Believe it or not, flashlights come in a variety of designs with multiple features. Finding the right flashlight for your task can take a bit of research, but you’re in luck–we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. From emergency scenarios to much-needed light on the job, this ultimate flashlight guide will shed light on everything you need to know to make an informed buying decision.
Types of Flashlights
Flashlights are available with an astonishingly broad range of features. First, we’ll take a look at the most common type of flashlight: the classic, hand-held design.
Hand-Held Flashlights
The tried and true hand-held flashlight is most likely what comes to mind when you think of a flashlight. Most feature a large battery capacity for a long run time. A drawback of a classic hand-held flashlight is that they require a free hand—making them more difficult to use if you need both hands to work. However, some designs feature a flat base allowing them to stand on their own.
| General-Purpose Flashlight | USB-C Rechargeable Flashlight | Rechargeable Dominator Flashlight |
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| Magnetic Swivel-Base Flashlight | Laser Flashlight |
Glow-In-the-Dark Flashlight |
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More Types of Flashlights
While the following types of flashlights may not be what comes to mind when you think of a flashlight, these types of portable lights may be better suited for your job. Let’s take a look.
Headlamps
Headlamps provide ample light and allow you to work or traverse terrain hands-free. A couple of drawbacks are that they can only accommodate small battery packs and can be irritating to those around you (if you shine light in their eyes).
Specialty Flashlights
Specialty flashlights such as penlights or inspection lights are small, highly portable, and are great for providing targeted light to small areas. These lights can be used to inspect machinery, electrical systems, and more. However, their tiny size means they don’t have a long run time.
Lanterns and Spotlights
Lanterns and spotlights are often used by emergency crews and have a larger battery capacity than hand-held flashlights. Spotlights emit more targeted light while lanterns illuminate a broader area.
| Headlamps | Specialty Flashlights | Lanterns | Spotlights |
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Flashlight Battery Options
The flashlight’s battery type is an important consideration when choosing the right flashlight for your small business. Let’s take a look at what’s available.
Disposable Batteries
Disposable batteries such as AA and AAA batteries are readily available. CR123A batteries are also commonly used in flashlights; however, they’re more expensive and not as readily available. Some baton-style flashlights are made to take D-cell batteries. Remember to always dispose of batteries properly.
Rechargeable Batteries
Some flashlights are equipped with built-in, lithium-ion batteries. They can be recharged with an AC or DC outlet, solar panel, or USB connection from a computer. While the upfront cost may be higher, these flashlights can provide cost-savings and reduced waste over time.
Renewable Batteries
Renewable batteries are ideal for first aid kits and are regenerated with solar power or a hand crank.
Flashlight Light Bulb Options
The type of bulb a flashlight uses is another important consideration. Bulb types offer varying ranges of brightness, energy efficiency, and longevity. The main types of bulbs you’ll find today are incandescent light bulbs and LED light bulbs. Let’s take a look at their differences.
Incandescent Light Bulbs
Incandescent light bulbs are less expensive than LED light bulbs; however, they do not last as long and are less energy efficient. Incandescent bulbs emit warm, bright light.
LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs last long, are energy efficient, and cast bright white light that can illuminate large areas.
More Factors to Consider
It’s important to consider what types of jobs you’ll use your flashlight for. Here are some additional considerations before making your final choice.
Brightness
Your flashlight’s brightness is measured in flashlight lumens. 50 lumens works well for indoor work within an arm’s reach, while 500 lumens would be suitable for outdoor security jobs. Some flashlights have multiple light modes that you can adjust to suit the task at hand.
Beam Distance and Spread
Some flashlights provide a targeted beam, some provide broader light output, while others allow you to adjust the beam type to suit your needs. Small pen lights may only cast light a few meters away, while larger lights can cast light up to a mile.
Run Time
How long your flashlight operates depends on your flashlight’s brightness and battery capacity. Smaller, brighter lights may only last 2 hours, while bulkier lights set at a lower output may last a full shift.
Impact Resistance
If you work at heights, choose a flashlight that’s able to endure being dropped. Some flashlights are rated to remain intact despite falls between 1-7 meters.
Water and Dust Resistance
If you work in dirty or wet conditions, make sure to get a flashlight that has an Ingress Protection (IP) rating. These ratings vary from IPX4 (splashproof) to fully submersible and dust-tight (IP68).
Are you ready to find the flashlight that’s right for you? From rechargeable flashlights to LED flashlights, you’re sure to find all the flashlights your small business needs at Zoro.com.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.