When it comes to reliable lighting on-the-go, an Everyday Carry (EDC) flashlight is a must-have tool. Its versatility makes it suitable for various situations – from evening strolls back home to navigating trails while camping, or even simply walking the dog at night. The compact design of an EDC flashlight allows it to seamlessly fit into your pocket, providing instant access to reliable light whenever you need it.
The 10 Best EDC Flashlights
The world of everyday carry (EDC) flashlights is filled with a wide range of options, each offering unique features and benefits. When it comes to choosing the right EDC flashlight for your needs, several factors come into play. From brightness and beam distance to durability and size, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
In this realm, some standout options include the OLIGHT S1R Baton II, the EdisonBright Fenix PD35 TAC Tactical Flashlight, and the Soonfire Cree XP-L EDC Flashlight, which is our top pick. Other notable mentions include the Streamlight 66604 MicroStream Pocket Flashlight, the SOG Dark Energy EDC Flashlight, the Fenix E12 Pocket-Sized EDC Flashlight, the Helotex G2 CREE LED Tactical EDC Flashlight, and the LUMINTOP 2.
0 Pocket-Sized Flashlight, as well as the ThruNite Ti3 LED Mini Flashlight and the GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight.
Our Top Pick for the Best EDC Flashlight
Our top pick for the best EDC flashlight is the Soonfire Cree XP-L EDC Flashlight, which boasts impressive features that make it an essential companion for any adventurer. As soon as you hold this compact yet powerful light in your hand, you’ll exude confidence when facing darkness. With its remarkable brightness, long-lasting output, and indestructible all-weather housing, the Soonfire EDC flashlight is perfect for travelers.
Its 5 brightness settings ensure easy operation, while its rechargeable battery provides added convenience. Whether you’re navigating through a dark forest or searching for something in a dimly lit room, this reliable flashlight has got your back.
The EDC Flashlight is the Ultimate Traveler’s Companion
While compact in design, the EDC flashlight packs a punch when it comes to illumination. Leveraging cutting-edge lighting technology and a cleverly designed lens, this portable powerhouse produces a beam of light that can effortlessly cut through even the darkest environments. Whether you’re venturing into uncharted territory or simply need a reliable companion for your daily commute, this versatile torch is sure to exceed your expectations.
How to Choose the Best EDC Flashlight
LED Lens
In today’s modern world, we rely on advanced technology to illuminate our surroundings. This is particularly evident in the realm of flashlights, where LED-based models such as tactical flashlights, headlamps, and keychain flashlights have become increasingly popular. One of the primary advantages of these high-tech options is their ability to harness superior lighting power through Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, LEDs offer a longer-lasting and more efficient source of light.
Lumen Strength
Measuring the effectiveness of a flashlight’s brightness is done through its lumens rating, which represents the amount of visible light emitted by the lens. In simple terms, the higher the lumens value, the more radiant the light will be.
Battery Power
When selecting a battery for your flashlight, it’s crucial to consider its impact on overall performance. While readily available AA batteries may be an affordable option, they pale in comparison to rechargeable batteries featuring long-lasting lithium cells. The latter can generate a dazzlingly brilliant light, making them a more viable choice for those seeking superior illumination.
Extra Beam Features
The adjustable beam feature in flashlights is particularly impressive, as it allows users to customize their lighting experience to suit various needs. Whether you’re reading a book and require a focused beam or need to light up a larger area like a campsite, the flexibility of an adjustable beam ensures that your flashlight can adapt to any situation.
Strobe
In many situations, having a reliable means of signaling for help can be a lifesaver. A strobe function is precisely that – a crucial emergency feature that enables you to alert others in low-light environments or in instances where visibility is limited. Whether you find yourself disoriented on a hiking trail at night or stranded on the side of a highway with a vehicle breakdown, a strobe’s flashing light can be used to convey your distress and attract attention from potential rescuers.
Design
EDC flashlights have redefined the concept of tactical illumination by seamlessly merging the robust features of a full-sized flashlight with the compact convenience of a keychain light. Despite their diminutive size, these flashlights are built to last, boasting a rugged construction that withstands the rigors of daily use.
The finest EDC flashlights are crafted from high-strength aircraft-grade aluminum, anodized to perfection to ensure unparalleled durability, resistance to weathering, shock, and impact.
Brightness Modes
When it comes to brightness modes, you should expect to find a range of options to suit your needs. This can include standard settings like low, medium, and high, as well as more advanced features such as strobe, turbo, or even SOS signals. For instance, the basic Streamlight 66604 MicroStream Pocket Flashlight offers a simple yet effective high and low mode, while more premium models may boast up to three or five distinct brightness settings.
Control Functions
Navigating the controls of tactical-style flashlights can be a breeze, thanks to their intuitive design. The most prevalent control mechanisms include a tail switch or button, a rotating head, and a sliding switch. Of these, the press-button function on the tail of the light is generally the easiest to master. While the twisting head may require some trial-and-error to cycle through settings and find your preferred mode, the payoff is well worth the slight learning curve.
Attachment Features
When selecting an everyday carry (EDC) flashlight, it’s essential to consider accessories that enhance usability and accessibility. A reversible pocket clip, for instance, allows you to secure the light in a convenient position, keeping it within easy reach during emergency situations. Additionally, a lanyard or keychain attachment can provide further versatility, enabling you to carry your EDC flashlight with confidence.
10 Best EDC Flashlights – Reviews
OLIGHT S1R Baton II EDC Flashlight
The OLIGHT S1R Baton II EDC Flashlight is a remarkable device that packs a punch despite its miniature size. This powerful torch boasts an impressive output of 1000 lumens, generating a beam that can reach up to 476 feet with just one click. The TIR optic lens ensures a bright and focused light, making it perfect for travelers.
The OLIGHT flashlight offers versatility in terms of brightness modes, featuring three settings – low, medium, and high – as well as a moonlight setting and tactical turbo function. When used on the lower setting, the light can provide illumination for up to 20 hours. Built with durability in mind, the aircraft-grade aluminum body features an anti-scratch hard-anodized aluminum finish and IPX8 waterproof rating, allowing it to withstand being submerged in water up to 2 meters.
The flashlight also boasts impact resistance of 1.5 meters and a lock-out function that prevents accidental activation. Weighing only 1.8 ounces, the OLIGHT S1R is incredibly lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in your pocket or on a backpack. The removable/reversible pocket clip allows for secure attachment, while the lanyard provides an alternative option. The magnetic tail cap enables convenient placement on metal surfaces.
The built-in timer and 3-color power level indicator provide added functionality, keeping you informed about the flashlight’s charging status. The side switch is easy to use, allowing you to cycle through brightness modes with ease. When turning the light ON or OFF, the brightness gradually increases or decreases to accommodate your eyes’ adjustment to the lighting level. The OLIGHT S1R comes with a rechargeable IMR16340 lithium-ion battery, USB charging cable, lanyard, and pouch.
The manufacturer backs its product with a 30-day replacement guarantee and 5-year warranty.
EdisonBright Fenix PD35 TAC Tactical Flashlight
The EdisonBright Fenix PD35 TAC Tactical Flashlight is a powerhouse of light, named after the renowned inventor Thomas Edison. This rugged device boasts an on-demand illumination system that can be activated with just a flick of the switch. The ultra-bright 1000-lumen CREE XP-L (V5) LED has a remarkable reach of 656 feet and a lifespan of an impressive 50,000 hours.
Its digitally regulated output ensures a consistent brightness level, eliminating any concerns about fluctuations in the light beam. The flashlight features two distinct modes: Tactical and Outdoor. The Tactical Mode offers three customizable settings – Turbo (1000 lumens for 1 hour and 10 minutes), Low (60 lumens for 29 hours and 15 minutes), and Strobe (1000 lumens). The Outdoor Mode, on the other hand, presents six adaptable lighting options: eco, low, medium, high, turbo, and strobe.
Accessing these modes is seamless via the dual stainless steel side switches located at the tail cap. To ensure the flashlight’s reliability in harsh outdoor environments, EdisonBright has designed it with a durable, hard-anodized anti-abrasive aircraft-grade aluminum body. The toughened ultra-clear glass lens boasts an anti-reflective coating for improved visibility.
Smart safety features include reverse polarity protection to prevent improper battery installation, over-heating protection, and an anti-roll, slip-resistant design. The flashlight is engineered with a low-voltage warning function to alert users when the batteries are running low, eliminating concerns about unexpected power outages. Its IPX-8 waterproof rating ensures that it can withstand accidental submersion in water or drops from 2 meters high.
The flashlight’s compact size and lightweight construction make it an ideal EDC (everyday carry) device for law enforcement officers, soldiers, or anyone seeking a reliable and versatile light source. EdisonBright offers the Fenix PD35 TAC with two CR123A lithium batteries included. This rugged and powerful flashlight is perfect for those who demand high-quality illumination in extreme conditions.
Soonfire Cree XP-L EDC Flashlight
The Soonfire Cree XP-L EDC Flashlight is an ultra-compact, lightweight powerhouse that excels in various outdoor settings. Its remarkable CREE XP-L LED produces a staggering 1000 lumens beam that lasts for an impressive 150 minutes and reaches a throw distance of 225m when powered by the included rechargeable 18650 battery. The light features five adjustable modes: high, medium, low, moonlight, and strobe, along with a memory function.
Additionally, it boasts a durable hard-anodized aircraft-grade aluminum alloy body with an IPX-8 waterproof rating and 1.5m impact resistance, making it an excellent alternative to bulky flashlights. The device can be easily attached to a pocket or belt using its strong clip or mounted onto a rifle. Operating the light is straightforward, thanks to the intuitive stainless steel switch.
A notable feature is the built-in battery indicator that flashes red during charging and blue when fully charged. To prevent overheating, the flashlight employs a thermal management program that reduces high-light output by 50% within one minute of continuous operation. The device can also be powered by two CR123A rechargeable lithium batteries, which can be recharged via the built-in micro-USB port.
Available in three stylish colors – black, gold, or grey – the Soonfire EDC flashlight comes with an 18-month repair warranty and has several notable pros, including its high quality, affordable price, ultra-compact design, and very powerful light output. However, some users may find the power button to be overly sensitive and prone to accidental activation in a pocket. Furthermore, the battery life could be improved.
Streamlight 66604 MicroStream Pocket Flashlight
The Streamlight 66604 MicroStream Pocket Flashlight is a remarkable device that excels in producing an extremely bright and long-lasting beam of light, capable of banishing even the darkest environments. Its compact and lightweight design makes it an excellent tool for any outdoor enthusiast or adventurer. The flashlight’s construction is built to last, featuring black anodized aircraft aluminum alloy that is abrasion-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and shock-proof.
The unbreakable and scratch-resistant polycarbonate lens is O-ring sealed, providing a high level of protection against water and other forms of environmental damage. Additionally, the flashlight has been tested for 1m impact resistance and features IPX4 rating for water-resistant operation. The MicroStream Pocket Flashlight utilizes innovative C4 LED technology to deliver an impressive 250 lumens of brightness, with a lifespan of up to 30,000 hours.
The flashlight offers two settings: high and low, providing users with the flexibility to adjust their lighting needs. The runtime is equally impressive, lasting up to 1½ hours on the high setting and 3½ hours on the low setting. One of the standout features of this flashlight is its charging system, which includes a USB port with a charge indicator that shows red when the battery needs recharging and green when it’s in charging mode.
The flashlight also comes equipped with a push-button tail cap switch, allowing users to choose between momentary or constant-on operation. Streamlight offers the EDC flashlight in black, complete with a USB cord and high-strength lanyard. Users can purchase the flashlight with either an AAA battery or rechargeable battery. The EDC flashlight is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, providing customers with added peace of mind.
Overall, this flashlight boasts a range of impressive features, including great quality, excellent value for money, high durability, and corrosion-resistant construction.
SOG Dark Energy EDC Flashlight
The SOG Dark Energy EDC Flashlight is an impressive lighting tool that shines bright with its ultra-bright light output of 687 lumens. This powerful flashlight boasts five operation modes – 100%, 40%, reading, flash, and Strobe – allowing users to adjust their light settings according to the situation. The rechargeable battery provides a maximum runtime of 105 minutes at full brightness or an impressive 32 hours on the reading mode.
Crafted from hard-anodized 6061-T6 aluminum, the flashlight has a textured body that offers a slip-free grip and is well-balanced, making it extremely lightweight and easy to carry in your pocket or backpack. The IPX-7 rating ensures the flashlight is protected against water immersion for 30 minutes at a depth of 1m. SOG Specialty Knives includes a limited lifetime warranty with this product, which also comes with a battery charger and belt clip.
Some notable advantages include great quality, excellent value for money, blindingly bright light, and an impressive max output. Additionally, the runtime is substantial, with 105 minutes of use on full brightness or 32 hours on reading mode. The flashlight’s lightweight design, tough aluminum construction, and slip-free textured body are also significant benefits.
On the downside, this high-performance flashlight does come at a higher price point and can get quite hot when used at its highest setting.
Fenix E12 Pocket-Sized EDC Flashlight
The Fenix E12 Pocket-Sized Bright Flashlight is an exceptional everyday carry option that delivers a remarkable performance. Its 160 lumens LED lens produces a piercingly bright beam of light with a remarkable reach of 68m, making it perfect for illuminating dark spaces like campsites or alleys. The flashlight’s wide beam also allows for excellent peripheral vision.
To control the lighting modes, simply access the button on the tail switch, which offers three settings: High (160 lumens, lasting up to one hour), Medium (30 lumens, lasting 13 hours), and Low (5 lumens, lasting a remarkable 70 hours). Built with durability in mind, the E12 features a black hard-anodized aircraft-grade aluminum body that withstands impacts of up to 1m and is waterproofed for submersion in up to 1.5m of water. Weighing just under an ounce and measuring only 3.
06 inches in length, this flashlight fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. You can secure it to your pocket with a clip or attach it to a backpack using the lanyard hole. The package includes a lanyard, AA battery, spare O-ring, and LumenTec battery organizer, making it a comprehensive and practical purchase. The only drawbacks are its non-strobe capability and non-rechargeable battery.
Helotex G2 CREE LED Tactical EDC Flashlight
The Helotex G2 CREE LED Tactical EDC Flashlight is an exceptional outdoor companion, boasting a remarkable dual power capability. The CREE XR-E LED, with its impressive 50,000 hour lifespan, produces an astonishing output of 130 lumens when powered by a cr123 battery or 120 lumens with an AA battery.
This tactical flashlight features a user-friendly tactile click on/off button and offers three adjustable modes: high, low, and strobe, as well as a memory function that retains the previous mode setting. If you turn it off for a moment and then back on, it will automatically revert to its previous mode. The G2’s durable anodized aircraft aluminum body and O-ring seal ensure optimal weather resistance, making it suitable for extreme outdoor conditions.
Additionally, it comes with a sturdy pocket clip for easy carry and emergency preparedness. Helotex provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on the G2 flashlight. Overall, this compact and powerful flashlight is an excellent value for its price, with pros including high quality, great value, slimline design, durability, weather resistance, and smart memory function. However, some may find it lacking in terms of settings, as it only offers three modes.
Furthermore, batteries are not included, and the device’s weight might be a consideration for those seeking a pocket-sized flashlight.
LUMINTOP 2.0 Pocket-Sized Flashlight
The LUMINTOP 2.0 Pocket-Sized Flashlight is a versatile and reliable tool for everyday use, offering a powerful performance from its high-efficiency Cree XPL-HD 650 lumens LED. With a lifespan of 50,000 hours and a non-diminishing beam that reaches up to 127m, this flashlight can last up to 60 hours on low setting. It’s powered by an included AA battery, but for optimal performance, use a 14500-lithium battery.
The durable yet lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum body is built tough for rough outdoor conditions and features a military-grade black anodized finish. The EDC flashlight also boasts IP68 waterproof certification, making it suitable for submersion in up to 2m of water. Its anti-slip finish ensures a secure grip even in extreme conditions. If you do accidentally drop it, the ANSI verified impact resistance up to 1.5m means you can worry less about damage.
The flashlight features five modes – low, medium, high, strobe, and turbo – plus a memory mode, allowing for easy brightness adjustments without cycling through modes. Additionally, the magnetic base serves as a candle on metal surfaces, while the glow-in-the-dark tail makes it easy to spot in dark rooms or tents. A reversible pocket clip and lanyard hole allow for versatile attachment options.
The package includes two spare O-rings, a diffuser, and a lanyard, backed by an unconditional 30-day money-back guarantee and a 5-year repair warranty from LUMINTOP.
ThruNite Ti3 LED Mini Flashlight
The ThruNite Ti3 LED Mini Flashlight stands out as an exceptional all-around lighting tool for various activities like hiking, traveling, backpacking, dog walking, and even indoor use. The CREE XP-G2 R5 120 lumens lens produces a powerful beam that reaches up to 50 meters, while the OP reflector ensures good color diffusion and a smooth beam pattern. For added versatility, the flashlight features three lighting modes – low, high, and strobe – along with a memory function.
Its user-friendly design makes it easy to operate, requiring only a simple twist of the head to turn it on and off or adjust brightness levels.
Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the compact mini flashlight boasts a durable hard-anodized aluminum housing that can withstand impacts up to 1.2 meters. The EDC flashlight is easily attachable via key ring or 2-way reversible pocket clip to your hat, backpack, or pocket.
ThruNite offers this reliable flashlight with either cool white or neutral white LED options, backed by a 2-year warranty. Pros of the ThruNite Ti3 LED Mini Flashlight include its exceptional quality, great price, and value for money. It’s also compact, lightweight, and shines brightly with a powerful light that covers both indoor and outdoor applications. The beam distance is impressive, and color diffusion and smooth beam pattern are top-notch.
Additionally, the flashlight features three lighting modes, including an extra strobe function. A reversible pocket clip allows for convenient attachment.
Cons of the ThruNite Ti3 LED Mini Flashlight include requiring a few twists to activate the strobe light and finding the neutral white color slightly too yellow. Despite these minor drawbacks, this flashlight offers excellent overall performance and is worth considering.
GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight
The GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight stands out for its sleek, all-metal design and incredible brightness. This powerhouse of a flashlight is perfect for everyday use in various outdoor activities like camping, fishing, hunting, or dog walking. Its 300 lumens LED produces a non-diminishing beam that can last up to three hours on a single AA battery. The GearLight features a zoomable design and three operating modes: high, low, and flash/strobe.
This allows users to adjust the light to suit their needs, whether it’s illuminating a large area or focusing in on an object at a distance. The strobe mode is particularly useful for signaling for help in emergency situations. Built to withstand rough outdoor conditions, the GearLight’s high-grade aluminum body is both weather and shock-resistant. This means it can handle heavy rain, snow, accidental drops, or temporary submersions in water.
The flashlight also comes with 2 AA batteries and a belt clip, making it easy to carry on the go. What’s more, GearLight offers an extended one-year warranty and provides exceptional customer service. The company is US-based, which adds to the overall value and satisfaction of the product.
Our Top Pick for the Best EDC Flashlight
When it comes to selecting the ultimate EDC flashlight, our top recommendation is the Soonfire Cree XP-L EDC Flashlight. Its compact design belies its impressive capabilities, allowing you to conquer even the darkest environments with unwavering confidence.
This trusty companion is a must-have for any traveler, boasting a powerful and long-lasting light output, a rugged all-weather housing that can withstand the elements, intuitive 5-level brightness control, and a rechargeable battery to keep it powered up on the go. To get your hands on this exceptional flashlight, check out the current pricing on Amazon.
