Everybody needs at least one flashlight, and no – your smartphone’s flashlight mode doesn’t count.
You can find plenty of cheap flashlights at big box stores, and some of them can be quite good. Once you’re ready to move beyond one-size-fits-all flashlights, there is a dizzying selection of brands, styles, and sizes to choose from.
I am occasionally asked for advice on picking out a new flashlight, and so I thought it would be helpful to put together a couple of my top recommendations.
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I selected these flashlights based on their suitability for everyday carry (EDC), home use, travel, and non-critical work or professional use.
Readers’ questions and feedback are always appreciated! Also please let me know if you would like additional recommendations in any particular category, such as AAA, AA, CR123A, or rechargeable, and I will work to expand this post throughout the year.
ThruNite Ti3 V2 Keychain Flashlight
The ThruNite Ti3 V2 flashlight is keychain-sized that’s equipped with both a lanyard/keyring loop and a pocket clip, for convenient carry options.
It is bright, delivering 120 lumens, and is powered by a single AAA battery. It has a twist-switch and several output modes.
The ThruNite Ti3 is one of the few flashlights of this size, style, and price point, to be available in cool white (CW) and neutral white (NW) versions. This refers to color temperature, which is the tint of the light output. The NW output has a yellowish tint, while the CW is bright white.
I’d say go for the neutral white option – it’s just as bright as the cool white model, and will give you a taste for some of the variability and options in the world of EDC and enthusiast flashlights.
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Generally, I prefer neutral white for close-up illumination, and cool white for distance.
Price: $16
Streamlight MicroStream USB-Rechargeable Flashlight
Streamlight’s MicroStream USB is similar to their popular MicroStream AAA flashlight, but with several significant upgrades.
To start, the MicroStream USB features a rechargeable Li-ion battery and micro USB charging port that allows in-tool charging.
Replacement batteries are widely available, if you want to carry spares or need one down the road.
The MicroStream USB is also much brighter than the standard AAA MicroStream. Whereas the AAA version only has one output mode (45 lumens), the USB has low and high modes (50/250 lumens).
Price: $27-32
Streamlight Stylus Pro Penlight
I keep coming back to my Streamlight Stylus Pro LED flashlights for one simple reason – I love the form factor.
The 2xAAA version has served me well, and Streamlight also offers a USB-rechargeable version that I’m not quite ready for.
The Stylus Pro is bright, durable, and convenient.
There are less expensive penlights out there, as well as pricier options, but Streamlight’s quality and performance has kept me satisfied and loyal.
Price: $19-21
Olight Baton 3 Rechargeable Flashlight
The Olight Baton 3, like the S1R II that came before it, is a near-perfect EDC flashlights.
The Baton 3 is compact, bright, and versatile. I have purchased quite a few of these for friends and family – as well as myself- and I continue to hear about how great the flashlights have worked out for their recipients.
I find Olight’s magnetic tailcap charging to be incredibly convenient, but I also understand why flashlight enthusiasts often lament the “customized” rechargeable 16340-sized Li-ion battery.
Price: $65
If you are patient, Olight has flash sales around once a month, with the Baton 3 occasionally included. Or, use coupon code TOOLGUYD10 at the Olight store to save 10%.
There are also “premium edition” versions of the Baton 3 that come with a rechargeable charging bank.
Surefire G2X Pro Flashlight
The Surefire G2X Pro is a dual-output LED flashlight that is powered by CR123A lithium batteries.
CR123A batteries deliver more power than alkaline batteries, they have a 10-year shelf life, and they are relatively easy to find.
Surefire flashlights are well-known for their durability, reliability, and quality.
Surefire G2X series flashlights are made with a tough polymer body and Mil-Spec anodized aluminum bezel.
The PRO version has a clicky tailcap that activates low and then high modes with 1 or 2 clicks, respectively. It also has “momentary” on function with a half-press.
I regret that I cannot upgrade my 10-year old model to a new emitter in the same way as my older G2L, but it’s still going strong. The current version of the G2X Pro delivers 600 lumens on high and 15 lumens on low, which should be perfectly adequate for most users.
There are other highly recommended CR123A-powered flashlights, but the Surefire G2X offers the best balance between features, price, and reliability.
Price: $70
Peter
The people on the flashlight subreddit would beg to differ.
Stuart
The people on the flashlight subreddit have widely different views on a lot of things. Their most popular brand and model are powered by unprotected batteries and deliver excessively high heat and output that might be suitable for collectors and enthusiasts but not everyday users.
Jim Felt
“Hobbyists”…
Sounds exactly like the online photo nerds who’ve never shot professionally. Let alone with a six figure budget on the line.
fred
I was and still am a hobbyist photographer. Back in the early 1960’s I was looking to expand my horizons a bit. I had been using a pre-WWII Contax that had been my dad’s. I had only the one lens, an f/3.5 Tessar. I went to a local camera club to get some advice – and got lots of different buying recommendations – nobody suggested that I might try to try to hone my skills with the Contax – perhaps buy a wide angle lens and/or a telephoto. Folks were more interested in touting new cameras than looking at my photos. I probably should have held onto that Contax. I switched over to a Leica M3 – then an M4 – plus a few lenses. I took some courses – managed to become good enough for my wants and sort of became the family photographer. Some of the recommended cameras that folks told me were my best options back then – covered the waterfront from Alpa to Zeiss. Some told me that I could not do any good work with 35mm – should buy a Hasselblad or even go larger format. I became convinced that they camera-club members were more interested in showing off shiny new toys than they were in taking good pictures.
Mr. X
NEVER join a “Camera Club”.
You should have joined a PHOTOGRAPHY Club.
I am sure that you are a far better photographer than anyone giving you advice on buying new and advanced stuff.
Cameras, tools, cars, or gear of any kind is only as good as the person using it. We should all appreciate what we have and make the most of it!
Happy New Year!
Franco Calcagni
Zeiss, Contax, Leica and Hasselblad…those were the days! All fantastic cameras and highly collectible today.
Mike
Back in the 60’s and 70’s Hasselblad was the go to camera of photographer’s who took portrait photos of your kids and family but now another great company that has fallen to the once was
fred
I still have my Leica M4 and 5 Leitz lenses. From what I see the 50mm Noctilux f/1.2 that I bought in the late 1960’s now commands astronomical prices – and is likely worth much more than any of the other lenses or the M4 that I own. I still take the camera out on occasion – but now mostly carry a Canon digital camera in my pocket when I travel.
Robert
I’ll take that a step further. When you think about it, where do most amateurs get their information? They usually get it from other amateurs. Most people in photo forums, camera clubs, etc, are amateurs. They often think they’re pros, but that’s another topic. At any rate, I had a very fortunate opportunity. I spent over 4 years with a master photographer who was gracious enough to take me in and teach me the trade. Digital by the way has virtually destroyed the trade at this point, but that’s also a topic for another discussion.
The bottom line is that many of the FACTS that are true in professional photography are not only contrary to, but downright opposite to many of the so called “facts” that are perpetuated by the amateur community every day. It’s like the musicians who are successful in Nashville. The secret is to always hang with people who know more than you. People don’t get ahead, because they hang with people who aren’t any more informed on the topic than themselves.
Stuart
Not exactly?
“Online photo nerds” are likely tied to the Dunning-Kruger effect (disclosure – I always forget what this is called).
Flashlight Subreddit enthusiasts might make good and very informed choices for themselves, but that doesn’t mean their choices are suited for mainstream users.
fred
In one of the photo courses that I took (now almost 60 years ago) I learned about the Scheimpflug effect. I had to look it up today to remember that there was a “p” in is spelling. Just remembering it reminds me not to succumb to the Dunning-Kruger effect. And – what’s even more relevant – since I no longer have access to a view camera (or bellows) with a front rise or tilt – I can’t really take advantage of it – so many of my vacation snapshots of tall buildings have distorted perspectives.
Over the years I hope that I’ve learned that buying the proper tools for the job – may be a necessary but not sufficient condition for doing professional quality work. Furthermore, training and practice help – but are not always replacements for talent. I currently make both pictures and furniture – have done so for many years – and while my technical skills are now decent, the products of my labors are still more pedestrian than inspired. With furniture, I find that I can copy designs well enough – but would struggle to innovate.
Peter
And just so I’m not a total snob, here are some alternative suggestions:
Lumintop Thor LEP
Sofirn IF22A
Lumintop FWAA Ti+Cu
Weltool W4 LEP
Peter
How could I forget this one:
Emisar D4V2
Stuart
The Emisar D4V2 is not suited for everyday users.
Eric
I’ll admit that it and other similar lights are geared towards enthusiasts. But most are absolutely usable by more than just flashlight enthusiasts. They’re not something I would just hand to a stranger or child but I wouldn’t do that with a circular saw either. They’re tools and need to be treated as such. Just like with any tool users should take a little time to familiarize themselves with how to use them safely. And as far as safety goes any precaution you take with a D4V2 should be taken with an olight or any other high output flashlight. Neither will get hot enough to be dangerous unless the user takes steps to force the issue. Protected or not any lithium-ion battery should be treated with care and as if it’s unprotected. Just some basic precautions will keep any problems from happening. And it’s not like leaving the battery in an olight and using the magnetic charger magically makes it safe. You could easily short the 2 contacts and create sparks, it’s a known issue. So while I get that enthusiast class lights aren’t for everyone, I feel like your shouldn’t be ignoring them either. You cover consumer grade tools to super high end enthusiast tools. If your going to cover flashlights I feel like you should at least make a little effort to cover some other the options other than olight. There’s plenty of stuff out there just as nice or nicer than olight at better prices, and without the completely awful tint of LED that olight seems to love and anyone that remotely cares about CRI and color temperature hates.
Franco Calcagni
“I selected these flashlights based on their suitability for everyday carry (EDC), home use, travel, and non-critical work or professional use.”
Some people need to be obtuse and will argue pointlessly about anything. (or maybe just to show everyone how much they know)
Stuart sometimes does articles on high end products geared toward the pro, the enthusiast, the collector (nerd),which I am in some cases).
Sometimes he does articles on products aimed for the beginner or someone looking to get into something a little better than what you find in the big box stores…as he stated above.
In case it wasn’t clear, this article was for the latter.
Stuart
The Weltool W4 LEP is an expensive specialty product that is classified as a laser.
Peter
It uses a laser internally to generate the light, but only non-coherent light comes out the front.
Andy
It’s still pretty spendy, and probably not for most people on this site. That being said, I may order 1 for myself.
Ufkdup
Wrong…..look up laser excited phosphor
Stuart
Weltool says:
PB
Stuart is essentially correct. If you view the product images, you will see the laser product warning.
While the optics are designed to create a “safer” diffuse beam, this does not mean that it is safe. A 3B laser is a serious device, not for any amateur. The product page does not present this product as a general use (read, not EDC). In fact, they say that it is for specialty lighting scenarios. They also explicitly tell you to read the laser warnings, etc.
Generally speaking, despite warning labels and classifications, no laser should ever be considered completely safe.
Whether or not the warning is properly labeled I can’t tell from that image. I cannot tell what the original laser wavelength is or any other laser details that could help you determine how dangerous the device would be if per say, they optics have failed. Even the smallest fissure or brake in the housing may cause radiation and not knowing the laser wavelength in the least is a major concern.
Oleg K
I rarely disagree with all of your “best…” choices but I have to disagree with these, I used three out of five and, while I can’t argue that they are decent, they’re definitely not the best, especially the so-called “Keychain flashlight”, I suppose almost anything can be attached to a Keychain but why would you?! A Keychain flashlight should be the size of a 2032 battery.
In my opinion, one of the best flashlights are the new Milwaukee with a built in laser pointer or that 1000 lumen, rechargeable Coast and only if it’s on sale for $70. The best inspection light depends on your area because noone really buys them on purpose, besides, a truly good flashlight will have a very low setting (and adjustable focus), which can easily be used for inspections.
I really don’t see a point in any of these flashlights, I hope you get a commission for advertising them at least.
Stuart
The point of the post was to provide a starting point. Every time I get asked to “recommend a good flashlight,” I have to stop and think things through all over again, and then added back and forth might take the conversation a long distance away from the original suggestions.
Is there anything remarkable about these suggestions? Not really, but they’re safe choices.
The best products are the ones that suit broad user needs and wants without regret or compromise.
As for coin-cell batteries, I generally don’t like them much. They’re okay in a pinch, but better ones cost too much compared to 1x AAA flashlights. Super-cheap ones aren’t reliable, and I never really feel that I get my money’s worth in the small plastic flashlights that cost nearly as much as metal-bodied AAA lights.
Koko The Talking Ape
I’m not an flashlight enthusiast (who would’ve known such an animal would ever exist?) but I’d agree, these look like solid choices that aren’t crazy expensive.
I’d also agree that AAA flashlights are superior to coin-cell (which are expensive and don’t last long.) I’ve mentioned it several times before, but for a true keychain flashlight I like the Olight i3E. It’s just 1/2 inch longer than the AAA battery itself. Twist on/off, so it’s dead simple. Aluminum body, and bombproof. It casts an even circle of light with its TIR lens. $10. Can’t beat it for the price and compactness.
Stacey Jones
I partially agree. I do EDC a flashlight and lots of other stuff on my keychain so I looked for the smallest and lightest rechargeable flashlight that could throw a bright light for total of about 15 min between charges. The one I found was like ten or fifteen bucks and weighs about 10 grams if I remember correctly. Barely noticeable in the pocket. It’s still going strong years later.
Dave P
I have several of both Streamlights you mentioned, and gave them as Christmas gifts to my helpers ,too. Let’s face it, they get lost sometimes, $20 is my limit for a small light that may get lost. I found a micro-USB rechargable in my shop driveway over a year after I lost it and it had about all of the paint off of it but lit right up. Those sales that you’ve made us aware of make the Streamlights less than that. Thanks.
For a larger light that shines out quite a ways and is bright, I like the $20 Coast G450’s from Home Depot. Once again, $20 or less…. I’m just not spending more…..
Happy New Year
Jim Felt
Stuart. I’ve most likely not spent an hour of my life thinking about “flashlights” but with your enthusiasm I’ve still managed to acquire enough of your “Recommendations” to bug the crap out of my tool-averse wife. All with replaceable batteries.
And Habitat for Humanity always gets the castaways.
As she frequently says “go team”!
Stuart
On the scale between “specifics aren’t important” and “hyper enthusiast,” I’d say I’m firmly in the middle.
Flashlights are a tricky topic, partly because it’s one of few types of tools that are universally useful.
I have given flashlights to the men and women in my family, and it’s shocking as to how often THEY bring up the topic now.
I used to gift Maglites to replace family members’ cheap and unreliable lights, but the response was nothing in comparison.
Part of the positive feedback and response is tied to how bright modern flashlights are, but the other part is tied to “I use it all the time” commentary.
I can’t give everyone here a flashlight, but I hope that different posts and discussions help to make less interested readers more aware as to what’s out there.
Stuart Y
What is your opinion of maglite AAA LEDs and INOVA, compared with some of the other names for EDC lights?
Also, I love my INOVA X5. Anything that compares?
Stuart
My Maglite AAA has been broken for a while. I don’t know what happened, something internally must have failed. They’ll take care of it, but I haven’t sent it in for repair/replacement yet.
Unless you’re set on Maglite, there are many more affordable AAA lights out there.
What type of AAA light are you looking for? Compact keychain-sized, EDC (larger/brighter), or penlight-sized?
As for an X5 upgrade, the Olight Baton 3’s big brother is the SR2 Baton II, and there are other comparable models from other brands as well. But these are rechargeable lights.
For another CR123 light, I purchased an Olight M2T, but they don’t seem to make it anymore.
A lot of other brands moved from CR123 focus to rechargeable.
Streamlight ProTac might be a good option – they have the 1L (1x CR123) and 2L (2x CR123), as well as AA options. It’s not flashy, but Streamlight is known to be reliable. I have an older 1L (https://amzn.to/3mGBoxm).
Leo B.
I’ve been liking my Lumintop Tool AA, but I carry my Lumintop EDC light everywhere. I’m not sure what the actual name is, but if you search on Amazon you can find it. The batteries are Li-ion and rechargeable, and the reverse hat clip is nice. They seem to be a nice balance between price and performance. I got a Wurkkos FC11 not too long ago, and for a heavier 18650 light, it’s quite nice. Well-featured and not too expensive. The Streamlights up above look nice as well. Nice list!
Stuart
I have a Lumintop EDC01 (1AAA, https://amzn.to/3FB5zOb) – I bought one in blue around 18 months ago but have not reviewed it yet.
Are you referring to the EDC AA? https://amzn.to/3sEu60Y
I haven’t explored the 1AA-size category as thoroughly as other size classes, but will take a closer look.
Leo B.
I do mean the EDC AA, yeah. I quite like it; I think it’s a strong competitor to the Olight i5T. It’s a nice EDC option, and fits well in the side elastic loop of the nylon Leatherman sheath. A review of that segment of lights would be interesting! Maybe some Lumintops, the Olight i5T, some Nitecores, etc.
Addison
Nice list!
Hon Cho
Call me cheap, but even $20 is too much for a basic utility flashlight. Under $10 lights that use AA batteries are my personal preference but they’re somewhat uncommon. There are tons of cheap lights that use three AAA cells, but few inexpensive regulated units using only one or two AA cells. Why AA cells? They’re the most common disposable cell and are also available in rechargeable versions, as well as the Energizer Ultimate Lithium which have extremely long shelf life and are about as unlikely to leak and corrode as anything on the market.
Stuart
There are plenty of 1xAA and 2xAA flashlights, but not for cheap.
James C
You’re cheap.
🙂
Clay
I’m cheap too, and like AAs for the wide availability and capacity vs smaller batteries. I have a fair number of lights I got on sale that I don’t love, but I don’t mind since I don’t use them much (or they go to the kids) and I don’t mind losing them. For example, the Lux Pro and Coast that are on clearance at Lowes right now.
But for lights I use a lot, or the one light I’m carrying into the woods or the hills – to me it’s worth investing in something with (1) a quality LED, and (2) build quality I can rely on. A quality LED gets more light for the batteries burned. The lights often have multiple modes that let me adjust light levels. For example, the Fenix E series isn’t cheap ($28 for the 1-AA E12 and $40 for the 2-AA E20), but it’s worth it for lights I depend on.
Hon Cho
Also, how about more lights with plastic / polymer bodies? Lots of lights built like tanks with machined aluminum housings but lighter units made with non-conductive materials would be nice to have.
Stuart
There *are* plastic-bodied flashlights, but they tend to be either really cheap or specialized. The Surefire G2X has a polymer body and aluminum head, and they also have an all-aluminum version.
Aluminum bodies tend to help with heat dissipation.
If you need a good non-conductive flashlight, look at Pelican. I posted about one of their lights a few years ago (https://toolguyd.com/pelican-3310-glow-in-the-dark-led-flashlight/) and liked it so much I bought another.
Jim Felt
That’s exactly what Costco offers. Mostly on sale in their monthly flyers.
Mostly common battery brands that are surely licensed but composites not metal and more then adequate as gifts or in car/rig carry.
Kevin
You forgot the rest of the title;
“5 Best Flashlights for 2022….That Have Amazon Affiliate Links.”
Make no mistake what this “article” is really about.
Stuart
That actually wasn’t intentional, but I also won’t apologize for it.
I purchase most of my lower cost flashlights from Amazon for 2 reasons:
1) Prime shipping means free shipping w/ no minimum. (Non Prime-members have a $25 minimum for free shipping.)
2) Easy and hassle-free returns (in my experience so far).
I do try to be careful about 3rd party sellers. For instance, the Olight is cheaper via 3rd party sellers on Amazon right now, but I haven’t vetted them and would personally rather wait for a legitimate flash sale.
If you object to affiliate links, I’d be happy to set up a subscription paywall option for you, but the links would still be to Amazon or whatever other retailers are relevant to a post.
Kevin M Smith
You completely missed the point.
The entire construct of your article is suspect when every single item contains an affiliate link that you profit from, regardless of the reseller.
When you post a product that you have no financial kickback from, THEN I might take your articles seriously again.
Since you brought up a paywall, do some real research and writing again. THAT was the TG I would have payed money for.
Simon
OK, this is just ridiculous. Obviously, Stuart needs to earn a living, but should this really make us question his integrity? Are you any less of a worker at your workplace because you earn a living through it?
Stuart posting junk would be self-defeating. Think about it – we only go to this forum because his recommendations have been decent thus far. A track record of bad recommendations, regardless of his kickback, would make me stop coming to this site. That’s a lose-lose for everybody.
If you have an axe to grind, maybe try emailing him personally – no need to do it on a forum like this.
Stuart
Thank you, I appreciate it!
I sometimes get grief from affiliate retailers as well. “Why won’t you join our program?” “Why don’t you link to us?”
Whenever linking to a product, I link to my automatic go-to, and others if relevant, and include enough information for interested readers to do their own pricing research or retailer sourcing.
Some people just like to troll or be negative, so I ignore their attitudes and treat it as an opportunity to be transparent with everyone else.
The fact of that matter is that anyone can claim there’s “financial kickback,” in anything I do, regardless as to whether there are affiliate links or not. The important thing to consider is whether there are underlying incentives for me to post about particular products, and there isn’t.
Did any ads, affiliate links, or sponsorships influence the content in any way, shape, or form? No, and that’s what’s important. It’s what I look for when I read other sites as well.
Jim Felt
Thanks! Good response.
No idea why someone who follows Toolguyd wouldn’t want a link. It’s the easiest direct route from these phones to see exactly what’s being discussed.
BTW. I want Stuart to earn a decent living for his obviously tireless and careful posts on so many interesting (to me at least) subjects.
Andy
Wow. How much do you think Amazon pays for those affiliate links? I’m not going to pretend to know how much Stuart negotiated, but I can guarantee it isn’t much. And honestly, who doesn’t want a link to any reviewed item? Seriously, if you don’t trust the guy, why are you even here?
Lyle
Sometimes people like having a link to where they can quickly find an item that someone is taking about. Not all of us want to copy and paste a name into a search engine. I prefer it when there are links, its really helpful to know if they can be purchased easily on Amazon or if we need to go to some specific retailer for the more obscure items.
What’s the big deal with the affiliate links? It costs money to run a website. We get great content and community (from most participants) and we pay nothing. You lose out on nothing by using the affiliate links and the site benefits. If you don’t want to use the affiliate link, then just search for the item yourself. You don’t need to be a tool about this and accuse Stuart of something. If you don’t like the site, then don’t visit and certainly don’t post your accusatory comments. Grow the F up.
Paul S
I’ve been following Stuart for many years now and I can confidently say he is one of the most impartial influencers on the web.
One of the things I really like is he not only reviews the product but he also reviews the seller. There are so many tool websites out there that at just trying to rip you off. Even Amazon is full of shady sellers. Having Stuart do the seller research is worth every penny of the 16-65 cents he will make on the sale of one of these flashlights.
Finally, there are over 3000 “pocket flashlights” listed on Amazon alone, and finding the best one for you is an almost impossible task. So, I welcome that he narrows all those choices down to 5-10. if Stuart listed all the research and products he looks at to come up with articles like this all of his articles would be 10,000 words or longer.
Stuart
Thank you Paul, I appreciate it!
Jack
No need for this comment. Please stop this nonsense in the general chat. Please take it offline (or just leave).
Jack
Didn’t post as expected. My comment is in response to, “You completely missed the point.”
Corey Moore
It’s Amazon, Stu couldn’t have a site if he avoided covering anything available through his sponsor that is the megaconglomerate AMAZON. If you think Amazon’s 3rd party flashlight margins are affecting toolguyds ethical practices, I’m not sure what to say.
Corey Moore
May have meant affiliate rather than sponsor, I’ve no idea what the relation technically is. I do know that I haven’t seen a non-affiliate Amazon link on the internet in several years though, so again I find this to be the definition of a non-issue.
Steven L
I have had a SureFire 6PX in every vehicle we use since 2012. Dependable, works great. I carry spare batteries so there will always be a flashlight to use. The 6PX is the all-aluminum body, otherwise seems same as the G2X. This is a good size.
Got a few Streamlight Stylus Pro Penlight after you recommended a while back. Bought a few and they get used a lot around (and inside) the house. Real nice to put in a pocket when going outside in the dark.
Unmesh
I have too many flashlights (Fenix, Lumintop, Sofirn, Thrunite etc), thanks to the flashlight subreddit and have decided that I like the ones that can take any of NiMH/Alkaline/Li-Ion batteries and that have a simple user interface. AA/14500 batteries for the smaller ones and 18650 for the larger ones.
This Christmas, I gave out Lumintop Tool AA 2.0 flashlights in Neutral White as gifts and the recipients seem to like them.
Unmesh
I should have clarified that 18650 batteries are only Li-Ion!
Nathan
so I like the streamline USB device shown and I think it’s a good above average EDC light.
I dismiss the baton3 for the non standard or findable cell. make it bigger which it could stand and make it an 18650 and good to go.
JBC
Or, just buy a flashlight that meets those criteria.
Nathan
OH and a little surprised one of themilwaukee devices isn’t on here. figured that would make the cut.
Mark
Stuart, thank you for this post. Many more hostile comments than usual – it’s not warranted. Anyone familiar with this site has seen similar posts before and we appreciate them; I don’t understand their derision.
These are all good, solid options. For me, personally, I’d like to see a rechargeable flashlight with USB C that’s skinny enough and short enough to fit in a front pocket with a wallet, hopefully, underneath. I have something like that now but it’s micro-USB and getting long in the tooth.
Thank you for a great year, all the holiday deals, and this site! Happy New Year!
Jim
Several years ago I wanted to set up my SAR pack with only lights using AA batteries. Tired of carrying multiple sizes.
I found a simple headlamp that takes a single battery and then finally settled on this all aluminum Pelican for approx. $35 dollars. Oh Darn, another Amazon link.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M5GA2X9/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_9X8NZGZFYYR9XEW17Z6Q
Before the Pelican I tried a couple other lights (one a Coast) but preferred the Pelican in use. SAR can be hard on lights.
I agree with your StreamLight MicroStream choice. I have both sizes in my med pack but not the USB rechargeable unit. Haven’t converted the med. pack to AA yet.
Michael Veach
I have a pelican 1910 that’s in my pocket all the time. It is a single mode that was given to me so I don’t know the lumens but it is perfect for up close.
blocky
While beautifully machined, my pelican 1910b passively drains batteries moderately quickly on the shelf. Not a good choice for leaving it somewhere for when you need it.
I prefer the very similar Olight i3t, which also has better color rendition in my observation.
blocky
Jim, hows the color rendition on that Pelican 2350? I found the colors on the smaller Pelican 1910 to be a little too muted, which made it feel like the light wasn’t bright enough, even on the higher setting.
W00dy
I wanted to ask what you mean with SAR. But googling I’ve found Search and Rescue, so I guess that’s it?
Ren
Think the most useful and flexible flashlight is an angle light.
https://www.amazon.com/Manker-E03H-Multi-Purpose-Lightweight-Rechargeable/dp/B09H59RN1W/ref=sr_1_1
Use it in hand, clip it to collar clothing for hands free, or use headstamp, or stick it via it’s magnet.
Comes with a 14500 USB-C rechargeable cell, and can use standard AAs in a pinch.
Clay
Zebralight is the classic of that genre. Spendy but very useful at times, eg backpacking.
http://zebralight.com/Headlamp_c_7.html
Steve
Another one to mention that I think it’s a good deal. I picked up the Coast G450 at Home Depot for $20. In store you can find the new version of this model too that’s now 1630 lumens up from 1400. It’s fantastic for $20. It would be awesome if it had Lithium-Ion rechargeable batteries built in, but for $20 I’ll take it. It’s AA so you can just put rechargeable AAs in there.
Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Coast-G450-1400-Lumen-LED-Flashlight-with-Twist-Focus-21864/305663912
SKU# 305663912
Clay
I’ve had a number of Coast lights. At the right price they have their uses, but the LED efficiency and (especially) reliability aren’t really up to par.
The only one I still buy is the HP1, as it’s good for the kids and at $10 NBD if they lose it.
https://www.amazon.com/COAST-Lumen-Pure-Focusing-Flashlight/dp/B00IEMUOWU/
Evan
I love Nebo’s flashlights. They are extremely bright, charge via USB-C and have a secondary light once the handle slides up.
MoogleMan3
Stuart, to each his own and all, but like I’ve said before, I used to just pick what had decent reviews, but then I did some research on high CRI emitters and color temp. I’ve been using a a d4v2 and KR4 with high CRI nichia 219 5000K emitters. It’s hard to go back to my olights after that; their emitters have a blueish hue that’s on the cooler end. It sounds like a trivial difference, but when looking at things with reds or yellows in them the difference is huge.
Nothing against your list, but for some buyers, not just (as you condescendingly put it) “collectors and enthusiasts”, but individuals who care about the quality of the light that’s coming out of their flashlight. Even milwaukee has been putting high cri ~4500K emitters in their lights. I know the r/flashlights (and r/knifeclub for that matter) subreddit can seem like a place for “collectors”, but there’s a lot of useful info one can find there. You don’t *need* to get swept up in the whole “elite flashlight culture”.
Also, I do think the whole issue of using unprotected cells is overblown.
I’m not knocking your article or recommendations, but broadening the spectrum wouldn’t hurt. You wouldn’t say brands like Knipex or NWS are just for collectors or enthusiasts, right?
Happy holidays!
JBC
I personally didn’t feel that Stuart was being condescending at all.
On the other hand, while you’re protesting that you’re not a “hobbyist or enthusiast, by describing those aspects of illumination that you now find the most relevant, or important to you, such as CRI and CCT, suggests that’s exactly what you are. You even list the particular models of flashlights that you currently prefer, which happen to be highly coveted by the hobbyist & enthusiast communities, while you inadvertently left out which brand they belong to. That’s exactly what hobbyists & enthusiasts do. The reason you don’t wish to be labeled as such is curious, but as you said, “to each his own”.
BTW, in case anyone wonders, the D4v2 and KR4 are manufactured by Emisar, a company whose owner caters specifically to the hobbyists & enthusiasts communities.
MoogleMan3
Condescending as in someone who prefers higher quality lighting is labeled an “enthusiast or collector”, whereas someone who prefers higher quality tools isn’t?
Like most things, I do research before blindly buying something based on a single site’s recommendations; I’d imagine anyone who wants to get the best value for their money will do this.
No need for a brand name drop; anyone can google the models I listed and find plenty of info.
As for the whole “enthusiast vs everyday buyer”, would an everyday buyer visit a tool enthusiast website, which is what toolguyd is? Can we not all be classified as “enthusiasts” just by frequently visiting this site?
My whole point was that someone who prefers quality items, be it tools, flashlights, toasters, etc., is not necessarily a “collector or enthusiast”; I’ve bought plenty of “enthusiast” class items not necessarily being an enthusiast in that particular field. For example, when I bought my soldering iron, I did a few hours of research to find the best product that fits my needs and price range, and settled for a hakko fx888d. I’m by no means an electronics “enthusiast”, but I just wanted a quality item for the tasks at hand.
Same applies to my choice of flashlights. After trying a bunch of the typical flashlights (olight, streamlight, etc.), I decided it was time to stop spending money on lights I wasn’t completely satisfied with, spend a bit of time researching to find exactly what I want, and made my purchases. I haven’t bought any more lights since I got my emisars aside from a wizard pro nichia headlamp. Those cover everything I need. No need to buy any more lights for whatever reason.
Tl;dr: just because someone prefers spend money once on quality tools, and doesn’t want to spend money on cheaper tools multiple times, does not make them a “collector or enthusiast”.
Stuart
I’m sorry if I gave you the wrong impression, but I don’t see “collector or enthusiast” as anything bad.
Let’s say you want to buy an Emisar D4V2. To do this, you must select the LED and tint. Even if you know about color temperature and CRI, there are are 4 different 4000K and 4500K “neutral white” options.
Will the average person looking to buy a flashlight understand these differences?
This is enthusiast product territory.
Let’s talk about woodworking tools. Lee Valley/Veritas, Lie Nielsen, and other brands make tools to suit all types of users from DIYers to Pros.
When you look at a company such as Blue Spruce, which I posted about last year, https://toolguyd.com/blue-spruce-toolworks-customized-woodworking-tools/ , that’s enthusiast and collector and territory.
You said “Nichia 219,” and the voice in my head asked “which one?” I’m not drawing an “enthusiast” box around you from the outside.
Stuart
I might describe Emisar lights as for enthusiasts and collectors, but not in a negative way, but because I feel they’re less suitable for everyday users. If you need to my mindful of heat output and careful about unprotected Li-ion cell selection and use, that’s NOT a mainstream product, is it?
Certain lights, like the D4V2 seem to be purchased more as toys than as tools. That’s NOT bad, but I everything I’ve seen about it and other lights like it push it out of mainstream and into enthusiast/collector territory.
If you pass Knipex or NWS pliers to someone who’s using Channellock or Klein pliers, they can use them right away.
Would you swap someone’s Maglite flashlight with a D4V2 without saying a word?
I draw the line at unprotected Li-ion flashlights for personal and ToolGuyd purposes in the same way that I don’t venture into automatic OTF knife territory.
If it’s the right choice for you, that’s OKAY, and honestly I’d love to hear about it. But consider who might be reading ToolGuyd. Is the D4V2 a universal recommendation in the same way as say a Surefire G2X?
I really like Milwaukee’s flashlights too. They’re mid-high CRI.
Oh yes, there is definitely useful information to be found in those subreddits, but like any forum there are popular community opinions. It can take a lot of browsing to sort out useful information and unique opinions from parroted information and opinions.
I have actually been using Reddit more than CPF. When I wanted to try pricier flashlights to test out the “you spent how much?!” end of the spectrum, and was looking into a particular brand. A SPF search is difficult, as you mostly get old classified listings. On Reddit, the overall community opinion is clear, and I learned various reasons it’s best to steer clear.
Lastly, this is NOT going to be my last post on flashlights. I’m still working on reviews from the last time readers encouraged me to “broaden my horizons” when it came to flashlights. Before that, ThruNite and Olight wouldn’t have been on this list.
James C
Thank you, Stuart. Very valid points about enthusiast flashlights and I agree with you (I’m a flashlight enthusiast myself and took a D4V2 with me today). You’ve come a long way and so have many readers judging by these comments. Browse Budget Light Forum too if you haven’t already.
Joatman
In the past few years I’ve acquired quite a few flashlights……Olight, Coast, Streamlight ….and honestly don’t need anymore. I also have quite a few Milwaukee and Dewalt lights. However, I have a 500 lumen rechargeable Craftsman flashlight that I bought a few years ago that is awesome. It’s on clearance at Lowes right now for about $10. I bought 4 when I was in there a few days ago. Here is the link. You won’t find a better light for the price.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-500-Lumen-LED-Rechargeable-Spotlight-Flashlight-Battery-Included/1000495133
Lyle
I went to Lowes today to get some mortar so I decided to look for this Craftsman light. I fount 1 for $12.47. At first I found another Craftsman light that was about $10.97 and I immediately grabbed both. It was a 700 lumen light and it was marked down from like $33. I took them aside and sat down to re-read this post and make sure I got the right model. After finding your comment, I saw that it wasn’t the same model (the 6 AAA batteries should have been a dead give away). I put them both back and then saw the rechargeable 500 lumen version. As I mentioned there was only 1 and it was $12.47. I looked at the packaging a bit and decided against buying it.
Can you please tell me what you liked about it? It looked ok, but I thought it was weird that it had a USB-A connector on it ( I know so that it can also be used to charge phones and stuff) but the packaging seemed to indicate that the port was for charging and recharging so I was thinking that there must be some kind of special cable to charge it. That’s a bit of a turnoff for me since that means I need to always have that cable with that light if I need to recharge it. Maybe it has another port for charging and the packaging was wrong. If you can please explain more about what you like about it. At $10 I probably would have grabbed a few myself before even thinking about it.
Unmesh
I like the form factor of the Manker E03H but got a headache from looking at the diagram of the button presses to get to the various states of light! Flashlights with two buttons are a better way to implement complex functionality like this IMO
The Craftsman is showing at $15.24 @ lowes.com for my area which is not a bad price either. It has a USB-A female connector as its charging port, probably because it can be used as a charging source as well as a target. Also, reviews on craftsman.com are peppered with comments about the switch being flaky 🙁
@Joatman,
Did the package say anything about the battery capacity in mAH or mWH?
Joatman
It’s a Panasonic battery. 2150 mAh
You are correct, it has a USB port where you can charge another device. The entire light aluminum.
Ryan
Ever look at the Modlite plhv2 handheld?
Stacey Jones
I’d include the keychain flashlights that use the Rechargeable 10440 Battery with the built in micro USB port for charging. Very convenient and they make the flashlight smaller and simpler. Very decent runtime for quickly finding the right key in the dark!
mattd
I picked up an energizer hdhrl8 for $20 and like it a lot. can use either 2 cr123’s or one rechargeable 18650. can be used as either a head lamp or a hand held light, and has 4 good brightness modes. even came with both the rechargeable 18650 and a spar set of cr123’s.
Mike
Any regularly used flashlight at this point NEEDS to be rechargeable. I used to be a die-hard surefire guy but the lack of good rechargeable options drove me to O-light. The magnet is weird at first but toss it on the dock when you get home and done. The Milwaukee lighting line up, in general, is amazing but their handheld line has some of the nicest light quality. Often that wide smooth field is much better on the eyes than the bright center hot spot you get with most LEDs now. So many options for so many situations!
Lyle
I’m surprised at how many comments there are for a flashlight post. I guess it makes sense since flashlights really are universal tools. I wouldn’t call myself a flashlight enthusiast or a collector, but I started thinking about how many flashlights I have and I’m probably wrong on both accounts. I don’t have any specialized or crazy expensive flashlights, but since I probably have over 50 flashlights I can’t deny my flashlight “problem”.
One of my friends from work buys and really like O-Light flashlights and I haven’t bought one for myself yet. I’ve always preferred flashlights that I can buy batteries for. One of my first really good lights was an Inova X5. The only bad part about it is the expensive and special CR123A batteries that it took. Since then I’ve gone mostly with AA or AAA flashlights. I have a couple of Lumintop lights that I like, the IYP365 Penlight and later a Lumintop AAA Mini EDC flashlight. The later is a keychain light. Both were less than $20 which I find to be a fair price for a good metal body flashlight with fairly simple operation. I’d really prefer simple on/off and some other method for adjusting brightness (maybe another switch). Having to deal with “modes” can be frustrating.
I started my addiction many years ago with Maglights, but bought every different style of light when Duracell got in the flashlight business. Initially it was the plastic ones they came out with in the late 80’s early 90’s and more recently the Daylight series of all metal body black flashlights with the copper colored tail cap.
I recently came back from a trip and picked up a Braun Magnetic Slim Bar Folding Work Light from Harbor Freight and I like it so far. It uses a standard removable 18650 battery that can be charged via a micro-USB port built in to the flashlight.
Stuart
Yup! I snagged a couple of Maglites nearly every holiday shopping season in a row. I eventually tried INOVA – also the CR123A X5! as well as a smaller one – and then I bought a Surefire at Lowe’s with a gift card. I bought a Fenix LD20 in June 2010 from Amazon. A Zebralight headlamp was my first “neutral white” light. According to Amazon, I bought my first Streamlight Stylus Pro in May 2008, and a bunch more for reader giveaways. I reviewed a Foursevens Preon in 2012 – https://toolguyd.com/foursevens-preon-2-led-flashlight-review/ – and according to that post I purchase it in late 2011.
Readers’ requests and Olight’s offer for a S1R II sample in 2020 pushed me towards Li-ion lights for the first time, and things have been a bit crazy since them (ToolGuyd is as much an enabler for me as for readers).
I think that most users would be well-served with $10-$65 flashlights, depending on needs and wants, although it’s easy to spend a bit more to suit specific user requirements.
Lyle
I guess now that I’ve thought about it a bit and now that I’ve admitted that I’m a flashlight addict, I’d like to hear some discussion about the choice of batteries for our flashlights. I moved away from the expensive and somewhat harder to find CR123A batteries to AA and AAA. However, this has also caused a problem because I’ve been burned by those batteries leaking. Seems like alkaline AA and AAA batteries made now are all crap. Duracell, Energizer, Kirkland, and Member’s Mark all end up leaking and destroying equipment. Duracell is the only company that seems to take any responsibility here (probably because they were sued) and they will reimburse for damaged/destroyed items.
I decided that I would get rid of all of my alkaline AA and AAA batteries and move to Eneloop style batteries. Basically I did some research and have bought a lot of the IKEA NiMH AA and AAA batteries. It seems like these are made in the same factory in Japan (if you can find the made in Japan ones) that make the Panasonic/Sanyo Eneloops. I’ve only recently converted to this in the last year so no long term results yet. I prefer this because I can reuse these over and over again, they have a really long shelf/storage life and I can always swap in generally available alkaline if I’m in a pinch.
My recent Harbor Freight purchase with the removable 18650 is my first venture into that cell type as a power source. I’d love to hear more about how others decide what power source type and their strategy, not just for flashlights but for small replaceable cells in general.
Wayne R.
With few exceptions, we use only AA/AAA (old/original) Eneloops or new Energizer Lithiums (that’re non-rechargeable). It’s hard to get away from the ubiquity of AA/AAA.
Plain alkalines are fine, I guess, if you burn through them and don’t give them an opportunity to leak, but that’s what Eneloops are for…
The lithiums are best for long-term storage &/or really cold weather (their voltage doesn’t really drop when old or cold), so they’re the only ones in the cars. They’re 1.6v, too, but pricey.
The Eneloops are terrific, but even though they’re only 1.2v they’re in everything else.
Alkaline AA are only in the remotes that don’t do well with the lower voltage of the Eneloops.
We’re done with ugly discoveries of white powder, though I’m still picking up Maglite AA units at the flea market; I’ve been able to rescue most of them, but Honey’s always giving me whithering looks when I show up with another, and it’s hard to argue.
HushHouse254
I have used lots of flashlights for work and home. Nothing is more frustrating than grabbing a flashlight and it doen’t work or if you drop it and it explodes into a thousand pieces. The best upgrade we ever made at work was to Pelicans. They seemed to be able to take the most abuse while ticking all the right boxes. As for home I have now have an affinity toward Anker Bolder lights. Not expensive, durable and rechargeable. For EDC, a Nitecore TIP fills that role. I like the rectangle shape so it fits well in a front pocket and it does the job for what it’s intended.
Jp
Stuart,
I own all these brands except olight. I’m biased against them bc of price vs listed performance. Have you considered looking at Nebo? I have found them to be great. Maybe the listed specs aren’t the best, but the real world helpfulness and reliability have been great for me. I am in no way affiliated with these companies. Ankers series LC-whatever are nice too. I own the Lc-130
-jp
Stuart
I do not trust Nebo anymore.
10 years ago, they marketed a flashlight as “water-proof.” I asked them how waterproof it is.
They said:
They later corrected the published marketing claim from “water-proof” to “weather-proof.”
After that, separately, I received a ton of feedback to a prior review post, from more than a couple of users complaining their Nebo flashlights were burning up with use. I guess the flashlight had poor thermal dissipation and its emitters were damaging themselves over time.
I have not touched a single Nebo lighting device in the 10 years since then. I sometimes see them in random places, such as in a counter display at the UPS Store, and that has given them a sort of “as seen on TV” type of aura.
Wayne R.
A “problem” with LED flashlights is that they don’t usually fail, and so cuts off the natural upgrade path that is inherent with so many other tech items.
As nice as new lights may be, I’ve already got too many to thoroughly use, let alone justify more. A real first-world problem, yes.
As for “enthusiasts”, that may have been born from those eternally disappointing lights from our childhoods. Cloth-covered wings to supersonic planes, glass tube B&W TVs to giant 4K screens, chemical photography to digital, and flashlights with barely-there light (& carbon batteries) to little tiny but very bright LED flashlights.
The march of tech has been amazing.
Paul Sikkema
I purchased a NEBO Swivel this year and I really like it. It’s bright, rechargeable, and carries very well in my jeans pocket.
Jack
Based on Stuart’s recommendation, purchased the O-Light i1R 2 last year as a novelty and it’s now my EDC pocket light – no keychain, advanced DIY-er. Recently got one for my wife – loves it. The response from everyone I show it to has been literally, “Oh, wow!” Quality is excellent, totally dependable, does the job for me. The i1R 2 Pro is coming soon – likely purchase when on-sale. Also, my SureFire 6PX Tactical has not failed me since 2010.
Thanks, Stuart.
Joatman
Those little iR2 lights are awesome. I’ve had one on my keychain for a year or two. I have the newer version but it’s still in the box. I think the only difference is that the two pieces stay connected with a spring, or something, when you unscrew it to charge it. Amazing how bright it is for the size. Probably my most used light.
Tom
I bought an o light when on sale, to see if a more expensive flashlight it’s worth it to me. It’s not.
My requirements for a flashlight are
Focusable
Simple on/off (maybe a hi/low setting – NO STROBE OR SOS settings)
Rechargeable with common plugs
Weatherproof
Adam B
Not a flashlight enthusiast or even a flashlight guy at all, but if you wanted one really good small flashlight for the rest of your life, I’d recommend that Olight Baton in a heartbeat (when on sale). I think I got mine for around $40 and it came with another smaller light too, also handy, but that Baton stays out and available and I use it rather often.
And it won’t burn a hole through your willy if you turn it on by accident in your pocket, like the warrior model 🙂
Jerry
Listing 5 flashlights and calling them ‘best’. You are a brave, brave man.
Seriously though I got one of the Olight Batons when on sale and its a really good light. Its the only one I have from your list. I have a Remix and a couple Nebo I like but I wouldn’t call them best so much as cheap but decent, at least the ones I have.
Rcward
The Baton 3 is fantastic for EDC
Steve
Wow Stuart! You really brought the kooks out of the closet with this one.
I have been carrying the ThruNite Ti3 V2 or one of its’s predecessors in my pocket for the last 20 or 25 years and wouldn’t leave it home any more than I would my pocket knife or wallet. Thanks for your site and keep your head down when you bring up these volatile subjects.
JeffD
Asking the internet about flashlights is akin to asking about automotive oil viscosities and scheduled changes.
Nebo? Wowsers, that was many moons ago when I reviewed the Redline. I forgot about them.
Lately, though, I prefer lights with 18650 rechargeable. But I do own a Olight Baton. Heck light when on sale, but only on sale.
Fyrfytr998
Damn man!! Flashlight debates seem to be more argumentative than what tool line has the best battery platform, lol.
Corey Moore
I bookmark these flashlight posts every time they come up, but my USB rechargable gearwrench I bought at random still hasn’t crapped out on me, and I’ve still got the sense to know I shouldn’t jump onto a new shopping interest without cause lol Appreciated nonetheless👍
Chad
Fenix or bust. Cannot beat the performance out of the box, or, more importantly, the way they recondition them for any issues in use. They’re all voltage and temp overload protected…. And damn near as needed outta the box.
Franco Calcagni
I have the PD35TAC, it was knocked off my night table (less than 3 feet high) and landed on a ceramic floor…hasn’t worked since. I have been busy lately so aside from unscrewing it and putting it back together, I have no time right now to check it out properly….not that I can surely fix it anyway.
I have it maybe 1 year or possibly 18 months. I bout the RGB lenses, the cones in white and orange and would hate to get rid of it. But if fixing it is almost the price of a new one, then forget it. (cost to fix may also include shipping it to them and then back to me plus the actual repair)
Anyone know if Fenix would cover this under warranty?
Chad
Call or email them. I know guys who have had repairs for free after drops and they come back in better shape than they sent them in.
MtnRanch
I’d steer clear of the Olight units because of several bad experiences with their customer service. Also, their “customized” battery and charging systems seem like a good idea at first but the standard micro-USB or type C USB port used by other manufacturers makes it easy to recharge anywhere without having to carry a special cable for each flashlight.
Olight doesn’t standardize their cables even in their own product line. Some look like they’d be interchangeable but aren’t.
Franco Calcagni
I also am a unhappy Olight customer service person. I have about 20 or so of there flashlights (this is including multiples of the same model), and as much as I like their products, their CS is terrible and will no longer buy their products.
Stuart
If you (or any other readers) have difficulties with Olight now, send me an email and I’ll see what I can do.
1) I want to hear about it, and 2) I might be able to help.
About a year and a half ago, a reader ran into some trouble getting Olight to honor a warranty replacement. It took a bit of time due to the pandemic, but things worked out in the end.
Franco Calcagni
Stuart, I appreciate you wanting to help but first, I am in Canada and it is Olight.ca being the problem. Then it is they are so effing ignorant.
An order I had made with 5 or 6 items on it, like usual arrives in multiple shipments. After 3-4 weeks, an item had not arrived. I checked the tracking and it showed as delivered. I got that order and it had a couple of other items, but not the i5R, which was a freebie because I spent X dollars.
I wrote them and was very detailed and explained that I checked my mailbox, in fact checked a dozen times from the date it was supposed to be there, but did receive the other items.
The first CS rep responds, OK, we’ll see what we can do, but could you please check your box 1 more time and then respond if you got it; our records show it was delivered.
A bit perturbed, I replied didn’t you reed my email, I checked many times. Another CS rep replied to me stating OK, but please check one more time. I told them to take me off their email list, I would no longer buy from a company that doesn’t listen to what the customer says.
As weeks went by, I would continue to get emails about sales or new products. I unsubscribed for maybe the 3rd or 4th time. The next time I got one of their emails I replied with the email I had sent them originally explaining everything and said, please take me off your list, this is about the 7th request.
Another CS rep replied to me stating she was the manager of one of the previous reps, who also was no longer working there. She said, I will take care of this for you…first. here is the tracking form the order, now months ago, “could you please make sure it wasn’t delivered or ask your post office if they have any info on the package. If you don’t find it, I will sent you an i5R no charge.
I told them to get lost. The aggravation of dealing with them, I didn’t want anything from them, just don’t contact me anymore.
A couple of weeks later, another email about an upcoming sale. I sent this email to the Federal Govt dept that deals with spam, along with all the emails showing how many times I had asked them to stop contacting, remove me from their email list. I CC’ Olight CS. The next day Olight CS responded they were sorry and would make sure I would not get anymore emails. This was a few months ago, and I haven’t heard a peep from them , which shows they can take you off their list if they are looking at fines form the govt
I am out an i5R, but as the old adage goes, “when you lend someone $20 and you never see them again, that is money well spent”.
So I finally do not have to deal with them anymore. Besides, I have 4-5 of them from previous orders where they gave me 1 free for the order size.
I have over 30 Olight flashlights, any future flashlight purchases will be any decent deal I find, but NOT Olight.
Clay
If you do this again, a paragraph or two on what to look for would be useful. For me, it is:
– Multi-mode, at least 2, one bright and one low. A medium is good to have. This is required, as it allows battery management; as well as adjusting the light to use indoors or in a tent. Many lights’ full mode is blinding inside.
– A reasonably efficient LED. That, along with build quality, is what you’re paying for in a better flashlight. Battery burning LEDs are the hidden cost of cheap lights.
– Battery type. Very much a matter of personal preference. I’ve shifted to primarily AA and a few AAA to have standard batteries. I mostly use LSD rechargeables, and lithium in the car, but in a pinch batteries are available in much of the world.
Maybe a more accurate title next time. Add “EDC,” you clearly weren’t trying to list the 5 best flashlights.
Stuart
Thank you, I appreciate the feedback and suggestions!
Dustin
How has anyone that is familiar with the /flashlight subreddit not mentioned the Wurkkos FC11? Can be had for $30. 1300 lumens and is rechargeable via USB-C. It is a great flashlight for doing everyday stuff. It was the first of many flashlights for me after getting introduced to that subreddit I have a couple of the Emisar lights (DT8 and D4SV2) like mentioned above and I would certainly not hand them to just anyone to use. Those are can be quite the hot rod of a flashlight and can heat up quickly.
https://www.amazon.com/Wurkkos-Flashlight-rechargeable-Magnetic-Activities/dp/B07ZZ2YFKD
Lyle
Nice light. Looks small until you see it compared with the can of Coke.
Franco Calcagni
This post and a couple of others have mentioned that some models get extremely hot. I find this interesting as many of the flashlights I have can get extremely hot, but all the ones I have, reduce light intensity after 2 minutes (can vary depending on the model) so as not to overheat or burn the user.
If a flashlight can get that hot and the MFR does not build in some sort of safety against burning someone, it does not sound like a premium product worth buying.
Dustin
I would say most if not all of the “Hobbiest” flashlights have a timer or are temperature regulated to start stepping after it reaches a certain temp when it is on the higher modes like turbo.
Joseph
I think you’ve done a good job with this one. You can tell because everyone disagrees with you and thinks you’ve messed it up. But none of them agree exactly how.
I’ve been impressed with this one:
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08CFR2BRR/
The battery is not the best but for the couple of times a day I need a bright light, it works great. I only charge it every few weeks or after a heavy day’s use.
Stuart
Thanks! Ha – I like that, how everyone disagreeing about how I’m wrong is a good thing.
Tom B
It is sublime, brilliant, posts like this observation from Joseph that are the real jewels to be found on the internet.
Michael Veach
Never seen so many people get their knickers in a bunch over terminology and opinions.
John S.
Thanks for the info. I’m a fan of nitecore myself but appreciate some other options to check out.
TMedina
I’m a little late to the party, but: since folks seem to like rechargeables and on this board, “made in the US”, I’ll toss the Malkoff flashlight line into the mix.
Built around the 18650 platform, and the replaceable/interchangeable P60 host format pioneered by Surefire back in the day.
A bit on the spendy side, but rock-solid performance and superb warranty coverage – especially since they’re built in the US, you don’t have to wait on a slow boat to China and back.
Stuart, if you want to upgrade your older G2L, you might take a look at the M61L, M61NL, or M61WL drop-ins.
Stuart
I upgraded my G2L with a drop-in.
Or rather, I bought an MD2, swapped in a neutral white drop-in, and used the cool white for my G2L. Too bad the G2Xs cannot be upgraded or customized.
Tom B
It is sublime, brilliant, posts like this observation from Joseph that are the real jewels to be found on the internet.
KL
I use these almost every week day
1xAA Jetbeam JET-1 MK + Panasonic eneloop ( i bought two when available )
1×18650 Zanflare F1 ( 4500-5000K )