What is the Best Flashlight for the Money in the Market?
The world of flashlights is huge that finding the best one isn't as simple as you think. There are LED flashlight, pocket flashlights, tactical flashlights, and so much more that different situations may call for different flashlights.
More...
They are not always used, but we have or want to have them in our attempt to be well prepared. They are useful for camping, power disruptions, and emergency situations. To help you find the best flashlight for the money, we’ve run down a few things that you need to consider.
Things to consider when buying flashlight
Product Name | Quality | Price | Our rate |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | $$$ | ||
A | $$ | ||
A | $$$ | ||
B+ | $ | ||
B+ | $$ |
**Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Usage
The best place to start is probably identifying what you will use a flashlight for. Is it for camping or is it for an emergency power outage? Is it for everyday carry? Are you in a search and rescue team that needs a flashlight?
When you figure this out first, it will help you narrow down your choices and help you choose one that suits your needs.
Size
You can choose from a wide range of sizes of flashlights, and the choice is mainly dependent on your preference. You can find flashlights that can fit in your pocket to monster lights that require two hands to carry.
The size should be something that's convenient for your use. For instance, if you are backpacking and saving on weight and space, you will want something that's light and small but still powerful.
Weight
There are different kinds of flashlights regarding size - handheld, keychain, pocket size, lanterns, etc. The weight is more of a personal choice and is also dependent on how you will use it. For instance, backpackers will prefer and lightweight and compact flashlight.
Also, a larger unit doesn't always mean it is brighter or more powerful. Again, look into the features such as run time, beam distance, etc.
Battery Type
Flashlight batteries can either be rechargeable, renewable, or disposable that come in different shapes and sizes.
The kinds of batteries you get are really important because it affects the performance of the flashlight. It’s possible to not get the best out of your flashlight because of the batteries.
- Rechargeable batteries are exactly what the name suggests - rechargeable. They can be built into the flashlight and recharged from an energy source through AC/DC outlets or USB connection. They can also be removable and rechargeable batteries which you can charge on a separate charger. Rechargeable batteries are more expensive up front but usually costs lower along the run. Keep in mind that unused, they still lose power over time, so recharge them once in awhile in case of emergencies.
- Disposable batteries are only usable until they run out of energy. However, they are better than rechargeables in that they are better for emergencies. Rechargeable batteries lose power over time even when they aren't used (this is called self-discharge). Disposable batteries, also called primaries, have a low self-discharge rate so that you can store them in case of emergencies.
- Renewable batteries are batteries that get energize via solar panels or hand cranks. These are also great for emergency or survival kits.
Bulb Type
The most common bulb type nowadays are LEDs (light-emitting diode). They are much more energy efficient, more versatile, and more long-lasting than incandescent lights.
Though you can still find flashlights with incandescent bulbs, they are no match to most LED lights.
Flashlight Performance
Light Output
How bright of light do you need? Enough for reading a book in the dark or brighter to light your path? The brightness is measured in lumens, and it can range from 20 to 35000. The higher it is, the more batteries it will need.
Beam Distance
Beam distance is probably one of the more important things consider. It refers to how far the light will shine and is measured in meters. There are three different beam types: flood/fixed, spot/focused, and adjustable.
Flood beams are wider and good for large areas and short distances. A spot beam is a beam condensed into a spotlight, ideal for narrow areas and long distances.
However, many flashlights nowadays come with an adjustable focus so you can switch between the two.
Run Time
Run time is measured in hours, and it refers to how long the light output stays bright. The light could either gradually decrease over time or constantly remain bright followed by a sudden decrease.
Material/Construction
What is the flashlight body made of? What is the shape of the flashlight? How light and durable is the material? Is it shockproof and waterproof? Does it float? These questions should guide you in finding a great flashlight.
Most flashlights now are either plastic or an aluminum alloy. Most flashlights have a cylinder shape, but they could vary per manufacturer. When looking for a flashlight, take note of the handle. See if it offers a good grip and if it has a non-slip pattern.
Other details
Flashlights may have additional features like lens filters and diffusers for different lighting options. You should also check if it includes a lanyard, belt clip or a holder.
Top Flashlights in the Market
If you’re still not sure what flashlight to get, here are some of our top picks. They vary greatly, but they are some of the best kinds in the market.
Product Name | Quality | Price | Our rate |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | $$$ | ||
A | $$ | ||
A | $$$ | ||
B+ | $ | ||
B+ | $$ |
Via Amazon.com
The J5 Tactical V1-Pro Tactical Flashlight is an excellent choice for survival, camping, hunting, self-defense, and everyday carry. It has a maximum of 300 lumens and has a beam distance of up to 600 feet.
The LED light is one of the brightest and can temporarily blind a person. You can adjust the light in three modes - high, low, and strobe.
At 4 inches long and 1.125 inches wide, it's compact and easy to carry. It has a belt clip, so it's also within easy reach. The aircraft-grade aluminum body has a skid-proof design and is impact resistant and water resistant.
Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
|
Via Amazon.com
The BYB LED flashlights are as compact as can be. It can fit easily in your pocket and light enough for backpacking or everyday carry.
Despite the size, it is still a very powerful flashlight. It has 9 LED bulbs, a light output of 30, and a beam distance of up to 20 feet. The flashlight has an aluminum body that's sturdy enough for an everyday beating.
Powered by 3x AAA batteries, it can run for up to 30 hours. Each flashlight comes with a lanyard hole and a hand strap.
Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
|
Via Amazon.com
HeroBeam is an unlike any other of the flashlights on this list because it is a larger option. That said, it’s not ideal for backpacking, but it is great for camping. It has 360 degrees of illumination to light up a whole tent or room.
They're great for having in the shed, garage, boat, or caravan. They're also a much better option for power outages because you can leave it in one place to light up the room rather than carry around a smaller flashlight that will only light up in one direction.
The HeroBeam LED lantern with a flashlight is one of the best of its kind is designed for rough outdoor weather. With quality batteries, it can run for up to 8 hours. It has a durable body that is shock resistant and water resistant to IPX4 standards.
Even though it is large, it is not too heavy. It also collapses into a smaller size, so it fits in most kitchen drawers.
Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
|
Via Amazon.com
The Dorcy 41-2510 is a great residential and commercial flashlight. It has 4 LED bulbs that have 55 lumens and a beam distance of 31 meters. The body is very light and durable.
It uses shock absorbing rubber around the head and body, allowing a non-slip grip for stability. However, the more looked after the feature is probably the fact that it is waterproof and will float on water.
At 0.28 pounds, this handy flashlight is still very lightweight for its size. It comes with a carabiner clip so you can clip it to your belt of a backpack. The batteries that come with it are AA-cell batteries, and they can give almost 9 hours of run time.
Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
|
Via Amazon.com
The Outlite A100 is a tough one to beat in its category. It's a tactical/handheld flashlight that can be used for occasions like camping, everyday carry, and just about any situation requiring light.
It has LED bulbs that have a lifespan of up to 100,000 hours and a beam distance of up to 150-200 meters. You can adjust the beams from high, medium, and low, and it also has strobe and SOS modes.
Another feature that makes it a great all-around flashlight is that it is waterproof as much as it is powerful.
The body is made of high-quality aluminum, so it can also withstand accidental drops. Batteries are not included, but it runs on 3 AAA or 18650 Li-Ion batteries.
Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
|
|
Conclusion
There are many different kinds of flashlights in the market ranging in size, quality, and price. The important thing is to keep in mind the different factors that should lead to your choice.
When you figure out what you want to use it for (camping, backpacking, for emergency power outages, etc.), it becomes easier to choose one.
LED flashlights are more common since they are more powerful and efficient. Flashlights vary in performance, so check the light output, beam distance, and run time.
They also vary in features like waterproofness, shock absorption, float ability, adjustability of light, etc.
The best flashlight varies per use or person but here are some of my conclusions. If you’re looking for a powerful and compact flashlight for backpacking and survival situations, then I recommend the Outlite A100 Handheld Flashlight.
For car camping, caravaning, and emergency power outages at home, I think you should go for the HeroBeam LED Lantern with Flashlight. The best one for water activities like kayaking, canoeing, boating, is the Dorcy 41-2510.
