January 11, 2018 Share 0 Tweet Share 0 When you’re looking for a quality flashlight, one of the most important aspects to look for is brightness. Which is why more and more companies and customers are gravitating towards LED flashlights. Not only are they exceptionally bright, but they also last longer and are more energy efficient. Apart from brightness, there are a few other things to look for when searching for the brightest LED flashlight. We’ll go in-depth on all the important factors of a quality flashlight, from brightness, versatility, compactness, etc. How do batteries impact brightness? Effectively, there are several different types of batteries that produce different quality of light. The ones we all know, AAA and AA batteries are cheap, and you can get them anywhere, but don’t provide much power. Then there are CR123A Lithium cells that are powerful and compact. Third, there are Li-ion batteries that are the most popular and powerful. Partnering a powerful battery with an LED flashlight will always produce a brighter beam than an incandescent one using the same battery. Buyer’s Guide As you search for your perfect LED flashlight, consider its weight, water resistance, material, and battery type. As far as weight, we recommend the lighter, the better, because who wants to lug around a heavy flashlight? Also, a water-resistant LED light is essential too, regardless if it’s your household flashlight or one you take camping. The threat of water is everywhere, and it sometimes doesn’t take a lot to damage one that is not water-resistant. So just play it safe. Durability closely connects to your flashlight’s material. So pick one that can handle the rough conditions you’ll put it through, from dropping it during a power outage in your house or banging it on a rock during a mountain hike at night. Lastly, check the type of batteries the product uses. For example, does it use AA batteries? If so, how many? Or, does it have a rechargeable battery? Consider all the criteria mentioned above during your search. After viewing customer reviews and ratings, we used that information to create the table below.We cited the criteria that they considered most important in an LED flashlight. These models have the longest lasting batteries, and several other features that make them stand out from the rest. Since the market is packed with many different flashlights (see our tactical flashlight reviews page), These products that we’ve researched and picked for you are high in quality and would work in several different situations. Continue reading to learn all about these flashlights to find the best one for you. Comparison Table Product Weight Water Resistant Handle Material Batteries MOLAER Portable LED Super Bright Waterproof Torch 5.4 ounces Yes Aluminum-Alloy 1 Li-ion Battery (included) GearLight S1000 LED Flashlight 10.1 ounces Yes Aluminum 3 AA Batteries (not included) Wailond U8 LED Flashlight 4 ounces Yes Aluminum 1 Li-ion Battery (included) BAKTH Super Bright Tactical Flashlight 13.8 ounces Yes Aluminum-Alloy 1 Li-ion Battery (included) or 3 AAA Batteries (not included) Streamlight 74308 Strion Flashlight 1.3 pounds Yes Aircraft Aluminum 1 Li-ion Battery (included) Streamlight 69210 TLR-1s LED Light 3.04 ounces Yes Aircraft Aluminum 2 CR123A Batteries (included) SKYBEN Olight H2R Nova XHP50 LED 2.2 ounces Yes Aluminum 1 CR123A Battery (included) Top 7 Tactical Brightest LED Flashlights Overview MOLAER Portable LED Super Bright Waterproof Torch This is one of the most energy-efficient products on the market. It’s functional and designed to last long under different conditions. Most importantly, the MOLAER Portable LED Super Bright Waterproof Torch is cost-efficient as well as eco-friendly. The T6 lamp beads in this item last more than 100,000 hours. It offers super light performance thanks to its output LED chip. Plus, the torch provides four modes: Full, Medium, Strobe, and SOS, that are suitable for many different situations. Its output ranges from 500 lumens on medium, with a max output of 1000 lumens on its highest setting. This variety is always good since you probably won’t need the same brightness at all times. The reason most people opt for this product is its functionality as well as design. It’s water resistant with a rating of IP67, which means it can be submerged in up to 1m (3.3ft) of water for up to 30 minutes. It is also skid-proof, which makes it suitable for all kinds of terrain and weather conditions. This pocket-sized light is 5 inches in length, and light, with a weight of only 5.5 ounces. Also, its anti-slip handle allows you to grip it easily.The body is made of military-grade aluminum-alloy that withstands shock and abrasion up to 5 feet. It’s most efficient in a range of 200 meters (600 ft). It comes with one 18650 lithium-ion battery that is rechargeable via any USB port (included). On its highest setting, it has a run-time of 3 hours and a run-time of 6 hours on medium. If you’re in an emergency situation, its SOS setting will last up to 20 hours on a single charge. Conveniently, it features a warning light that blinks when you’re running low on battery, in case you lose track of time. But don’t worry, it fully charges in 4 hours. Overall, it’s an energy and cost efficient product that’s one of the best models among handheld lights. It’s convenient, long-lasting and durable. Pros: Lasts 100,000 hours 1000 lumens Rechargeable via USB Durable, made of military-grade aluminum-alloy Comes with a wrist-strap IP67 rated – water-resistant Features 4 modes Scratch-resistant up to 5 ft Light in weight Cons: It takes 4 hours to charge Click Here to Buy on Amazon GearLight S1000 LED Flashlight GearLight is a USA based company that’s customer friendly and has many years of experience regarding flashlights. The S1000 is substantial, efficient and durable. It offers different features and light mode that make it suitable for many people and different situations. It’s a mid-size and compact product that easily fits in your backpack, car glove compartment or a survival bag. The item features a wide beam that illuminates your yard or room with ease. Because it uses LED lights, it’s 12 times brighter and more efficient than the standard incandescent lights. You can use a rechargeable 18650 battery, or three standard AA batteries. Either way, the product’s battery life can easily last a long time. However, batteries aren’t included with the S1000. It has five different brightness modes. Plus, you can zoom and focus on objects that are up to 1000ft away. When you zoom out, the beam becomes wider and easily covers large areas. Its five brightness modes make it practical, so you don’t need to take multiple flashlights with you. The brightness modes are high, medium, low, strobe and SOS. It’s ideal for an emergency and household kit. It’s water resistant, which makes it ideal for snow as well as rain. The aluminum body provides the durability and can withstand most weather conditions, such as heavy rain. It can survive up to a 10ft drop and can even handle being submerged under water for a short while. Also, its heavy weight provides you with a sense of safety and security. This GearLight flashlight is ideal for people who often go hiking, camping, fishing, or other outdoor activities. It’s durable, weather resistant and efficient, which are some of the most important things to look for in a LED light. Pros: Weather resistant Handles 10ft drops Durable Low battery consumption Features 5 brightness modes Cons: Some consider it bulky Click Here to Buy on Amazon Wailond U8 LED Flashlight This 900-lumen flashlight is one of the brightest models that is capable of reaching long distances and is durable in every sense of the word. The U8 can illuminate over two football fields, reaching up to 1000ft. It also has a wide beam thanks to the micro-textured reflector. It provides five brightness modes, which are pulse, strobe, high, medium, and low. When you power this product with a 18650 rechargeable battery, and can last up to 6 hours of constant, non-diminishing light. Plus, it comes with a battery and provides up to 50000 hours of use. One of the best things about this product is its size. Precisely, it’s as big as a candy bar and fits easily in your pocket, backpack, handbag, etc. Another convenient feature of this product is the integrated Micro USB charging port that allows you to use it without carrying any backup batteries. This is most useful when you’re traveling. The flashlight is water resistant and IP65 rated and is made to perform in different weather conditions. The aluminum body is resistant to all kinds of rough handling and shock. This U8 LED flashlight comes with a Li-ion 18650 rechargeable battery, wrist strap, Micro USB cable, and a welcome guide. Also, the button switch has an indicator light that shows how much battery life you have left. Pros: Reaches up to 1000ft Five brightness modes 5000 hours of use IP65 rated Water resistant Cons: Takes a lot of time to charge Click Here to Buy on Amazon BAKTH Super Bright Tactical Flashlight The BAKTH Super Bright Tactical Flashlight is one of the brightest on the market with a 2000 lumen beam up to 984 feet . Its zoomable T6 Cree LED flashlight allows you to select focus between spotlight, for long range observation, and floodlight to illuminate larger areas. Also, this item features five working modes: high, medium, low, strobe, and SOS. It is made of high quality aircraft grade alloy and features a premium hard-anodized anti-abrasive coating, which makes it durable. It’s waterproof, which makes it great for rainy weather or emergency during floods. Also, it’s shockproof, long-lasting, and versatile. Due to its durability, you can even use it as a self-defense tool, and break glasses with it in emergency situations. This item is ideal for hunting, camping, in power outages, etc. This LED Flashlight is small enough to fit in your pocket, handbag, or car’s glove compartment. The package includes a rechargeable 18650 Li-ion battery, battery charging case, AAA battery backup holder, and wall charger. These additional items come in handy in different situations and conditions. One of the best things is that it comes with a battery, so you can pretty much use it right out the box. Also, because it works on AAA batteries, it’s good to always have them with you when you’re going camping or elsewhere for an extended period, in case you are not able to plug the Li-ion battery for a charge. Pros: Lasts 100,000 hours Extremely durable Shock and waterproof 2000 lumen beam Powered by both Li-ion and AAA batteries 5 switch modes: High, medium, low, strobe, SOS Cons: Some consider bulky Click Here to Buy on Amazon Streamlight 74308 Strion Flashlight Streamlight is one of the most trusting brands that make quality flashlights, and the compact, ultra powerful Strion is one of them. It’s bright, small and compact, rechargeable, and durable. This item replaces up to 12000 “candle power” thanks to its Lithium Ion battery technology that’s packed into a 5.3-inch bulletproof package. It’s quite bright and as powerful as the lights used for law enforcement. It’s also smaller and more lightweight compared to other products in its class. It’s easy to switch on, which is great for tactical use, hiking, biking, camping, etc. You also get a spare bulb that’s located in the tail cap. Another few features to mention are the tail cap flush actuator, knurled grip, and a spot-to-flood light focus. Plus, it is water resistant, which is one of the most important features to look for when buying a LED light. It can withstand rain and snow and won’t be damaged in those conditions. It also comes with a 120Volt AC/DC charger as well as a convenient holder. The product is only 5.3 inches long, which means you’ll be able to take it with you anywhere you like. It easily fits pockets, bags, and all the tiny areas. Besides, it weighs no more than 1.3 pounds. Its light weight adds to the convenience of taking it with you during outdoor activities. Some people say they got about 70 minutes of battery life, while others claim the battery lasted 2 hours. Mostly, it’s a matter of how you use this product, and how often you switch it on and off. The battery does come in the package. Overall, the flashlight is made of aircraft aluminum and has an anodized finish for extra durability. Pros: Fits small spaces Durable Water resistant Weighs only 1.3 pounds Cons: On/Off switch breaks easily Click Here to Buy on Amazon Streamlight 69210 TLR-1s LED Light Streamlight 69210 is another great tactical flashlight that offers a wide range of possibilities and features. Its best feature is ideal for hunters since the flashlight easily attaches to almost any gun. It’s a strobing rain-mounted light that’s also almost indestructible. The 69210 TLR-1s is lightweight and compact, which means you can easily fit it into your pocket, which keeps it handy at all times. The flashlight features the latest LED technology, and is powered by a Li-ion battery. You only need a second to attach or detach the light from the side of a weapon. Thanks to its rail clamp, removing it is easy and requires no additional tools. Battery replacement is easy, since the battery doors are tethered and have a latch mechanism. Once you enable the strobe, you can activate it by hitting the paddle twice. This flashlight features a 300 lumen beam and strobe. It runs on two CR123A batteries that is also included. Plus, its design makes it impact resistant, as well as waterproof. You can sink the light 1m under water for 30 minutes. It’s made of aircraft aluminum that’s resistant to high temperature, shock, and water. Its glass lens is also impact resistant, which is especially convenient for outdoor adventures. It operates in temperatures from -40F to 120F, meaning you can take the light with you regardless of the weather conditions. Its C4 LED technology gives it a lifetime of 50,000 hours. It’s assembled in the US, fits many weapons, and has keys for Picatinny, Glock-style, Beretta 90two, S&W TSW, and S&W 99. Pros: Ideal for hunters Fits a wide range of weapons Endures extreme weather conditions Practical, lightweight and easy to carry Durable Cons: No auto-strobe feature Click Here to Buy on Amazon SKYBEN Olight H2R Nova XHP50 LED This is one of the most versatile flashlights on the market. You can use it as a headlamp, because it comes with a head strap. The strap comes with a magnetic mount that attaches the flashlight securely and firmly. Once you detach it from the mount, it becomes a standard handheld light with a pocket clip. Its tail cap is also magnetic which means you can attach it to your car, a knife, or anywhere else you like. This is ideal for outdoor adventures. It works on a 18650 battery that’s included in the package and has a maximum output of 23000 lumens. Its TIR bead lens is highly efficient and works great with the CREE XHP50 LED. These two deliver great illumination up close as well as in the distance. One of the best things about it is that you can charge it through the tail cap using OLIGHT’s magnetic charging cable. The innovative technology makes this one of the best tools to take with you when you’re camping or indulging in different nighttime activities outside. The flashlight is durable, long lasting and efficient. It’s the kind of LED flashlight you can rely on at all times. It’s popular due to its versatility and features a magnetic tail cap. It allows you to use the flashlight in many different ways. Also, it has a low battery warning light that blinks once a minute to alarm you that you should recharge the battery. It will continuously blink once it’s finally running out. When you’re changing from one brightness mode to another, the brightness will fade in and out of each mode to protect your eyes. Plus, the flashlight features an SOS mode that’s most suitable for emergency use. You can’t go wrong with this item if you’re looking for a versatile and durable flashlight. Pros: Versatile Features a magnetic tail cap Ideal for close-up illumination Easy to use and lightweight Cons: Magnet tail cap attracts unwanted metal particles Click Here to Buy on Amazon Final verdict: As you can see, the market is packed with LED flashlights. I’ve chosen only the best and brightest LED flashlights to put on my list to make your search easier. If you haven’t made a purchase like this before, then be sure to keep some things in mind before you do so. Consider when and where you’ll use the flashlight, weather conditions as well as temperature. Also, make sure to include your personal preference as well. My favorite is the MOLAER Portable LED Super Bright Waterproof Torch. It comes with a series of features; it’s efficient and long-lasting. One of the most important things is the ease of use. The last thing you want is a complicated LED flashlight to take with you camping or hiking. Lastly, each of these LED flashlights we’ve covered work in a similar way and are efficient, but bring different things to the table thanks to their various features.
