The other day I got a Surefire E2E to replace my pocket flashlight, a Maglite single AAA cell. I realized that the AAA light is way underpowered for self defense and since I am preparing for CHL I decided to take the plunge (my wife doesn't know yet how much I paid

).
I did not compare it with the AAA light but I did compare it around the house with a Maglite 3 D cell and all I can say is "wow", noticeable brighter for a fraction of the size.
The only advantage of the Maglite 3 D cell would be on distance, since is more focused and has a larger mirror it will illuminate at a longer distance. However, since I am not taking the E2E hunting (yet) this is not a concern.