10 Best LED Flashlights In 2020

Streamlight 88040 ProTac HL flashlight packs a 750-lumen output in a very compact package and it’s equally handy both indoors and outdoors. It promises up to 18 hours of bright light, while its strong waterproof casing allows you to take it anywhere. All things considered, it’s easy to see why this model ranks as perhaps the best LED torch on the market.

LEDs and Lumen Output

The flashlight comes equipped with C4 LED technology that not only delivers exceptional brightness but also guarantees up to 50,000 working hours before you need to replace the bulbs. Its peak is 750 lumens when used on high, but you can also use it in low and strobe modes if you wish to save power. As for range, the concentrated beam has a maximum reach of around 270 meters.

Batteries and Runtime

A detail we really like about this model is that the batteries are already in the package, so you can use the light right out of the box. The Streamlight ProTac HL requires two 3-volt CR123A lithium batteries to work and has a very decent runtime considering the power. You can get around 18 hours on low, or about 1 hour and 15 minutes when used on high.

Materials and Design

The casing of the Streamlight ProTac HL is made of anodized aluminum that provides drop-resistance from up to 1 meter. It’s also completely sealed and has an IPX7 waterproof rating, so water can’t hurt it either. As a bonus, this is a tactical flashlight that you can use for self-defense too. Finally, in addition to the light itself, you’ll also get a pocket clip and a nylon holster as a gift.

The combination of light intensity and high-level adjustability makes the Anker Bolder LC90 one of the most versatile flashlights on the market. It can deliver up to 900 lumens and offers 5 different light modes along with an easy beam adjustment. The options with this flashlight are endless, which is why we picked it as our favorite on this list. 

LEDs and Lumen Output

The Anker Bolder LC90 comes with high-quality Cree LEDs that will last a lifetime. They are certified for up to 50,000 working hours, so you don’t need to worry about replacing them any time soon. You can choose among five modes (high, medium, low, strobe, and SOS), and switching between spot and floodlight is easy (simply twist the cap). In spotlight mode on high, this torch can toss a light up to 1,000 feet.

Batteries and Runtime

If you don’t like changing disposable batteries, the Anker Bolder LC90 is perfect for you. It comes equipped with a 3350mAh rechargeable battery (18650) that will provide up to 6 hours of power in medium mode. The battery fully recharges via USB in 6 hours, and you can also charge it with a 1A adapter if USB is too slow.

Materials and Design

Thanks to its anodized aluminum shell, this tac flashlight can withstand all the trials of daily use. It’s resistant to shocks and splashes, so you don’t have to worry if you drop it or get caught in the rain. The firm non-slip grip makes sure the light stays in your hand, and there’s even a nylon wrist strap for added security.

Perfectly balanced between quality and price, Streamlight 66118 Stylus Pro is the best LED torch to get on a limited budget. On top of this, it resembles a standard pen and looks great too. Even though it’s fairly compact, the Stylus Pro has a light output of 100 lumens which will be more than enough for most situations in and out of the house. 

LEDs and Lumen Output

A single white C4 LED is responsible for the light intensity of the 66118 Stylus Pro. The LED is very long-lasting, with a tested lifespan of over 30,000 hours. Shocks and bumps won’t damage it, and it even comes with a polycarbonate lens on top as additional protection.

Batteries and Runtime

Even though it’s pretty bright for its size, this flashlight requires only two AAA batteries to work. With a new pair of batteries, you can expect it to work for up to 8 hours before you need to replace them. For your convenience, Stylus Pro also comes with a low battery indicator – it starts strobing when it’s time for a new set.

Materials and Design

The aircraft-grade aluminum casing comes with Type II military-spec anodizing that makes it one of the toughest in our reviews. It’s IPX4 water-resistant, and you can drop it from two meters without any consequences. The design also includes a pocket clip on the side, and you’ll even get a nice nylon holster for convenient carrying.

If you’re looking for a rugged model that can withstand harsh outdoor use, the Dorcy 55-Lumen waterproof LED is the best flashlight to get. This model will tolerate just about anything, as it’s completely shock-resistant. The casing is sealed to prevent water from getting in and, unlike most other products, it will float on the water surface instead of sinking.

LEDs and Lumen Output

Compared to most other products on this list, the Dorcy flashlight is below average when it comes to light intensity. Still, its four LEDs will give you an output of 55 lumens which is enough for lighting the path but not the entire campsite. You shouldn’t worry about this, because countless customers report that the light beam is very decent.

Batteries and Runtime

To power this unit, you’ll need three standard AA batteries. We appreciate that these are already included in the package, which saves you the money and effort of buying them separately. Dorcy LED is also very energy-efficient, and these three batteries will give you 8 hours and 45 minutes of light before you need to replace them. 

Materials and Design

As we mentioned, the best thing about this model is its casing. Made of tough plastic, it won’t break even if you drop it multiple times. Furthermore, it comes with a rubberized grip that prevents slipping and allows it to sit comfortably in the hand. And, if you don’t like the green one, it also comes in 4 other great-looking colors.

When it comes to battery performance, Maglite 3-Cell D LED flashlight is hands-down the best model you can get. Even if you use it on high, the flashlight will give you 80 hours of bright light before the batteries run out. In addition to this, the model is strong and durable but still easy and comfortable to use.

LEDs and Lumen Output

Maglite ST3D096 flashlights brightest intensity is 168 lumens, which ranks it somewhere in the middle compared to others. On the other hand, the light beam and dispersion are easily adjustable and give you a lot of options. The model comes with a zoomable head so you can easily switch between flood and spot, and has a maximum distance of 412 meters. 

Batteries and Runtime

The remarkable battery life of the Maglite ST3D096 is all thanks to its three D-cell alkaline batteries. Unfortunately, these don’t come with the light so you’ll have to get them separately. While they do provide a fantastic runtime, the batteries also increase the size and weight of this model. If this is a problem for you, Maglite also offers a shorter and lighter 2-cell version.

Materials and Design

At 12.3 inches long, this is by no means a mini flashlight. It won’t fit in your pocket, but it sits incredibly well in the hand. To further improve this, the casing comes with a knurled diamond pattern that prevents any slipping, even when wet. Lastly, the product has a lifetime warranty coverage if you have any issues while using it.

Considering that you get two flashlights the price of one, the Hausbell 7W Mini flashlight 2-pack is one of the best deals available. But don’t think that lower price means the lights are skimping on quality – their high-quality LEDs place them among the most powerful models relative to size. And, since it’s only 4.3 inches long and has a pocket clip, it’s very easy to take just about anywhere.

LEDs and Lumen Output

The single 7-watt LED bulb on the Hausbell flashlight can produce up to 300 lumens while using the high mode. Besides the flashlight brightest mode, it also has dim and flash options. At peak power, the range of this flashlight can reach up to 200 meters.

Batteries and Runtime

The Hausbell 7W mini flashlight offers two options when it comes to batteries. If you prefer recharging instead of buying new batteries, it works great with a 14500 rechargeable battery. On the other hand, if recharging is a hassle and you want to switch batteries on the go, it’s also compatible with a single AA battery. Depending on the type you get, the runtime varies between 2 and 4 hours.

Materials and Design

Made of a combination of metal and ABS plastic, the Hausbell 7W flashlight will do a great job wherever you take it. And, for increased durability, it’s also highly resistant to snow and rain. As for the design, a unique feature of this model is the luminous ring that makes it much easier to find in the dark.

The J5 Tactical V1-PRO is compact enough to fit in any pocket, but powerful enough to light up a football field. Because of this, it’s an excellent option for carrying with you everywhere you go. Despite being very bright, you’ll easily get several hours on max setting before you need to replace the battery.

LEDs and Lumen Output

When talking about peak output, this torch can deliver up to 300 lumens (depending on the setting). On top of this, it can cast a light up to 600 feet away. The flashlights off and on button is located on the tail cap and allows you to choose between three settings – high, medium, and low. The tactical flashlight also allows you to adjust the focus range (spot or flood) by simply twisting the cap.

Batteries and Runtime

A great thing about the J5 Tactical V1-PRO is that it’s very energy-efficient. It requires only 1 battery to work, and you can choose whether you want to use a disposable AA battery or a rechargeable 14500 model. Unfortunately, batteries are not included and you’ll have to buy them separately.

Materials and Design

Owing to its strong aluminum construction, this flashlight L E D can easily handle drops from 9 feet or getting submerged temporarily. At 4 inches, it’s among the shortest flashlights we featured, and it even comes with a clip for securing it to your pocket. Last but not least, the manufacturer gives you a full one-year replacement warranty.

The BYB Super Bright Flashlight 4-pack is a great choice for families or groups. For a very affordable price, you’re getting four handy and durable flashlights. Since they are very compact (only 3.5 inches), they also make a great choice for everyday carrying and keeping around the house, in the car, or a bag pocket.

LEDs and Lumen Output

Each unit is rigged with 9 high-quality LEDs that combine to a total of 30 lumens. While it’s not the brightest torch around, it still shines enough light so you can see where you’re going. As for the beam distance, this neat little flashlight will allow you to see up to 30 feet in front of you.

Batteries and Runtime

To power the BYB flashlight, you’re going to need three AAA batteries (sold separately). The lower light output has a huge upside though, as a single set of batteries can last up to 30 hours. Because of this, the BYB light is a great choice if you want reliability.

Materials and Design

The length of only 3.5 inches makes this flashlight one of the most compacts on the market. Since it's so small, it’s also equipped with a lanyard so you don’t lose it. The aluminum casing protects it from shocks or damage, but in case you encounter any problems you’re also getting a 90-day money-back guarantee.

The main detail that separates the Stanley Fatmax from all other flashlights is its incredible light output. At 2,200 lumens, it’s the most powerful model in our reviews by far, and an ideal choice if you need to shine a bright light on a large area. As a bonus, its rechargeable battery gives you a great runtime, and even doubles as a power bank.

LEDs and Lumen Output

The secret of the Stanley Fatmax lies in its 10-watt LED bulb, which is many times more powerful than a standard flashlight. As we mentioned, the max output it can give you is 2,200 lumens (in the high mode). It also has a low mode with reduced brightness but also much longer battery life.

Batteries and Runtime

The unit comes with a built-in high-capacity Li-Ion battery that can keep the flashlight bright for up to 7 hours on low. While this is shorter than many other products, it’s a direct result of the light power. Charging the battery anywhere is easy using the provided AC and DC adapters, and it holds the charge for up to 12 months in stand-by.

Materials and Design

Even though it’s made of plastic, the housing is surprisingly durable and strong. Additionally, it comes with a rubber bezel on top to protect the lens from scratching. Holding it is comfortable thanks to the rubber grip, but the collapsible pivot and lockable trigger also allow hands-free operation.

By combining a compact design with impressive light output, the Fenix PD35 ranks itself as one of the best LED flashlights for everyday carrying. On top of this, the tactical design makes it very versatile too – you can use it for pretty much anything from self-defense to finding your way around the campsite at night.

LEDs and Lumen Output

The Fenix PD35 TAC comes equipped with a high-quality Cree XP-L (V5) LED that delivers impressive 1,000 lumens in turbo mode. In the same mode, it has a maximum range of 656 feet. But if you don’t want to use it on max, it also offers 5 other power settings.

Batteries and Runtime

A thing we like about this model is that you can choose which batteries you want to use. It comes with 2 disposable CR123A batteries in the package, but it works equally well with a rechargeable 18650 battery. In an ideal scenario, a full battery will give you 140 hours on low and 1 hour 10 minutes on high.

Materials and Design

The casing of the Fenix PD35 TAC is made of aircraft-grade aluminum that provides exceptional durability. It has an IPX8 waterproof rating (tolerates 2-meter immersion), and resists impacts well too. The knurled handle finish keeps it from slipping, and the shape prevents rolling. Lastly, in addition to the flashlight, you’ll also get a lanyard, a holster, a body clip, and a lifetime warranty coverage.