How to Choose Flashlights

[Jiles Avelina]

While headlamps have risen to the top of popularity in recent years, flashlights still remain the best option whenever the need for a handheld light arises for a variety of reasons, including:

any time you want the strongest portable beam available.

when dexterity and precision when controlling light are important.

the ability to place the light source to complete an assignment.

signaling.

The advancements in the field of LED (light-emitting diode) technology and battery efficiency have led to flashlights which are lighter, smaller and brighter than just two years back.

What is the best lighting source with LEDs for your needs? This article will help you make a decision.

Understanding Your Flashlight Choices

The most important aspects to consider when selecting a flashlight

Light output

Battery type and time to run

Size and weight

Flashlights range from under $20 to more than $200, yet they may be of the same size. What are the differences? Brightness is the biggest one. A more expensive light has more power due to the use of modern bulbs, batteries as well as circuitry technologies. Rechargeable batteries can increase the price, as can features like robust water and impact resistance, effective heat dissipation and multiple lighting modes.

Are you shopping on the street? Check out the following:

How do you turn the light to turn off and on? Could it have been accidentally turned on in your backpack? Or, if you plan to use it in cold weather How easily can you turn it off or on wearing gloves?

Does it look sturdy enough (or is it, in contrast, light enough) to meet your requirements?

What is the feel of your hand?

Is a tool required in order to replace batteries?

Flashlight Performance

Introduced in 2009 ANSI FL1 standards for flashlights assure that the flashlights are tested and rated in the same manner. Conformity to these standards is voluntary and manufacturers conduct their own tests, but most major brands now include the following information about their performance on their packaging.

Light Output

The measurement is in the lumens. This measure measures the intensity of light that is emitted by the flashlight, on the highest brightness setting operated by batteries of new. It can also be displayed with different settings of light. This is a great comparison tool, but does not tell the whole story of the brightness. Beam intensity, distance and type all affect the efficiency of a light in different scenarios. Light output can range from a tiny 20 lumens (great for reading a book) to an enthralling 3500 lumens.

Beam Distance

Measured in metres. This is how far the light will shine before its brightness diminishes to the equivalent of the light from a full moon. The full moon's illumination is thought to be adequate for safe and careful travel outdoors. The distance can vary based on the brightness level selected.

Run Time

In minutes. How long will it take for the light output to drop to 10% of recommended output of the new batteries? Then, it is rounded up to the closest quarter hour. The light output can decrease gradually in time, or stay almost constant before suddenly decrease. The duration of runtime is typically stated for each light setting. A graph of the runtime is, if it's available, the most accurate representation on the efficiency of the lamp over time.

Impact Resistance

In millimeters. Lights are examined by dropping them six times onto concrete , at the recommended distance. The purpose of this test is to ensure the light remains functional even after accidental drops. It is not a test of resistance for a lamp that is being pushed over, struck with a heavy object, or being utilized to hit other objects.

Water Resistance

Rated with the IPX method. Water resistance is crucial when you plan to use your light in rain flashlights guides or near bodies of water. Three ratings are utilized:

It indicates an IPX4 classification, that is water resistant from all angles, after the impact test is completed.

Indicates a water submersion rate even after the impact test.

IPX7 - temporary immersion: up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1m.

IPX8 - submersion time: Up to 4 hours at the depth specified.

For more information on technical lighting topics, see this REI Expert Advice article,

Other Features and Functionalities

A few or all of these non-ANSI-rated attributes will impact your choice of flashlight:

Bulb Type

The advancements in LED technology have made other bulbs obsolete. Incandescents like krypton bulbs are still available in a handful of flashlights, but it is hard to beat the energy efficiency, run time, durability and brightness of LED flashlights.

Beam Type

The reflector of the lens that surrounds the bulb affects how light is dispersed. The 3 common options:

Flood (or fixed): A single beam width. Ideal for general work in camp or while walking.

Spot (or focused): A single beam that is condensed to reach a distance. This is ideal for route-finding or other activities that require speed.

Adjustable: Beam width ranges from broad to narrow, or any other point in between. This is why, for instance climbingers looking at the next pitch could use a spot beam; to study maps, use flood beams would be used.

Regulated Output

Lights with a regulated power supply keep a steady close-to-peak brightness throughout most of the batteries' life cycle. At the end of the day however, lights' output falls quickly and dramatically. The lights that aren't controlled begin bright and slowly dimming as they drain energy from the batteries.

Type of Battery

The type and availability of batteries for replacement is frequently an important factor when choosing the right flashlight.

disposable: The most common battery sizes AAA or AA are readily accessible. The CR123A battery is also a popular alternative, but it's more expensive and can be difficult to locate. Their upside is a more powerful output, despite less weight and size and a better flashlight in a smaller, lighter size. Flashlights using D cell batteries are available if you want a baton-sized tool for security or to ensure that the light can't be lost in a pocket.

Chargeable Built-in lithium-ion batteries can be recharged via a USB connection to computers, AC or DC outlet, or solar panel. The cost of initial purchase is compensated by the minimal ongoing running cost there is no need to throw away batteries, and less disposal.

Renewable: Flashlights with a built-in battery energized by a hand crank , or solar panel are ideal as emergency equipment.

Caution: Do not use lithium or lithium-ion batteries for any flashlight unless recommended by the manufacturer. You risk damaging a flashlight by not matching it to lithium batteries.

Modes

A single setting is enough for all-purpose use. Certain models have 2 or more modes like medium, low, and boost). It is rare to use more than one mode, however having the option of throwing an extra-strong beam on demand can be comforting. The more bright the mode and the longer the time. Certain models might have special modes like a strobe or SOS feature. Modular user-programmable modes or sequencing may be an option. It could be a function that is integrated into the flashlight, or configured on software and uploaded to the flashlight using a USB cable.

Controls

The type of on/off as well as lighting mode switches is important for certain users. Push buttons and sliders tend to be operated by thumb. A rotating bezel may be used as a switch, requiring two fingers to use. The safety lock feature helps to prevent the light from being accidentally turned on, helping prevent the possibility of a sudden battery flat and inconvenience.

Some lights feature the silent (non-clicking) beam function called insta-beam in which slightly depressing the switch will turn on the light until either an entire click turns it on, or when you release the switch will turn it off, without having to go through all modes. This is an excellent option for law enforcement.

Materials and Shape

The majority of flashlights are made of aluminum alloy or plastic. Some include stainless steel in the top of the flashlight to provide additional protection against impact. All aluminum flashlights are not the same--thinner styles are lighter, thicker ones are tougher.

Cylindrical body shapes are by far the most commonly used form, however as they tend to roll around when placed on a surface some models are shaped to prevent rolling. Furthermore the surface of the body may have a knurled pattern to provide grip and reduce slipping.

Size and Weight

This is mostly personal preference. A heavier, larger unit will not always be brighter, but it is likely to have a longer time of operation due to bigger battery capacity.

Accessories

The add-ons available or purchased separately include an lanyard, belt clip or holster, lens filters and diffusers to give lighting options.