10 Best Flashlights In 2021

The Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA is a lightweight pocket-sized model that you can bring just about anywhere. Due to their size and construction, these are very good flashlights for daily use around your home or car. Additionally, they have a programmable TEN-TAP operation and come with a nylon holster and batteries included.

LEDs and Output

Despite being pretty compact, the ProTac 1L-1AA has a very good output (350 lumens). The programmable operation makes use much easier and allows you to customize the three default brightness levels. We also like that the unit comes with a strobe mode that can be used when defending yourself.

Batteries and Runtime

If you’re using it on the highest setting, the Streamlight ProTac 1L-1AA is not very energy efficient (lasts less than two hours). However, the time extends greatly if you use the lower output. Like many other high-quality models, it allows you to choose whether you want to use an AA alkaline or a CR123A lithium battery.

Materials and Design

The entire casing is made of anodized aluminum, complemented by impact-resistant tempered glass that protects the lens. Even with all this, the ProTac 1L-1AA is surprisingly lightweight at only 3 ounces. As a cherry on top, Streamlight gives you a limited lifetime warranty on the product.

From casual camping to outdoor emergencies, the GearLight S1200 will make everything bright and easily visible. While it might be too powerful for indoor use, this is the type of bright torch you want to have on outdoor adventures. It offers several light modes, and you can even use it for tactical purposes if needed.

LEDs and Output

On maximum setting, the GearLight S1200 delivers up to 500 lumens of power. However, this mode isn’t very energy-efficient, so you can also reduce the output to prolong the battery life. In addition to standard modes (high, med, and low), it also has strobe and SOS options that you can use in emergencies.

Batteries and Runtime

To power such a bright bulb, the S1200 requires three alkaline AA batteries (not included). If you’re not a fan of disposable batteries, it's also compatible with 18650 and 26650 rechargeable models. According to customers, a fully charged battery can give you up to 16 hours of bright light.

Materials and Design

Since it’s designed for use in harsh conditions, the GearLight S1200 can withstand 10-foot drops and lots of rain. It’s a truly durable unit, and you’ll even get a 1-year return policy in case you don’t like it.

The Hausbell 7W 2-pack gives you two great flashlights for the price of one. But don’t think that this makes their quality inferior — they are tough, easy to use, and very bright for their size. As a bonus, they have a tactical design and come with a pocket clip for hands-free operation.

LEDs and Output

The 7-watt bulb in this compact torch is one of the most powerful on our list and produces a very intense light of 300 lumens. The switch is placed on the tail cap and you can use it to choose between three different modes — bright, dim, and flash. When used on bright, the beam range can go up to 200 meters.

Batteries and Runtime

Depending on which option you prefer, the Hausbell can be powered by a disposable AA battery or a more eco-friendly rechargeable 14500 cell. On average, it will last between 2 and 4 hours.

Materials and Design

The combination of aluminum and tough ABS plastic makes this torch resistant to shocks and abrasions. On top of this, it’s sealed well and won’t get damaged even if it gets wet. One more design feature worth noting is the illuminated ring on the side which makes finding the torch in the dark easier.

The J5 Tactical V1-Pro is the ideal choice if you’re looking for a tactical torch that you can use for everyday carry. It has 300 lumens of output and a very decent battery life, while still fitting into a pocket or a smaller bag.

LEDs and Output

The high-end bulb in this LED torch creates 300 lumens and casts the light up to 600 feet away. Controlling the unit is easy using the tail cap switch, and you have three output modes to choose from — high, low, and strobe. As a bonus, the head slides up and down allowing you to adjust the beam focus.

Batteries and Runtime

When it comes to the power source, you can choose whether you want to use a disposable AA cell or a 14500 rechargeable. The disposable might give you a slightly longer runtime, but you’ll have to replace it frequently. The V1-Pro is a long-lasting torch and can easily work for several hours continuously.

Materials and Design

Made of strong aluminum alloy, J5 V1-Pro can survive 9-foot falls and even submersion. The unit is only 4 inches long, so you can easily bring it on any adventure. Lastly, the manufacturer gives you a one-year replacement warranty without any questions asked.

If you need multiple flashlights for your family or a camping group, the BYB Super Bright 4-pack is the way to go. Each unit in the package is colored differently, so they won’t get mixed up. These LED flashlights are compact enough to fit in your pocket but bright enough so you can easily see what you’re doing.

LEDs and Output

Instead of a single LED bulb, the BYB flashlight comes with nine LEDs for improved performance. Combined, they have a maximum output of 30 lumens which will be enough for most users. The light beam goes up to 20 feet, making it easy to see your way through the forest at night.

Batteries and Runtime

Each torch in the pack requires three alkaline AAA batteries to work. Unfortunately, they are not included, and you’ll have to get them separately. With a brand-new set, you can expect up to 30 hours of steady light.

Materials and Design

Measuring 3.5 inches, the BYB flashlight is one of the most compact models on this list. It’s also very durable, but we would advise against getting it wet as it is not fully water-resistant. The on/off button is located on the tail, and each unit comes with a wrist strap, so you don’t lose it.

For those of you looking for power on a limited budget, the Outlite A100 Portable is the top to get. They are incredibly bright and offer several modes of operation along with beam adjustments. On the other hand, the Outlite A100 isn’t the smallest model around and might be too large for a pocket.

LEDs and Output

While the light output is specified at 2000 lumens, customers agree that it’s more likely to be somewhere around 500 – 600lm. This is still very powerful and does a great job no matter where you are. The beam distance goes up to 1000 feet, and the unit allows you to switch between 5 output modes.

Batteries and Runtime

To use it, you’ll need 3 standard AAA batteries or a single 18650 rechargeable cell. We like that a set of AAA batteries is included, so you can use it straight away. While the runtime depends on the battery you choose, the Outlite A100 can give you up to 5 hours of operation on average.

Materials and Design

For increased durability and water resistance, the casing is made from high-quality aluminum alloy. And, as a bonus, the Outlite A100 has a tactical shape that allows you to use it for self-defense too.

The Fenix PD35 is characterized by three things — compact design, high-end material quality, and very bright light output. This torch will stand up to any task, whether you need something to take camping or you want a versatile torch for carrying with you every day.

LEDs and Output

Thanks to its high-quality Cree XP-L (V5) LED, the Fenix PD35 can deliver up to 1,000 lumens and makes it the brightest flashlight on the list. It has a total of six different light settings, and the memory circuit inside remembers the last setting you used when you turn it on again.

Batteries and Runtime

When it comes to power, you have two options — a single 18650 rechargeable or two CR123A batteries (included in the package). Runtime depends on the mode you’re using but for reference, you can get about 140 hours on low or 1 hour 10 minutes on high.

Materials and Design

The rugged aircraft-grade aluminum body can withstand pretty much anything, from drops on the ground to being 2 meters underwater. As for extra features, you’re getting a lanyard, a holster, and a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.