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TOP 10 handheld compact flashlights

Published by Iryna Teslenko

Of course, everyone has flashlights on their smartphones. But having a separate device for walking in the dark, camping, or in home situations where the power goes out is a win-win. We’ve selected the best models with good brightness, functionality, and compact design.

What to look for when choosing a handheld flashlight

A handheld flashlight is not as simple as it seems at first glance. It’s a must-have for hiking and a handy tool for blackouts. Due to their compact size, these flashlights fit easily into a pocket, backpack or car glove compartment, so they are easy to take with you on the road.

These devices run on batteries or rechargeable batteries and often have several lighting modes. However, it is worth remembering that excessively small models may have lower brightness or a limited operating time.

When choosing a flashlight, imagine the conditions in which you will use it. Pay attention to the following characteristics:

  1. Luminous flux (lumens, Lm). For daily use, 50-100 Lm is enough, while for camping or difficult conditions, you should choose models with an indicator of 200-500 Lm. Models with more than 1000 Lm are designed for professional tasks (search operations, expeditions).
  2. Diode type. The best choice is LED — it is economical, durable, and provides bright light. With COB, you get a wide and soft light that is suitable for working at short distances.
  3. Color temperature (K). Up to 3000K provides a warm light that is comfortable for the eyes and therefore suitable for reading. From 4000 to 5000K, the light is neutral. Above, 6000K, you get cold white light that can tire your eyes faster.
  4. Power supply type. For maximum endurance, it is better to choose rechargeable flashlights (Li-Ion). Devices powered by conventional batteries (AA or AAA) are cheaper, but will not withstand too much use.
  5. Body material. This determines the degree of security of the device. The most durable models are those with a metal case with a rubberized coating.
  6. Protection level (IP). With IPX4, the flashlight is only protected against splashes, but the IPX6-IPX8 standard is typical for camping models.
  7. Operating modes. The flashlights have different brightness modes, as well as additional modes, such as strobe or SOS (useful for tourism).
  8. Dimensions. For everyday use or tourism, you should choose lighter models with backpack mounts.

Other useful features include the power bank function (for charging other gadgets) and the charge indicator (for tracking the remaining energy in rechargeable models).

Popular models of handheld flashlights

Nitecore MH15

Nitecore MH15 — real «Swiss knife» among EDC pocket flashlights. Despite its compact size, it is able to surprise with its performance: 2000 lumens of brightness provide intense illumination, and the range of 250 meters makes it an indispensable tool both in everyday life and in extreme conditions.

The high-quality aluminum alloy body withstands impacts from a height of up to 1 meter, and the IPX8 water resistance class allows the flashlight to be submerged to a depth of 2 meters. The built-in clip allows you to conveniently carry the flashlight in your pocket or attach it to your belt, and the USB-C port provides fast charging. The powerful 5000 mAh battery can be used as a power bank for smartphones or tablets.

It is an ideal choice for hikers, fishermen, or professionals working in extreme conditions. The cost of the model does not exceed 2500 UAH.

Scangrip MAG PEN 3

MAG PEN 3 — is a very compact flashlight that will become a universal assistant. Thanks to its shape and slim design, it will be useful for craftsmen, mechanics, and technicians.
Thanks to the updated COB technology, the flashlight provides powerful and uniform illumination with a brightness of up to 200 Lm for any task. The infinitely variable dimmer allows you to adjust the light output from 10% to 100%, which is especially convenient when working with different materials or in different conditions.

The ergonomic handle with a durable rubber surface provides a secure grip even when wearing gloves or in high humidity. Built-in magnets allow you to fix the flashlight on metal surfaces, which frees your hands during repair or installation. The magnets are located in the clip and on the bottom of the body, and the clip can be additionally rotated to work at different angles.

The battery lasts up to 20 hours without recharging and takes 3.5 hours to recharge. The cost of the model varies from 1,600 to 2,300 hryvnias.

Proskit FL-506

The Proskit FL-506 is an affordable and lightweight LED flashlight designed for those who value practicality. It is suitable for home use, traveling or walking.
Thanks to its small size, it fits easily into a backpack, bag or pocket. The body is made of anodized aluminum, which makes it shock-resistant and durable even under heavy use.

It runs on two AA batteries, which are easy to find in any store. It is an ideal solution for traveling when access to chargers is limited.

The control button is located on the bottom of the case, allowing for intuitive one-handed operation. A strap is included for easy carrying or attachment. The price of this model varies from 170 to 400 UAH.

TIROSS TS-1855

The TIROSS TS-1855 — flashlight is an even simpler option at an affordable price. Thanks to its lightweight plastic construction, it will be useful in everyday life or for small tasks at home.

The 180 lumen luminous flux provides sufficient brightness to work in the dark or in low light. It has two light sources: a main LED with a reflector for directional illumination and a COB LED for even illumination of large areas. This expands the possibilities of using the device, for example, as a nightlight or tent light.

Power is provided by a built-in 1200 mAh battery, which is enough for long use without the need for frequent charging. The flashlight is charged via a Micro-USB port, and a full charge cycle takes only 5 hours. The kit includes a USB cable for easy recharging and a carrying strap. The price of TIROSS TS-1855 is no more than 400 UAH.

SKIF Cyclope

Flashlight Skif Outdoor Cyclope — a great find for tourists, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its compact size, it offers a high level of performance that is rarely found in models of this price category.

The 500 Lm brightness allows you to confidently illuminate the road or space even in complete darkness. It supports three operating modes: two brightness levels and a beacon mode for emergency situations.

Works in Skif Outdoor Cyclope up to 3 hours of autonomy thanks to the built-in 500 mAh battery. In addition to a light source, it also works as a glass breaker, bottle opener and hex key. The magnetic base and adjustable stand allow you to set the flashlight in any convenient position, and the carabiner makes it easy to attach to a backpack or belt.

Skif Outdoor Cyclope will become indispensable when hiking or even in everyday situations. You can buy this model on the market for 400 or 600 hryvnias.

Intertool LB-0130

Intertool LB-0130 — a versatile handheld flashlight designed for a wide variety of tasks: from everyday use to hiking, fishing, or emergency situations. Thanks to its rugged design and functionality, it will be a reliable companion in any conditions.

The flashlight is equipped with a P50 LED with a brightness of 1200 Lm, which provides a clear and bright light even in the darkest places Intertool LB-0130 supports four lighting options — full power (100%), economy mode (50%), strobe light for emergencies, and zoom function. Allows you to adjust the beam width depending on the situation (narrow beam is useful for searching and wide beam — for illuminating large areas, such as camping tents or work areas).

Made of lightweight aluminum alloy, Intertool LB-0130 resistant to mechanical damage, vibrations, and low temperatures. Equipped with a 2200 mAh battery that provides 3-4 hours of continuous operation. It is charged via the included USB cable. Price Intertool LB-0130 does not exceed UAH 600.

Esperanza Sirius

Esperanza Sirius — is an inexpensive hand-held flashlight with Cree XP-E Q5 LED. This device provides a maximum luminous flux of 250 Lm, which allows you to illuminate objects at a distance of up to 300 meters. It is suitable for hiking, fishing, or even for use in extreme situations where long-range illumination is required.

The zoom function allows you to change the size of the light spot, which makes it possible to focus the light more precisely at a specific point or cover a larger area. It has two levels of brightness and is made in a metal case, which ensures durability in outdoor use.

Due to its light weight (400 g) and compact size (15 cm in length), it is convenient to carry in a backpack, bag or even in a pocket. It is powered by 3 AAA batteries. The cost of the model does not exceed 500 UAH.

Videx VLF-A105Z

Flashlight Videx VLF-A105Z — a more expensive model and a great solution for tourists. The maximum brightness of the flashlight is 1200 lumens, which allows you to illuminate large areas up to 215 meters away — ideal for night hiking and extreme situations.

Videx VLF-A105Z has as many as seven operating modes (five main modes and two auxiliary modes — SOS and strobe). This allows you to adapt the lighting to any conditions, from comfortable night lighting to emergency use. A retractable ring allows you to change the width of the light spot, allowing you to focus light on distant objects or illuminate a large area in the dark.

Particularly noteworthy is the night mode, in which the flashlight operates for up to 83 hours, with a brightness of 30 Lm and a lighting range of 35 m — it is ideal for long trips where you need to conserve energy. Equipped with a rechargeable battery that can be charged via a USB type-C port (USB type-C cable included), the flashlight has a charge level indicator so that the user always knows when to recharge.

Body Videx VLF-A105Z is made of metal, which makes it resistant to shocks and drops from a height of up to 1 meter. It is protected according to the IP44 standard. The price of the model varies from 900 to 1,900 UAH.

Xiaomi Beebest Zoom Flashlight

Xiaomi Beebest Zoom Flashlight — a stylish and compact flashlight for use outdoors and at home. The Cree XP-L HI LED provides the brightest possible light with an intensity of up to 1000 lumens, with a lighting range of up to 365 m in the focused beam. This allows you to effectively illuminate large areas or find objects at a great distance.

Xiaomi Beebest Zoom Flashlight supports four brightness levels, which allows you to adapt the lighting to different conditions and needs, and additionally has two modes (SOS and strobe). It is equipped with a zoom function that allows you to change the beam width, focusing the light on specific objects or illuminating a large area.

Powered by a built-in 2600 mAh lithium-ion battery. A full charge takes about 3 hours via the USB Type-C port. The aluminum alloy body is IPX6 waterproof, so the device will withstand active use. Cost Xiaomi Beebest Zoom Flashlight from UAH 750 to UAH 1,400.

Fenix PD32 V2.0

Fenix PD32 V2.0 — a flashlight for the demanding user. It is a versatile and powerful lighting tool for all conditions. With a maximum brightness of 1200 lumens, it can «pierce» the darkness up to 395 meters – ideal for night walks, camping or search operations.

У Fenix PD32 V2.0 There are three brightness levels to choose the right light intensity for different situations. For example, the medium mode is enough to light the way on a hike, while the strobe mode is useful for extreme conditions.

Thanks to the tail switch, you can turn on Fenix PD32 V2.0 can be used instantly, even if your hands are full. And its easy one-handed operation makes it an indispensable companion for hikers, fishermen, or law enforcement officers.

It is powered by one 18650 lithium-ion battery or two CR123A batteries, allowing you to choose both options for recharging or replacing batteries. Price Fenix PD32 V2.0 ranges from UAH 2,600 to 4,200.