light, you can widen your options.
- Output and runtime: The CL23 delivers up to 300 lumens and up to 350 hours of runtime. A replacement with higher output may have shorter runtime at that level. Match the numbers to your typical use: a weekend tent camper has different needs than someone lighting a large picnic area.
- Size and weight: The CL23 weighs 4.9 oz. (140g) without batteries and measures 2.2” (55mm) in diameter by 3.4” (85mm) tall. If pack space is tight, compare these dimensions directly; many lanterns are bulkier.
- Weather protection: The CL23 is IP66 rated. Look for a similar IP rating if you camp in wet conditions; a lantern without a stated rating may not be suitable for exposed use.
- Mounting options: The CL23 has a top-positioned tripod socket for directional control. If you liked hanging or mounting your lantern, check whether the alternative offers a comparable socket or hook.
Battery flexibility you may not have used
One CL23 feature worth carrying forward: it can run on just one or two AA batteries in an emergency. That flexibility is uncommon and useful if you're low on cells. When comparing alternatives, check whether they require a full set to operate—some do.
Also note that the CL23 will not work with the Fenix ARB-L14-1600U battery. If you already own that cell, don't assume it will power a replacement; check the replacement's specified battery type.
Care habits that extend any lantern's life
Whether you keep using a CL23 you already own or buy a new lantern, a few habits from the CL23's manual apply broadly. Remove batteries if the light won't be used for an extended period to avoid damage from electrolyte leakage or battery explosion. Clean dirty contact points with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol if the light flickers or fails to illuminate. And if the high mode can't be selected, replace the batteries as soon as possible.
For the CL23 specifically, long-term use can wear the O-ring; replace it with an approved spare to maintain the water seal. Disassembling the sealed head can damage the lantern and void the warranty. These are good reminders to check any lantern's seals and contacts before a trip.
A practical way to decide
Start by listing the CL23 modes you actually used. If you mostly used the 360° glow, a simpler area lantern may suffice. If you relied on the down light for reading or the red mode for night vision, prioritize those features. Then decide on power: stick with AA for field-replaceable simplicity, or move to a rechargeable model if you always have access to power.
Finally, compare size and weight against the CL23's 4.9 oz. (140g) and its compact dimensions. A slightly larger lantern may be fine for car camping but less ideal for backpacking. There's no single best replacement—only the one that matches how you camp.
