10 Best Pocket Flashlights In 2020

The sleek and stylish Streamlight 66121 Stylus Pro is an intensely bright light that fits easily even in smaller pockets. It’s shaped and sized just like a regular pen, meaning you won’t even notice it with you. However, once turned on, its 100-lumen output will make everything easily visible.

LEDs and Light Output

The secret behind the Stylus Pro’s performance lies in its high-quality white C4 LED. Not only does it deliver 100lm, but this half-watt bulb can last for up to 30,000 hours. As a bonus, this top rated pocket flashlight comes with a polycarbonate cover to protect the lens from damage.

Batteries and Runtime

To get the most out of this portable flashlight, you’ll need to get two alkaline AA batteries. The model is pretty energy-efficient, with a single set lasting around 8 hours. We like that it has a low battery indicator so you’ll know when it’s time for a replacement.

Materials and Design

The Stylus Pro PenLight is made of aircraft aluminum with type II anodizing, making sure it can withstand 2-meter drops and water splashes easily. Last but not least, the pocket LED flashlight also comes with a removable pocket clip and a holster to make carrying easier.

The Streamlight MicroStream offers the perfect balance between a good-looking design and excellent functionality. The 3.5-inch aluminum casing comes with a double-sided clip for easy attaching, while the high-quality LED produces bright light and lasts for thousands of hours.

LEDs and Light Output

The maximum amount of light that you can get from the Streamlight MicroStream pocket flashlight is around 45 lumens. Sure, it’s not the brightest light around, but its wide beam and 41-meter range allow you to see everything clearly.

Batteries and Runtime

Since this is a compact model, it only has room for a single AAA battery. Don’t let this worry you though, because the battery will keep the light constantly running for more than 2 hours before you need to replace it.

Materials and Design

Even though this is not a pocket tactical flashlight, the construction quality can easily be compared to the toughest models around. The type II anodized aluminum not only resists damage well, but also keeps water out. Lastly, besides the clip we mentioned, the torch also comes with a strong nylon lanyard.

If you’re on a limited budget and want the best value for your money, the Hausbell 7W mini flashlight is the one to get. It’s tough, bright, and doesn’t take up much space. A great thing is that you’ll get two pocket torches in the package, providing you with a backup if one runs out. 

LEDs and Light Output

Depending on what you need, Hausbell everyday carry flashlight can be used in three different modes – bright, dim, and flash. When used in bright mode, it produces up to 300 lumens with a beam distance of 200 meters. 

Batteries and Runtime

A big plus about this model is that you can use it with an AA disposable or a 14500 rechargeable battery. However, the runtime you can get varies from 2 hours with an AA to 4 hours with a 14500 cell.

Materials and Design

Made from a combination of aluminum and ABS plastic, the casing of the EDC pocket flashlight is highly resistant to shocks and drops. It’s designed to fit in the hand really well, and the tail switch makes it easy to use with one hand.

The J5 Tactical V1-Pro is ideal for those of you who want something more from your LED flashlight. It’s one of the brightest flashlights around, has a long runtime, and you can even use it for self-defense. On the other hand, it’s only 4 inches long so you can easily pack it.

LEDs and Light Output

The maximum light output of this inspection flashlight is around 300 lumens. You can use it in three different modes (high, low, and strobe), and you control them with the push button on the tail cap. In addition, the head allows you to zoom in and out.

Batteries and Runtime

For higher versatility in use, J5 Tactical V1-PRO works with two types of batteries. You can use disposable AA batteries when you’re on the go, or rechargeable 14500 batteries if you have a charger nearby. Regardless of the type, you can expect several hours of use.

Materials and Design

The aluminum casing of the J5 V1-Pro is virtually indestructible and tolerates 9-foot drops and temporary submersion. It’s truly designed for outdoor use, and you’ll even get a 1-year free replacement warranty as proof of quality.

Measuring only 1.47 inches, the Streamlight Nano is the smallest pocket flashlight that you can get. As a bonus, it comes with a carabiner clip for attaching it to your keys or a zipper. It’s pretty bright considering the size, and it’s designed to last for a long time.

LEDs and Light Output

Streamlight Nano comes with a single 5mm white LED that produces up to 10 lumens. While this may not seem like much, the LED area has a parabolic shape that significantly improves light distribution. 

Batteries and Runtime

Unlike most other models, the Streamlight Nano uses four IEC-LR41 coin cell batteries. A set of these is included in the package, which is a big plus. However, while they promise up to 8 hours of light, the brightness will decline as the battery drains.

Materials and Design

Thanks to its size, this LED flashlight is incredibly easy to operate with one hand. It’s made of aluminum, and turns on and off by simply rotating the head. However, keep in mind that this model isn’t water-resistant so avoid using it in the rain.

The set of four BYB Super Bright aluminum pocket flashlights is great for families or larger groups. For a very reasonable price, everyone can receive a bright and colorful 3.5-inch LED flashlight that fits into any pocket.

LEDs and Light Output

Instead of a single LED, the BYB flashlight is equipped with nine small LED bulbs for more reliable performance. Combined, they have an output of 30 lumens and a range of up to 20 feet.

Batteries and Runtime

Each unit needs 3 standard AA alkaline batteries to run. However, since the LEDs are very energy-efficient, you can expect up to 30 hours of runtime with a single set. Unfortunately, batteries are not included in the package.

Materials and Design

The casing of the BYB flashlight is made of aluminum, but it’s not as tough or durable as some other models we’ve featured. Still, it’s perfectly suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and it’s even backed by a 90-day money-back guarantee if you have any problems with it.

When it comes to convenience in use, the Coast HP1 Pure Beam is hard to beat. Not only does it allow you to zoom and adjust the beam, but it also works with three types of batteries so you can have power regardless of where you are.

LEDs and Light Output

Due to its 190-lumen output, this LED flashlight works equally well for everyday tasks and tactical flashlight use (complies with ANSI FL1 Flashlight Standards). And, as we mentioned, you can adjust the focus by simply sliding the head up and down.

Batteries and Runtime

The three types of batteries that can be used with this model are AA alkaline, NiMH, and 14500 lithium rechargeable battery. While the runtime depends on the battery you choose, a standard disposable AA can give you around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Materials and Design

Despite being one of the larger products on our list (4.02 inches), it should still fit in your pocket without too much trouble. And, despite the size, it weighs just 0.32 ounces which is great if you’re conscious about gear weight.

The LE Cree LED might be the best pocket flashlight to get if you’re after durability. Even though it’s not the brightest on our top 10 best pocket flashlight list, it comes with high-quality Cree LED bulbs that will last a lifetime. Combine this with the tough 6063 aluminum casing, and you get a really well-made product.

LEDs and Light Output

The powerful LED bulbs we’ve mentioned have a maximum output of 140 lumens. This is more than enough for any type of work around the house or car, and it will do a great job outdoor too. Furthermore, this skinny flashlight features a zoomable design that allows you to adjust the beam focus.

Batteries and Runtime

To power this flashlight, you’re going to need a set of three standard AAA batteries (included in the package). The runtime you can get is about 5 hours, depending on how you use it.

Materials and Design

The aluminum casing of the LE Cree LED tactical flashlight is completely sealed and comes with IPX4 protection against rain and splashing. And, to make your grip firmer, the handle has a diamond pattern and a strong wrist strap.

Thanks to its 7-watt Cree LED, the UltraFire Mini flashlight is among the brightest flashlight models that you can have in your pocket. On top of this, it’s really well-made too (water and impact-resistant), so you’re getting a great product for a very affordable price.

LEDs and Light Output

With an output of 300 lumens, this EDC flashlight will easily light up larger areas. The switch on the tail makes it easy to turn on and off, while the head pulls in and out so you can adjust the focus between spot and floodlight.

Batteries and Runtime

A detail we like about this model is that it’s compatible with three types of batteries – AA alkaline, AA NiMH, or 14500 rechargeable. Runtime depends on the type of battery, but a standard AA will last about 1.5 hours. Unfortunately, batteries are not included with the purchase.

Materials and Design

The tough aluminum casing makes the LED flashlight resistant to shocks, skids, and abrasion, significantly increasing durability. Lastly, while it’s not safe for submersion, it won’t be damaged by splashing or light rain.

Perhaps the best thing about the ThruNite Ti3 LED skinny flashlight is that it’s designed to be carried on a keychain. This greatly reduces the chances of losing it, and guarantees you’ll always have it with you when you need it.

LEDs and Light Output

The cool white LED in the ThruNite Ti3 has a maximum output of 120 lumens, which is very impressive considering the size. The beam range is around 50 meters (on high), and you can use it in four different modes – firefly, low, high, and strobe.

Batteries and Runtime

The only thing you need to power the Ti3 flashlight is a single AAA battery. It’s best that you use an alkaline model if you want to get a good runtime. On average, a single battery will last about 30 minutes on high, or 6.3 hours on low.

Materials and Design

Despite being very small (2.76 inches), ThruNite Ti3 is made of type III anodized aluminum that makes it very tough. While it’s comfy to hold in the hand, it also comes with a reversible 2-way clip to secure it to a pocket or a hat.