Joshua Babicz
One of the essential additions to any good survival kit is a survival flashlight, which should be kept in your home and your car. However, you don’t just want any flashlight for your kit, as you’ll need to find one that you can use when you have no power or are stranded in the middle of nowhere. With many different features and accessories available on the best survival flashlights nowadays, there’s plenty to set them apart from a regular torch. Another popular use for survival flashlights is on camping trips, where you may find yourself in similar survival situations. Keep reading to learn more about what you should look for when comparing survival flashlights, as well as our recommendations for the best survival flashlights available today.
15 Best Survival Flashlights for 2022
1 – Streamlight 75813 Stinger DS C4 LED Flashlight with AC/DC Steady Charger
Design and Size
Made from anodized aluminum, this best survival flashlight offers a non-slip rubber grip that makes it a safe option to use in any weather conditions. The coating is scratch-resistant and is made from unbreakable polycarbonate. There’s also an anti-roll ring made from rubber on the device, so you don’t need to worry about dropping this when you are in an emergency situation. The length of this flashlight is 8.85 inches, and it weighs 364 g.
Batteries and Performance
With three different functions and an additional strobe option, it’s easy to switch between these options with the side switch. The high function offers 425 lumens and a 323-meter beam for up to three hours, and then switching down to the low function, you’ll enjoy 100 lumens with a 155-meter beam that can last up to 10 hours. It uses rechargeable batteries, and it can be fully charged in just three to four and half hours, depending on your input.
Pros
- Three functions to choose from, offering a battery life of between three and ten hours
- Made from anodized aluminum
- Scratch-resistant and has a rubber anti-roll ring
Cons
- One of the most expensive survival flashlights on the market
2 – SureFire E2T-MV Tactician High-Output LED Flashlight
Design and Size
At 3.5 ounces in weight and 5 inches in length, this is a great lightweight and small flashlight, yet it still offers a sturdy design making it one of the best survival flashlights. It’s a versatile tactical flashlight that can be used as both a weapon light and an EDC flashlight and is similar to the popular SureFire E2D defender. It has a pocket clip to keep your new flashlight securely attached to your pocket or bag and also offers an O-ring and gasket for good weatherproofing.
Batteries and Performance
You’ll enjoy a flashlight brightness of up to 800 lumens, which makes it a good option for a tactical flashlight that you can use in a wide variety of settings. You’ll appreciate the MaxVision Beam, which offers a dual-output LED, so the light will fill the whole room or area you are in. It’s easy to activate the different settings with the tail cap button and twisting option.
Pros
- Good for use as both a weapon light and EDC flashlight
- MaxVision Beam with dual-output LED
- Pocket clip to keep your flashlight secure on your bag or pocket
Cons
- MaxVision reduces the throw, so it is best for close-up work
3 – NPET T09 Solar Flashlight Car Flashlight 268 Lumens LED COB Light
Design and Size
With dimensions of 7.8 x 1.8 x 1.3 inches and a weight of 10.9 oz, this is a sturdy survival flashlight that is constructed from anodized aluminum. It’s water and shock resistant and is easy to grip when you are in an emergency. As well as being a good everyday carry light, you’ll enjoy using this for camping and hiking. The unique thing about this light is its multiple functions, including the window breaker, seat belt cutter, compass, and power bank. Coming in at under $25 and with all these additional functions, it’s one of the best value items on the market. It can also be used hands-free, as it has a magnet on the side for attaching to your car or another surface.
Batteries and Performance
With an amazing seven different modes, you’ll find an option for every situation you are in and will always be able to make sure you can see in the dark. It’s quick to change the settings and easy to find how to change the modes in the dark. The beam of this light can travel up to an incredible 700 feet, so it’s ideal for a wide variety of individuals, including law enforcement officers. These survival lights come with a built-in battery, which is a 2000mAh 18650 battery. You can either charge it with the USB cable or by solar power, and for emergency situations, you’ll be able to charge your phone while you’re on the go with the light.
Pros
- Offers multiple functions, including a window breaker, seat belt cutter, compass, and power bank
- Under $25
- It comes with a built-in battery and can be charged with a USB cable or solar panels
- Magnet on the side allows you to attach this light to your car or another magnetic surface
Cons
- Don’t expect the device and battery life to last over a year
- Solar charging for the battery is quite slow
4 – ThruNite BSS V4 Tactical Flashlight Max 2523 Lumens SST70 LED Rechargeable Flashlight
Design and Size
With a good-sized length of 14.6 cm and a weight of 91 g, this is a great self-defense tool that’s still small enough to fit in your pocket. It offers impact resistance of up to 1.5 meters, and with a 1-inch diameter, it’s the perfect size for a survival flashlight. It would be the ideal self-defense device for keeping in your bug out bag or car or using it on your next camping trip. The most unique thing about this flashlight is its detachable strike bezel, which is created with aluminum alloy and has an anti-abrasive finish so it can last for many years to come.
Batteries and Performance
With a maximum of 2523 lumens and an SST70 light bulb type, you can enjoy a beam that stretches up to 820 feet with this survival flashlight. There are six different lighting modes to choose from, including a firefly, turbo, and strobe light. These features make it ideal for indoor and outdoor use, and it’s easy to adjust the light’s brightness when you’re on the go. Finally, you’ll enjoy the battery types used in this light, as it uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is included in your purchase, and can be charged with a USB charger.
Pros
- Beam stretches up to 820 feet
- Six different lighting features to choose from
- It doubles up as a self-defense tool
Cons
- If you aren’t looking for a self-defense tool, you may find the strike bezel gets in the way
5 – PeakPlus Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight LFX1000 High Lumens LED Best Emergency Flashlight
Design and Size
Offering a heavy-duty survival flashlight that’s water-resistant and skid proof, you’ll appreciate how much power is packed into this compact type of device. It’s ideal for camping, fishing, and indoor use and is also powerful for emergency situations where you need to attract attention or find someone. One of the best additions to your purchase is the included one-year warranty, so you can receive your money back at any point within the first year. It weighs just 11.22 oz and measures 5.3 x 1.6 x 1.1 inches.
Batteries and Performance
You’ll enjoy high levels of brightness and high lumens with this light, which can run on either AAA batteries or a rechargeable battery. AAA batteries are not included with your purchase, and you’ll want to try and find alkaline batteries for best results, but the rechargeable battery is included. There are five different light mode options with these flashlights, and it can also create a spotlight or floodlight and will stretch up to 600 feet.
Pros
- Measures just 5.3 x 1.6 x 1.1 inches
- Rechargeable battery included, but you can also opt for AAA alkaline batteries
- Five different powerful light modes
Cons
- The case is very low quality and could easily be damaged in your bug out bag
6 – Fenix PD35 TAC 1000 Lumen CREE XP-L LED Tactical Flashlight
Design and Size
With a length of 5.4 inches and a 1-inch diameter, this is one of the most compact tactical flashlights on the market, yet it still offers fantastic results. It weighs just 3.1 oz before the batteries are placed inside, and there are two EdisonBright lithium batteries included with the purchase price. This LED flashlight offers a tactical tail switch, which has a momentary-on function. The device is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, so it’s an extremely durable flashlight. You’ll also benefit from a toughened glass lens that has an anti-reflective coating.
Batteries and Performance
There are two options for batteries with this emergency flashlight; one Li-ion battery, or you can use two lithium batteries such as the ones included with your purchase. You’ll enjoy up to 1000 lumens in output and a beam that can stretch up to 656 feet in distance. The outdoor mode allows you to choose from six different output modes, and the tactical mode offers a quick and simple device to use. This is ideal for a wide range of circumstances and is a great piece of kit for law enforcement officers or anyone working in the emergency services. It has an incredible lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, so it is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to buy a new tactical flashlight. It’s waterproof up to 6.5 feet and for up to thirty minutes.
Pros
- Two batteries included with your purchase
- 50,000-hour lifespan
- Up to 1000 lumens
Cons
- It may not be as long-lasting as you might hope, as many users report that the flashlight features stop working after a couple of years of use
7 – Simpeak [2-Pack] Hand Crank Solar Powered Flashlight
Design and Size
This set of two hand crank lights are perfect for your bug out bag or to keep in your car. They are very portable, at just 12.4 x 4.5 x 3.2 cm in size and 86 g in weight. There’s a carabiner built into the design, which is ideal for attaching to your bag when you’re on the go. You’ll enjoy a two-year worry-free purchase, as well as twenty-four hour customer service, so while this is an inexpensive option, you can purchase with peace of mind.
Batteries and Performance
You won’t need to worry about always keeping some alkaline batteries on hand, thanks to the built-in battery in this light. In just one minute, you can have ten minutes of light, which is a super quick and convenient option for in an emergency. There’s also a solar panel included, which can absorb a variety of light sources as a back-up to the hand crank battery. Due to the simple nature of this light, you don’t get any of the fancy features such as an adjustable beam or tail cap switch, but you’ll enjoy two basic lights for a low cost.
Pros
- Two flashlights included for a low price
- Ten minutes of light within just one minute of using the hand crank
- Simple and easy to use features in this light
Cons
- A very basic light with no additional features such as a memory function or brightness adjuster
8 – LED Tactical Flashlight, OxyLED MD50 Super Bright 900 Lumens CREE T6 LED Torch
Design and Size
At 5.31 inches in length and 1.42 inches in diameter, it’s an ideal pocket-sized tactical flashlight for any situation. It’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum and has an anodized and durable coating. You’ll also find the glass lens to be extremely tough while also offering an ultra-clear and anti-reflective lens. The light is also water-resistant, with the highest IPX-6 level, so it is ideal for use in rainy and torrential weather. Included in your box, you’ll find a battery, a tube to store your survival flashlight, batteries, and a charger.
Batteries and Performance
These tactical flashlights offer five different modes, includes an SOS and strobe mode. You’ll want to make sure you familiarize yourself with its wide variety of functions, including the zoomable beam, so you are ready to use this in any emergency. You’ll enjoy the rechargeable battery types used in this flashlight, and it can be fully charged in less than four hours. It provides between six and twelve hours of battery life, depending on which beam mode you use.
Pros
- Up to twelve hours of battery life once fully charged
- IPX-6 level water resistance
- Aircraft-grade aluminum construction with a durable and anodized coating
Cons
- Included battery types are not of the highest quality, but you can opt to use AAA batteries instead
9 – Outlite A100 Portable 2000 Lumens Handheld LED Flashlight with Adjustable Focus
Design and Size
This is a great mini light with plenty of features still in the small length of 5.35 inches and the diameter of 1.33 inches. With a weight of just 179g, you’ll find this is easy to carry around in your pocket or hand when on the go. It’s water-resistant and offers an anti-fall design, so it can be used in all situations. It can also survive a ten-foot drop, making it a great option for camping and hiking trips. You’ll also appreciate the comfortable features, such as the grooves on the design, which make it nice to hold even over hours on the move.
Batteries and Performance
At under $10, this is a great addition to your bug out bag and it includes three AAA batteries with your purchase. You can also use a rechargeable battery if you prefer that option. This light features a strong LED, which can be used as a flashlight or spotlight and can catch items over 1000 feet away. There are five modes, which you can easily switch between, and these include a strobe and SOS mode.
Pros
- Under $10, making it a very low-cost option with batteries included
- Adjustable beam and five modes
- The beam can extend to catch items over 1000 feet away
- Good spotlight and flashlight features
Cons
- Many users struggle with the poorly designed switch, and it would be better with a solid side switch or tail switch
10 – 2 Pack LED Tactical Flashlight Water Resistant Military Grade
Design and Size
This is a very portable LED flashlight, which is 5.4 inches in length and 1.6 inches in width. It’s small enough to fit into any bug out bag and can be slipped into your pocket when you’re on the go. The flashlights are made from aluminum and are resistant to extreme temperatures while also being shock resistant and waterproof. It’s great for outdoor activities and survival situations, and included in your purchase are two flashlights and an instruction manual.
Batteries and Performance
The batteries aren’t included in your purchase, so you’ll need to buy either 18650 lithium-ion batteries or three AAA batteries to start using your flashlight. You’ll appreciate the three lighting modes, as well as the strobe setting and SOS mode. It offers observation up to 600 feet, as well as a circle floodlight mode for lighting up a large area. You’ll enjoy up to 2000 lumens with this high-performance light, which can even be seen from five nautical miles away. Finally, you’ll be shocked by the life of this LED flashlight, which can last up to 100,000 hours!
Pros
- Under $20 for two flashlights
- The ideal set of two for keeping one in your bug out bag and one in your car
- Resistant to extreme hot and cold temperatures
Cons
- No batteries included with your purchase
11 – Cree XP-L LED Rechargeable Flashlight
Design and Size
With a length of 11 cm and a diameter of 2.7 cm, this is a compact device to use as an EDC flashlight. It weighs just 95g, and is an easy device to carry around in your pocket. It’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor use and is constructed from anodized aluminum. It’s also waterproof to two meters, and impact resistant for up to 1.5 meters, so it can be used in even the toughest of conditions and climates. The switch for using the five functions is made of stainless steel and makes it easy to switch between the strobe, moonlight, and various other levels of brightness on offer.
Batteries and Performance
This LED flashlight offers a built-in micro-USB charging port and cable and can even be charged on the go in your car. The battery charger makes it very clear when charging is completed, with a blue indicator. It gives out up to 1000 lumens for up to 2.5 hours and has a maximum runtime of 5000 hours. One battery is included with your purchase, and it offers a distance of 255 meters at its maximum.
Pros
- One of the lowest-priced options on the market at under $40
- Lightweight at just 95g
- It uses a built-in micro-USB charging system
Cons
- The button is not the strongest in comparison to other options and may switch features in your pocket
12 – CAMTOA Rechargeable LED Flashlights Zoomable IPX 4 Water Resistant Everyday Flashlight
Design and Size
At just 1.28 pounds, this is one of the lightest best survival flashlight options that measures 10 inches in length. You’ll appreciate its abrasion and water resistance, as well as it being skid-proof for use in a wide variety of situations and weather conditions. The great thing about this IPX 4 water-resistant model is that it also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if you have any issues with your new LED light, you are in good hands. It’s important to note that it’s not a waterproof model, so it is best for hiking and fishing activities.
Batteries and Performance
Included in your purchase are a 3.7V battery and a USB cable for charging. You won’t ever have to worry about finding AA batteries again in a rush, as you can simply recharge the battery for longer life and power. This LED flashlight has a massive output, providing a bright light up to 1000 feet away. It’s great for observation over a long-range and distance and will light up a room well if you are using it indoors. Choose from high, medium, and low modes, as well as an additional strobe mode.
Pros
- Low-cost option with a rechargeable battery
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Hardwearing and durable construction
Cons
- Cannot be submerged in water, so best for hiking and camping trips
13 – Fenix Flashlights FX-PD35TAC Flashlight
Design and Size
Weighing just 3.1 oz. and with a length of 5.5 inches, this is a great EDC flashlight that’s compact and easy to store in your home or car. It’s made of durable aluminum with an anti-abrasive finish and can be submerged in water for up to thirty minutes as deep as 6.5 feet. The ultra-clear lens is made from glass and also offers users an anti-reflective coating. One unique feature of this best survival flashlight is the intelligent function, which remembers the last-used mode of output.
Batteries and Performance
This tactical flashlight can either run on one 18650 battery, on you can use two CR123A batteries, neither of which are included with your purchase. It has a lifespan of 50,000 hours and uses CREE LEDs. That means you’ll enjoy up to 1000 lumens with this model and six different output modes. It’s really easy to use, thanks to the side switches, and it offers protection from reverse polarity. Even if this is your first time purchasing an LED flashlight, you’ll find this easy to set up and use the various flashlight features.
Pros
- Made from durable aircraft-grade aluminum
- Up to 1000 lumens and six different output modes
- A lifespan of up to 5000 hours
- Available in different multipack options
Cons
- Many users find the functions stop working after a few months of use
14 – Super Bright Flashlight 90000 Lumen Waterproof LED Flashlight
Design and Size
With a length of 7.1 inches and a width of 2.1 inches, this light is of a decent size and is easy to grip hold of. You’ll appreciate the great grip this flashlight offers, and the thickness of this light makes it easy to hold in anyone’s hand. It’s both shockproof and IP65 rated water-resistant, as well as being anti-abrasive and easy to carry around. Even in the harshest weather conditions, you’ll feel comfortable and secure using this survival flashlight.
Batteries and Performance
With a maximum 90000 lumens LED light, this is one of the survival flashlights with the best brightness on the market. It has three different settings, and the beam can stretch up to a whopping 1650 feet. You’ll also benefit from its zoomable functions, which allow a spot or flood beam as needed. The type of battery needed for this device is a 11000mAh battery, which is included with your purchase. It will give you up to ten hours with one charge when using the medium mode. There’s also a USB charger included and a built-in input port. The company also offers a 100% refund if you are not satisfied with your purchase, so you can purchase this survival flashlight with peace of mind.
Pros
- Shockproof and IP65 rated water-resistant
- 11000mAh battery type included with your purchase
- Maximum 90000 lumens survival flashlight
- 100% refund option if you are not satisfied with your purchase
Cons
- Many users find the brightness to not be as high as the stated 90000 lumens
15 – Nitecore EA41 960 Lumen CREE XM-L U2 LED Dual Switch Compact Flashlight
Design and Size
The body of this tactical flashlight uses UIT, which means that the survival flashlight is carved out of just one piece of aluminum. This means you have a sturdy, lightweight, and durable light that you’ll enjoy using for years to come, and it will make a great addition to your bug out bag. It’s waterproof to two meters and is also impact resistant up to 1.5 meters.
Batteries and Performance
Your new tactical flashlight will come with four EdisonBright AA batteries, as well as a charger. This flashlight offers up to 960 lumens and also has 50,000 hours of runtime. The Cree XM-L2 LED means that it has a bright beam, and it can easily be adjusted with the dual switch. There are eight brightness settings to choose from, which makes it a superior option to many of the best survival flashlight models on the market.
Pros
- It uses UIT, so it is constructed from just one piece of aluminum, making it lightweight and durable
- Waterproof and impact resistant
- Cree XM-L2 LED
Cons
- The included batteries often leak after a few months, and EdisonBright can be challenging to contact
Things to Look for in the Best Survival Flashlight
Before you continue to read any further, you’ll want to know what you plan to use your new emergency flashlight for, which can help when comparing the best survival flashlight options. Whether you plan to use it regularly for camping trips or have it in your survival kit for when you find yourself in danger, by knowing what you are looking for, you’ll find the best model for your needs. These are the most important considerations when comparing tactical flashlight options for self-defense and any survival situation.
Brightness and Runtime
In our guide to the best survival flashlights below, you’ll find lumens regularly mentioned. This is a measurement of how much illumination your flashlight will provide, and the higher the number, the brighter it will be. You might also see a beam or throw distance measured, which suggests how far the light can stretch. Look for a minimum of 100 lumens for general and around the house use, and then you’ll want to increase that to 200 lumens for outdoor use. For those working in search and rescue, you’ll want to increase this even higher, with options available up to 1000 lumens or more. However, one trade-off of a higher number of lumens is a shorter runtime. Try to find one which allows you to increase or decrease the settings depending on your needs at the time.
Functions
You’ll see a great variety of functions on the flashlights listed below, with different lighting modes and strobe patterns to choose from. For those using this as a tool in their work kit, consider a flashlight with a breaker for car windows or a slasher to cut seatbelts. Some lights can even double up as a club, but if you are just looking for an everyday carry flashlight, you probably don’t need to be too concerned with some of these extra functions! If you are looking for a self-defense tool, opt for one with some of these extra features, which are designed specifically with your safety in mind.
Battery Type
Each of the battery options listed below has its pros and cons, with some being more powerful and others being very difficult to find and replace. It’s important to consider the shelf life of your type of battery and its potential to leak, as this is essential if you aren’t planning to use this item regularly. Some flashlights come with rechargeable batteries and should have a battery charger included with your purchase. Other common battery options include AA battery flashlights, Li-ion battery options, and lithium or alkaline batteries.
Durability and Price
These two considerations go hand in hand, and as with almost any purchase in life, the more you pay for an item, the longer it will probably last! However, by searching around and reading our reviews below, you can still find a high-quality and easy to use light that will last you for years to come. Try to find a flashlight that’s made of a hardwearing material, such as aluminum, and that is water-resistant for the best protection. While the features you are comparing might not seem relevant for an EDC flashlight, in an emergency situation, you never know when it might become submerged in water.
