Best LED Flashlight - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
Sometimes you need to shed a little light on what you're doing, so having the right amount of lighting is important. This is why LED flashlights are worthy of consideration. Not only can they light things up, but they have a variety of settings and features to provide the ray and shine you want.
LED flashlights are known for their wide, bright white beams and are essential for anyone hoping to spend time in the dark. Uses include camping, fishing, and many professions, and flashlights are great for anyone to keep handy. LED flashlights to use less energy than incandescent flashlights, making them an ideal emergency accessory to have in your car or at home in a power outage.
Choose an LED Flashlight that works for your professional and personal needs. Our buying guide includes all the details on features, fits, and styles and some recommendations to make your decision as easy as possible.
Key Considerations
LEDs vs. Incandescent
LED flashlights outshine their competition, incandescent flashlights, in more ways than one. Although they tend to be much more expensive, they last longer and are a better investment.
Efficient : LED flashlights are much more efficient than incandescent flashlights. They're bright but have less power, so batteries last longer, making LED flashlights more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Durable : Incandescent flashlights, even those with a heavy case, are at risk of becoming completely useless if they are dropped and the bulb filament breaks. LED flashlights have no filament and will continue to work even after being dropped. Some LED flashlights are crush-resistant up to a ton, and others can be submerged for underwater use.
Beam Color : Incandescent flashlights emit yellow light, gradually dimming with use. LED flashlights emit a bright white light that better illuminates objects without affecting their color, which is often altered by a yellowish light.
Beam Width : For the most part, incandescent flashlights emit a narrow light beam. LED flashlights have settings to control the width of the beam. That means they can have a narrow beam or widen the range for better peripheral visibility.
Basics of LED Flashlight
Brightness : Brightness is expressed in lumens, and LED flashlights to range from 90 to 1,000 lumens. Generally speaking, the higher the number, the brighter the beam.
Beam Distance : The beam distance is usually measured in meters, and it is generally between 60 and 100 meters for LED flashlights. That said, manufacturers aren't consistent with this information, so you'll have to dig to find it.
Light Settings : LED flashlights to come with a number of settings, the most common being adjustable zoom between spotlight and floodlight modes. Brightness can also be adjusted on many models, ideal if a mix of near and distance use is expected. Strobe and emergency light settings are also common and can help draw the attention of others if used correctly.
Power : LED flashlights are powered by alkaline or rechargeable batteries. Because LED flashlights are more efficient, they consume less power and require less frequent battery changes.
Alkaline : Models that use alkaline batteries usually use AA or AAA batteries, although some require C, D, or special batteries. Most of these models come with a pair of starter-brand batteries. It's good to upgrade to quality, reliable batteries from a brand you know.
Rechargeable : LED flashlights that use rechargeable batteries tend to be more expensive upfront, but you'll save money on batteries in the long run. Some rechargeable models have batteries compatible with other products from the same manufacturer, so if you stick with the brand, you can get even more bang for your buck.
LED Flashlight Features
Materials
The case of an LED flashlight is usually made of commercial-grade plastic, rubber, or aluminum alloy.
- Aluminum : These flashlights tend to be the heaviest, although they are considered the most durable due to their rust-proof and drop-proof metal cases.
- Rubber : Rubber holsters tend to be lighter and less expensive than professional or tactical flashlights.
- Plastic : You'll see commercial-grade plastic in heavy-duty, professional LED flashlights because they're often used on construction sites or in environments that take a lot of wear and tear.
Waterproof : Some LED flashlights are waterproof and can be submerged for underwater use. These models have seals around the internal parts to prevent water damage. Some of them also float, making them a popular style for fishing and camping. There are also waterproof LED flashlights. While these should not be submerged in water, they are made for outdoor use in inclement weather conditions, including rain, snow, and hail.
Tips
Buy a value pack. LED Flashlights cost more than traditional flashlights, so it's good to buy a value pack to get the most for your money. You can keep one in your car, bedroom, RV, basement, or office, or else you might need light in an emergency.
Consider the cost of the battery. When comparing the cost of various LED flashlights, see how they stack up when it comes to battery drain. Some are actual energy hogs, while others have a power-saving mode or use rechargeable batteries.
Take one when you walk your dog. Since four-legged friends often need to go out at night, investing in a wide-beam LED flashlight for walks after dark is a good idea.
Buy a cord. If you're doing an activity that requires intermittent use of an LED flashlight, clip it to a lanyard for quick and easy access.
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Hand Tools