Our Top Rated AA LED Flashlight Guide and Reviews

Cheap flashlights are made from low-grade plastic, they don’t offer strong illumination, and they are prone to break after a couple uses. So when it comes to something as important as light, you can do much better than the bottom-of-the-barrel products that are out in the market.

But if you look in the right places and know what you want in a flashlight, you’ll definitely find one of great value and quality. Sure, you will probably have to invest more than you would for those cheap plastic versions, but you’ll quickly see that the benefits will outweigh the costs from the first time you turn it on.

To help you make the process of buying a AA flashlight a little bit easier, we have done some research on your for you. Feel free to use the information below to help guide you in the buying process.

Picking Out the Perfect (and Brightest) Flashlight

First, it is important to understand that there is not one AA flashlight that is appropriate for all situations. For example, one of those cheap products mentioned above might be just fine for keeping in the kitchen at home in case the power goes out, but you wouldn’t want to rely on that same one in the woods after dark.

With that in mind, there are three main factors to think about as you shop for your next AA flashlight.

The size of the flashlight. Consider how big or small you need it to be. Note: size does not necessarily correlate to how much light the item will produce. Small ones are easy to carry and convenient while the larger variety may be easier to find in the dark and potentially more durable over time. Think carefully about your intended usage for the product and then narrow down your selection accordingly.

Light production. This might be the most critical factor to consider while you’re shopping. You will find that light output is measured in lumens, so you should quickly familiarize yourself with this scale. Typically, flashlights on the market have a lumen range from 100 or less for small tasks, to 1000 or more lumens. It is important to note that the number of lumens marked on the product are measured under optimal circumstances.  That means it needs to be on its highest settings with brand new batteries in order to put out the number of lumens listed.

Materials. This depends on how often you’ll be using the flashlight, and what conditions you’ll be putting it through. A plastic one will be okay for some purposes whereas an aluminum product is going to offer more durability out in the wild. Heavy-duty models might even feature parts made of stainless steel to add to the product’s durability. Are you going to be using it in harsh and rugged conditions? If so, you will want one constructed with a combination of aluminum and steel to make sure it will hold up when you drop it.

Keep the 3 criteria above in mind while you shop for a new AA flashlight. However, those aren’t the only points that need to be considered. Additionally, take a look at characteristics such as beam length, runtime, and water resistance.

Beam length is the distance the flashlight will cover when running at full power. Runtime indicates how long new batteries will be able to power the AA flashlight, and water resistance indicates how deep and how long it can be submerged under water.

It is up to you to determine which of these characteristics are important to you. For example, if you won’t be using your flashlight anywhere near a body of water, then water resistance is something that you don’t need to worry about. Create a list in your mind of the exact situations that the AA flashlight will have to endure, and then pick the best model for you.

Three Highest-Rated Options

Below you will find three well-reviewed AA flashlight options, available for purchase:

Streamlight 88033 Protac

The Streamlight 88033 Protac has earned rave reviews from countless buyers. An overview of the comments left for this product indicate that buyers are happy with the illumination that the light provides, in addition to the beam length and the reliability of the unit.

While it only requires 2 AA batteries, this light is still able to produce an impressive 155 lumens on its highest setting. When running on high with new batteries, the light can be expected to last for two hours, while it can last up to 36 hours if used on low. Its body is made from anodized aluminum, and it is rated for underwater use at a depth of one meter for 30 minutes.

The product’s price point is one of its biggest selling points. Other products in its class, with similar features, often retail at higher prices, so this model is definitely a steal in our opinion.

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Fenix Flashlights E12 130-Lumen Flashlight

This model from Fenix Flashlights is in the same class as the Streamlight model listed above. As a small unit, this item is only 4’’ long, which makes it easy to fit in your pocket or your bag. The total weight of the product is less than two ounces, so you should be able to carry it for as long as you need to get the job done.

It runs on just a single AA battery and is capable of putting out 130 lumens when running on its highest setting. Those who have purchased and reviewed this small product marvel at the amount of light it produces. Also, buyers feel that it is sturdy and designed to last. It will work for 40 hours on low when using a new battery, and beam’s distance can reach up to 289 feet.

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Fenix TK41 Flashlight

Compared to the previously mentioned Fenix model, this one takes the flashlight game to a whole new level. While the previous model on the list offers 130 lumens, the TK41 is capable of putting out a stunning 800 lumens when set on ‘Turbo’ mode. Of course, in order to achieve this kind of lighting power, it does require a total of 8 AA batteries. But of course, this level of performance comes at a higher price point.

The reviewers can’t seem to get over just how powerful this model can be on the highest setting. There are plenty of other compliments – including its durable design and construction, ease of use, and comfortable grip – but it is the power of the light itself that demands the most attention. If you are looking to illuminate even the darkest of nights, the Fenix TK41 may be the right selection.

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Final Thoughts

AA batteries are inexpensive, easy to find, and quick to install. With that in mind, buying a flashlight that is powered by AA batteries makes a lot of sense. You should never need to go far to replenish your supply, and you can easily store extras in your pack for when you need them most. Any of the three models listed above are worthy of your consideration, depending on the specific uses you have in mind for the AA flashlight. For high-powered duty, the Fenix TK41 is the clear winner, but the Fenix E12 and the Streamlight 88033 are undoubtedly worthy options for less-powerful lighting needs.

Other Great Guides

• Rechargeable Battery Models
• 18650 Models
• Those That Require AAA Batteries
• The Best For Survival Situations
• If You’re Looking For One On Your Keychain
• For Your Handgun Or Pistol
• The Best Used By The Police
• Penlights
• For Your Everyday Use
• Compact Models
• The Best Models For Hunting

Additional Resources

• How a flashlight works