Over time, flashlights have become essential tools used by people worldwide for various purposes. Whether it’s exploring the great outdoors, navigating in dark environments, or addressing emergency situations, a reliable flashlight has continued to earn its place as a valuable asset for just about anyone.
Built-in OLED display
Advanced cooling technology
Waterproof construction
Easy-to-use interface
Built-in charging port
USB-C charging
Side switch and tail switch
Battery level indicator
Compact and powerful
Lumens: Up to 1000 lumens
Battery life: Up to 46 hours (low mode)
Battery type: Two CR123A or one 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 656 feet (200 metres)
Modes: 2 lighting modes
Weight: 5.7 ounces (with batteries)
Battery type: Rechargeable 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 1,312 feet (400 metres)
Modes: 4 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 6.24 ounces (without battery)
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best flashlights & how they could be helpful to you. We’ll explore a bit about each brand, the key features of each flashlight and their spec’s.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the term “flashlight” originated from early portable electric lights that required users to momentarily press a button to generate a flash of bright light??
ANSI’s flashlight ratings are based on their brightness, power output and battery run times, as well as beam distance. Throughout the buying process you will see a variety of ratings. This rating explains everything that makes it easy for you to find the best flashlight.
The Fenix PD36R is a powerful flashlight boasting up to 1600 lumens of brightness. With a rechargeable 21700 battery, it provides an impressive battery life of up to 160 hours in eco mode.
Lightweight and easy to carry, its key features include: a tactical tail switch, and a beam distance of up to 928 feet (282 Metres). Weighing just 3.04 ounces (86g) without the battery, it’s a lightweight and durable option with USB Type-C charging.
Lumens: Up to 1600 lumens
Battery life: Up to 160 hours (eco mode)
Battery type: Rechargeable 21700 battery
Beam distance: Up to 928 feet (283 metres)
Modes: 6 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 3.04 ounces (without battery)
USB Type-C charging
Tactical tail switch
Battery level indicator
Durable construction
Fenix is a well-known brand in the flashlight industry, renowned for producing high-quality, reliable, and overall some of the best flashlights.
With a focus on durability, performance, and innovative features, Fenix flashlights are widely used by outdoor enthusiasts, professionals, and everyday users alike. The brand emphasises the use of advanced LED technology, robust construction, and user-friendly designs to meet the diverse needs of their customers.
Pros:
High maximum output of 1600 lumens for powerful illumination.
Long battery life with a maximum runtime of 115 hours in low (eco) mode.
USB-C rechargeable battery for convenient charging.
Compact and lightweight design for easy carry.
Multiple lighting modes and a strobe function for versatile use.
Cons:
The highest output mode may generate significant heat during extended use.
Some users may find the side switch positioning less intuitive.
Limited beam distance compared to some other models on the market.
The pocket clip could be sturdier.
The interface may require some familiarisation for optimal use.
Try the Fenix PD36R now
The Olight S2R Baton II is a compact yet powerful flashlight that offers up to 1150 lumens of brightness, making it the perfect keychain flashlight.
Powered by a rechargeable 18650 battery via a usb magnetic charger, it provides a remarkable battery life of up to 60 days in moonlight mode, making it ideal for prolonged usage.
The S2R Baton II features five lighting modes, including a strobe, catering to various lighting needs. With a beam distance of up to 443 feet, it offers a balanced combination of reach and intensity. Weighing 3.47 ounces (with battery), this flashlight is lightweight and convenient for everyday carry.
Lumens: Up to 1150 lumens
Battery life: Up to 60 days (moonlight mode)
Battery type: Rechargeable 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 443 feet (135 metres)
Modes: 5 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 3.47 ounces (including battery)
Magnetic tailcap
USB magnetic charging
Compact design
Side switch for easy operation
Known for its cutting-edge technology and compact designs, Olight prides itself on producing high-performance flashlights that deliver exceptional brightness and durability.
Olight flashlights often feature rechargeable batteries, magnetic charging capabilities, and intuitive user interfaces, making them popular choices for EDC (Everyday Carry) enthusiasts, campers and outdoor adventurers.
Pros:
Compact and lightweight for easy EDC (Everyday Carry).
High maximum output of 1150 lumens for bright illumination.
Convenient magnetic charging system.
Moonlight and turbo modes, for high & low power use.
Enhanced grip texture for secure handling.
Cons:
Battery life could be longer, especially in higher output modes.
Some users may find the side switch less ergonomic.
The beam distance could be longer for outdoor use.
Limited water resistance compared to some other models.
Not compatible with standard AA or CR123A batteries.
Get your Olight here!
The Nitecore MH25GT is a good flashlight that delivers up to 1000 lumens of brightness. Powered by a rechargeable 18650 battery, it provides a battery life of up to 36 hours in low mode, ensuring extended usage without frequent recharging. As well as boasting water-resistant construction.
Weighing in at 6.24 ounces (without battery) it has a beam distance of up to 1,312 feet, it offers excellent reach for long-distance lighting requirements. The MH25GT features four lighting modes, as well as a strobe, allowing users to select the desired brightness level for almost any task.
Lumens: Up to 1000 lumens
Battery life: Up to 36 hours (on low mode)
Battery type: Rechargeable 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 1,312 feet (400 metres)
Modes: 4 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 6.24 ounces (without battery)
USB charging
Integrated micro-USB port
Side switch for mode selection
Water-resistant
Well-established, the company Nitecore is known for its dedication to research and development into flashlights, resulting in innovative features and advanced lighting technologies.
Nitecore flashlights often incorporate multiple output modes and robust build quality, making them popular in the world of tactical flashlights
Pros:
Excellent beam distance of up to 452 metres for long-range illumination.
Multiple output modes and a strobe function for versatile use.
USB rechargeable battery for convenience.
Sturdy build quality for durability.
Integrated charging indicator for battery status monitoring.
Cons:
The maximum output of 1000 lumens may not be as high as some other models on this list.
Battery life could be longer in higher output modes.
The flashlight might feel slightly heavier compared to similar models.
Some users may find the interface less intuitive.
The pocket clip could be more secure.
Want to add a Nitecore flashlight to your collection?
The ThruNite TC15 is a high-performance flashlight that provides an impressive maximum output of 2300 lumens. Powered by a rechargeable 18650 battery, it offers a battery life of up to 50 days in firefly mode (no need to worry about a power outage that’s for sure), making it suitable for long-term usage.
With a strobe mode, and six additional lighting modes, users have versatile brightness options for different situations. The TC15 features a beam distance of up to 807 feet, ensuring excellent reach and visibility. Weighing 3.9 ounces (without battery), it strikes a balance between portability and durability.
Features of the flashlight include USB charging for convenient recharging, an electronic tail switch for easy operation, a compact and lightweight design, a memory function to recall the last used mode, and a comfortable grip for prolonged use.
Lumens: Up to 2300 lumens
Battery life: Up to 50 days (firefly mode)
Battery type: Rechargeable 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 807 feet (246 metres)
Modes: 6 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 3.9 ounces (without battery)
USB charging
Electronic tail switch
Compact and lightweight
Known for their attention to detail and quality craftsmanship, ThruNite flashlights are designed to withstand rugged conditions while delivering impressive performance. The brand offers a range of features on their products, such as multiple brightness levels, efficient power management, compact designs, and user-friendly interfaces.
Pros:
High maximum output of 2300 lumens of powerful brightness.
Long battery life with a maximum runtime of 68 hours in low mode.
USB rechargeable battery for convenient charging.
Compact and lightweight design for easy carry.
Multiple lighting modes and a strobe function for versatile use.
Cons:
The highest output mode may generate significant heat during extended use.
The user interface might require some learning curve.
The beam distance could be longer for outdoor use.
Some may find the side switch positioning less intuitive.
Limited water resistance compared to some other models.
Try the ThruNite here
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a reliable flashlight that offers up to 1000 lumens of brightness. Like many flashlights available, it can be powered by two CR123A batteries or one 18650 battery, providing flexibility in power options.
With a battery life of up to 23 hours in low mode, it ensures prolonged illumination without frequent battery changes. The ProTac HL-X features three lighting modes, including a strobe, catering to those wanting simplicity, but also versatility.
It offers a beam distance of up to 330 metres, making it suitable for both short-range and long-range applications. Weighing 6.9 ounces (with batteries), it is designed for durability and ease of use. It features a multi-function push-button tail switch for convenient operation, an anti-roll head design, high-quality LED technology for reliable performance, a pocket clip for easy carry, and a water-resistant construction.
Lumens: Up to 1000 lumens
Battery life: Up to 23 hours (low mode)
Battery type: Two CR123A or one 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 330 metres
Modes: 3 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 6.9 ounces (with batteries)
Ten-Tap programming
Multi-function push-button tail switch
Anti-roll head design
Streamlight is a reputable American brand that has been manufacturing flashlights for over 45 years. The company is known for its dedication to producing rugged and reliable lighting tools for professionals in various industries, including law enforcement, firefighting, and the military.
Pros:
1000 lumens for bright illumination.
Versatile power options: compatible with both rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries.
Sturdy and durable construction for reliable performance.
Multiple lighting modes, strobe function included.
Excellent beam distance.
Cons:
Battery life isn’t great in higher output modes.
The flashlight might feel slightly heavier compared to similar models.
The user interface could be improved for smoother operation.
Some users may prefer a more compact design for everyday carry.
Limited features compared to higher-end models.
Not just a flashlight
The SureFire P2X Fury is a rugged and weatherproof flashlight that delivers up to 1000 lumens of brightness. It’s by no means the brightest flashlight on the list, but it certainly is reliable. Enough so, that many armed forces & security groups around the world use them as weapon attachments.
With this said, it can be powered by two CR123A batteries or one 18650 battery, offering versatility in battery options.
With a battery life of up to 46 hours in low mode, it ensures long-lasting illumination during extended outings. The P2X Fury features two lighting modes, providing simplicity and ease of use. It offers a beam distance of up to 656 feet, making it suitable for various applications. Weighing 5.7 ounces (with batteries), it strikes a balance between durability and portability.
Lumens: Up to 1000 lumens
Battery life: Up to 46 hours (low mode)
Battery type: Two CR123A or one 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 656 feet (200 metres)
Modes: 2 lighting modes
Weight: 5.7 ounces (with batteries)
Precision reflector
Tactical tailcap switch
Weatherproof construction
Rugged design
Hot in the world of tactical gear and military, SureFire is a brand that specialises in the production of illumination tools, including flashlights and weapon-mounted lights.
The brand is well-regarded for its commitment to quality, offering powerful and reliable lighting flashlights for military, law enforcement, and outdoorsman.
Pros:
Maximum output of 1000 lumens for powerful brightness.
Sturdy and durable construction for reliable performance.
Multiple lighting modes, including a low mode for extended runtime.
Precision reflector for optimised beam distance and pattern.
SureFire’s reputation for quality and reliability.
Cons:
Battery life in it’s highest output mode.
The user interface may require familiarisation for optimal use.
The flashlight might feel slightly heavier compared to similar models on this list.
Limited features compared to higher-end models.
The pocket clip could be more secure.
Available below
The Acebeam EC65 is a compact and powerful flashlight that offers an astonishing 4600 lumens of super bright light. Powered by a rechargeable 21700 battery, it ensures high-performance lighting with a runtime of up to 1.5 hours in turbo mode.
The EC65 features five lighting modes, including a strobe, providing versatility for various lighting needs. It boasts a beam distance of up to 787 feet (240 metres), delivering excellent reach and coverage. Weighing 3.1 ounces (without battery), it is lightweight and easy to carry.
Lumens: Up to 4600 lumens
Battery life: Up to 1.5 hours (turbo mode)
Battery type: Rechargeable 21700 battery
Beam distance: Up to 240 metres
Modes: 5 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 3.1 ounces (without battery)
USB-C charging
Side switch and tail switch
Battery level indicator
Compact and powerful
Acebeam is a relatively newer brand in the flashlight market, gaining recognition for its powerful and versatile led flashlights.
The company focuses on providing high-output rechargeable flashlights with compact designs, making them popular among outdoor enthusiasts and professionals. Acebeam flashlights often feature advanced LED technology, rechargeable batteries, multiple lighting modes, and durable construction.
Pros:
Compact and lightweight design for easy EDC.
High maximum output of 4600 lumens for bright illumination.
USB-C charging for convenient recharging.
Multiple lighting modes and a strobe function for versatility.
Battery level indicator for easy monitoring.
Cons:
The interface may require some learning curve.
The beam distance might be shorter compared to some other models.
Some users may prefer a more ergonomic grip.
Limited water resistance compared to some other models.
The best budget/compact flashlight
The Zebralight SC600w Mk IV Plus is a light weight & small flashlight that offers a maximum output of 2300 lumens. It operates on a single 18650 battery, providing flexibility and convenience in power options.
The SC600w Mk IV Plus offers multiple output levels, allowing users to adjust the brightness according to their needs. With a bright beam distance of up to 482 feet, it provides ample reach for various tasks. Weighing 3.17 ounces (without battery), it is lightweight and portable, making it perfect as a edc flashlight.
Lumens: Up to 2300 lumens
Battery life: Varies based on battery capacity
Battery type: Single 18650 battery
Beam distance: Up to 482 feet (147 metres)
Modes: Multiple output levels and programmable modes
Weight: 3.17 ounces (without battery)
High-efficiency regulation
Programmable user interface
Thermal protection
Waterproof
Zebralight is a brand known for its emphasis on efficiency, compactness, and high-quality lighting. The company specialises in creating compact and lightweight flashlights that deliver impressive brightness and runtime.
Flashlights from the zebralight brand often feature customisable user interfaces, regulated output for consistent brightness, and efficient power management, making them popular tactical flashlight choice for many.
Pros:
Maximum output of 2300 lumens.
Efficient power management for extended battery life.
Compact and lightweight design for easy carry.
Multiple lighting modes and programmable settings for customisation.
Excellent build quality and durability.
Cons:
The user interface may require familiarisation for optimal use.
The beam distance could be longer for outdoor use.
Poor water resistance compared to some other models.
Limited availability and higher price range compared to some other models.
Black & White, what you see is what you get
The Klarus XT11GT is a high-intensity flashlight providing a max output of up to 2000 lumens of brightness. It operates on one 18650 battery, offering a battery life of around 170 hours in low mode.
With a beam distance of 402 metres, it features six brightness settings, including strobe modes, and weighs 4.58 ounces without the battery, making it one of the larger flashlights on this list. Its dual tail switches and tactical flashlight design also make it a reliable tool, as well as including a battery capacity indicator to manage its many light modes efficiently.
Lumens: Up to 2000 lumens
Battery life: Up to 170 hours (low mode)
Battery type: One 18650 or two CR123A batteries
usb rechargeable flashlight
Beam distance: Up to 402 metres
Modes: 6 lighting modes plus strobe
Weight: 4.58 ounces (without battery)
Dual tail switches
Side switch for mode selection
Tactical design
Battery capacity indicator
Klarus is a brand that aims to provide reliable and versatile lighting solutions for a wide range of applications.
Known for their durable construction and advanced features, Klarus flashlights are popular among outdoor enthusiasts, professionals, and everyday users. The brand emphasises features such as dual tail switches for easy operation, multi-mode functionality, battery monitoring systems, and tactical designs.
Pros:
2000 lumens for powerful brightness.
Long battery life with a maximum runtime of 170 hours in low mode.
Multiple lighting modes and a strobe function.
Tactical features, including a momentary-on function and a strike bezel.
Built-in charging port for convenient recharging.
Cons:
The highest output mode may generate significant heat during extended use.
Heavier compared to other lights
The pocket clip could be more secure.
2000 lumen output
Extremely bright, the Imalent MS18 is an incredibly powerful & super bright flashlight that stands out for its exceptional brightness and performance. With a mind-boggling output of 100,000 lumens of beam intensity, it is one of the brightest flashlights available in the market!
Now don’t get me wrong, this is no keychain flashlight. However, powered by a built-in rechargeable battery pack (no more need for disposable batteries!), it offers a substantial battery life of up to 63 hours in low mode, ensuring extended usage in various scenarios.
The MS18 features various lighting modes to help with how much light it produces, including a turbo mode for maximum brightness and a strobe mode for signalling or self-defence purposes.
Check our full in-depth review of the Imalent MS18 here!
Lumens: Up to 100,000 lumens
Battery life: Varies depending on output mode
Battery type: Built-in rechargeable battery pack
Beam distance: Up to 1350 metres (4429 feet)
Modes: Multiple lighting modes including turbo, high, medium, low, and strobe
Weight: Approximately 4.4 pounds (including integrated battery pack)
Built-in OLED display
Advanced cooling technology
Waterproof construction
Easy-to-use interface
Built-in charging port
Renowned in the flashlight industry, durability and reliability are key aspects of Imalent’s flashlights. The brand utilises high-quality materials and rigorous testing processes to ensure that their products can withstand harsh conditions, impacts, and water exposure. Imalent also focuses on user-friendly designs, incorporating intuitive interfaces and convenient features such as rechargeable battery systems, multiple beam settings, and advanced thermal management.
Placing a strong emphasis on research and development, Imalent continuously pushing the boundaries of flashlight technology.
The brand incorporates cutting-edge LED lights, efficient power management systems, and durable construction in their products to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Making it their mission to provide users with lighting solutions that meet the demands of various applications, including outdoor adventures as well as professional use like search and rescue operations, tactical scenarios, the military and law enforcement, emergency responders, and everyday users seeking powerful and dependable lighting tools.
It offers an impressive beam distance of up to 1350 metres (better than most flashlights available), providing incredible reach and coverage. Weighing approximately 4.4 pounds, the MS18 is a robust and heavy-duty flashlight designed for professional use.
Like many flashlights, it includes some unique key features including a built-in OLED display for real-time monitoring of battery status and output levels, advanced cooling technology to prevent overheating, durable construction with a waterproof rating, easy-to-use interface, and a built-in charging port for convenient recharging.
Pros:
Exceptional Brightness: Being perhaps the brightest flashlight in the world, it’s no surprise that the MS18 offers an astonishing maximum output of 100,000 lumens, providing an incredibly bright and powerful illumination.
Long Beam Distance: With a beam distance of up to 1350 meters (4429 feet), the MS18 can effectively light up a wide area almost as if it were daylight.
Durable Construction: Features a sturdy build quality, making it resistant to impacts and suitable for rugged environments.
Multiple Lighting Modes: It offers multiple lighting modes, including turbo mode for maximum brightness, high, medium, and low modes for adjustable output levels, and a strobe mode for emergency signalling or self-defence.
Integrated OLED Display: The built-in OLED display provides real-time monitoring of battery status, output levels, and other vital information, enhancing user convenience and control.
Cons:
Heavy Weight: The MS18 weighs approximately 4.4 pounds, which can make it less suitable for extended handheld use or as an everyday carry flashlight.
Shorter Battery Life: The extremely high brightness output of the MS18 consumes power rapidly, resulting in a relatively shorter battery life compared to flashlights with lower lumen outputs.
Large Size: Due to its powerful output and integrated battery pack, the MS18 is larger and bulkier compared to conventional flashlights, which may limit portability and ease of handling.
Heat Generation: The high output levels of the MS18 can generate significant heat during prolonged use, requiring caution and proper heat dissipation.
High Price: The Imalent MS18 is a premium flashlight with advanced features, and its high-end specifications reflect in its price, making it a more significant investment compared to other flashlights on the market that you may forget about in your drawer.
The best flashlight in the world
These portable light sources have come a long way since their inception, with advancements in technology and design leading to the creation of incredibly powerful and versatile illumination devices. Let’s delve into the realm of flashlights and explore the 10 best models available today.
Flashlights have a rich history, with the first handheld electric light being developed in the late 19th century. The first practical flashlight, patented by Conrad Hubert in 1898, utilised dry cell batteries and an incandescent bulb.
Since then, flashlights have undergone remarkable transformations, incorporating advancements such as LED technology, rechargeable batteries, and various lighting modes.
Pricing: As seen in this article, flashlights are available at such a wide range of price points, catering to diverse needs, budgets and uses. Depending on the features, quality, materials and brand, prices can vary from affordable options under $20 to high-end models exceeding hundreds. So before purchasing, it’s a good idea to think about what you will use the flashlight for. However, don’t forget… you get what you pay for!
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