The best flashlights we tested
Best flashlight: ThruNite Archer 2A V3
Best rechargeable flashlight: Fenix PD36R
Best compact flashlight: Maglite Solitaire
We’ve moved beyond the days when a flashlight app on your smartphone was a novelty; now everyone carries a flashlight in their pocket or purse. However, the small bulb on your phone can’t match the power of a real flashlight. Today’s flashlights, with strong LEDs in compact designs, offer brightness and beam settings for all kinds of low-light situations, from camping trips in the wild to power outages that require a solar generator.
As someone who spends a lot of time outdoors, a flashlight is a must-have in my daily gear. Even if I don’t plan to be out after dark, I always have one with me—you never know when you might need it. Because of this, I’ve tried many flashlights, from excellent to not-so-good. I used this experience to create a guide to the best flashlights.
I started by searching the internet and gathered a list of 22 popular flashlights for hands-on testing. After checking their ease of use, beam strength, battery life, and durability, I picked three top flashlights to help light your way.
ThruNite Archer 2A V3 Flashlight
The budget-friendly ThruNite Archer 2A V3 flashlight offers strong performance, easy controls, sturdy build, and a compact design that’s easy to carry.
Fenix PD36R Rechargable Flashlight
The Fenix PD36R flashlight offers long battery life, dual-button controls, and a bright, strong beam, all in a compact design.
Maglite Solitaire Flashlight
The compact Maglite Solitaire flashlight offers sufficient brightness for daily use and is small enough to attach to your keychain, with a twist-on activation feature allowing for easy one-handed operation.
