"Why take these over a photon? "

I would not take one of these over a photon if there was enough room for the photon. I see these as either a backup light in addition to a photon (or other good light) or to use in a micro-kit where space is very, very limited. Since they are very small and not very expensive, I think they would be fine for that use.

I have a Photon II on my key chain all of the time. The Photon is much brighter.

Just my opinion.