Jacob MurphyFlashlights are a tool that should not be underestimated in their value. Whether you’re needing to repair a car, illuminate your campsite or find your way around during an emergency, a flashlight can go from a product that is rarely thought about to something that can go as far as to even save your life. While the most common reason to need a super bright flashlight is for camping or night-based outdoor activities, one may also choose to have one around the house for its added power. Rarely will you find yourself wishing you had a dimmer light on hand.
Top Pick
Anker Bolder LC90 Super Bright Tactical Flashlight
Featuring a power output of around 900 lumens and a variety of different features that will be ideal for camping.
Overall Winner
The Anker Bolder LC90 super bright flashlight finds itself on the top of our list for good reason. A sleek, yet sturdy design that fits well in the hand. The Anker is also IP65 rated, making it a great choice to have in your camping equipment.
Highest Lumens
The FENIX TK75 was one of the few examples of a super bright flashlight where the high lumen number provided by the manufacturer came close to in-field tests. You’ll be sacrificing compact form, but the TK75’s larger form does give it a real boost in brightness.
Budget Choice
Gearlight’s S2000 super bright flashlight is an excellent budget choice, offering around 1000 lumens of light at a very affordable price. The lower price also doesn’t cut into features with the S2000 still offering multiple modes and a clean build design.
There are hundreds of flashlight options on the market today and many of them have special features that can make your life easier. However, selecting the best one can be daunting and time-consuming, as many brands will fudge the numbers on their specification sheets. We’ve done our best to separate the generic, bottom-of-the-barrel products from those worth having in your inventory.
In this article, we look at some of the top super bright flashlights and their features. Additionally, the buyer’s guide will help you in finding which types of criteria are best to look at when deciding on a new super bright flashlight.
The Brightest Flashlight in the World
While our list is meant to cater to the everyday consumer looking for a quality super bright flashlight, it would be a mistake for us not to include a very special product in this article. The product in question is no other than the behemoth of portable lighting itself, the Imalent MS18.
Imalent MS18 Super Bright Flashlight
100 000 Lumens
9 Settings
IP56 Rated
Best Super Bright Flashlights On The Market Today
Before we have a closer look at the features and the batteries that they use, we have decided to do a quick round-up of all the top flashlights we tested. This will make it much easier for you to find the right one for your purpose. Here are 10 of the best options that we managed to track down and use outdoors to bring some light to the darkness.
1. Anker Bolder LC90 Super Bright Tactical Flashlight
Lumens
Size: 6.22 x 1.57 x 1.57-inches
Weight: 6.4 ounces
The first flashlight to make it onto our list is one of the options with a variety of different features that will be ideal for camping. The Anker Super Bright Tactical Flashlight has been constructed with a durable aluminum body and has a waterproof rating of IP65. This design enables users to use it in all conditions and the manufacturer also states that it is shock-resistant.
It is one of the smaller flashlights with a power output of around 900 lumens. This has been divided into 5 different modes that allow the flashlight to work as you need it. The 900-lumen output is enough to light up virtually any dark area and it can be used inside your home if you are dealing with a power outage.
These modes might not make sense to everyone, but they can be useful in certain situations. The SOS mode enables users to send out a signal when they feel that they are in a dangerous situation, while the strobe feature enables it to save some of the battery life. Additionally, you can choose the beam size to focus on a specific target.
The average length of the beam is around 660-feet. This is more than you will need to see what is in front of you. However, the beam can be focused even more if you plan to see around 1000-feet. Unfortunately, this is not as effective and you might only slightly make out what you are looking at when using it for these distances.
As for the size, the unit is one of the smaller options and packs a massive punch that most people will only realize once they have it. The battery is rechargeable and can last up to 6-hours. Since you won’t be using the flashlight constantly if you have other lighting sources, it should be enough for an average camping trip.
One of the reasons we have selected the flashlight is the ability to carry it in your pocket. It does have slip-resistant grip added to the aluminum, but this will only be useful when your hands are slippery. As we have mentioned, the unit is impact-resistant and should it fall, the light and lens will be efficiently protected by the casing.
One of the downsides is the battery itself. If the battery is fresh, you will have all of these features at your disposal. However, the unit will dim significantly, as the battery starts losing some of its power. Unfortunately, this also renders many of the features useless and you need to find a charging station to get the battery back on track.
Since this is a great unit for campers, it has made it onto our list and we also like the affordable price. All of the accessories and batteries have been included, saving you from spending additional funds to have the full kit. I would recommend it for campers without a flashlight, especially when you need to see far in the distance.
For more information on this product visit our Anker Bolder review.
Reasons to buy
- Compact size
- Aluminum design
- IP65-rated weather proofing
2. FENIX TK75 5100 Lumen 2018 Edition
Lumens
Size: 8.5 x 6.3 x 4.1 inches
Weight: 1.95 pounds
One of the main reasons why you need a flashlight is to use when you are on an outdoor trip. The FENIX TK75 5100 Lumen 2018 Edition Flashlight allows you to get the best possible brightness and this complete kit has all the batteries included as well. If you have it all charged, you will never need to buy another flashlight.
The unit has been completely made from aluminum and the cover coating is designed to spice up the durability. This coating has been worked into the aluminum and it should be non-abrasive, while still keeping the flashlight protected when it takes an unexpected fall to the floor from hard handling or accidents.
It has a power output of 5200-lumens, which is far more than you will need for camping but can serve as part of your searchlight kit. Since it works fine at distances of around 1000-feet, it has become an important part of the kit that many hunters use when they are on a night hunting trip and need to blind the targets.
Moreover, the unit also has all the batteries you will need to use it and the special charging kit will keep all of these batteries charged and ready for use. This means that you can go out for a long trip and still be sure that you won’t run out of battery power. The batteries will recharge quickly to ensure you are ready for another trip.
As with most of the other flashlights, the battery time will greatly depend on how long you are using the unit and the brightness setting. You can circumvent this by using it at a much lower brightness setting but changing the focus. This will automatically make the unit brighter in the direction that you choose to point it.
Since this one of those special kits that you can buy when you need something durable and long lasting, it is no secret that the flashlight has all the spares you need to make the changes as well. The spares will allow you to replace the o-rings and even attaché the power cable to a power bank when you are out in the backcountry.
The only real drawback is the sheer size of the unit and when you carry all of the accessories; it will be a daunting prospect and require a lot of space. You might need to choose which of the accessories you will be using and only focus on carrying them to make your trip a little lighter or have a large backpack on hand.
The kit does not have many drawbacks and all the features are definitely ideal for avid outdoorsmen. However, it does come at a substantial price and can be seen as one of the more expensive units. We would recommend it to hunters and those who need special lighting equipment for rescue missions.
Reasons to buy
- Extremely bright
- Variable brightness settings
- Includes batteries
- Trusted brand
3. CSNDICE 35W LED Rechargeable Handheld Searchlight
Lumens
Size: 7.65 x 4.13 x 4.13 inches
Weight: 1.25 pounds
If you are hunting or you need something that will help you spot almost anything outdoors, the CSNDICE 35W LED Rechargeable Handheld Searchlight is one of the ideal options to help you do this. The unit has been constructed from extremely durable materials and features an ABS plastic coating to make it shock-resistant.
It is slightly heavier than the first two options on the list but features a classic design that makes it comfortable to hold for all users. The 1.25-pound weight should not hold you down for too long until you get used to the comfortable feel it has. All of this weight adds to the durability and combines to give it a waterproof rating of IPX4.
The light itself has around 3 different modes, but the SOS mode can also be counted as a 4th to ensure that you have some safety. These modes will light up all around you and can be used for searching, or simply to see what is lying in wait for you ahead. You can adjust the focus of the beam to meet your distance needs.
A standard lithium-ion battery has been included for the unit to work. This battery is designed to help you stay out for many hours. At the lowest setting, it will give you a couple of hours to play around with the unit, but as the light starts to dim, you will notice when it is time to recharge the unit for the next outdoors adventure.
A normal 5V/2A charger will be efficient when you are charging the unit from a dead battery. However, this will be included and you don’t need to shell out the additional funds to find the right charger.
Using the flashlight with the wider beam, I did notice a tendency to dim out a little. However, the beam will be in your control and when you have the right beam selected, you can potentially even light up an area as big as a normal country road. This can be mounted your car as well if you need an affordable flashlight for trips.
The only downside is the weight and size. Since most people are minimalists and look to keep the weight to the bare minimum, the light a little counterintuitive for users that need something lightweight. It might not be ideal or comfortable for every user to hold, but the light output is certainly an amazing feature to have in the dark.
As for the price, this unit is one of the more affordable flashlight options you can go with. It has been designed for the average beginner looking to save a couple of bucks with a top quality flashlight at their disposal. The limited 1-year warranty also gives you some value for your money and peace of mind to test it out.
Reasons to buy
- Durable design
- IPX4-rated
4. GearLight High-Powered LED Flashlight S2000
Lumens
Size: 7.68 x 1.77 x 1.77 inches
Weight: 11.2 ounces
If you need something small with a massive punch in the dark, the GearLight High-Powered LED Flashlight S2000 is one of the top options you can choose from to give you light. As you would expect, the unit has been constructed from aircraft grade aluminum, with a polymer coating that gives you some additional grip.
While you might think the unit has 2000-lumens of brightness, the real brightness level is only 1200-lumens. This is still more than enough to allow users to see what is going on in the dark and to light up the world around them. Much like the others, it comes with 4 different modes and the additional SOS mode for emergencies.
The adjustable zoom feature is a common feature in the super bright flashlights. It allows you to control the angle of the zoom and to place more emphasis on a specific area. If you want to see farther, you can narrow down the beam and it allows you to see a little farther down the road or the open area that you are camping.
While many of the top options have a specific type of battery they use, this one only needs the standard AA batteries. You will need 4 of them to power up the unit and depending on the brightness setting, the battery can last you up to a couple of hours. However, it is always a wise idea to have a couple of spare batteries with you.
As for the overall design, it is quite a nifty little unit that you can carry along with you everywhere. It might not fit into your pocket completely, but it won’t take up too much space in your backpack. I have had it in a pocket once, and it will still fit, but you need deep pockets and make sure that it does not fall out as you move.
Additionally, the LED bulb has been tested to give you more than 40,000 hours of use. This will be more than enough for all your camping trips and you might even pass it on to your children. The LED technology is durable and if the unit does hit the ground, it should hold up depending on the height it is dropped from.
The only real downside is the batteries and we prefer having lithium-ion batteries or something that can be recharged. The standard AA batteries lack a little when you need to use the maximum brightness setting. This means you will need to spend a couple of bucks to have some of these batteries on hand as spares.
Fortunately, it is one of the more affordable flashlights with a super brightness setting. The unit will hold up well in all circumstances and should be a comfortable option for kids to carry as well. The 1-year limited warranty will give you some peace of mind to test out all of these features for yourself. I would recommend it for the versatility it offers.
Reasons to buy
- Aesthetic design
- 1-year warranty
- Adjustable zoom
5. Semlos 10000 Lumen Flashlight
Lumens
Size: 5.5 x 2.2 x 2.1-inches
Weight: 1.1 pounds
While considered by many people to be a standard flashlight, I consider the Semlos 10000 Lumen Flashlight to be more of a spotlight and searchlight that will help you find anything in the darkest of conditions. It is constructed from durable aircraft-grade aluminum but also features a non-abrasive coating to ensure it does not slip from your hands.
These durability components will make the unit almost completely water-resistant, but it is also shock-resistant to some of the most common falls that we put our flashlights through. Insulation protection has been added to the sides where you will find the charger ports, which allows you to charge the unit on your power bank outdoors.
As we have mentioned, it can go up to a claimed 10 000-lumens of brightness (closer to around 4000 from the field tests), which is by far one of the brightest lights on this list so far. Having 12 LED lights in the center bulb also gives you some versatility and when one of them fails, you can still use the additional 11 LED lights to ensure that you have enough lighting around you.
The light itself might be heavy, but has an ergonomic design that will fit in your hands quite comfortably outdoors. The grip feature is one of the standout features that has drawn us to include it on this list. However, you might still find that weight is an issue, and it is also rather large. This will force you to find some additional storage space for the unit.
The unit works with standard rechargeable batteries that you need to make sure are fresh before you use it. It features a state of the art design with an insulated charging port to ensure that the batteries are protected from the weather conditions. On the lowest setting, you will be able to use it for up to 6-hours on a fresh set of batteries.
One of the special features is the digital indicator that has been placed on the unit itself. This indicator has been added to ensure you understand the brightness you are using. By following the instructions in the manual, you can find out how to adjust the brightness and use only what you need to extend the battery life.
Much like the other large spotlights, it has the same downfall they have. The unit is one of the heaviest options out there and won’t always be comfortable for longer stints. It can take up a lot of space in your bag as well, while the brightest setting will drain your battery rapidly and should be used sparingly for long-term effects.
With all the technology features and the durability specs that have been included, you can expect to pay a little more for this flashlight than many of the other options. However, the price will be worth it in the darkest corners of the earth. We would highly recommend it for the best lumen output and the quality of the light.
Reasons to buy
- Extremely bright
- Aircraft-grade titanium construction
- Compact
6. J5 Tactical Hyper V Ultra Bright Tactical Flashlight
Lumens
Size: 5.2 x 1.6 x 16 inches
Weight: 4 ounces
Nothing beats the versatility and lightweight of having a tactical flashlight to help you navigate the outdoors. The J5 Tactical Hyper V Ultra Bright Tactical Flashlight gives you all of these features in a compact casing with a functional design. It is really easy to put together and the button is close to your hands.
Much like the other top flashlights, this one is constructed from extremely durable aluminum with a non-corrosive coating. The coating will not only protect the flashlight but ensure that it never slips out of your hands. According to the manufacturer, it should easily survive a 9-foot drop, but we don’t recommend finding out.
The unit has a variety of different modes that you can choose from. These modes will ensure the light is evenly distributed and when the beam focus has been narrowed down, you should be able to see up to 800-feet. However, the vision can be a little distorted at this range depending on the terrain and brightness around you.
It does not have a rechargeable battery feature that many people have come to love in many of the top options. Unfortunately, this unit will use the standard AAA batteries to give you light in the darkness but can run out fast when you use the maximum setting. You can buy your own rechargeable batteries to use in the unit.
The main feature is the size of the unit and it has been designed to make it practical for users that need to conserve some space. The flashlight will fit in your pocket and your backpack, but many people also carry it around their necks. This gives you quick access to the unit, and the weight won’t drag you down too much.
I have used the unit to see how good it really is and it is has proved to be a great companion to have when you are traveling. Not only does it work for the outdoors, but it also works well when you need to light up an area or work on your car at night. The SOS feature is a great option to have for signaling when you are in danger.
The only downside is the brightness the unit offers. 400-lumens is better than nothing when you are out in the dark, but when we consider that many of the other flashlights are much more luminous, you might not use this one for all your outdoor activities. It is a great portable option or even backup to have around when the time requires you to use it.
Since it is only 400-lumens, the price is really affordable for the unit. It might be in the same range as many of the super bright flashlights, but the J5 Tactical Hyper V Ultra Bright Tactical Flashlight is durable and portable. A 1-year warranty should also give you some additional peace of mind to ensure you can test the features.
A full review is available here: J5 Superbright Flashlight Review
Reasons to buy
- Sturdy design
- Mostly accurate lumen claim
- 1-year warranty
7. BlueFire 1200 Lumen Super Bright CREE XM-L2 LED Handheld Flashlight
Lumens
Size: 5.9 x 1.9 x 19 inches
Weight: 2.4 ounces
One of the biggest things that hold many people back from enjoying their outdoor trips is their budget. The BlueFire 1200 Lumen Super Bright CREE XM-L2 LED Handheld Flashlight is one of the very best options you can choose to help you enjoy the outdoors, and the price won’t force you to break the bank either.
The flashlight has been constructed from durable materials and includes the traditional anti-abrasive coating that ensures you have the ideal comfort when you are outdoors. One of the special features that combine with the durability, is the ability you have with this flashlight to remove the head and smash your car window in an emergency.
At 1200-lumens, it is one of the brightest flashlights you can find, especially when you consider the small size of the unit. It is powered by a standard 3.7-volt battery and while this has not been included, they are readily available. Additionally, the flashlight enables you to add your own AAA batteries, if you feel the need to do so.
An adjustable knob is on the front of the flashlight and many people don’t even use it. While you can use the 5 included modes easily to ensure you are safe and have enough brightness, this knob will help you focus the beam. If you want a narrow beam, it can allow you to do so and perhaps increase the range of the flashlight.
According to some of the tests, the unit should effectively light up around 600-feet from you and you won’t have any distorted vision when you are using it as a searchlight. When you use it at the lowest setting, you will have a flashlight that can last you many hours and potentially even your entire camping trip.
The main feature is the size of the unit. At 2.4-ounces, it is one of the smallest options on the market today. The small design allows you to carry it in your pockets when you don’t want to use it during the day. In your backpack, it should only take up a small amount of space, and you might not even notice it in there.
It is hard to find any shortcomings when we look at this flashlight and compared to many of the larger options, this one gives you more versatility. Many people have found a way to mount it to their helmets and even their bicycles. This can be done with the right mounting tools and the lighter weight of the unit makes it possible.
As for the price, you will be happy to know that it is also one of the cheapest models available today. This means you don’t need to buy one flashlight only and you can have a couple of them around the house and in your car. A limited 1-year warranty will give you peace of mind and keep you protected when using it.
Reasons to buy
- Cree XM-L2 chips
- Lightweight
- Versatile
8. Wsiiroon CREE XML-T6 LED Flashlight
Lumens
Size: 5.6 x 1.2 x 1 inches
Weight: 4.6 ounces
Combo deals are always a great way to get 2 flashlights and have a backup, or perhaps even buy one for your kid to have. The Wsiiroon CREE XML-T6 LED Flashlight is available as part of one of the combo deals and offers you a lot of features that you simply won’t find at a more affordable price point on this list of super bright flashlights.
The flashlights have been mainly constructed from aircraft grade aluminum and the feature a special coating to make it slip resistant. It will not only be slip resistant, but the unit also has a massive durability rating to take impacts if it falls out of your hands. According to the manufacturer, the waterproof rating is around IP65.
With a brightness level of 1800-lumens, the unit has been specially designed to ensure that you don’t need to use anything else. It comes with 5 different modes that you can choose from and all of these modes will combine to give you more versatility with the flashlight. The SOS mode has been included to ensure you remain safe when you are out and about.
We have tested the unit and found it to be most effective when used at a range of 600-feet. However, you can try to use it at a distance of a 1000-feet, but it does wear thin. You might need to play around with the focus of the light to ensure that it can work for you at these massive distances, or use it in close quarter areas.
Since you get two flashlights in the deal, you will always have one on stand by if the other one dies out. The LED light that has been used in the unit is impressive and they last up to 50,000-hours of lighting. They might warm up, but we don’t recommend leaving the flashlight on if you are not using it, as this can also kill the battery.
Much like the other top units, this flashlight can also work with a multitude of different batteries. Unfortunately, these batteries have not been included, but they will give you more versatility. The 18650 battery is larger and lasts a little bit longer as well. However, 3 AAA batteries can also work to ensure it is powered.
The only complaint we found is the brightness setting and it is not always on par with what you are looking for. You might need to play around with the zoom a little bit if you want to get the best possible brightness and focus. Fortunately, all of these tips and advice has been included in the instruction manual for users to follow.
Since you will receive two flashlights in this deal, it one of the more affordable options on the market today. Now, you can have your kid or even your family members use a flashlight, while you have your personal light for emergencies. The limited 1-year warranty adds to the value and gives you some peace of mind as well.
Reasons to buy
- Cree XML-T6 chips
- Good battery life
- IP65 rated
- 1-year warranty
9. Streamlight 88060 Pro Tac
Lumens
Size: 8.63 x 2.35 x 1.24 inches
Weight: 16 ounces
If you need something that packs a little more punch, the Streamlight 88060 Pro Tac is a great option you can choose. The unit has also been constructed from durable aluminum and this aluminum design also means that it can resist most of the weather conditions, not to mention being impact resistant if it does fall.
The unit includes a non-conductive polymer resin that not only forms part of the coating but also creates a slip-resistant grip that you might like in the slippery conditions. At 2,200-lumens, the brightness is one of the highest you can find for a small flashlight and will last you up to 2.75-hours depending on the setting you selected.
One of the top features is the ability of the flashlight to use any one of two different battery types. The standard lithium-ion battery has been included and this can be recharged as you keep on using the flashlight. However, you can also use the common CR123A batteries when you need to add something on the go. Unfortunately, the CR123A batteries don’t have the same battery life as the lithium-ion.
The unit includes 4 different modes that can help you to see what is in front of you. While they will all have an impact on battery life, they can help you see more than 600-feet ahead of you. Once the beam has been focused, it should send out a narrow light that is easy to maneuver in the directions with the lighter weight.
If durability and the LED light on the inside was one of your worries, you don’t need to worry anymore. The flashlight has been constructed to give you many hours of clear lighting. C4 LED Technology has been implemented to protect these small LED lights on the inside. They should give you around 50,000 hours of light before they need to be replaced.
As for the charging feature, you can remove all of the batteries and recharge them as you like, while the flashlight is also charging. If you have a couple of replacement batteries, you can now take them with you and you won’t run out of battery life. The only issue is the storage and there is no place to store these additional batteries.
While we can’t really find too much wrong with this light aside from the added weight, it is worth noting that there are many counterfeit Streamlight 88060 Pro Tac Flashlights currently in circulation. They might be a little cheaper, but they don’t have all of the features and the durability of the original to last you many years.
The unit is fairly priced when you take into account how many times you will be using it. The price should not keep you from giving it a try and once you have all of the backup batteries, this is one of those lights that will never die on you. However, you will notice the light start to dim as the batteries run out of fuel.
Reasons to buy
- Aluminum design
- Variable modes
- Good battery life
10. BESTSUN Super Bright Flashlight
Lumens
Size: 6.4 x 2.9 x 2.9 inches
Weight: 1.33 pounds
Last but certainly not least, we have a large flashlight with the capabilities of taking on some of the expensive flashlights in rescue missions. The BESTSUN Super Bright Flashlight is a decent option with the durable construction and ergonomic design. This makes it a comfortable option to carry and an easy unit to work with.
Since this is one of those flashlights you find attached to vehicles and other objects, it is designed to be huge. The durable aluminum casing makes it ideal for all weather conditions and you have 15 LED lights that can help you when one of them dies out. However, each LED li9ght should last around 50,000-hours before it dies.
A power display has been introduced for this unit and this helps you to find the right brightness settings for whatever purpose you have with the unit. Since it is digital, you can change it up as you like and it should allow you to save some of the batteries, or perhaps even dim the beam when you need to at short distances.
A built-in battery is used to ensure the unit has power and the cable charger can work with any power bank you have. It might drain out the power bank quite rapidly, but you will still be able to use the flashlight. Should you run out of batteries, you can add your own AA batteries to keep it powered up and ready to use.
According to the manufacturer, it will still fit in your hands and can be used with great ease. We have put this to the test and while the fit is comfortable, it does lack a little when we consider the weight is too excessive. It might be better to mount it to something that you are carrying, creating a void of the weight in your mind.
Additionally, you can buy replacement LED lights as well and if you need more than 15, there are 16 available to increase the luminosity. The unit has a massive range and will easily reach up to 1000-feet. Testing it, we noticed how you can flood short-range areas with light effectively to ensure that your vision is not obscured.
It does have a ton of different features and settings you can play with. However, the unit is a little heavy and will need a lot of storage space. It also burns through your batteries fast when you have the maximum setting activated. If you plan to have a longer trip, it is best you choose to buy a couple of backup batteries.
As for the price, it is one of the best parts of this flashlight. It might have a lot of technology included, but the price is still affordable. This affordable price means that almost anyone can buy one for their trips. We would recommend it for rescue teams and when you need to flood a small area with a lot of lighting.
Reasons to buy
- Affordable
- Features
- LED display
The Lumen Debate
When it comes to measuring light output for product marketing the three most commonly seen measurements will be lux, par, and lumens. The former two are more commonly seen with lighting fixtures and for flashlights the more commonly referenced measurement is lumens. Lux is a measurement of light within a specific area while lumens are used to measure the total output of the light source.
The angle of the beam (or reflective surfaces) within the super bright flashlight may impact the measurement of lux, while the lumen value remains stable. A good analogy is to think of a showerhead, your water pressure can remain constant, but the style of your showerhead will adjust the rate and coverage area of the water coming through it. A flashlight which directs 1000 lumens towards a narrower point will have a higher lux rating, but for a smaller surface area than one that is designed to spread that light output over a greater area, but at less lux.
A problem within the lighting market is that a number of manufacturers will overstate their lumen output, making it a challenge for consumers to accurately decide on a product. We’ve done our best at adjusting our listed products to lumen values that are more aligned to reality and not always what the manufacturer claims. It should be noted though that lumen values should always be taken with a grain of salt.
Cree chipsets are some of the best when looking to achieve a lot of light, and with Cree technology continuously growing along with the advancements in LEDs, we may see some truly powerful flashlights coming out in the future, where the efficiency is even greater than currently available.
Key Features To Consider When Choosing The Best Super Bright Flashlight
You might have found the top flashlights by now, but there are many more options you will come across on the market today. To help you find the right flashlight for every situation, we have compiled a list of features to help you. Here are a couple of the most important features that we have used to find these top quality flashlights:
Materials
One of the first things you are going to look for is the materials of the flashlight. It is generally constructed from durable aluminum, but this can vary depending on the flashlight you are using for the job. Aircraft grade aluminum has decent tensile strength and should be able to resist impact on the floor as well.
Additionally, the flashlight will have a non-abrasive coating added. Not only will this provide some additional durability, but is generally used to place the grip on the unit. The grip will ensure that it does not slip out of your grasp in wet weather conditions, as nothing can be more frustrating than losing a flashlight in an emergency.
Brightness
Since we are focusing on super bright flashlights, it is safe to assume that most of these units have a massive lumen rating. The more lumen output the flashlight has, the brighter it will be. It can also help you when you are looking for a flashlight to see far into the night. You might not be able to reach the moon, but 1000-feet is a good start.
Size and Weight
The size and weight will depend on what you need to do with the flashlight. You can choose between the common pocket-sized versions or the larger options that can be used as a searchlight. A bigger flashlight will have more lumens and potentially even more LED lights to ensure that you can search a larger area.
The downside to a large size is that it needs to be stored and also requires a lot of weight to store all of the technology. If you are looking for a smaller travel pack and you like going on backpacking trips, the larger flashlights might not be ideal for your cause. However, this will all come down to the reason you are buying a flashlight.
Modes
Most flashlights nowadays have 4 standard modes and these modes will ensure versatility and also preserve some of the battery life. Since you will be out in the dark, you need something versatile with a couple of modes. Here are the most important modes you need to look for when buying a new flashlight for your outdoor ventures:
A feature that many people often forget about is the SOS mode. While ti might be similar to the strobe mode, you can mold the unit to have the color changed to red. Should you be in a precarious situation and you need some emergency help, the SOS mode is one of the best options to use and give you some contrast to the colors of the night.
Battery
We won’t be going too deep into the different batteries that you can find for your flashlight, but you need to keep this in mind as well. Most of the top flashlights have batteries already built in. These batteries can be recharged when you are near a location with a charging port, or even on the go with a power bank.
However, the cheaper models will only use external batteries in the form of the standard AA or AAA batteries. This makes it much easier to change the batteries when they die, but they don’t hold up as well as the common lithium-ion batteries. You might find yourself burning through batteries much more rapidly when they are store-bought.
Finally, you can find a flashlight that combines the two and we have found these to be the best options on the market today. Once your internal batteries die, the unit will allow you to add some of your AA or AAA batteries. If you have a couple of them on hand, you will never be left out in the dark without any source of light.
Flashlight Performance
One of the hardest things to find out is the overall performance of flashlight, and most people only find this out after they have made the purchase. However, these reviews are designed to show you some of the features and give you an insight into the overall performance o the unit when it is actually put to a real test outside.
The performance is not only measured by the flashlight’s luminosity, but also by how functional and easy it is for users to use it. For many people, a good flashlight is about feeling comfortable and being ergonomic when in your hands. The flashlight performance will allow you to see if it will work in the conditions that you are taking into.
Waterproof
You might be wondering why this is not included with the durability, but the flashlight needs to be waterproof if it is going to be used outdoors. Generally, a flashlight is waterproof, but understanding the different IP ratings can help ensure that you choose the best option for your needs. The most common flashlights have a rating of IPX5, making them waterproof for 30-minutes in 3-feet of water.
It is worth noting that the rating does not guarantee this. We don’t recommend placing your flashlight in the water if it is not made for water. The most barriers that prevent water from coming inside will do so when the water is dripping. This means that the flashlight is water-resistant and not always completely waterproof.
Brand
Another important aspect to look at is the brand you are choosing. Flashlights are extremely easy to recreate and this means that you can find many knock-off brands on the market today. The knock-off might look the same, but they lack a couple of the crucial elements and they are much more affordable than the originals.
We have focused on some of the top brands and flashlights that you can find without having to break the bank to find them. The flashlights on this list have been heavily rated and tested to ensure that they do live up toe reputation that the manufacturer has made for them.
Price
If you are using your flashlight often, it is important to go for the best option you can afford. However, those of us who only use it for the bare minimum might not need such an expensive flashlight. Much like your other outdoor gear, you might consider choosing a flashlight that has an affordable price and will help you to meet all the needs that you have for it.
Warranty
Lastly, you can look at the warranty as well. Since many of the flashlights are a little expensive on this list, the warranty is a surefire way to ensure that you get what you are looking for. The warranty ensures that you are backed from any potential manufacturing issues or when the flashlight does not live up to the durability it should have.
The average warranty for a top-rated super bright flashlight is around 1-year. However, you can choose an extended warranty if you want some additional protection.
Accessories
Before we leave the special features, there are a couple of accessories that many of these flashlights come with. They are not mandatory, but can definitely make your life a little easier if you have them. These accessories will make them more expensive, but you will have the complete flashlight now with everything needed.
Charger: The charger is generally included with a flashlight if the battery needs to be recharged. However, you can find various different chargers that allow you to charge the unit at a different power point.
Batteries: If you find a complete kit with the batteries included, it could save you a couple of trips to the store for new batteries. Compared to your standard store-bought batteries, the manufacturer will include batteries specifically designed for the unit.
Bag: This one is hard to come by, but you can occasionally find a good flashlight with the storage bag already included. These storage bags add another level of durability. We have found them in the top kits.
Brightness Display: If you want full control over the brightness, you can find some of the more expensive options with the brightness already displayed in a digital format. These flashlights are a little more expensive, but they will give you full control
Focus Adjustment: If you plan to see farther than the normal flashlight permits you to see, you might need to have the focus tool included. This will allow you to narrow down the beam and improve the brightness.
Survival Tools: Since you are out in the wild, why not look for something that can add even more to your kit. Survival tools like a window breaker will definitely make life easier and ensure that you get out of precarious situations.
These are only a couple of the many accessories that are available for the best super bright flashlights. Some of the top kits also include spare parts and will guide you on how to take apart the flashlight when something has broken. If you need to make repairs when you are out in the wild, these kits can help you stay out there for longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
The flashlight industry is booming and there are all kinds of different flashlights that you can choose from nowadays. Many people still have a few unanswered questions and we have done the research to answer some of these questions. I hope that you can find all the information you have been looking for if you have any questions about flashlights:
Why Is It Called A Super Bright Flashlight?
Many people have been wondering why they call it a super bright flashlight, but the answer is linked to the lumens of the unit. A normal flashlight does not have more lumens than 500, which can still be effective, but not in all conditions. The super bright flashlight has been specifically made to see long distance and light up extremely dark areas.
How Is A Flashlight Tested?
In the earlier days, we did not do much to ensure that a flashlight is tested and performs well. However, the ANSI FL1 standard has been introduced in 2009 and this is used to measure the quality of all flashlights. Unfortunately, many flashlights don’t make the cut and knock-off generally avoid these tests. However, you can look for the test when you are researching your new flashlight.
How Long Does A Flashlight Battery Last?
The battery itself is one of the important features you need to look at before you buy. The amount of time you have will depend on the battery you choose and the brightness setting you are selecting. As we have mentioned, the common store-bought batteries can really hold up with the top batteries that have been added by the manufacturer.
How Long Does An LED Light Last?
Since most of these flashlights have been designed with LED lights, many people wonder how long it takes for an LED light burn out. The answer will vary depending on the brand of the flashlight and how often you use. Since we don’t use flashlights too often, they don’t generally warm up too much. This means that your LED light will last you a couple of years.
Most tests have shown that an LED light can last up to 50,000-hours when you choose some of the top brands. This is far more than the average for a normal light bulb that may burn out quickly when it is used too often. If you start adding energy saver lights to the unit, you will find that the expected lifetime can increase even more.
Are Flashlights Temperature Resistant?
Since the flashlight itself is enclosed inside a box and powered by a battery, your flashlight should not die in cold weather conditions. It will create natural heat inside the flashlight to keep it warm and protect the unit. However, extreme weather conditions might not be the best idea for your flashlight and could keep it from switching on.
Can My Flashlight Be Mounted?
Most common flashlights can be mounted to specific brackets. Once they have been mounted, they will have the same functionality as your searchlights. However, you will need to make sure that you find the right mounting bracket. Once mounted, make sure that the switch to turn it on is also within your reach. You might need to play around with a couple of mounting brackets to find the right one.
Does A Flashlight Help For Hunting At Night?
The flashlight will not only help you to spot the wild when you hunt at night, but it also blinds the wild. This means that you can use the flashlight to hunt and it will stop most deer dead in their track. You should note that many humanitarians don’t agree with this method of hunting and it impairs the vision of the animal to run away.
What Does The SOS Feature On A Flashlight Do?
In most regular flashlights, you won’t find the SOS feature, but as you start looking for something better, the feature becomes more apparent. It works the same as the strobe feature and can send out signals. With the top flashlights, this signal is also changed to red and will send out the correct signal to the person that is looking for you.
Popular to contrary belief, it does actually work and many people have been saved with this. However, an emergency radio should help you far better in contacting someone to help you or potentially save you in a bad situation.
Can I Replace The LED Light On A Flashlight?
Repairing the LED light can be daunting, especially if you don’t have any skills and you don’t know where to find the right light. However, it is possible to repair a broken LED light, but this can also be an expensive endeavor. Generally, the manufacturer will repair the LED light, but since it takes a lot of time and can be expensive, you mi9ght consider buying a new LED flashlight that will last you a couple more years.
Wrap-Up:
With all the best super bright flashlights reviewed and all of this information, you should not have any issues in the wild. These options are highly rated and they have been used over and over again to prove themselves in various situations. We would recommend them all for the value the offer and the special features that are included.
Top Pick
Anker Super Bright Tactical Flashlight
Featuring a power output of around 900 lumens and a variety of different features that will be ideal for camping
I’ve been looking for a small exceptionally bright flashlight and BESTSUN Super Bright Flashlight fits the bill. We have woods all around us and this lights up the whole area, not like a spotlight that just shines in a limited spot. The only issue I have is that there is no hole or place to attach a lanyard onto the light for those times where you need your hands free and not have to hold the light.