Were you ever in a situation where you needed a flashlight, but didn’t have the batteries for it? Don’t you just hate having to haul spare batteries on your outdoor adventures just to make sure you don’t end up in the dark? Well, what you need to consider is the best rechargeable flashlight the market has to offer, and forget about looking for and swapping batteries.
There are many rechargeable flashlights available in the market today and finding for the best one for your survival kit can be confusing. You need to set some considerations to make sure that you will get one that meets all your requirements and needs.
That is why we decided to help out and make sure you get the flashlight you actually need, not a model that will just collect dust in a drawer.
In this article, you will get a much better insight into the features that should be taken into consideration when looking for a rechargeable flashlight.
After you get armed with knowledge on the topic, you will go through the reviews of the best models on the market, and picking the perfect flashlight for your needs will be a breeze. But first, let’s take a look at the table of the reviewed models so that you know what to expect.
Note: We get commissions for purchases made through links in this article
Product | Weight | Dimensions | Lumens | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Smith & Wesson Galaxy 13 | 7.7 ounces | 1.6 x 1.6 x 6.5 inches | 25 | Check price on Amazon |
Bright Medic Bonfire X | 4.5 ounces | 5.4 x 1.4 x 1.4 inches | 350 | Check price on Amazon |
Streamlight Strion LED | 5.2 ounces | 5.9 x 3 x 3 inches | 260 | Check price on Amazon |
Helotex G2 LED | 2.4 ounces | 4.2 x 3.6 inches | 130 | Check price on Amazon |
Edison Bright Fenix PD35 | 4 ounces | 8.4 x 3.7 x 1.5 inches | 1000 | Check price on Amazon |
Streamlight ProTac | 2.3 ounces | 3.9 x 0.8 x 1 inches | 70 | Check price on Amazon |
Vizeri XML T6 LED Tactical | 7.2 ounces | 4.2 x 1.1 x 1.3 inches | 70 | Check price on Amazon |
Simon T6 Pro LED | 8 ounces | 5.4 x 1.4 x 1.2 inches | 500 | Check price on Amazon |
Nebo Redline | 12.8 ounces | 4.5 x 1.5 in | 220 | Check price on Amazon |
Best Products on Today’s Market
We have now arrived at the part where you can review several of the best rechargeable flashlights. Each one is different and offers various amounts of Lumens and features. Take a look below!
Smith & Wesson Galaxy 13 LED Flashlight
Weight: 7.7 ounces
Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 6.5 inches
Specific features: Uses 25 Lumens for 10 white LEDs and 6.5 Lumens for 3 LEDs, Dual Switch Technology for easy and quick bulb color selection, lifetime warranty
Best use: Truck driving, aviation, camping, trekking/hiking
Smith & Wesson Galaxy 13 LED Flashlight is the best when you are looking for a torch that can be handled with ease. Its white and red LED bulb colors help preserve your vision at night and prevent any disturbance with a bright night light.
Its anodized aluminum case is packed with a soft holster case with a pocket for spare batteries. When accidentally dropped in the water, it resists water for a few seconds, although it is not waterproof.
The textured grip of its casing makes it easy for you to hold the unit. Another promising feature of the flashlight is its security mode that prevents accidental switching. Its red light LEDs help you with signaling, map reading, and any type of emergency situation at night.
However, some of you might find the strength of the light to be too weak for its size. But, we think that this flashlight is just worth its price as it offers a decent area throw, despite the absence of a long throw and excellent brightness.
PROS:
- Very bright
- Durable and easy to use
- Versatile, has switch system
- Lens will deform over time
- Switch can act odd
- Not designed well
Related: Don’t find yourself lost when it comes to needing a multi-tool. The Life Gear Light WRX 6-in-1 Multi Tool comes with a built in knife, screwdriver, and, It’s compact and practically indestructible.
Bright Medic Bonfire X Tactical Flashlight
Weight: 4.5 ounces
Dimensions: 5.4 x 1.4 x 1.4 inches
Specific features: Uses LED technology for its durable batteries, maximum output of 350 Lumens, EZ-twist precision zoom ring that focuses a specific spot for a throw distance as far as 100 yards, weatherproof with its aluminum alloy body; o-ring sealed
Best use: Tactical, trekking/hiking, outdoor activities, camping
This Bright Medic Bonfire X Tactical Flashlight has an adjustable zoom that can twist the front ring to zoom from spot to flood. The flashlight runs one 18650 rechargeable battery or three AAA batteries. Its pointed strike bezel prevents quick glass breakage and serves as your tool for self-defense. Its ED technology is combined with precision lens, producing bright white light that gives you clean edges.
Its Cree LED chip promises efficiency, thus allowing you to switch the flashlight to low mode for lasting battery life. It does not contain a filament to burn out that is why it is virtually indestructible. It is very light that allows you to clip it onto your pants, belt or any other fold.
It can even be used as a hammer and in some altercations, and it will still work. Also, it is recommended to keep in mind what setting of the flashlight you last used, as the next setting may automatically be activated when it’s turned back on.
Turning it off while cycling to your next desired setting, can also be easy, considering the sensitivity of its switch. Overall, the cost of 350 Lumen is worth its quality as you really get a reliable and super bright flashlight.
PROS:
- Long lasting battery
- 3 modes of use
- Weatherproof
- Can short out
- May not come with batteries
Related: Have you ever heard of a tactical pen? The JinRunRun Tactical Pen is a self defense tool made of aluminum alloy that you can actually write with. It has a glass breaker too, and is a great addition to this flashlight if you plan on making a tactical combo.
Streamlight Strion LED Flashlight
Weight: 5.2 ounces
Dimensions: 5.9 x 3 x 3 inches
Specific features: Uses lithium ion battery that is rechargeable in 3 hours and for as much as 1000 times, C4 LED technology is shockproof and comes with a lifetime of 50,000 hours, durable anodized aluminum built having a knurled body to ensure grip
Best use: Camping, trekking/hiking, backpacking
If you are in search for a flashlight that provides you with maximum illumination with expansive beam, choose no other than the Streamlight Strion LED Flashlight. The high Lumen flashlight offers beam distance up to 200 meters through its 500 Lumen blast. Its light output can be high for super-bright beam, medium for a bright light, low for a non-glare light and strobe for signaling a location.
Among its great features are flexibility, comfort, durability and water resistance. Its clamp style charge holder has a digital control circuit that allows you to avoid overcharging. It is considered by many as the best tactical LED light that is also useful as a weapon that can save your life in any way possible.
The only downside is that some of you might find its dim light and performance in the dark to be lower than expected for that price, but nevertheless, most will agree with us when we say that its terrific light quality still dominates. In fact, it holds a promise of accompaniment during your dark nights.
PROS:
- High Lumen
- Comes with charger holder
- Flexible and durable
- Pricey
- Power switch can change the modes, glitchy
- Batteries don’t last long
Helotex G2 LED Flashlight
Weight: 2.4 ounces
Dimensions: 4.2 x 3.6 inches
Specific features: Runs on CR123 or AA battery, Tri-Mode battery – high, low, strobe
Best use: Hunting, tactical, camping, backpacking
The Helotex G2 LED Flashlight is specially designed for everyday carry light since it is small enough to lug around without any compromising effect on its light output. The flashlight is housed in an anodized 6063-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum case and o-ring seals on all its parts giving optimum resistance to weather.
Its Cree XR-E Q4-BIN LED produces a maximum light output of 130 Lumen and light modes in low strobe and high. Its jagged edge on the front end is useful for self-defense when you are in the wilderness, or anywhere and attacked.
This is a great buy for outdoorsmen in need of a handy little survival tool in a very affordable price range.
Apart from the extreme weather condition, it is also resistant to any damage that may come from physical activities. Meanwhile, this tool also has its own downsides like non-tempered glass lens, noisy rear-end switch button, and not so favorable when clipped on your belt as its head faces upward.
PROS:
- 3 brightness modes
- Can use 2 types of batteries
- Affordable
- Seems cheap for the money
- May not come with batteries, though it should
- Can short out and stop working
Edison Bright Fenix PD35 Tactical Flashlight
Weight: 4 ounces
Dimensions: 8.4 x 3.7 x 1.5 inches
Specific features: 1000 Lumen maximum utility of Cree XP-L (V5) LED and a lifespan of 50,000 hours, tactical tail switch that comes with a momentary-on function, 2 3V CR123A lithium batteries or 1 18650 rechargeable Li-ion battery, additional 2 EdisonBright CR123A lithium batteries
Best use: Tactical, camping, hunting, trekking/hiking
The Edison Bright Fenix PD35 Tactical Flashlight is designed with law enforcement and military concept since it is durable and strong although it is just so light. You can always utilize ordinary batteries for this flashlight during an emergency with its capability to use CR123A batteries and a rechargeable 1850 battery.
It features a power management style system that lowers increments’ brightness level when its battery starts to drain. The main beam of this flashlight can travel a distance of up to 200 meters, which is unexpected in its small exterior.
It throws out 1000 Lumens from a small area. Its protective system will keep its circuitry from being damaged in circumstances when you unintentionally inserted its batteries improperly due to darkness, panic or stupidity.
However, we do recommend that you purchase a back-up case as its own case easily rips. All in all, the Fenix PD35 is a flashlight that is highly portable, has a superb light output, and a sturdy construction.
PROS:
- Comes with 2 batteries
- 1000 Lumen
- Tactical tail switch
- Can stop working suddenly
- Glitches in certain modes
Related: Since this flashlight uses rechargeable batteries, you will need a high-quality charger, preferably a smart charger. We recommend getting the Nitecore i2 Intellicharger Smart Battery Charger.
Streamlight ProTac Flashlight
Weight: 2.3 ounces
Dimensions: 3.9 x 0.8 x 1 inches
Specific features: Made from metal, CA LED Technology, shock resistance with a lifespan of 50,000 hours, IPX7 rated design, making it waterproof up to a meter deep for half an hour
Best use: Hunting, backpacking, camping
A great choice for a bright flashlight that can be kept in the pocket, this Streamlight ProTac Flashlight combines C4 LED technology and its compact size to give you one of the brightest handy lights. The 70 Lumens light output of this flashlight offer a variety of uses. It is enough to navigate your way out of a building or around the wilderness.
This is enough to look around your shelter for the axe to split some kindling or to look around the tent to find your socks to put on your cold feet.
Furthermore, the ProTac has three clicks: first for high power, second for a strobe at 50 Lumens and third for low power. Despite all the great features this tool comes with, there is one downside to it, and that is its limited lifetime warranty and cost. But, the cost is justified by the flashlight’s overall performance and quality.
PROS:
- Waterproof up to 1 meter
- Multi-functional
- Adjustable intensity
- Can short out
- Clip placement is awkward
- Can stop turning on
Vizeri XML T6 LED Tactical Flashlight
Weight: 7.2 ounces
Dimensions: 4.2 x 1.1 x 1.3 inches
Specific features: CREE T6 XML LED producing bright, intense beam, 5 modes of light: high, medium, low, strobe and SOS, lamp diffuser and holster that has a D-ring with a carabiner to hang lamp inside the tent or other places
Best use: Backpacking, hunting at night, camping
The Vizeri LED Tactical Flashlight is ideal for mountain climbers, outdoorsmen and adventure seekers. The flashlight beats all other flashlights in terms of durability with its Type III hard anodized and anti-abrasive finish and a uniqe, rugged design that can cater any abuse.
It has a versatile power source and lasting performance with the use of its batteries. It remains wise to have extra batteries, though if you are planning for a long hike or camping.
Its versatility is attributable to its multiple settings or multifunction feature. Its small size should never be underestimated considering its phenomenal battery life. In fact, its 230 Lumens are more than enough for all your needs in the wilderness.
You can even use it as a lamp since it is IPX-7 waterproof with a diffuser. However, if you need a flashlight with higher Lumens, perhaps you should search for and choose other Verizi flashlights with a higher Lumen output.
PROS:
- Affordable
- Waterproof
- High Lumen
- Can stop working
- Power switch can die
- Selector is glitchy
Simon T6 Pro LED Tactical Flashlight
Weight: 8 ounces
Dimensions: 5.4 x 1.4 x 1.2 inches
Specific features: Essential equipment for Military, Hunters, Mechanics, Campers, Custom Agents, Law Enforcers, mini CREE LED Flashlight Torch Bulb with 16 adjustable focus dual settings and 100,000 hours lifespan
Best use: Law enforcement, tactical, camping, hunting at night, backpacking
The Simon T6 Pro LED Tactical Flashlight is one of the top picks among outdoorsmen and law enforcers mainly because of its high performance and lightweight. This flashlight has the capability to throw out as much as 700 Lumens with various brightness settings and strobe functions.
Its small size gives you comfort in handling it in your palm. The slim, ergonomic design of this tool functions well with 16 adjustable dial settings for focus on light tight, or for an expansion to a broad fan.
It can be mounted onto shotguns or rifles with an attachment, which is why it is highly recommended for home security and hunting purposes. It can cost you more than the other flashlights mentioned above, but its rate compensates its overall performance and quality.
However, some of you might find the performance of its light modes controlled through soft-pressing the push-button, which is actually the same button used for turning it on or off, as a downside, but definitely not a deal breaker.
PROS:
- Bulb rated at 100 000 hours
- 5 modes
- Durable, made with great materials
- Not as bright as others
- Awkward grip
- No charger or battery included
Related: If you need a portable power bank for extra battery, you can consider the Unifun 10400mAh External Battery Power Bank as it is waterproof and affordable. It has a strap and carrying case included.
Nebo Redline Tactical Flashlight
Weight: 12.8 ounces
Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.5 inches
Specific features: Made from aluminum, runs 3 AAA batteries, 5 lighting modes: high, medium. Low, strobe, SOS, 220 Lumens on strobe, high and emergency strobe, 110 Lumens on medium, and 22 Lumens on low output
Best use: Backpacking, trekking/hiking, night hunting, camping
This Nebo Redline Tactical Flashlight is a cost-effective flashlight that offers beneficial features. The flashlight is equipped with a magnetic base that allows hands-free operation and manages water exposure, 5 different lighting modes and 220 Lumen beam producing brighter illumination.
Its beam of light is adjustable to get spot lighting or short range lighting. Take into account the design of its power button, which can be difficult to get since it is sunk into its casing as well as the slight delay in its switching modes.
Using your thumb in navigating the switch can be a bit awkward here, especially for those with big hands. This may not be the right rechargeable flashlight for tactical purposes based on its cost, as there are less expensive and more tactical than this type. Keep in mind that this could still be the best flashlight when it comes to the brightness of its beam and the range of its price.
PROS:
- Light, easy to grip
- Comes with batteries
- Made from durable aluminum
- Red ring is cheap around the light and it can fall apart
- Beam is not super bright
- Can stop working if dropped
Features to Consider Before Buying
Rechargeable flashlights are known to vary in prices, depending on their model, features and design. Often times, the more expensive flashlights, are equipped with better rechargeable batteries, better light and significant features such as skid proof and waterproof designs. Delve into the following features of rechargeable flashlights:
Rechargeable Flashlight Parts
Just like any other survival tool, understanding of the parts of a flashlight gives you an idea what to look for in the exact tool you want your chosen rechargeable flashlight to have. Check out the following parts and their description as your reference:
- Case-This exterior tube making up the body of the flashlight comes with special patterns designed for a better grip.
- Batteries-Rechargeable batteries are the power source of the flashlight. These batteries are developed with different life spans and charge times.
- Switch-It is the switch that starts or interrupts electricity’s flow so that the flashlight will function. Note that there are switches that you need to push more than once to activate various light modes.
- Lens-The transparent plastic designed to protect the lamp and spread or focus the light beam.
- Reflector-The plastic piece with a layer of aluminum, which reflects light coming from the flashlight then directed outward.
- Lamp-The source of light for the flashlight, which can be incandescent bulbs or LEDs.
- Contacts-This part of the flashlight is usually crafted of copper or brass, connecting the flashlight lamp, batteries and switch.
Types of Batteries
Rechargeable flashlights use Li-Ion batteries, as most of them do not have their custom battery types. They can be more expensive than the other types of flashlights, but it spares you from buying a separate charger. Light Emitting Diode or LED technology is being used in modern rechargeable flashlights.
LEDs only use a small amount of energy, are shock resistant, have longer run times and are lighter. They also improve almost every aspect of rechargeable light. Rechargeable flashlights come in two types of batteries:
- Removable Batteries-Cheaper replacement batteries, multiple sets with lesser recharge wait time.
- Non-Removable Batteries-Specifically designed for rechargeable flashlights, capability for size reduction, less moving parts
Lumens
Rechargeable flashlight brightness is usually measured in Lumens, which may differ in rate depending on their use and situation.
You might want to refer to the following information for the specific range and use of Lumens:
- 10-20: Seeing a distance up to 100 meters, up close activities.
- 20-150: Basic outdoor activities and household chores, distances as far as 120 meters.
- 160-200: General use, looking things up to 250 meters in distance, household tasks, security, hiking, survival.
- 200-500: Hunting, tactical, climbing, fishing, sailing.
- 600-1000: Caving, hiking, industrial uses, camping, fishing, beams up flashlight as far as 300 meters.
- 1000 and up: Search and rescue operations, hunting, recreational activities, outdoor lighting.
Flashlight Beams
There are more types of beams, and the choice depends on the purpose you intend to use the flashlight. Here is what you need to know
Fixed
Also identified as a flashlight with a flood light, this unit has a fixed beam with a single width.
It is best for lighting up while walking on the dark and for night-themed outdoor activities like hunting or camping. Activities during the early hours in the morning are made easy when a fixed beam flashlight is used.
Focused
A focused flashlight beam or spot beam is condensed and compact. It is purposely developed to light up something at a considerable distance from the source of light. It works best for route finding and fast activities.
Strobe Light
Flashlights in this mode are tactical in function, which is beneficial for self-defense when attacked or a helping tool for survival.
Adjustable
Adjustable flashlights provide ease of use, since their beams can be adjusted to fixed or focused mode, making them convenient for any situation.
SOS Mode
The SOS Mode of a rechargeable flashlight helps you call attention when you are stuck in the wilderness and in need of rescue or any other survival situation.
Flashlight Switches
The location of flashlight switches is usually based on its model and brand. There are switches with multiple positions as they are specifically designed to cater different light modes or a flashlight. Among the most common types of switches are as follows:
Twist Top
This type of switch requires you to grip both the lens and holder of the flashlight, then make a twist to power on or off.
Tail Click
To power on or off the flashlight, you need to turn the button found at its base. This is ideal for single-handed operation unit.
You need to be extra careful here as the switch can be accidentally turned on and may run down its battery life.
Side Click
You can switch on/off the flashlight through a button located along the side of the casing. When all is said and done, many of these features are just for personal preferences, but it pays to know what you’re looking for beforehand so that you’ll be better prepared instead of drowning in confusion. So now that you know what to look for, here are some of the top rated rechargeable flashlights in the market.
Wrap Up
With the Nebo Redline Flashlight, we have reached the end of our article. There really is no specific flashlight that will be best for everyone and meet every need, as looking for the best one depends on its purpose of use. With the help of the guidelines presented here, it can be difficult not to find a rechargeable flashlight that suits your need and satisfaction.
Remember that the best flashlight is the one that has high quality, is compact, long-lasting, durable, waterproof, and one that can be dependable during emergencies.
We sure hope that one or more of these handy flashlights will work for you on your next adventure. There is a flashlight for any activity and reason, so be sure that you are armed with some light should you need it.
Do you still have something in mind to ask? Have a flashlight that we’ve forgotten to mention? Leave us a comment below so we can address your concerns.
Daniel is a gear freak when it comes to hiking, climbing and camping. He went to REI Outdoor School to meet new people and learn best practices. Don’t even try to argue with him about the latest backpack or ice axe, he tried most of them. Daniel’s dream is to climb Mount Everest.
Fenix makes some really good flashlights. I have a Fenix UC40 Ultimate Edition, and it’s an absolute beast. I have dropped it several times and it still works great. It’s very bright too. I would probably purchase the same light again if I ever need to replace it.
Great choice Steven! Fenix is an excellent flashlight. The Fenix PD 35 has a brightness of 1000 lumens – that’s why I love and use it.
I feel that I won’t need anything brighter than the 350 lumen tactical flashlight because it did light up my entire backyard about half an acre. The only thing which I’d hope for something better is the light setting which switches to the next in a cycle. I’d prefer that it come to low automatically. Nevertheless, it is really bright and we’ve used it in camping so I’d definitely recommend it. One of the best features is that it uses AAA battery so you can easily carry spare batteries.
Hi Meg! I’d recommend higher lumens since it really gets dark out there on the trail or in the woods. The Fenix PD35 TAC 1000 Lumen CREE Tactical Flashlight is an excellent flashlight. You’ve got to see it – powerful illumination, sleek and compact body and rechargeable batteries! No need to buy any batteries, so there!