How to Choose a Good Flashlight? A Beginner Guide in 2023

This article guides readers to understand some key elements through the basic knowledge and types of flashlights, and helps you choose the most suitable flashlight.

Flashlight Basics

Definition

A flashlight, also known as a torch in British English, is a portable hand-held electric light that typically uses one or more batteries to power a bulb or LED. Flashlights are commonly used for lighting in areas where there is no available light or when there is a power outage. They are also used in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and hunting.

Features

Features of a flashlight include a housing or casing, a light source, a power source, and an on/off switch. Some flashlights also include additional features such as adjustable focus, different brightness levels, and rechargeable batteries.

History

The history of flashlights dates back to the late 19th century when the first electric flashlight was invented by British inventor David Misell in 1899. Misell's flashlight used three D-cell batteries to power a bulb and was marketed as a safety device for miners and railroad workers.

Over the years, flashlights have undergone numerous technological advancements, including the invention of LED lights, rechargeable batteries, and tactical features such as strobe and SOS modes. Today, flashlights are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and designs, and are used for a wide range of purposes, from personal and household use to military and law enforcement operations.

Types of Flashlights

Tactical Lights: Tactical flashlights are designed for use in tactical situations, such as law enforcement, military, or self-defense. They are durable, often made of aircraft-grade aluminum, and have high lumen output for maximum brightness.

Pros: They are tough and reliable, offer good grip and can withstand harsh conditions.

Cons: They tend to be heavier and more expensive than other types of flashlights.

Headlamps: Headlamps are hands-free lights that are worn on the head. They are popular for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, or fishing, and for tasks that require both hands.

Pros: They offer a convenient and comfortable way to see in the dark while keeping your hands free, and they are often lightweight.

Cons: They can be bulky, and their range may be limited compared to other types of flashlights.

Bicycling Lighting: Bicycling lights are designed to mount on a bicycle and provide illumination for safe cycling at night.

Pros: They provide bright illumination and are easy to mount on the bicycle.

Cons: They may not have the range or durability of other types of flashlights, and they can be expensive.

Diving Lights: Diving lights are waterproof and designed for underwater use. They are used for scuba diving, snorkeling, or other water activities.

Pros: They offer a high level of water resistance, are durable and provide bright illumination underwater.

Cons: They can be expensive and may require additional equipment.

Searchlights: Searchlights are designed for heavy-duty use, such as search and rescue, or military operations. They have a high lumen output and can illuminate large areas.

Pros: They offer very bright illumination, and they are rugged and durable.

Cons: They tend to be heavy and bulky.

EDC Flashlights: EDC (Everyday Carry) flashlights are designed for daily use and convenience. They are compact, portable, and easy to carry.

Pros: They are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry in a pocket or purse.

Cons: They may not have the range or brightness of other types of flashlights.

Keychain Flashlights: Keychain flashlights are small and designed to attach to a keychain. They are often used for everyday tasks like unlocking doors or finding items in a purse.

Pros: They are small and portable, making them convenient to carry.

Cons: They may not have the brightness or range of other types of flashlights.

Outdoor Flashlights: Outdoor flashlights are designed for use in outdoor settings, such as camping or hiking. They are often lightweight, waterproof, and durable.

Pros: They offer reliable and durable illumination in outdoor environments.

Cons: They may not have the brightness or range of other types of flashlights.

Long-Range Flashlights: Long-range flashlights are designed for illuminating distant objects. They often have a focused beam that can reach long distances.

Pros: They offer powerful illumination at a distance.

Cons: They may be bulky and expensive.

Ex Lights: Ex lights are designed for use in hazardous environments, such as oil rigs or chemical plants. They are often explosion-proof and can withstand harsh conditions.

Pros: They are safe to use in hazardous environments and offer reliable illumination.

Cons: They can be expensive and heavy.

Trend in 2023

Flat flashlights(Olight): A flat-shaped flashlight with a green laser light, because its appearance and design resemble an electronic cigarette, netizens on Reddit and Youtube ridiculed it as an "e-cigarette flashlight".

Ball Bulb lights(Olight): A hemispherical LED light with a magnetic base. Sought after for its extremely compact size and interesting design.

Right-angled lights(Olight): A type of flashlight that features a 90-degree bend in the body of the light. Because of its appearance and design resembling the Marvel movie "Thor", it was named "Perun" multifunctional lamp.

The above is the popularization of the basic knowledge of flashlights. Next, let's explore the core elements of purchasing flashlights.

Key factors to consider when choosing a flashlight

Light Output Types

The brightness of a flashlight is usually measured in lumens, which is a unit of measurement for the amount of light output.

Lumens give an indication of how bright the flashlight will be, and it is an essential consideration when choosing a flashlight. A higher lumen rating generally indicates a brighter flashlight.

When selecting a flashlight, it is important to determine the appropriate brightness for your needs. For example, a flashlight that is too bright can be overwhelming, and one that is not bright enough may not provide sufficient illumination. The appropriate brightness level will depend on the intended use of the flashlight.

Finally, it's important to compare the brightness levels of different flashlights before making a purchase. Not all flashlights have the same brightness levels, and some may be brighter than others even if they have a similar lumen rating. By comparing the brightness levels of different flashlights, you can make an informed decision on which one is best suited for your needs.

Bulb Types

incandescent bulbs: A bulb filled with gas and a filament to produce light. They are relatively cheap, but not as efficient or durable as other types of flashlights.

LED bulbs: Using light-emitting diodes to produce light. They are energy-efficient, durable, and produce a bright beam of light. LED flashlights are commonly used for a variety of purposes, including camping, hiking, and emergency situations.

xenon bulbs: A xenon gas-filled bulb to produce a bright, intense beam of light. They are more expensive than incandescent flashlights, but they are also more efficient and longer-lasting.

LEP: Light Emitting Plasma, flashlights use a plasma bulb to produce light. They are more energy-efficient and longer-lasting than incandescent flashlights, but more expensive than LED flashlights.

Lumen vs. Candela vs. Lux

When choosing a flashlight, it's important to consider the specifications related to brightness, which are typically measured in lumens, candela, and lux. Here's a breakdown of the differences between these measurements and their importance when choosing a flashlight:

Lumens: Lumens are a measure of the total amount of light emitted by a flashlight. It measures the total amount of light that the flashlight emits in all directions, not just the intensity of the beam in one direction. Lumens are important because they give an overall indication of how bright the flashlight will be. A higher lumen rating generally indicates a brighter flashlight.

Candela: Candela measures the intensity of the beam in a specific direction. It is a measure of the amount of light that falls on a surface at a certain distance. Candela is important because it gives an indication of how far the beam of the flashlight will travel and how bright it will be at a specific distance.

Lux: Lux measures the amount of light that falls on a surface at a specific distance. It takes into account the area of the surface and is measured in lumens per square meter. Lux is important because it gives an indication of how evenly the light is distributed over a given area. A high lux rating indicates that the flashlight is effective at illuminating a larger area with a more even distribution of light.

In summary, lumens give an indication of the total amount of light emitted, candela gives an indication of the intensity of the beam in a specific direction, and lux gives an indication of how evenly the light is distributed over a given area. All three measurements are important when choosing a flashlight because they help you determine how bright and effective the flashlight will be in different situations.

Battery life and Types

Importance

When choosing a flashlight, one of the most important factors to consider is the battery life. Battery life refers to how long the flashlight can operate on a single charge or set of batteries. The importance of battery life cannot be overstated, as it directly affects the practicality and usefulness of the flashlight.

A flashlight with a short battery life can be frustrating and unreliable, especially in situations where a reliable light source is critical. In contrast, a flashlight with a long battery life will be more practical and convenient to use, particularly in situations where a long-lasting light source is needed.

Battery life is affected by several factors, such as the type and quality of the battery, as well as the power consumption of the flashlight. By considering these factors, you can choose a flashlight with the appropriate battery life for your needs. Overall, battery life is a critical factor to consider when choosing a flashlight, as it can make a significant difference in the usability and reliability of the flashlight.

Battery Types

Alkaline Batteries:

Alkaline batteries are the most commonly used batteries in flashlights. They are affordable, widely available, and have a long shelf life. However, they have a shorter runtime and are not rechargeable, which can be costly in the long run.

Nickel-metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries:

NiMH batteries are rechargeable and have a longer runtime than alkaline batteries. They are more expensive initially, but they can be recharged multiple times, which makes them more cost-effective in the long run. However, they have a shorter shelf life than alkaline batteries and can lose their charge over time.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) Batteries:

Li-ion batteries are rechargeable and have a high energy density, which means they can provide longer runtimes than other types of batteries. They also have a longer shelf life and are lightweight. However, they are more expensive than alkaline and NiMH batteries, and they require a specific charger to charge them safely.

Lithium Batteries:

Lithium batteries are similar to Li-ion batteries but have a different chemistry. They are lightweight, have a high energy density, and have a longer shelf life. However, they are not rechargeable, and if not disposed of properly, they can pose a hazard to the environment.

18650 vs. 21700

18650 Battery:

The 18650 battery is a popular choice for flashlights due to its small size, low weight, and high energy density. They are widely available, affordable, and have a long runtime. They are also compatible with a wide range of flashlights and battery chargers. However, they may not be powerful enough for some high-performance flashlights, and their smaller size means they have a lower capacity than larger batteries.

21700 Battery:

The 21700 battery is a larger and more powerful battery than the 18650 battery. It has a higher capacity, which means it can provide longer runtimes and can power high-performance flashlights with high-lumen outputs. They are also becoming more widely available, although they may be more expensive than 18650 batteries. However, due to their larger size, they may not be compatible with all flashlights and may be heavier, which can affect portability.

In summary, if you need a battery for a compact flashlight that you can carry with you, an 18650 battery may be the best option due to its small size and low weight. If you need a battery for a high-performance flashlight or a longer runtime, a 21700 battery may be the best option due to its larger capacity and higher power output. Ultimately, the choice between these two batteries depends on your specific needs and the flashlight you plan to use them with.

Durability

When choosing a flashlight, it's important to consider its durability. A durable flashlight can withstand harsh conditions, making it a reliable tool for outdoor activities, emergency situations, and professional work. In this response, I will provide a brief introduction to durability when choosing a flashlight, with a focus on the ratings of water resistance and impact resistance.

Water Resistance Rating:

The water resistance rating of a flashlight is typically indicated by an IPX rating. The IPX rating indicates the level of protection against water intrusion, with higher numbers indicating greater protection. An IPX4 rating means the flashlight can withstand splashing water, while an IPX7 rating means the flashlight can be submerged in water up to a certain depth without being damaged.

It's important to note that a water-resistant flashlight is not necessarily waterproof. A waterproof flashlight can withstand being fully submerged in water without being damaged. If you plan to use a flashlight in extreme water conditions, such as underwater exploration or during heavy rain, a waterproof rating may be necessary.

Impact Resistance Rating:

The impact resistance rating of a flashlight is typically indicated by an IK rating. The IK rating indicates the level of protection against impact, with higher numbers indicating greater protection. An IK07 rating means the flashlight can withstand impact from a 500g weight dropped from a height of 200mm, while an IK10 rating means the flashlight can withstand impact from a 5kg weight dropped from a height of 400mm.

An impact-resistant flashlight is less likely to malfunction if dropped or bumped, making it more reliable in harsh conditions. A high impact resistance rating is particularly important if you plan to use a flashlight in rugged environments or during physical activity.

In summary, when choosing a flashlight, consider its durability, including its water resistance and impact resistance ratings. A flashlight with high ratings will be more reliable and last longer, making it a worthwhile investment. However, keep in mind that a durable flashlight may be more expensive, but it's an investment that can pay off in the long run.

Size and weight

When choosing a flashlight, it's important to consider its size and weight. The size and weight of a flashlight can significantly affect its usability, making it essential to choose the right size and weight for your needs. In this response, I will provide a brief introduction to size and weight when choosing a flashlight, including a discussion of how they affect usability, a comparison of different flashlight sizes and weights, and how to determine the appropriate size and weight for your needs.

How Size and Weight Affect Usability:

The size and weight of a flashlight can affect its usability in several ways. A larger and heavier flashlight can be more difficult to carry, but it may provide longer battery life and a brighter beam. A smaller and lighter flashlight, on the other hand, may be easier to carry and handle, making it more convenient for everyday use. However, it may have a shorter battery life and a dimmer beam.

In addition, the size and weight of a flashlight can affect its functionality. A larger and heavier flashlight may have more features, such as a zoom or adjustable focus, while a smaller and lighter flashlight may be more limited in its functionality.

Comparison of Different Flashlight Sizes and Weights:

Flashlights come in various sizes and weights, ranging from small and lightweight keychain flashlights to large and heavy-duty tactical flashlights. Keychain flashlights are typically small and lightweight, making them easy to carry, while tactical flashlights are larger and heavier, providing more features and brighter beams.

Determining the Appropriate Size and Weight for Your Needs:

To determine the appropriate size and weight of a flashlight for your needs, consider how you plan to use the flashlight. If you need a flashlight for everyday carry, a smaller and lighter flashlight may be more appropriate. If you need a flashlight for outdoor activities, such as camping or hiking, a larger and heavier flashlight may be more appropriate.

In addition, consider how you will carry the flashlight. If you plan to carry it in a pocket or backpack, a smaller and lighter flashlight may be more convenient. If you plan to attach it to a belt or vest, a larger and heavier flashlight may be more appropriate.

In summary, when choosing a flashlight, consider its size and weight, as they can significantly affect its usability. Compare different flashlight sizes and weights and determine the appropriate size and weight for your needs based on how you plan to use the flashlight and how you will carry it.

Beam distance and focus

Beam Types:

Spotlight beam: This type of beam produces a narrow, focused beam of light, making it ideal for tasks that require a long-distance beam, such as searching or hunting.

Hybrid beam: This type of beam combines both floodlight and spotlight, providing a wide and focused beam of light. This beam type is suitable for tasks that require a combination of general and focused lighting.

Tiltable beam: This type of beam can be adjusted to direct light where it's needed, making it ideal for tasks that require adjustable lighting, such as reading or working in a dark area.

RGB beam: This type of beam allows users to switch between different colors of light, making it ideal for tasks that require different colored lights, such as fishing or exploring caves.

Red, green, black, and UV beams: These types of beams are used for specific tasks, such as night vision preservation, reading maps, or detecting certain materials.

Zoom beam: This type of beam allows users to adjust the focus of the light, making it ideal for tasks that require adjustable focus, such as searching or hunting.

When choosing a flashlight, it's important to consider the beam distance and focus. The beam distance and focus of a flashlight can significantly affect its usability and performance, making it essential to choose the right options for your needs. In this response, I will provide a brief introduction to beam distance and focus when choosing a flashlight, including the importance of these features for different uses, a comparison of different options, and how to determine the appropriate beam distance and focus for your needs.

Importance of Beam Distance and Focus for Different Uses:

The beam distance and focus of a flashlight can be critical for different uses. For example, if you need a flashlight for outdoor activities, such as camping or hiking, a long beam distance may be essential for navigating trails and identifying distant objects. On the other hand, if you need a flashlight for close-up work, such as reading or repairing, a wider beam angle and adjustable focus may be more important.

Comparison of Different Beam Distance and Focus Options:

Flashlights come with different beam distance and focus options, including fixed focus, adjustable focus, and zoom focus. Fixed focus flashlights have a fixed beam angle, while adjustable focus flashlights allow you to adjust the beam angle by twisting the head of the flashlight. Zoom focus flashlights allow you to adjust the beam angle and distance by sliding a zoom mechanism.

In addition, flashlights have different beam distances, ranging from a few feet to several hundred feet. The beam distance of a flashlight can depend on several factors, such as the size of the reflector, the power of the LED, and the quality of the lens.

Determining the Appropriate Beam Distance and Focus for Your Needs:

To determine the appropriate beam distance and focus for your needs, consider how you plan to use the flashlight. If you need a flashlight for outdoor activities, such as camping or hiking, a long beam distance and adjustable or zoom focus may be more appropriate. If you need a flashlight for close-up work, such as reading or repairing, a wider beam angle and adjustable or fixed focus may be more appropriate.

In addition, consider the power source of the flashlight, as some flashlights may have a shorter beam distance when using a lower power source, such as AA batteries. Finally, consider the quality and durability of the flashlight, as these factors can also affect the beam distance and focus performance.

In summary, when choosing a flashlight, consider the beam distance and focus options, as they can significantly affect the performance and usability of the flashlight. Compare different options, such as fixed focus, adjustable focus, and zoom focus, and determine the appropriate beam distance and focus for your needs based on how you plan to use the flashlight and the power source available.

Runtime

As a general rule, a runtime of 2-6 hours is a good range for most flashlights. If a longer runtime is desired, consider using a flashlight with a lower light output and/or a rechargeable battery.

If a shorter runtime is acceptable, a flashlight with a higher light output and/or an alkaline battery may be a better choice.

Terminology Explanation of Modes

When choosing a flashlight, it's important to consider the different modes available. Different modes allow you to adjust the brightness and other features of the flashlight to suit your needs in different situations. In this response, I will provide a brief introduction to the different modes available in flashlights, and explain the terminology used to describe them.

Turbo mode: This is the highest and brightest mode available in most flashlights. It is usually used for short bursts of maximum light output and can drain the battery quickly.

High mode: This mode provides a high level of brightness that is typically brighter than what is needed for general use but can be useful in situations where you need more light.

Medium mode: This mode provides a moderate level of brightness, making it a good option for most general use cases, such as hiking or walking at night.

Low mode: This mode provides a lower level of brightness, which can be useful in situations where you need to conserve battery power or where a brighter light is not necessary.

Moonlight mode: This is the lowest and dimmest mode available in most flashlights. It is typically used for reading or navigating in complete darkness without disturbing others.

Firefly mode: Similar to the moonlight mode, this is a very low mode that is designed to be used in complete darkness without affecting your night vision.

Strobe mode: This mode causes the flashlight to rapidly flash on and off, which can be useful in emergency situations or for signaling.

SOS mode: This mode causes the flashlight to flash in a specific pattern that can be recognized as a distress signal, making it useful for emergency situations.

In summary, the different modes available in flashlights allow you to adjust the brightness and other features to suit your needs in different situations. It's important to consider the different modes when choosing a flashlight, and to select a flashlight with modes that will be most useful for your intended use.

Cost

When choosing a flashlight, cost is an important factor to consider. The price of a flashlight can vary widely, depending on its features, quality, and brand. Here's a brief introduction on costs for choosing a flashlight:

Discussion of the Cost-Benefit Analysis of Choosing a Flashlight:

When choosing a flashlight, it's important to consider the cost-benefit analysis of the device. A more expensive flashlight may have better quality components, longer runtime, and greater durability, which may justify the higher price tag. On the other hand, a cheaper flashlight may still have adequate performance for your needs, and may be a better option if you're on a tight budget.

Comparison of the Cost of Different Flashlights:

Flashlights can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars. When comparing the cost of different flashlights, it's important to consider the features and quality of each device. Some factors that may affect the cost of a flashlight include the type of bulb, the type of battery, the waterproofing level, and the overall durability of the device.

Determining the Best Value for Your Needs:

To determine the best value for your needs, it's important to consider both the cost and the benefits of the flashlight. For example, a high-end flashlight may have a longer runtime and greater durability, but if you only need a flashlight for occasional use, a cheaper device may be a better value. Similarly, if you plan to use the flashlight in wet conditions, it may be worth investing in a higher-priced waterproof model. By weighing the different factors that affect the cost and performance of a flashlight, you can determine the best value for your specific needs.

ON/OFF Types

Tail Cap Switch - This is the most basic switch found on most flashlights and is used to turn the light on and off.

Side Switch - This switch is used for mode selection and can be found on more advanced flashlights.

Dual Switch - This switch provides the option of using either the tail cap or side switch to control the light.

Rotary Switch - This switch allows for multiple brightness levels to be selected by rotating the switch.

Accessories Types

General charger or battery: Using for built-in battery powered.

Magnetic charger or built-in battery: Using for battery replacement.

Filter or lens for adjusting the color or brightness of the beam.

Holster or pouch: Using for easy carrying.

Clip or Pocket-clip: Using for attaching to a bag, belt, or clothing.

Strap or lanyard, usingfor hanging the flashlight around the neck.

Mount: Using for attaching to a helmet, bike, pistol or rifle.

Sling: Using for certain flashlight, such like Olight Obulb.

Tail stand: Using for standing the flashlight upright on a flat surface.

Dimmer switch: for adjusting the brightness level.

Tactical finger ring: Using for a tactical flashlight

Pressure switch: Remote ON/OFF for Connecting flashlight to firearms.

Conclusion

Summary of key factors to consider when choosing a flashlight

#1. Light Source Types

#2. Light Output Types

#3. Battery Types and Life

#4. Size and weight

#5. Beam distance and focus

#6. Runtime

#7. Modes

#8. Cost

#9. ON/OFF Types

#10. Accessories Types

Final thoughts and  recommendations

For most ordinary people, it is enough to buy a cheap flashlight from an offline store. For flashlights with higher requirements, or need to be used for a long time as a working need, it is worthwhile to invest some money.

Good things are never cheap, and cheap things are never good. 

If you seek the ultimate design and high performance, and have high requirements for flashlights and sufficient financial capacity, you may want to know about Olight flashlights.