Discover the Top Flashlights of 2024: Reviews and Ratings

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Introduction
Top Features to Consider When Choosing a Flashlight
Spot Beam vs. Flood Beam: Which is Best?
2024’s Best Flashlights: Our Top Recommendations
Closing Thoughts: Top Flashlights of 2024 – Our Final Recommendations

Discover the Top Flashlights of 2024: Reviews and Ratings

Curated by

cdteliot

2 min read

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Flashlights remain an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts, professionals, and homeowners alike, offering powerful and versatile lighting solutions. The best flashlights of 2024 include models from renowned brands such as Fenix, ThruNite, and Nitecore, each offering unique features to suit various needs and preferences.

Top Features to Consider When Choosing a Flashlight

When selecting a flashlight, several key characteristics should be considered to ensure you get the best tool for your needs. These include brightness, battery life, size and weight, and durability.

Characteristic	Description
Brightness	Measured in lumens; 100-300 for general use, 1000+ for search and rescue. Beam intensity (candela) important for long-range visibility. 1
Battery Life	Disposable vs rechargeable batteries; runtime varies with usage and brightness settings. Multiple modes help conserve battery. 1
Size and Weight	Consider portability for EDC and outdoor activities. Compact designs may sacrifice features or brightness. 1
Durability	Materials like aluminum balance durability and weight. Look for water resistance (IPX ratings) and impact resistance for outdoor use. 1

These factors play a crucial role in determining the best flashlight for specific needs, whether for everyday carry, outdoor adventures, or emergency situations. By considering these characteristics, users can select a flashlight that offers the right balance of performance, portability, and durability for their intended use.

1 source

Spot Beam vs. Flood Beam: Which is Best?

When choosing a flashlight, understanding beam types and their applications is crucial. Spot beams and flood beams serve different purposes, each with its own advantages depending on the intended use.

Beam Type	Characteristics	Best Use Cases
Spot Beam	Narrow focus, long-range, high intensity	Driving, hunting, search and rescue
Flood Beam	Wide spread, shorter range, larger coverage	Camping, construction sites, general outdoor use

Spot beams provide a concentrated light with a beam angle typically less than 45 degrees, ideal for illuminating distant objects or specific areas

. They're excellent for tasks requiring long-range visibility, such as driving on dark highways or searching for objects in the distance

. Flood beams, on the other hand, offer a wider beam spread (usually over 60 degrees) and are perfect for lighting up larger areas at shorter distances, making them suitable for work sites, landscapes, or general outdoor settings

. Some advanced flashlights feature combo beams, combining both spot and flood beams for versatile lighting options

. When selecting a flashlight, consider your specific needs to determine whether a spot beam, flood beam, or combo beam would be most suitable for your intended use.

2 sources

2024’s Best Flashlights: Our Top Recommendations

Nitecore P20iX 4000 Lumens Xtreme Performance Tactical Flashlight

4.0

$139.00

$211.50

Olight Baton 3 Pro | 1500 Lumens Everyday Carry Torch

5.0

$66.00

Surefire® Stiletto Pro® 1000 Lumen Flashlight

5.0

$233.00

ThruNite LED Flashlight Archer 2A V3, 500 Lumens Mini AA Flashlight with Lanyard, IPX8 Water-Resistant Dual Switch Outdoor Flash Light for Hiking, Camping, Everyday Use, EDC - CW

$43.99

$86.99

Olight Warrior X 3 New Superior Tactical Flashlight

$131.00

$175.95

Nitecore P20iX Xtreme Tactical Flashlight w/ Holster (4000 Lumens | USB-C Rechargeable)

5.0

$119.95

Nitecore EDC27 Ultra Slim High Performance EDC Flashlight

4.5

$93.00

Fenix PD36R PRO Rechargeable Flashlight Promo Pack

4.8

$119.95

$162.00

11% off

Nitecore P20iX 4000 Lumens Xtreme Performance Tactical Flashlight

4.0

(8)

$188.15

$211.50

FlashLightWorld Canada

View Details

Nitecore P20iX Flashlight Kit Review! - YouTube

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The Nitecore P20iX is a highly regarded tactical flashlight, praised for its powerful 4000 lumen output, compact size, and versatile features. Users appreciate its easy operation, exceptional battery life, and durable construction suitable for tactical use.

Buy this if you need a high-performance, rechargeable tactical flashlight with multiple modes for professional or outdoor use

Powerful Output
4000 lumen maximum brightness with 241 yard beam distance
Versatile Modes
Multiple brightness levels and quick-access strobe function
Durable Design
IP68 waterproof rating and impact-resistant construction
Size Limitations
Cannot stand upright due to protruding tail switch

Key Features, Reviewed By

Olight Baton 3 Pro | 1500 Lumens Everyday Carry Torch

5.0

(14)

$98.00

RMK Leather Works Australia

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Olight Baton 3 Pro Review - YouTube

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The Olight Baton 3 Pro is highly regarded by users as an excellent everyday carry flashlight. Reviewers consistently praise its brightness, compact size, long battery life, and versatile features. Many consider it one of the best EDC flashlights available, especially for non-enthusiasts.

Buy this if you want a compact, powerful, and long-lasting EDC flashlight with versatile features and durable construction for everyday use and outdoor activities

Powerful Output
Delivers up to 1,500 lumens with a 175 meter throw, providing ample brightness for various tasks.
Long Battery Life
Offers extended runtimes across multiple modes, including up to 120 days on the lowest setting.
Compact Design
Small enough to be easily carried and forgotten in a pocket, yet powerful enough for most lighting needs.
Premium Pricing
Some users note that there are less expensive alternatives available, though they may lack some features.
Proprietary Battery
Uses a specific Olight battery, which may be less convenient than standard rechargeable options.

Key Features, Reviewed By

Surefire® Stiletto Pro® 1000 Lumen Flashlight

5.0

(1)

$233.00

Specialized Tool Sales

View Details

Surefire Stiletto Flashlight Review - YouTube

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The SureFire Stiletto Pro receives mixed reviews from users. While praised for its durability, slim design, and versatile output options, some users find it overpriced compared to alternatives. The light's performance and build quality are generally well-regarded, but there are concerns about long-term reliability and customer service.

Buy this if you want a premium, ultra-durable EDC flashlight with a slim profile and are willing to pay a premium for the SureFire brand and USA manufacturing

Durable design
Users describe it as a 'mini-tank' with high-quality construction befitting its price
Slim profile
Easy to carry and deploy, with a form factor that sits comfortably alongside other EDC items
Versatile output
Three useful output levels (25, 500, and 1000 lumens) suitable for various daily tasks
High price
Many users find it expensive compared to competing products with similar features
Reliability concerns
Some reports of LED burnout or diminished output over time, requiring warranty claims

Key Features, Reviewed By

49% off

ThruNite LED Flashlight Archer 2A V3, 500 Lumens Mini AA Flashlight with Lanyard, IPX8 Water-Resistant Dual Switch Outdoor Flash Light for Hiking, Camping, Everyday Use, EDC - CW

$43.99

$86.99

CrafTecker

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The ThruNite Archer 2A V3 is generally well-received as a reliable, versatile flashlight suitable for everyday use. Users praise its brightness, durability, and multiple light modes. The use of common AA batteries is seen as a plus for convenience. Some minor issues were noted with the switch reliability and battery rattle, but overall it's considered a good value for its performance and build quality.

Buy this if you need a reliable, versatile flashlight for everyday use that offers good brightness and durability while using common AA batteries

Bright output
Produces up to 500 lumens on the highest setting, providing ample illumination for most tasks
Durable construction
Made of aircraft-grade aluminum with good water and impact resistance
Multiple modes
Offers 5 brightness settings including a low 'firefly' mode for versatility
Switch issues
Some users reported occasional unreliability with the power switch
Battery rattle
Slight rattling noted when using standard alkaline AA batteries

Key Features, Reviewed By

Olight Warrior X 3 New Superior Tactical Flashlight

$175.95

Wise Line Tools

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OLight Warrior X 3 2500 LM Flashlight Review and Field Test - YouTube

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The Olight Warrior X3 is a high-quality tactical flashlight that offers immediate, powerful illumination with simple operation. Users appreciate its build quality, versatile modes, and thoughtful accessories like the Warrior ring. While praised for its performance and durability, some find the proprietary battery system limiting.

Buy this if you need a reliable, high-performance tactical flashlight with simple operation and durable construction for professional or outdoor use

Powerful Output
Delivers up to 2,500 lumens with a beam distance of 560 meters, providing strong illumination for tactical use.
Simple Operation
Features an intuitive tail switch for quick activation, with momentary and continuous modes easily accessible.
Durable Construction
Built with high-quality materials and excellent machining, backed by a 5-year warranty for reliability.
Proprietary Battery
Uses a proprietary 21700 battery, which may limit compatibility and replacement options.
Sharp Bezel
The aggressive bezel design may be uncomfortable for pocket carry and could potentially damage clothing.

Key Features, Reviewed By

Nitecore P20iX Xtreme Tactical Flashlight w/ Holster (4000 Lumens | USB-C Rechargeable)

5.0

(1)

$119.95

PhotonLight.com, Inc

View Details

Nitecore EDC27 Ultra Slim High Performance EDC Flashlight

4.5

(8)

$124.99

FlashLightWorld Canada

View Details

The Nitecore EDC27 is a unique, ultra-slim EDC flashlight that impresses users with its compact design and powerful output. Reviewers praise its innovative features like the OLED display and dual-switch interface, while noting some concerns about accidental activation and durability of the optics.

Buy this if you want a uniquely slim and powerful EDC flashlight with advanced features like an OLED display and versatile controls for everyday or outdoor use

Compact design
Ultra-slim profile (14.2mm thick) fits easily in pockets and gear
Powerful output
3000 lumens max output from dual SST40 LEDs
Informative display
OLED screen shows brightness, battery life, and runtime
Sensitive controls
Switches can be easily activated, requiring use of lockout mode
Exposed optics
Lack of glass protection may lead to scratches on TIR optics

Key Features, Reviewed By

25% off

Fenix PD36R PRO Rechargeable Flashlight Promo Pack

4.8

(57)

$119.95

$162.00

Fenix Lighting

View Details

Fenix PD36R Pro: The Most Reliable SFT70 Tactical Flashlight? - YouTube

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The Fenix PD36R PRO is highly regarded as a powerful and well-built tactical flashlight. Reviewers praise its 2800 lumen output, dual tail switch design, and durable construction. The USB-C charging and included 21700 battery are appreciated features. While some note the short turbo runtime, overall it's seen as an excellent workhorse light for professional or tactical use.

Buy this if you need a reliable, high-performance tactical flashlight with convenient charging for professional or outdoor use

Build Quality
Excellent construction with high-quality materials and finish
Powerful Output
2800 lumen maximum brightness with good throw
Intuitive Controls
Dual tail switches allow easy operation and mode selection
Short Turbo Runtime
Highest output mode only lasts about 30 seconds before stepping down
Limited Shortcuts
No direct access to lowest or highest modes from off

Key Features, Reviewed By

Closing Thoughts: Top Flashlights of 2024 – Our Final Recommendations

gearjunkie.com

When selecting the best flashlight, consider your specific needs and intended use. For outdoor enthusiasts seeking the brightest flashlights, powerful options like the Imalent MS32 offer an impressive 200,000 lumens maximum output

. However, for everyday carry, compact models with integrated or internal batteries and USB-C charging, such as the Olight Baton 3, provide a balance of performance and portability

. The coolest flashlights often feature multiple setting options, allowing users to switch between wide beam flood lighting and narrow beam intensity for various situations. Larger flashlights with external battery packs may offer extended runtime and higher maximum performance, but sacrifice portability. Look for models with easily accessible power buttons and clear brightness level indicators. Some advanced flashlights even include charge level displays and can create light trails for unique effects

. For a wide range of uses, we recommend the Streamlight Wedge for everyday carry or the Wuben X3 for outdoor use

. These flashlights offer impressive performance with multiple brightness levels, good beam intensity, and USB-C charging capabilities. Ultimately, the best flashlight depends on your specific needs, whether you prioritize maximum output, battery life, or versatility in lighting options.

2 sources

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