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A quality, reliable flashlight is crucial for camping, home repairs, and, at the very least, emergency preparedness — if the power ever goes out, each family member should have easy access to a light capable of guiding them to safety.
While that torch that's been in your family for decades will probably still hold up in a pinch, investing in a new flashlight, almost all of which are LED, will leave you better prepared for tackling any dark situation.
"The transition many years ago from incandescent bulbs was a huge leap forward," Jake Keller, head training advisor for the Multnomah County (Oregon) Sheriff's Office Search & Rescue Team told Insider. "LED lights help extend battery life and durability and require fewer battery changes. The technology continues to improve, and now you're seeing things like low-level red lights incorporated into a normal light, as well as more rechargeable options."
For the recommendations below, I put the flashlights through rigorous tests, including measuring brightness over 90 minutes with a light meter and testing durability with 10-foot stair drops. I also considered how useful their features are and whether their reliability justified the sometimes high sticker price. At the end of this guide, I've included some input on other models I tested, as well as a rundown of my testing methodology and a few tips on how to shop for a flashlight.
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Our top picks for flashlights
Best overall: Wowtac A7 Tactical Flashlight - See at Wowtac
The Wowtac A7 Tactical Flashlight is one of the most affordable lights we tested, and one of the brightest and most durable.
Best budget: Dorcy Floating Flashlight - See at Amazon
The Dorcy Floating Flashlight is an affordable option that performs surprisingly well and is not only waterproof but can float, too.
Best for reliablility: Coast 600R Waterproof Flashlight - See at Amazon
The Coast 600R Waterproof Flashlight produces a strong light beam with adjustable focus whether you operate it using the rechargeable battery or alkaline batteries.
Best for long-term brightness: ThruNite TC15 Ultra-Bright Flashlight - See at Amazon
The ThruNite TC15 Ultra-Bright Flashlight starts bright and stays bright for up to two hours.
Best penlight: Coast HP3R Penlight - See at Amazon
The Coast HP3R Penlight is compact enough to keep in your pocket every day and provides an adjustable focus light.
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