Best flashlight
You don’t want to get caught in the dark without a reliable light source when you need it most. When the power suddenly goes out, your car breaks down at night, or you need to complete a task in a dimly lit area, you will find that the right flashlight comes in handy. Pocket-size, industrial-strength, affordably priced — there’s a flashlight on the market to fit nearly any consumer’s needs and budget. This guide will give you some pointers and offer a few of our favorites.
Considerations when choosing the best flashlight
From practical to tactical, there are countless reasons why you might need a new flashlight. Do you want to stock your tool kit with a reliable, portable light? Do you need a small flashlight for your car’s glove box? Or maybe one to keep in the kitchen for the next time you need to light your way in a power outage? Different types of flashlights are designed for different purposes, and each has various convenient features.
General-purpose flashlights
These flashlights, also known as utility flashlights, are the go-to for basic in-home use. They’re usually inexpensive and, while practical, not known for longevity.
Pocket flashlights
These flashlights are designed as you’d expect—they are small enough to fit in your pocket. Their compact size makes them portable and ideal for lighting needs on the go. Some are even designed to resemble pens, with clips that can easily attach to a pocket or belt.
Work lights, spotlights, and industrial flashlights: These are all larger models with rugged housing, often used for tasks around the garage or workshop. They’re also suitable for tradespeople in fields like plumbing and carpentry.
Tactical flashlights
These are extremely heavy-duty lights, often made of tough, nearly indestructible metal. Modeled after flashlights used by professionals in law enforcement or the military, these flashlights provide superior lighting and are built to last.
Flashlight features
Size
Flashlights can be small enough to fit in a pocket or large enough to light up your yard. They also come in sizes in between, so you can find the perfect match to stash in your trunk, toolbox, or kitchen drawer.
Brightness
The brightness of a flashlight is measured in watts or lumens. The higher the number, the brighter the beam. While some flashlights have incandescent bulbs, they are typically dimmer and less durable than LED bulbs, which also last longer.
Batteries
Flashlights are powered by either disposable or rechargeable batteries. While disposable batteries are easy and quick to change, they can have questionable longevity. However, the downside of a flashlight that runs on a rechargeable battery is that it could take a while to charge completely.
Flashlight prices
No matter your budget, you can find an affordable flashlight. While many well-made models cost less than $20, high-end options can run over $100.
Best flashlight FAQ
I like the idea of the rugged build of tactical flashlights, but are they heavy?
A. It’s true that tactical flashlights are built to withstand heavy-duty use, but that doesn’t translate into hefty weight. In fact, most standard-size tactical models weigh less than a pound.
What is “strobe mode”?
A. In addition to turning on and off, some flashlights have a strobe mode, also sometimes referred to as SOS mode, that produces intermittent light. This mode is handy for attracting attention in an emergency.
Flashlights we recommend
Top flashlight
Fenix Flashlights FX-PD35TAC Flashlight
What you need to know: If you’re looking for a professional-grade flashlight that’s up to almost any task, this is the one to buy.
What you’ll love: It’s heavy-duty and has numerous capabilities, including a bright adjustable beam and SOS mode. It’s trusted by professionals such as military personnel.
What you should consider: The battery life and light brightness are known to diminish somewhat quickly when left on for long periods of time.
Top flashlight for the money
SureFire G2X Series LED Flashlight
What you need to know: For the consumer who needs a versatile and durable light, this is a good value.
What you’ll love: Its rugged Nitrolon construction resists shock and moisture. It features a strobe mode and is straightforward to operate.
What you should consider: We wish the battery life lasted a bit longer.
Worth checking out
STANLEY FATMAX LED Spotlight
What you need to know: This flashlight is ideal for anyone who needs a bright light for heavy-duty tasks.
What you’ll love: It’s powerful, at 2,200 lumens. The rechargeable battery has a long life, and the flashlight can be used hands-free.
What we dislike: The design is a bit bulky. It’s not practical if you prefer a basic model for everyday use.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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