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You’d be surprised at the possibilities that open up when the world in front of you is seen in bright light. That might sound figurative, but it’s literally the case when you have one of the best flashlights handy. They’re devices that make scenarios less perilous, allowing you to see what’s ahead with greater clarity.
Use one of the best flashlights to illuminate dark, narrow spaces on your home improvement project. Or bring one on your next camping trip. Late-night beach excursions and bonfires get a little—or a lot— brighter and better with a flashlight in the mix.
In more extreme situations–like on a hike, traversing a treacherous slope, or stepping into a quick-moving stream at dusk–the best flashlights could prove potentially life-saving. Dramatic as that might sound, you’d actually be in the dark without one. Which is why the device needs a place in toolkits, backpacks, or the pocket of your field jacket.
Now that you see things in a new light (ha!), how essential these devices are in dim situations, make sure you’re prepared for your next adventure with one of the best flashlights.
What to Consider Before Buying the Best Flashlights:
By the time you realize you’ve grabbed the wrong flashlight—one that either doesn’t suit your needs or isn’t up to par—it’s often too late. So make sure to keep these key characteristics in mind.
Battery: No flashlight does you any good if you don’t have the right energy source. This is why it’s crucial to consider the type of battery—or in some cases, batteries—that a device requires. Alkaline batteries—usually double-A, triple-A, or D—are standard. Most options come with a set, but it’s always best to have spares handy. There are also devices that eschew single-use batteries altogether, making use of built-in chargers instead.
Run Time: Even the best flashlights need a run time that won’t quit when you need it the most. And though long battery life is an indicator of a stellar device, having one that’ll last a trek is dependent on whether the flashlight is on a low or high setting. Generally, LED flashlights with double-A batteries can last as much as 7 hours. As for rechargeable batteries or built-in batteries, the run time varies based on the design, size of the flashlight, and the lumens rating (see below).
Lumens: Lumens might seem like an intimidating phrase at first, but it’s simply the rating given to the intensity of a flashlight’s beam on the highest setting. Basically, the higher the lumens, the brighter the light. Most flashlights fall somewhere around 100 lumens. More extreme options are going to boast higher lumens, which is better united for intense outdoor conditions.
Beam Distance: Pay close attention to beam distance as you shop for one of the best flashlights. This rating, measured in meters, showcases the length the beam can travel before diminishing to the equivalent of a full moon’s light on a clear night.
The Best Flashlights to Buy Now:
Best Overall Flashlight: Coast XP11R Professional Series Flashlight
Best Flashlight for Mini Treks: Skilhunt M150 EDC Flashlight
Best Flashlight for Everyday Use: Coleman 1900 Collection Flashlight
Best Tactical Flashlight: Streamlight ProTac 88065 HL-X Flashlight
Best Rechargeable Flashlight: Fenix TK20R V2.0 Rechargeable Flashlight
Best Mounted Flashlight: Nite Ize Radiant 170 Rechargeable Task Light
Most Unique Flashlight: MecArmy Carabiner Flashlight
Best Lantern-Style Flashlight: UCO Leschi Lantern
Best Vintage-Inspired Flashlight: Barebones Vintage Flashlight
Best Keychain Flashlight: Nite Ize Radiant 100 Keychain Flashlight
Coast XP11R Professional Series Flashlight
Best Overall Flashlight
It seems there’s no situation in which the Coast XP11R won’t prove wildly effective. For starters, there’s the option to use its built-in charger or triple-A batteries. A median run time of 16 hours (including five hours on high) is excellent, and it even includes an easy-to-read charging indicator. Better still is the fact that XP11R is almost infinitely customizable in terms of its beam, thanks to a Pure Beam focusing system that can be operated with one finger.
See AlsoThe Brightest Flashlights of 2024 | 600+ Reviewed! | 1Lumen.comThe Best Flashlights of 2024Best 5,000 lumen flashlights of 2024 (Real 5000 lumens) | 1Lumen.comHigh-Quality LED Flashlights by Ledlenser | Order hereBattery: ZX1000 ZITHION-X rechargeable battery or 3 triple-A batteries (sold separately).
Average Run Time: 16 hours.
Avergae Beam Distance: 126.25 meters.
Lumens: 2,100 lumens.Buy Now on Rei: $60
Skilhunt M150 EDC Flashlight
Best Flashlight for Mini Treks
A proper everyday carry-on should have the essentials, from a water bottle to a useful pocket knife. Most wouldn’t consider a flashlight, but if there’s one to lug around with you on a mini hike, it’s this compact option from Skilhunt. It doesn’t boast a massive amount of lumens or a long-range beam distance, but for EDC situations, if you’re in a pinch, effectiveness in small doses is the name of the game. This well-reviewed flashlight will serve you well.
Battery:14500 800 mAh rechargeable li-ion cell.
Average Run Time: 1.5 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 110 meters.
Lumens: 750 lumens.Buy Now on Amazon: $55
Coleman 1900 Collection Flashlight
Best Flashlight for Everyday Use
There’s a good chance you might not need a flashlight every single day. But it pays to be prepared, and a brand like Coleman makes a durable and surprisingly stylish option that weighs just one pound, delivering light on high, medium, low, or strobe settings. It’s both impact-resistant up to 1 meter and IPX4 water-resistant for casual use in rain. The best part might be the eye-catching faux-leather strap for easy attachment and easy access.
Battery: 3 double-A batteries.
Average Run Time: 1.5 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 113.75 meters.
Lumens: 700 lumens.Buy Now on Backcountry: $41
Streamlight ProTac 88065 HL-X Flashlight
Best Tactical Flashlight
Of all the scenarios you need a durable flashlight, it’s in tactical situations or situations out in the field. A compact size and easy carry are critical factors, but the proper build—in this case, mil-spec aluminum—goes a long way, too. The design itself is abrasion-resistant, but it’s the ability to use the included rechargeable batteries that makes this an easy-access flashlight that always delivers a beam when you need it.
Battery: Rechargeable CR123A.
Average Run Time: 6.75 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 203 meters.
Lumens: 1,000 lumens.Buy Now on Amazon: $77
Fenix TK20R V2.0 Rechargeable Flashlight
Best Rechargeable Flashlight
Convenience is key with a rechargeable flashlight. Save yourself the hassle of having to change batteries (and track the life of said batteries). Although this flashlight appears relatively compact, it offers a beam distance of 150 meters. The aircraft-grade aluminum body is hard-wearing and built for just about anything, and it’s even equipped with overheating protection. Also, for easy access, dual tail-switches offer a smooth way to change light settings.
Battery: Rechargeable 21700 lithium-ion.
Average Run Time: 7 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 150 meters.
Lumens: 3,000 lumens.Buy Now on Rei: $130
Nite Ize Radiant 170 Rechargeable Task Light
Best Mounted Flashlight
It seems there’s a flashlight for every task, and while you might not need a task light all that frequently, it could prove crucial when the time comes. Whether it’s working on a car repair on a dark road or a dim storage space, a little light goes a long way. This option uses an innovative gear tie that can wrap around everything, from branches to poles, and can be easily removed. There are also two color settings available.
Battery: Rechargeable 10440.
Average Run Time: 2 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 11 meters.
Lumens: 170 lumens.Buy Now on Rei: $25
MecArmy Carabiner Flashlight
Most Unique Flashlight
It’s remarkable how useful the best flashlights can be, especially in a package that you might not expect. Take a carabiner flashlight, for instance. This one is made from rough-and-tough titanium, delivered in an extremely handy package. Along with its innovative design, it’s also rechargeable (it charges in a little under an hour and a half) and can withstand some water pressure. Clip it on your backpack or wherever, and you’re good to go.
Battery: Rechargeable lithium-polymer.
Average Run Time: 1.8 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 64 meters.
Lumens: 360 lumens.Buy Now on Huckberry: 130 $71
UCO Leschi Lantern
Best Lantern-Style Flashlight
Gone are the days of gas-powered, flickering lanterns. But if you’re a fan of the old-school model, get the same effect in a cool, modern package, courtesy of UCO. Called the Leschi, this flashlight of sorts is made of aluminum, comes with three light settings (including a strobe setting), and features a compact silhouette. It hangs by a simple, durable nylon cord that you can attach to your backpack or wrist as you move about your.
Battery: 1 double-A.
Average Run Time: 3.25 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 122 meters.
Lumens: 110 lumens.Buy Now on Rei: $15
Barebones Vintage Flashlight
Best Vintage-Inspired Flashlight
There’s something special about spending a long weekend at a rustic cabin, sitting by a fireplace, curled up in a fur blanket, while dinner is roasting in a stovepipe oven. Keeping to this vibe is this flashlight from the outdoor gear masters at Barebone, a vintage-inspired style that reminds us of our favorite ’70s campfire flicks (Meatballs, anyone?). And though the cage-like design is retro, it boats a rechargeable battery and impressive specs.
Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion 18650
Average Run Time: 8.25 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 80 meters.
Lumens: 300 lumens.Buy Now on Backcountry: $70
Nite Ize Radiant 100 Keychain Flashlight
Best Keychain Flashlight
Is a keychain flashlight the brightest and very best flashlight out there? Perhaps not, especially when compared to larger models. But sometimes all that’s needed is a small beam from an item that’s readily available. Enter this great device from Nite Ize, which you can attach to a lanyard or clip on a toolbelt. It operates with a simple twist motion and is waterproof for up to one meter for 30 minutes—a great flashlight to have if you dropped something in a pool at night.
Battery: One triple-A.
Average Run Time: 3.25 hours.
Average Beam Distance: 40 meters.
Lumens: 100 lumens.Buy Now on Rei: $20
Authors
Beau Hayhoe
Beau Hayhoe is a Brooklyn-based writer, covering menswear essentials, spirits, and music. His work has appeared in Esquire, Men's Journal, InsideHook, Maxim, Spin, Gear Patrol, and StyleCaster. When…
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