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When discussing everyday carry (EDC) items, a flashlight ranks as one of the essentials for many people. While you could argue that the flash app on your phone is enough, it’s usually not very bright and drains the battery really fast. So, if you want to be prepared for the unexpected, you should get a good EDC flashlight.
Unlike standard models, choosing a good EDC tactical flashlight requires a bit more thought. Not only does it have to be bright and have a good battery life, but it also needs to be convenient to pack and carry. In this article, you’ll learn about best EDC flashlights on the market, and hopefully find a light that you’ll love carrying with you everywhere.
Streamlight 66608 Microstream USB Rechargeable EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- High-capacity Li-Ion battery for an extended runtime
- Charges easily with the provided 5-inch USB cable
- Multi-directional pocket clip for attaching to a hat or pocket
- Scratch-resistant polycarbonate lens protects the bulb
- Beam is easy to focus by sliding the head
Length: 3.87 inches
Diameter: 0.5 inches
Weight: 1.2 ounces
Material: Anodized Aluminum
Lumen Output: 250lm
Range: 68 meters
Runtime: 3.5 hours (on low)
Battery Type: Lithium-Ion (rechargeable)
Waterproof Rating: IPX4
Streamlight 66118 Stylus Pro LED EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Ideal size for carrying in a pocket or a bag
- Removable clip makes it easy to secure the flashlight
- Strong casing resists hits and drops (up to 2 meters)
- Equipped with a 100-lumen white C4 LED
- Significantly longer runtime than similar models
Length: 5.3 inches
Diameter: 0.6 inches
Weight: 1.64 ounces
Material: Anodized Aluminum
Lumen Output: 100lm
Range: 62 meters
Runtime: 8 hours
Battery Type: 2 x AAA
Waterproof Rating: IPX4
Hatori Super Small Mini EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Incredibly lightweight for carrying anywhere
- Anti-slip design gives you a secure grip
- Tough 6061T aluminum alloy provides durability
- More than 2 hours of runtime with a single AAA battery
- 3-month money-back guarantee if you have a problem
Length: 3.55 inches
Diameter: 0.55 inches
Weight: 1.06 ounces
Material: 6061T Aluminum Alloy
Lumen Output: 150lm
Runtime: 2 hours
Battery Type: 1 x AAA
Water-resistant: Yes
Olight I3T EOS Dual-Output Slim EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Modular clip for securing the flashlight easily
- Double Helix body knurling gives a firm grip
- Two different light modes (5 and 180 lumens)
- TIR optic lens provides a balanced beam
- Alkaline battery (AAA) included in the package
Length: 3.5 inches
Diameter: 0.59 inches
Weight: 1.45 ounces
Material: Aluminum
Lumen Output: 180lm
Range: 60 meters
Runtime: 21 min (on high), 16 hours (on low)
Battery Type: 1 x AAA
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Streamlight 66318 MicroStream Ultra-Compact EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Double-sided clip for attaching to a hat
- Lanyard for carrying around the neck
- Great runtime with only one AAA battery (over 2 hours)
- Push-button tail switch for faster operation
- Type II anodizing gives impact and abrasion resistance
Length: 3.5 inches
Diameter: 0.6 inches
Weight: 1.04 ounces
Material: Type II Anodized Aluminum
Lumen Output: 45lm
Runtime: 2.25 hours
Battery Type: 1 x AAA
Waterproof Rating: IPX4
Wuben Ultra Bright Rechargeable Tactical EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Powerful OSRAM P9 LED (up to 1200 lumens)
- Five different lighting modes (including Eco and SOS)
- High-capacity Li-Ion battery with USB charging
- Warning flashes when the battery level is low
- 30-day money-back guarantee and 1 year of free repairs
Length: 5.46 inches
Diameter: 1.02 inches
Weight: 4.87 ounces
Material: Aircraft-grade Aluminum
Lumen Output: 1200lm
Range: 656 feet
Runtime: 1.5h (on high), 143h (on eco)
Battery Type: Rechargeable 2600mAh Li-ion (or 2 x CR123A)
Waterproof Rating: IP68
BYB F18 LED Rechargeable EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Memory function remembers the last mode you used
- Anti-slip knurling prevents slipping from the hand
- High-quality Cree LED emits up to 800 lumens
- Rechargeable battery with 3000mAh capacity
- Resistant to impacts, scratches, and corrosion
Length: 4.72 inches
Diameter: 1.18 inches
Weight: 4.8 ounces
Material: Aluminum
Lumen Output: 800lm
Runtime: 60 hours (on ultra-low), 3.5 hours (on high)
Battery Type: Rechargeable 3000mAh
Waterproof Rating: IP67
OLIGHT i3E EOS Compact EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Compact enough for carrying on a keychain
- LED bulbs last for up to 60,000 hours
- IPX8 waterproof rating (safe for submersion)
- High-quality alkaline AAA battery included
- Generous 5-year manufacturer’s warranty
Length: 2.38 inches
Diameter: 0.55 inches
Weight: 0.28 ounces
Material: A6061-T6 Aluminum
Lumen Output: 90lm
Range: 44 meters
Runtime: 45 minutes (with AAA)
Battery Type: 1 x AAA or 1 x NiMH
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
ThruNite Ti3 Cree AAA EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- Four light levels (firefly, low, high, and strobe)
- Single Cree XP LED gives up to 120 lumens
- Reversible clip for attaching to a hat
- Twist switch design makes one-handed use easy
- Type III anodized construction with an IPX8 rating
Length: 2.76 inches
Diameter: 0.55 inches
Weight: 0.43 ounces
Material: Aircraft-grade Aluminum
Lumen Output: 120lm
Range: 50 meters
Runtime: 1 hour (high), 6.3 hours (low)
Battery Type: 1 x AAA
Waterproof Rating: IPX8
Maglite XL200 3-Cell AAA EDC Flashlight
- What Makes This EDC Flashlight Stand Out
- QuickClik switch on the cap for faster use
- LockOut function keeps it from accidentally turning on
- Silent signal mode (sends Morse Code signals)
- Night Lite mode automatically dims when not in use
- Adjustable strobe rate from slow to fast
Length: 4.72 inches
Diameter: 2.99 inches
Weight: 3.7 ounces
Material: Anodized Aluminum
Lumen Output: 230lm
Range: 163 meters
Runtime: 1h 45min (on high), 156h (on low)
Battery Type: 3 x AAA
Waterproof Rating: IPX4
How To Choose An EDC Flashlight – Buying Guide
Attachment Points
When it comes to carrying any EDC item, everyone has their own preference. As for flashlights, they need to be out of your way but stay readily accessible when you need them.
The most common attachment point is the pocket, using a pocket clip that most models come with. As an alternative, some torches can be attached to a keychain, a zipper, or even a belt loop if you find those options more comfortable.
Switch Options
It’s generally considered that an EDC light with a click button on the tail is the easiest to use. While this may be true, there are other switch options that some users prefer.
The alternatives include a classic slider button as well as a twisting or sliding head design. Choosing the right switch design usually comes down to how easy it is for you to use with one hand.
Light Output and Beam Adjustment
Every flashlight comes with a lumen rating that shows you the maximum visible light output you can get from the particular model. While EDC flashlights vary greatly in brightness, it’s considered that 100 lumens are enough for standard everyday use.
In addition, being able to adjust the beam is very useful and improves the overall versatility in use. This function is usually found in more powerful flashlights, and allows you to reduce (or increase) brightness and change the beam dispersion (flood or spot).
Signaling and Flashing Capabilities
An EDC flashlight can be a great tool in emergencies. Many of the models we talked about come with different signaling modes that allow you to call for help. The most common ones are strobe and SOS, but some can even send more elaborate signals using the Morse code.
Battery Type
Like all standard flashlights, EDC models also work with two types of batteries – disposable and rechargeable. This being said, most models use standard AAA or AA batteries to power the LED bulb. These are widely available but aren’t the most cost-effective or energy-efficient.
If you don’t mind charging the battery now and then, a rechargeable model is a much better option. It usually gives you a longer runtime, and you only have to buy it once instead of replacing it all the time.
Construction Quality and Water Protection
The overall durability of the flashlight mostly depends on the materials used to make it. A high-quality EDC torch is made of lightweight but strong aluminum that tolerates bumps while protecting the bulb from damage.
On top of this, a good EDC light should also be completely sealed with O-rings to prevent any water from getting inside. The models feature different IPX ratings, but anything with IPX4 is water-resistant and handles rain and splashing without problems.
FAQs
Q: Where Can I Carry My EDC Flashlight?
Most people carry the EDC tactical flashlight in the front pocket of their pants. This is very convenient because almost all EDC models come with a pocket clip. As an alternative, some models have a key ring so you can even carry them on your keychain or zipper.
Q: What Does EDC Flashlight Mean?
An EDC (EveryDay Carry) flashlight is a small and compact flashlight that you can carry with you all the time. The best flashlight for EDC is small enough to fit seamlessly in your pocket and gives you a bright light whenever you find yourself in an unexpected situation.
Q: Do You Need A Flashlight For EDC?
Yes, because you can’t know when you’ll need a reliable light source. An EDC flashlight can be very handy if you’re looking for something, the power is out, or you need to defend yourself (among other things).
Globo Surf Overview
You never really know when a flashlight might come in handy, which is why it’s not a bad idea to have one at all times. The best thing about EDC models is that they are small, so you won’t even notice them on you.
With the help of our reviews and guide, we’re sure that you’ll easily find the best edc flashlight that can stand up to any task when you need it.