Many of us have the experience of being left in the dark due to power outages. This has made it difficult to get things done and took us longer than we would like. Stocking up on candles is a good idea to drive away from the darkness, and they may look very nice. However, according to the report of the Office of the State Fire Commissioner, “Fires caused by the use of candles in our homes have increased dramatically over the last two decades.” There is a risk of fire hazards to using candles as a source of light. “Flashlights are safer than candles during power failure”. You will need a good flashlight.
A flashlight is essential for every house, for tasks such as checking the crawl space for a blown circuit breaker or emergency use during power outages. A spare flashlight is a good idea to have in your house emergency kit. Every car should also have one. Today’s flashlights have become brighter, lighter, and more efficient thanks to LED technology. You won’t be surprised at the variety of options available in a range of strengths and with a multitude of other features.
You may choose to go for tough waterproof and shockproof designs depending on the purpose of the design. Or, for lighter or general use, you might prefer the pencil-like, lightweight design. You can keep some designs in your purse with you, as they have additional safety features for personal self-defense. Professionals might prefer a hands-free option. And others may choose a powerful light source (lumens), and long battery life.
Best Flashlights
1. LE Mini Tactical Flashlight
2 used from $8.99
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- Compact and durable tactical flashlight
- Versatile for many situations
- 3 AAA Battery-operated
- Zoomable and long beam
- Not waterproof. Only water-resistant
2. Hoxida Rechargeable Flashlight
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- Strong magnet base for convenient use
- Multiple light modes
- Zoomable lens from floodlight to spotlight
- 3-hour USB recharging time for 10-hour low mode run time
- Water-resistant in light rain and snow
- One key off
- Battery recharging problems after a period of use.
3. Vont LED Tactical Flashlight
1 used from $14.39
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- Good size and lightweight for pockets and hands
- Use AAA batteries
- Adjustable lens
- Multiple light modes
- Need to buy more AAA batteries in future
4. Energizer EVEL152S Eveready LED Economy Flashlight
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- Lightweight and compact for pockets and purse
- Easy and simple switch off/on
- Include 2 D-cells
- The light is not very bright.
- It cannot bear any drops.
5. Everbrite 4-Pack Mini LED Aluminum Flashlight
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- Nice colored aluminum mini torch
- AAA battery powered and included
- Bright beam
- Easy to use
- Even after being in the sun for a while, the glow in the dark is not as strong as advertised.
6. Streamlight 66318 MicroStream LED Pen Flashlight
4 used from $17.19
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Amazon.com
- Tiny aluminum housing for pockets
- One-handed tailcap switch
- Awesome EDC light with a durable clip
- The switch is a bit stiff for some people.
7. CSNDICE Rechargeable Handheld Flashlights
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- Effective and adjustable brightness
- Far reaching beam
- Long battery life
- No need to buy extra batteries
- Lightweight flashlight with a shoulder strap
- Not waterproof
8. Streamlight 66608 Rechargeable Camping Pocket Flashlights
Free shipping
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- Small enough for pocket
- Bright light
- 3.5 hours run time on low mode
- Come with a USB cord and lanyard
- Built-in rechargeable lithium-Ion cell
- Good resistance to weather
- A few reports of faulty power switch after a period of use.
9. AlpsWolf Rechargeable Flashlight
Free shipping
Amazon.com
- Versatile and rechargeable flashlight with a long battery life
- 20,000 mAh battery can be power source for mobile devices
- Beam irradiation distance up to 1200m
- 3+4 brightness and emergency light modes
- Water-resistance to splashing water from all angles
- The plastic housing is a bit flimsy.
What to Consider When Buying Flashlights?
Flashlight types
Utility flashlights
The most popular type of flashlight is the utility flashlight. They are lightweight and provide a small amount of light for small home jobs. They are usually very affordable and last only a few years.
Tactical flashlights
Tactical flashlights can be used to not only provide light but also serve as self-defense tools. Although they are small in size, they can cause significant damage. Tactical flashlights can also be equipped with powerful lights that can temporarily blind attackers or intruders. They are often expensive due to their power. Some tactical flashlights include a strobe mode that can be used to signal an emergency or disorient attackers.
Emergency flashlights
Not all emergency flashlights run on batteries. They can be powered by either a solar or hand crank. They don’t require batteries and are therefore very useful in providing light during natural disasters or other emergencies.
Industrial flashlights
Heavy-duty industrial flashlights are used in garages and homes. These flashlights are heavy and bulky, so they cannot be carried around in a pocket. They provide significant light output and are reasonably priced.
Bulb type
Incandescent bulbs are the traditional choice. They provide a softer light. However, they can be easily broken if dropped and run out of battery power faster.
LED bulbs: LED bulbs can last for up to 100,000 hours and consume only 25% of the energy as traditional bulbs. An LED flashlight will cost you more, however.
Battery
Disposable batteries: You can use standard alkaline and lithium batteries. For flashlights, you will usually need C, D, or AA batteries. Disposable batteries must be recharged. In an emergency, however, it is possible to just throw in a spare pair of batteries without waiting for them to recharge.
Rechargeable batteries: These batteries come in many sizes and shapes. They are typically lithium-ion or nickel-metal-hydride. You can recharge them when they run low. While you won’t need to buy replacement batteries, it could save you some money. However, you might end up with dead batteries in an emergency.
Size
Although the size of a flashlight does not affect its performance, it can be a factor in how you use it and what you are comfortable with. A small keychain is best if you intend to keep a flashlight close at hand. A flashlight that is used for industrial or utility purposes should be between 5 and 14 inches in length. A tactical flashlight should be between 3 and 7 inches in length.
Material
Two materials are commonly used to make flashlights: aluminum and plastic. Plastic flashlights are often lighter than metal models and less durable than those made of high-grade plastic. Aluminum flashlights are very durable and have a heavier feel.
Modes
Multi-mode flashlights are the best. You won’t need to use more battery power with the high- and low settings. Higher-end models can have as many as three to four brightness modes.
Switches
Click switches: The click switches can be found on the sides or bottom of your flashlight. They can be used with one hand and are rubberized to resist water.
Slide switches: A slide button is a plastic piece that moves back and forth to turn on or off the flashlight. These are usually found on low-end models and cannot be waterproofed.
Membrane-press switch: The switch is covered in a plastic membrane. You simply need to press the button to turn on the flashlight. You can use it with just one hand.
Bezel twist control: To turn the flashlight on or off, twist the end or front of the flashlight. Two hands are usually required to operate bezel twist controls.
Waterproof
If you intend to use your flashlight outdoors, it is essential that it is water-resistant. The IP system rates water resistance. IPX4 indicates that the flashlight is waterproof from all angles. IPX7 means that the flashlight can be submerged for 30 minutes in water at a depth of up to one meter.
Brightness
The brightness is the light amount the flashlight emits. It is measured in lumens. A higher number of lumens means more light. The brighter a flashlight is, the more power it uses. If the flashlight has a very bright light, even if the batteries are rechargeable or replaceable, it’s best to keep extra batteries handy and not in the flashlight to prolong battery life. Hence, a brighter flashlight costs more electricity and money.
How to Use Flashlights Properly and Safely?
Prepare several spare flashlights. It is a good idea if you have flashlights in several places in your home. This will ensure that you won’t have to search for one when the power goes out. One in your living room, one in the basement, and one in your garage.
Never point the flashlight straight at a person’s eyes, regardless of the distance. This will cause blindness and damage.
If you haven’t used your traditional flashlight in a while, make sure to change the batteries every three to four-month. This will prevent corrosion and battery leakage.
Avoid overcharging the battery. It is the best way to prolong the battery life. After the battery has reached full charge, disconnect chargers and rechargeable batteries in time.
Avoid storing your flashlight in direct sunlight or heat. This can lead to the flashlight’s bulb becoming less efficient or the batteries leaking.
Rechargeable batteries should not be mixed with disposable batteries when using a charger or being used in the flashlights. Disposable (alkaline batteries) are not rechargeable so they should not be charged in a charger. Manufacturers warn against charging different brands of rechargeable batteries in the same charger. To avoid dangers, each brand should be charged individually.
Not all water-resistant flashlights are waterproof. Water-resistant flashlights can be used in light rain and snow. They are a must for hunters, campers, and all outdoor enthusiasts.
But only the flashlight with an IPX8 water resistance rating means it can be submerged in water for up four hours at the specified depth.
Your flashlight should be kept in a dry, cool place where it is easy to find in the event of an emergency. It should not be stored in direct sunlight.
Accessories
