Best Every Day Carry Flashlights

A Flashlight is among the core essential items to carry with you on a daily basis. We face darkness every single night. So more often than not, you are going to need one.  Even in urban environments; situations will present were you will need extra illumination. On outdoor settings they are an absolute must.

Flashlights can be used at home or work, when traveling, to inspect equipment, searching for items in dark spaces, navigating through poorly lit areas, during power outages, during a natural disaster emergency, it can signal for help, can be used for self defense and blind an attacker, etc. There is always going to be a situation in which you can benefit from having a flashlight with you. 
While most phones have a built-in flashlight, they  are underpowered and not that great. Nevertheless they are good as a backup, but in my opinion they can’t replace a good dedicated flashlight. 

There are thousands of brands, models and designs of flashlights available. The overwhelming amount of options make this topic one of the most complex to cover. So I am going to break it down in different categories, to help you find out the best choices for you.

Let’s take a look at the top 3 flashlights of each category!

Best Rechargeable Flashlights

Flashlights with internal rechargeable batteries are very convenient. In the long term they will save you money by not having to keep buying batteries. On the other hand you need to make sure you keep them charged. 

Streamlight - 66604 Microstream 250



​The Microstream USB is a compact Lithium-ion battery-powered flashlight designed for use in all markets. It features a tail cap switch, momentary or constant on operation, high and low beams, a combination pocket/hat clip for convenience, and amazing brightness and run time for a light of its size and price. The aluminum housing with Type II Military Spec anodizing helps make the light extremely durble and abrasion resistant. To charge the light, slide the head cover forward to expose the micro USB port.

Features & Specs:
  • High and low modes (double tap the tail switch to change modes):
    • High: 250 lumens; 68m beam; runs 1.5 hours
    • Low: 50 lumens; 31m beam; runs 3.5 hours
  • Multi-function push-button tail switch with charge indicator:
    • Red – charging
    • Green – fully charged
  • Durable, anodized machined aluminum construction; scratch-resistant polycarbonate lens
  • Metal sleeve protects charge port; slide sleeve forward to reveal charge port 
  • Removable pocket clip also clips onto brim of hat for hands free use
  • IPX4 water-resistant; 1m impact resistance tested
  • Includes USB cord and high-strength lanyard
  • Removable pocket clip 
  • Ultra-compact design fits in the palm of the hand, comfortably fits in a pocket 
  • Push button tail switch – momentary or constant on operation 
  • 350 mAh Streamlight Lithium Ion cell with on board safety circuit 
  • Battery charges in-product in 4 hours 
  • Length: 3.87 in. 
  • Body Diameter: 0.61 in. 
  • Weight: 1.20 oz. with battery

Fenix - PD36R Pro



​Here is a link to the Fenix website with a full comparison between the three models.

Featuring a maximum 2800 lumen turbo mode, this flashlight can throw that light 1247 feet (380m). Dual tail switches control on/off, momentary on and six lighting modes. The 5000mAh battery provides plenty of power to keep this light running up to 42 hours, and it is USB Type-C rechargeable. Built tough, the PD36R PRO is impact resistant, dustproof and waterproof underwater to 2 meters. Maximum brightness and solid performance makes this flashlight the one to own for all your lighting needs. The PD36R PRO is compatible with the AER-05 Remote Switch.

Features & Specs:

OUTPUTS
  • Turbo: 2800 Lumens, 3.5 hours, 1250 ft
  • High: 1000 Lumens, 3.95 hours, 738 ft
  • Med: 350 Lumens, 8.25 hours, 427 ft
  • Low: 150 Lumens, 19 hours, 295 ft
  • Eco: 30 Lumens, 42 hours, 131 ft
  • Strobe: 2500 Lumens
DETAILS
  • Luminus SFT-70 LED with 50,000 hour lifespan
  • USB Type-C charging
  • Dual Switch Operation
  • High-strength Aluminum Body
  • Premium type HAIII Hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish
  • 21700 Battery Included
  • Two-way body clip
  • Compact body design
  • IP68 Waterproof rating (6.5 feet for 30 minutes)
  • Inner waterproofing protects from water damage even with the dust cover removed
  • Withstands a 5 ft. drop on all sides
BATTERY
  • Included: Fenix ARB-L21-5000 V2.0 Rechargeable 5000mAh 21700 battery
  • Compatible: ARB-L21-5000U and ARB-L21-4000P
SIZE
  • Length: 5.74 Inches
  • Diameter: 1.1 Inch
  • Weight: 5.96 Ounces

Olight - S2R II



The S2R II is the upgraded version of the popular S2R predecessor. It has a compact build (5% shorter than S2R) for easy grip and portability. The light can produce a maximum output of 1150 lumens including an upgraded TIR lens that produces a perfectly balanced beam. It has several modes to choose from including three standard modes, turbo, moonlight, and strobe. The S2R II features a battery indicator located on the side switch so you always know when to charge. It boasts a MCC 1A magnetic charging system to ensure faster charging in a smaller form factor. The S2R II also features a dual direction pocket clip for enhanced everyday carry.

Features & Specs:
  • Light Source: Luminus SST-40 LED
  • Compatible Battery: customized rechargeable battery
  • Lens: TIR Lens
  • Max. Output: 1150 Lumens
  • Max. Throw: 135 Meters
  • Max. Candela: 4,600 cd
  • Body Material: AL6061-T6 Aluminum alloy, (Type III) hard anodized
  • Waterproof: IPX8 (2 Meters)
  • Drop Test: 1.5 Meters

​OUTPUT

  • Mode 1: 1150 - 400 Lumens (2+230 minutes), 135 meters
  • Mode 2: 400 Lumens (4 hours), 80 meters
  • Mode 3: 120 Lumens (14 hours), 45 meters
  • Mode 4: 15 Lumens (100 hours), 15 meters
  • Mode 5: 0.5 Lumen (60 days), N/A
  • Strobe: 13 HZ

Best CR123 Flashlights

CR123 powered flashlights are brighter and offer better performance. But these batteries are more expensive compared to AA and AAA.

Surefire - Aviator



A classic SureFire design, the dual-output Aviator flashlight features a primary white LED and secondary colored LED in one sealed head, both focused into a useful beam with ample reach and surround light by our proprietary Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens. Pull and twist Aviator’s self-locking selector ring to set it to white or colored light, no filter required; a system-disable setting prevents accidental activation. Show your discriminating attitude at any altitude.
Choose from four separate models:
Amber improves contrast and does not degrade scotopic or night adapted vision
Blue clearly defines shapes outdoors and helps identify blood and hydraulic fluid
Red improves contrast and aids in reading red-light-readable topographic maps
Yellow-Green is complementary to the color spectrum used in most aircraft cockpits.

Features & Specs:
  • Virtually indestructible white-light and colored LEDs regulated to maximize output and runtime 
  • Two output levels—high for maximum light, low for extended runtime 
  • TIR lens shapes white or colored light into focused beam with ample reach and surround light for close- to medium-range applications 
  • On-the-fly bezel switching between white light, colored light, and disable mode; no filter required 
  • Constructed of high-strength aerospace aluminum with Mil-Spec anodizing; stainless steel pocket clip; coated, tempered window 
  • Weatherproof—O-ring and gasket sealed
  • Wide temperature tolerance 
  • Built-in heat and fault (short-circuit) protection
  • ​Powered by a single energy-dense 123A battery
  • Construction: Aluminum 
  • Finish: Mil-Spec hard anodized 
  • Dimensions  4"D x 2.8"W x 7.5"H
  • Weight 3.1 ounces
  • HIGH OUTPUT: 250 lumens
    HIGH RUNTIME: 1.5 hours
    PEAK BEAM INTENSITY: 9,300 candela
    BATTERIES: One 123A (incl.)
    SWITCHING: Click tailcap
  • AMBER HIGH OUTPUT: 20 lumens (50mW)
    AMBER HIGH RUNTIME: 2.75 hours
    AMBER LOW OUTPUT: 5 lumens (10mW)
    AMBER LOW RUNTIME: 29 hours
    BLUE HIGH OUTPUT: 4 lumens (110 mW)
    BLUE HIGH RUNTIME: 12 hours
    BLUE LOW OUTPUT: 0.4 lumens (10 mW)
    BLUE LOW RUNTIME: 49 hours
    RED HIGH OUTPUT: 39 lumens (240 mW)
    RED HIGH RUNTIME: 3 hours
    RED LOW OUTPUT: 1 lumen (1.3 mW)
    RED LOW RUNTIME: 57 hours
    YELLOW/GREEN HIGH OUTPUT: 39 Lumens (85 mW)
    YELLOW/GREEN HIGH RUNTIME: 12 hours
    YELLOW/GREEN LOW OUTPUT: 3 lumens (7 mW)
    YELLOW/GREEN LOW RUNTIME: 58 hours
    DISTANCE: 190 meters

Maglite - Mag Tac CR123 Crowned



Designed with extensive input from law enforcement and military personnel making it great for emergency responders, police, and military. Superior quality craftsmanship with weather-resistant seals, diamond knurl design, and anodized inside and out for improved corrosion resistance. A premium drop-resistant lighting instrument that is made in America and built tough enough to last a lifetime.
Quick-Click mode selector allows users to choose from momentary, full power, or strobe featuring an intense 12 Hz strobe; disorienting any attacker. National Tactical Officers Association (NTAO) certified making it suitable for camping, car repair, fishing, hunting, household use, etc.

Features & Specs:
- Water Resistant: Yes - IPX4
- Drop Resistance: 1 Meter
- Light Source: LED
- Lumens: 320
- Length: 5.275 in. 133.98 mm
- Beam: 193 meters
- Barrel Diameter: 1.050 in. 26.67 mm
- Run Time High: 4h
- Run Time Low: N/A
- Head Diameter: 1.050 in. 26.67 mm
- Batteries Included: Yes
- Battery Type: CR123
- Battery Quantity: 2
- Power Management: Yes - Dynamic
- Weight with Batteries: 4.8 oz. 136 g
- Rechargeable: No
- Peak Beam Intensity: 9267
- Water Resistant (Type): IPX4
- Special Features: Momentary, Full Power, & Strobe, Rugged, machined aluminum construction with knurled design

Streamlight - 88062 Protac 2L-X



The ProTac 2L-X is a 500 lumen is a multi-fuel high performance EDC tactical flashlight, that can use either a proprietary Streamlight SL-B26 protected Li-Ion USB rechargeable battery pack (sold separately) or two CR123A disposable batteries (included). The ProTac 2L-X comes packaged with two CR123A batteries. It features a tactical tail cap switch for momentary or constant on operation and three different user selectable programs. Packaged with a removable pocket clip and holster. 

The aluminum housing with Type II Military Spec anodizing helps make the light extremely durable and abrasion resistant.

Streamlight’s power LED, impervious to shock with up to a 50,000-hour lifetime, produces brilliant, powerful, blinding light. Regulated power output provides consistent performance. 
Ten-tap Programming: Choice of three operating modes: 1.) high/strobe/low; 2.) high only; 3.) low/high. 

  • High for super-bright light: 500 lumens; 6,800 candela; 165m beam; runs 2.75 hours (CR123A); runs 3.25 hours (USB Battery, sold separately)
  • Low for extended run time: 40 lumens; 600 candela; 49m beam; runs 30 hours (CR123A or USB Battery)
  • Strobe for signaling or disorienting: runs 3.25 hours (CR123A); runs 4.5 hours (USB Battery, sold separately)

Features & Specs:
  • Multi-Fuel: Uses one (1) Streamlight SL-B26 protected Li-Ion USB rechargeable battery pack or two (2) CR123A lithium batteries
    • Rechargeable system includes SL-B26 battery pack, micro-USB cord, and nylon holster
    • Non-rechargeable system includes two CR123A lithium batteries and nylon holster
  • TEN-TAP® Programming - Choice of three user selectable programs:
    1) high/strobe/low  2) high only  3) low/high 
  • LED output:
    • High: 500 lumens; 165 m beam; runs 2.75 hours (CR123A); runs 3.25 hours (SL-B26)
    • Low: 40 lumens; 49m beam; runs 30 hours (either battery type)
    • Strobe: runs up to 3.25 hours (CR123A); runs up to 4.5 hours (SL-B26)
  • Durable, anodized aluminum construction; removable pocket clip 
  • IPX7 waterproof to 1m for 30 minutes, 2m impact resistance tested 
  • Anti-roll head 
  • Length: 5.14 in (13.0 cm)
  • Weight: 3.9 oz (111g) with CR123A batteries; 4.4 oz (125g) with SL-B26 battery pack
  • RoHS compliant

Best AA Flashlights

Flashlights that use AA batteries are the most versatile, because these batteries are cheaper and you can find them anywhere. Some models can even use different types of AA’s.

Streamlight - 88061 Protac 1L-1AA



The ProTac 1L-1AA is a perfect everyday carry light. This dual fuel ultra-compact flashlight accepts a single lithium or alkaline battery, providing you with ultimate flexibility in the field. 
Lightweight, compact, high lumen, CR123 Lithium or AA battery powered Tactical Light featuring the latest in shock-proof power LED technology and three different user selectable programs. The combination of size, output, and battery versatility, result in one of the brightest and versatile everyday carry lights. Packaged with a removable pocket clip and holster, CR123 and AA alkaline battery.

6000 Series machined aircraft aluminum case with black anodized finish. High temperature, shock mounted, AR coated, impact resistant borofloat glass lens. IPX7 rated design; water proof to 1 meter for 30 minutes. 2 Meter impact resistance tested.

Powerful LED technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime. LED Solid State Power Regulation provides maximum light output throughout battery life. 

CR123A lithium battery output:​
  • High for bright light: 350 lumens; 6,400 candela; 160 meter beam; runs 1.5 hours 
  • Low for longer run time: 40 lumens; 720 candela; 53 meter beam; runs 14 hours 
  • Strobe for signaling or disorienting: runs 3 hours

AA alkaline/lithium battery output:
  • High: 150 lumens; 2,750 candela; 105 meter beam; runs 1 hour 20 minutes (alkaline); runs 4.25 hours (lithium) 
  • Low: 40 lumens; 720 candela; 53 meter beam; runs 7.5 hours (alkaline); runs 14 hours (lithium) 
  • Strobe for signaling or disorienting: runs 3.5 hours (alkaline); runs 8 hours (lithium)

Features & Specs:
  • TEN-TAP Programming allows for selection of three different operating programs 
  • Accepts a single lithium or alkaline battery 
  • Includes nylon holster, one CR123A lithium battery and one “AA” alkaline battery 
  • Unbreakable pocket clip 
  • Anti-roll head 
  • RoHS compliant 
  • Serialized for positive identification
  • Length: 4.25 in. (10.8cm) 
  • Head diameter: .950 in. (2.41cm) 
  • Barrel diameter: .850 in. (2.16cm) 
  • 2.5 oz (71 grams) with CR123 battery (included in purchase) 
  • 2.8 oz (79 grams) with AA alkaline battery (included in purchase) 
  • 2.4 oz (68 grams) with AA Lithium battery

Nicron - N7

Thrunite - Ti Pro

Best AAA Flashlights

Flashlights that use AAA batteries are the most lightweight and compact. And have enough power for most normal applications. 

Streamlight - 66318 Microstream



The Microstream is a compact single AAA alkaline battery powered flashlight featuring a tail cap switch, momentary or constant on operation, a combination pocket/hat clip for convenience, and amazing brightness and run time for a light of its size and value. Great for everyday carry.
The aluminum housing with Type II Military Spec anodizing helps make the light extremely durable and abrasion resistant. Scratch-resistant polycarbonate lens is o-ring sealed. IPX4 water-resistant; 1 meter impact resistance tested.

Features & Specs:
  • White LED delivers 45 lumens; 41m beam; runs 2.25 hours 
  • Fits in the palm of the hand or comfortably in a pocket 
  • Push button tail switch – momentary or constant on operation 
  • Includes removable pocket clip and high-strength lanyard 
  • Pocket clip also clips onto brim of hat for hands free use 
  • Length: 3.6 in. 
  • Body Diameter: 0.60 in. 
  • Weight: 1.10 oz. (31.2 grams) with battery

Maglite - XL50 Tactical 


​Take on the night with the Maglite XL50 LED Flashlight, a compact yet robust lighting solution that's perfect for a range of activities where reliability and efficiency are paramount. Crafted with the innovative MAG-LED technology, this high-quality flashlight delivers exceptional brightness while optimizing power consumption, ensuring that you're never left in the dark.

The Maglite XL50 stands out with its user-friendly interface, featuring a single pushbutton at the base for seamless mode transitions. A single click powers on the flashlight to its full 200-lumen capacity, illuminating your path with a powerful beam that reaches up to 735 feet. Two clicks reduce the output to 25% power mode, extending battery life for prolonged use, while three clicks engage the emergency safety strobe, a critical feature for signaling during distress situations or for roadside safety.

Adjusting the beam from a focused spot to a wide flood is effortless, thanks to the flashlight's intuitive twist top design. Whether you're navigating through tight spaces or lighting up a wide area, the XL50 provides versatile lighting options to suit your needs.

The Tactical package comes with a Lens holder/Anti-roll device, Colored Lens Set (red, blue and green), Pocket Clip and three AAA cell premium alkaline batteries.

Durability is at the core of the Maglite XL50's design. Encased in a machined aluminum body, this flashlight is not only lightweight but also exceptionally durable, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor adventures and professional use. The corrosion-resistant anodized finish adds an extra layer of protection against the elements, making it a reliable choice for any environment.

Powered by three AAA batteries, which are included, the XL50 delivers an impressive runtime of 6 hours and 45 minutes in high mode, and up to 25 hours in energy-saving mode. This ensures that you have ample light for extended excursions or during power outages.

Whether you're an avid camper, a dedicated hiker, or someone who appreciates the peace of mind that comes with having a powerful and reliable light source, the Maglite XL50 LED Flashlight is an indispensable tool that combines performance, convenience, and durability in a sleek, black package.

Features & Specs:
  • Spot-to-Flood adjustable LED beam
  • Anodized for corrosion resistance and durability
  • Rugged, machined aluminum case
  • Intelligent Energy Source Management - continuously monitors the balance between high brightness and efficient power usage allowing for prolonged battery life
  • Powered by three (3) AAA alkaline batteries (included)
  • Beam distance: 735' (224m)
  • Brightness: 200 Lumens
  • Burn Time: High mode 6h 45min, Low mode 25h
  • Dimensions: Length: 4.8" (122mm), Barrel Diameter: 1" (25mm), Head Diameter: 1" (25mm)
  • Weight: ​3.68 oz (104g) - with batteries

Olight - i3T 2 EOS


Building on the successful i3T EOS, the i3T 2 EOS expands on the previous generations' capabilities, without losing what made it great in the first place. The 2nd generation boasts a 31% increase in battery life, a brand new pocket clip for even deeper pocket carry, and a 71% increase in runtime in high mode. With just 1 AAA battery, this little powerhouse can put out 200 lumens, and with a 10440 rechargeable li-ion battery, it can put out an impressive 300 lumens. Concealable and powerful, the Olight i3T 2  EOS makes for a great EDC flashlight.

Features & Specs:

  • Max output of 200 lumens (can be boosted to 300 with the use of a 10440 li-ion battery).
  • Dual-output tail switch.
  • Increased battery life by 31% compared to the i3T
  • 21 hours of max runtime with 1 AAA battery.
  • Max Runtime: 21 hours
  • Beam Distance: 62 meters
  • Peak Beam Intensity: 1592 cd
  • Waterproofing: IPX-8
  • LED: Philips LUXEON TX CW LED (5700-6700K)
  • Battery: 1 x AAA (included)
  • High (lumens): 200~100
  • High Runtime: 7 28 mins
  • Low (lumens): 5
  • Low Runtime: 21 hours
  • Diameter: 0.59" (15 mm)
  • Body Length: 3.5" (89 mm)
  • Weight: 1.47 oz. (41.8 g) including battery

Best Flat Flashlights

​Flat flashlights have been gaining popularity in recent years. They are very comfortable to carry because of their shape, and are equally capable as the traditional counterparts. They are also convenient because of their rechargeable internal batteries. 

Nitecore - EDC 27

Olight - Arc Pro

Surefire - Stiletto Pro

Best Angled Flashlights

Right angle flashlights are a good versatile option. You can attach them to your belt, a vest, a backpack, some even can be used as headlamps, etc; and will give you the advantage for hands free operation.

Streamlight - 88087

Nitecore - MT21C

Streamlight - 90540 Survivor

Best Tactical Flashlights

Tactical flashlights are the choice for military, law enforcement and security personnel. They are usually simple to use, very bright and don’t have too many features. They are also durable, sturdy and would resist heavy tough use in the field.

Elzetta - Alpha

Surefire - EDCL 1

Surefire - G2X

Best Keychain Flashlights

The keychain sized models are for people who want the smallest most portable flashlights, and don’t need a lot of power. You can attach them to your car or home keys, a backpack, etc. 

Streamlight - Pocket Mate

Nitecore - Tiki LE

Olight - imini 2

Best Miscellaneous / Specialty Flashlights

This category includes all the specialty and unique types of flashlights. Most of them are designed to be good in a specialized setting, rather than having several features and different modes. 

Imalent - MS03

Maglite - Heavy Duty 4 Cell D

Photon - Freedom Micro Light

Nite Ize - Night Vision Red

Simpeak - Hand Crank Flashlight

Olight - Oclip

Pelican - 3410 Right Angle

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