Sometimes, it’s not enough to have a bright flashlight. Sometimes you need the brightest tactical flashlight you can get your hands on.
A lot of flashlights are in the 300 to 500 lumen range, which is pretty bright. Bright enough to light up a football field on a clear night. But what if it’s rainy? Or foggy? Or what if you’re stranded in the woods and you’re trying to use your light as a signal?
In those cases, you need the most powerful flashlight possible. In our bright flashlight reviews, that’s going to be our first criteria.
Of course, there are other things that make for a good high-intensity flashlight. We’ll be looking at durability, size, battery life, ease of use, and any extra features. We’ll also be looking at price.
For our tactical flashlight review, we’ve settled on 11 choices that we think are the best. Which one is best for you? Read on, and see what you think.
Brightest Tactical Flashlights
Amazon.com
1. Streamlight 88040
Streamlight 88040
$73.68 in stock
1 used from $70.77
Free shipping
Features
- Compact size at just over 5 inches
- High/Low/Strobe modes
- TEN-TAP Programming to choose your preferred operating mode
- Personal carry light with pocket clip
- IPX7 waterproof; Anti-roll head prevents it from rolling away when you set it down
The Streamlight ProTac HL is tiny, powerful, and durable.
Key Features
- 750 lumens
- Takes 2 CR123A batteries
- 18 hours of battery life
The Streamlight ProTac HL is a powerful little light that puts out 750 lumens at maximum power. It achieves this with two small CR123A camera batteries. On medium output — 500 lumens — this light gets 18 hours of battery life, and the anodized aluminum tube is corrosion resistant and tough.
The ProTac HL offers a strobe setting, comes with a lifetime warranty, and is also reprogrammable. However, the controls are difficult to use, since pressing the button hard and merely tapping it are two separate functions. This can make it awkward for people with arthritis or dexterity problems.
Pros
- Durable
- 3 brightness settings
- Additional strobe setting
- Small and lightweight
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Awkward controls
This flashlight, including batteries, weighs less than 6 ounces.
2. GearLight
GearLight LED Flashlight Pack
$14.95 in stock
1 used from $29.45
Free shipping
Features
- BRIGHT – The S1000 effortlessly illuminates an entire room, making it the perfect all-around flashlight for everyday use, outdoor activities, and a great Father’s Day gift.
- DURABLE – This tactical flashlight is virtually indestructible. Constructed from military-grade aluminum, it is water-resistant and strong enough to withstand a 10-foot drop.
- COMPACT – This compact flashlight easily fits in your pocket, backpack, or purse, ensuring convenient storage and quick access. Ideal for use around the house, while dog walking, or during camping trips making it the perfect gift for men.
- INCLUDED – This high-lumen flashlight package includes (2) S1000 LED Tactical Flashlights, (2) AAA Battery Holders, (2) Battery Tubes, (2) Hand Straps, (2) Holder Cases (Bonus Accessory), (1) Operation Guide, and (1) Warranty Card, making it the ideal dad gift.
- SIZE – Measuring 6.1 x 1.57 x 1.57 inches, these compact flashlights are essential for outdoor, camping, and hiking activities. They also work great as everyday emergency lights and a practical Gift for Dad.
The GearLight S1000 is durable and has a magnetic base for hands-free use.
Key Features
- 1000 lumens
- Takes 3 AAA batteries
- 2 hours of battery life
The GearLight S1000 is a bit of a mixed bag, but it’s inexpensive and comes in a 2-pack. On the plus side, it’s very durable, with an anodized aluminum body, and it has a magnetic base for hands-free use. It’s also pretty bright, at 1000 lumens, and offers strobe and SOS settings for emergencies.
On the downside, the batteries only last for 2 hours. The controls are also twitchy, sometimes changing settings when you don’t touch the button. The LED chip also leaves a dim, square spot in the middle of the beam.
Pros
- Durable
- Magnetic base
- 3 brightness settings
- SOS and strobe modes
- Comes in a 2-pack
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Twitchy controls
- Short battery life
- LED chip blocks part of the light
This is a cheap mechanic’s light that gets the job done.
3. Streamlight 75458
Streamlight 75458
$169.68 in stock
2 used from $149.51
Free shipping
Features
- 3 Lighting Modes: High for maximum illumination with 800 lumens and 310 meter beam, Medium for intense brightness and longer run time with 400 lumens and 219 meter beam, and Low for extended run time with 200 lumens and 155 meter beam; plus Strobe
- Dual switch technology with both tail cap and head mounted switches that operate independently for maximum versatility
- 3-Cell, 3.6 Volt Ni-MH sub-C battery, rechargeable up to 1000 times
- Smart PiggyBack charger: Fully recharges within 7.5 hours (5V/1A USB input) or 4 hours (12V DC input)
- Machined aircraft aluminum body with non-slip rubberized comfort grip; anti-roll rubber ring included
The Streamlight Stinger DS is environmentally friendly and convenient.
Key Features
- 800 lumens
- Takes 1 custom rechargeable battery
- 5 hours of battery life
The Streamlight Stinger DS made our list because it’s incredibly reliable. It uses advanced circuitry to guarantee a consistent 800-lumen output on its highest setting so it won’t fade as your battery drains.
While the battery life is limited — only 5 hours — the Stinger ships with two batteries, and chargers for your home and your car. Keep one on the charger, and you’ll effectively have infinite battery life.
In addition to the 800-lumen setting, there are lower 340 and 170-lumen settings so you can adjust it for a variety of circumstances. While this is an expensive flashlight, it has a durable anodized aluminum frame and Cree LEDs that are rated for 50,000 hours so it will last you a very long time.
Pros
- Durable
- Comes with 2 batteries
- 3 brightness settings
- Includes 120v and 12v chargers
- Consistent light output throughout battery life
Cons
- Expensive
- Short battery life
This flashlight is the most consistent one we’ve seen.
4. Streamlight 69260
Streamlight 69260
5 used from $133.22
Free shipping
Features
- 1000 lumens; 20,000 candela peak beam intensity; 283 meter beam; runs 1.5 hours
- White LED technology, impervious to shock with a 50,000 hour lifetime. TIR optic produces a concentrated beam with optimum peripheral illumination
- Mounts directly to handguns with Glock-style rails and to all MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails; verify compatibility and fitment prior to purchase, Rail grip clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools and without putting your hands in front of the muzzle
- Includes keys for Glock-style, Picatinny, Beretta 90two, S&W 99 and S&W TSW and Sig P320; verify compatibility and fitment prior to purchase
- Rail clamp system securely attaches/detaches quickly and safely with no tools and without putting your hands in front of the muzzle; fits existing light bearing holsters; user programmable strobe can be enabled/disabled
The Streamlight TLR-1 is easy to mount and very durable.
Key Features
- 800 lumens
- Takes 2 CR123
- 1 hour and 45 minutes of battery life
The Streamlight TLR-1 isn’t a standard tactical flashlight; it’s a rail-mounted flashlight for firearms. It has a tool-free knob that allows you to mount it quickly and effortlessly on any Picatinny rail system. It puts out 800 lumens, which is brighter than almost any other rail-mounted light on the market.
This premium priced light has a tough, anodized aluminum body that will stand up to anything you put your gun through. While the battery life is relatively short — only an hour and 45 minutes — that’s more than long enough for any realistic application you’ll need it for.
Pros
- Mounts on a Picatinny rail
- Tool-free installation
- Anodized aluminum body
Cons
- Not ideal for handheld use
- Pricey
If you’re looking for a bright tactical light for your gun, look no further.
5. SureFire G2X
SureFire G2X
$75.01 in stock
1 used from $69.99
Free shipping
Features
- Virtually indestructible LED emitter regulated to maximize light output and runtimex
- Single high output level of 600 lumens for maximum light
- Tactical tailcap click switch—partially press for momentary-on; push further until it clicks for constant-on
- Precision micro-textured reflector creates smooth, optimized beam
- Tough Nitrolon body, anodized aluminum bezel, Tough polycarbonate window resists impact
The SureFire G2X is a shock resistant flashlight for mounting on firearms.
Key Features
- 600 lumens
- Takes 2 CR123A batteries
- 2 ½-hour battery life
The SureFire G2X has a single, 600-lumen setting. The 2 CR123A batteries last for about 2 ½ hours and maintain full brightness right up to the end. This flashlight has an anodized aluminum bezel to protect the LED, and a battery tube made from shock resistant Nitrolon.
The G2X is made to be mounted on a shotgun or rifle, so it’s geared more towards reliability and shock resistance than it is towards drop and crush resistance. You can use it as a handheld light as well, but that’s really a secondary application.
Pros
- Anodized aluminum bezel
- Shock resistant
- Designed for firearms
Cons
- Nitrolon body
This light is powerful and durable.
6. Fenix TK35UE
Fenix TK35UE V2.0 (TK35)
Free shipping
Features
- HIGH LUMEN FLASHLIGHT – Fenix TK35UE V2.0 has a 5000 lumen max output and over 437 yards throw.
- WIDE BATTERY COMPATIBILITY – Can operate on 2x or 1x rechargeable batteries.
- TRIPLE FUNCTION SWITCH – This flashlight can toggle among tactical mode, duty mode, and lockout mode to cover all lighting needs.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION – made of tough aluminum alloy and is IP68 waterproof and impact resistant. Can tolerate temperatures of -31 to 113 degrees F.
- PACKAGE CONTENTS – Fenix TK35UE v2.0 Flashlight, 2x Fenix ARB-L18, a LumenTac USB charger, Lanyard, Holster
The Fenix TK35UE is tough, bright, and won’t waste your batteries.
Key Features
- 3200 lumens
- Takes 2 custom rechargeable batteries (included)
- Up to 152 hours of battery life
The Fenix TK35UE has up to 152 hours of battery life on low lumen settings. Alternatively, you can crank it up to 3200 lumens, although you’ll only get 30 minutes of use on that setting. In addition to the 5 normal settings, it has a strobe and SOS mode for emergencies.
This light has a lockout switch, which prevents it from turning on if you accidentally bump the power button. It takes custom rechargeable batteries which are easy to use; thanks to the micro USB charger, you won’t even have to take them out of the flashlight.
Pros
- Durable
- 5 brightness settings
- Strobe and SOS settings
- Lockout switch prevents accidental activation
- Includes nylon holster
- Includes micro USB charger
Cons
- Expensive
This light is long-lasting and easy to charge.
7. PowerTac M5
Features
- 1,300 LUMEN OUTPUT : Equipped with a powerful CREE XM-L2 U3 LED, The highest brightness output up to 1300 lumens, extremely bright for outdoor activities or daily use.
- MAGNETIC RECHARGEABLE PORT: The Tactical Flashlight Comes with a USB magnetic charging cable, Without having to remove the battery you can charge the battery with the USB magnetic cable Conveniently by connecting the magnetic part to the charging port and the USB end to any USB power source.
- MULTIPLE LIGHT MODES: The M5 LED Flashlight has 6 different setting. A powerful High-beam, balanced Medium-beam, energy-saving Low-beam, high visibility Strobe, Turbo and Firefly.
- COMPACT & RELIABLE POWER FOR EDC : With a lightweight and compact size, this LED Bright flashlight fits comfortably in your pocket and suitable for many situations, such as tactical self defense, hunting, cycling, climbing, camping and outdoor activity, etc.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY: We offer Lifetime Product Replacement and maintenance Warranty for the LED Flashlight. Fast and easy to reach Customer Service to solve your problems within 24 hours.
The PowerTac M5’s magnetic charger makes it easy to charge at home or in your car.
Key Features
- 1300 lumens
- Takes a custom rechargeable battery (included)
- 25 hours of battery life
The PowerTac M5 has an anodized aluminum frame that’s thick and hard enough to stand up to a hammer blow. It weighs less than 5 ounces and fits in the palm of your hand. Even at this size, it puts out 1300 lumens on its highest setting and lasts for 2 ½ hours. On lower settings, the battery is good for up to 25 hours of use.
In addition to the 4 standard settings, the M5 has a strobe setting and an SOS mode. The battery is rechargeable and has a USB charger with a magnetic tip that won’t accidentally pop out. It also comes with a lifetime warranty on parts and workmanship.
Pros
- Durable
- 4 brightness settings
- Small and lightweight
- Strobe and SOS modes
- Includes a magnetic USB charger
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- A little pricey
This flashlight is bright, tough, and has a lifetime warranty.
8. SOLARAY
SOLARAY LED
Free shipping
Features
- ULTRA BRIGHT – These bright flashlights use a powerful LED chip and are 10 times brighter than old incandescent lights. The ZX-1 LED flashlight is a high powered 18650 flashlight and can easily illuminate an entire room or focus in on objects up to 1000 feet away.
- BUILT TO LAST – Professional grade yet lightweight and durable, the ZX-1 Flashlight is constructed from durable military grade aluminum. The ZX-1 is not just a small flashlight but an essential piece of equipment for an emergency car kit, outdoor gear, earthquake kit or for everyday travel.
- MULTI-FUNCTIONAL – The perfect everyday carry flashlight featuring an adjustable zoom focus lens for close up and long-distance lighting and offers 5 light modes (High|Medium|Low|Strobe|SOS). Powered by a rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion battery or AAA batteries (batteries not included)
- WATER RESISTANT & VIRTUALLY INDESTRUCTIBLE – Compact and rugged, this flashlight can withstand a 10-foot drop or being temporary submerged in water. Some people have even put it in a freezer and run it over with a truck and it will still work! Suitable for use in rain, snow, or emergency situations.
- EXCELLENT VALUE – Great price for (2) of our legendary Solaray Pro ZX-1 18650 flashlights. Keep one in your home tool kit and another in your car. Useful gifts for friends, family and coworkers. Ideal for use around the house, dog walking, hunting, camping or fishing. It is compact enough to fit in your pocket, backpack, or purse. Makes a Gift for Dad
The SOLARAY PRO ZX-1 is powerful, lightweight, and very inexpensive.
Key Features
- 1200 lumens
- Takes 2 AAA batteries
- 4 hours of battery life
The SOLARAY PRO ZX-1 is a small, palm-sized flashlight that puts out 1200 lumens at maximum power. At this setting, the 2 AAA batteries will run for 4 hours, although you’ll get significantly more battery life if you use one of the 4 lower power settings. The zoom setting is easy to use; simply pull on the front of the flashlight to zoom in, and collapse it for a wider beam.
This flashlight weighs only 7 ounces, and the anodized aluminum body is very tough. All of this comes at a low price, although there’s a downside. It gets hot after about 10 minutes of continuous use.
Pros
- 5 brightness settings
- Easy zoom
- Lightweight and durable
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Gets hot during use
This flashlight is a great value for the price.
9. EcoGear FX
EcoGear FX
Free shipping
Features
- COMPLETE FLASHLIGHT KIT – Includes a Professional Grade LED Tactical Flashlight + 2 Rechargeable Batteries + Rapid Battery Charger + FREE Mini LED Flashlight + Battery Storage Case
- ULTRA BRIGHT – Offering high lumens to easily illuminate an entire room with bright light that is up to 22 times brighter than old incandescent flashlights. A rechargeable flashlight that is powered by 2 rechargeable batteries which are removable.
- KEY FEATURES – Offering 5 different preset light modes (High, Medium, Low, Strobe, SOS). A useful zoom function delivers a wide-to-narrow light beam to focus in on objects up to 1000 feet away making it an excellent flash light for emergencies. The attached belt clip allows you to secure the flashlight to your work belt, utility belt or construction gear.
- DURABLE DESIGN – Constructed of durable aircraft-grade aluminum with a hardened anodized finish. This professional grade construction delivers a lightweight and durable flashlight that withstands the harsh outdoor conditions including rain and snow. A perfect emergency light that is a great addition to your emergency supplies, hurricane preparedness items and outdoor survival kits.
- MULTIPLE USES – More than just a durable flashlight for your tactical gear, the TK120X Flashlight is perfect for home use, dog walking, hunting, camping, security professionals, mechanics and for emergencies supplies. The feature rich options make it a perfect Great Christmas Gift, Gift for Men and a Perfect Gift for Dad.
The EcoGear TK120X is powerful, small, and comes with rechargeable batteries.
Key Features
- 1600 lumens
- Takes 2 rechargeable 18650 batteries (included)
- 7 hours of battery life
The EcoGear TK120X has 3 brightness settings and can be as bright as 1600 lumens. It comes with 2 rechargeable batteries and a convenient 120-volt charger. EcoGear includes a mini flashlight, which is also fairly powerful at 1000 lumens. The main flashlight has strobe and SOS modes in addition to the standard mode.
The entire package is very reasonably priced. Our only real complaint was the short, 7-hour battery life on the main light, although you won’t need to worry about buying new batteries.
Pros
- 3 brightness settings
- Strobe and SOS setting
- Comes with battery charger
- Comes with “free” mini flashlight
- Affordable
Cons
- Short battery life
This package deal is a great value.
10. Gracetop
Gracetop
Free shipping
Features
- ADJUSTABLE FOCUS: Intense Spotlight for long range observation can up to 600 feet, Circle Floodlight for large area illumination
- FIVE LIGHT MODES: High / Middle / Low / Strobe / SOS, With ON / OFF button, easy to operate
- SPECIAL POWER: The Super Bright Taclight is powerful enough to light up an entire room or zoom in on distant objects
- ADVANCED DESIGN: Skid-Proof design and Water Resistant design (Highest water-resistant level of IPX-6)
- POWERE SOURCE: 18650 Li-on Rechargeable Battery (Not Included) or AAA Battery (Not Included)
The Gracetop Tactical Flashlight is bright, small, and inexpensive.
Key Features
- 1000 lumens
- Takes 3 AAA batteries or 1 18650 battery
- 20 hours of battery life
The Gracetop Tactical Flashlight puts out 1000 lumens at its highest setting and has 2 lower settings to save on batteries. It also has a strobe and SOS setting for emergencies.
The anodized aluminum body is very tough, which is impressive considering that you could buy this flashlight by going through your sofa for loose change.
The Gracetop provides 20 hours of battery life on its medium setting and gives you a choice of batteries. You can either use an 18650 battery or use the included adapter to power it with 3 AAA batteries instead. The switch doesn’t ever fully disconnect the battery, though, so it drains power slowly even when it’s off.
Pros
- Anodized aluminum body
- 3 brightness settings
- Strobe and SOS settings
- Very inexpensive
Cons
- Battery drains slowly when light is off
This is the brightest cheap flashlight we’ve seen.
11. SAMLITE
SAMLITE
Free shipping
Features
- ZOOM IN & OUT: This zoomable flashlight can be zoomed in to create a wide floodlight or zoomed out to shine a long reach spotlight super far! The tactical flashlight is 6.1″ long zoomed out and 5.3″ zoomed in.
- FIVE LIGHT MODES: With 5 modes to choose from you can find the right light for any circumstance or situation. It features high (1200), medium (600), low (300), strobe flash (900) and SOS (900) lights with a luminance setting.
- COMPACT & CONVENIENT: Featuring a lightweight one hand design, at 113 grams (3 ounces), it is easy to hold, store or carry, and has a convenient wrist strap. It is an indoors and outdoors essential, and perfect for an emergency kit.
- WATERPROOF & SHOCKPROOF: Sleek and elegant aero-grade aluminum alloy design houses a waterproof rubber ring. It is shock-proof so you can rely on it to withstand drops and falls without breaking. Great for sports and high impact activities.
- LONG LASTING LED FLASHLIGHT: This 1200 true lumen Brightest LED flashlight runs on 3 AAA batteries (included) or an 18650 battery (not included) for up to 11 hours (depending on the setting). Enjoy quality performance with ultra-bright light for even the darkest of nights!
The SAMLITE High Powered LED Pocket Flashlight is bright and has long battery life.
Key Features
- 1200 lumens
- Takes 3 AAA batteries
- 11 hour battery life
The SAMLITE High Powered LED Pocket Flashlight puts out 1200 lumens at its highest brightness. It also has 2 lower brightness settings, as well as strobe and SOS modes. At its lowest setting, its 3 AAA batteries last for 11 hours.
This light has a tough, anodized aluminum body, and is very affordable. The only thing we didn’t like was the zoom function, since the front of the light is loose, and can move in and out unexpectedly.
Pros
- Durable
- 3 brightness settings
- Strobe and SOS modes
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Loose zoom function
This is a tough little flashlight that’s very affordable.
Bottom Line
From what we’ve seen, these are all excellent flashlights, and any one of them would make a good addition to your kit. But even the best tactical flashlights have their advantages and disadvantages. To make a good decision, you’ll need to decide which factors are most important to you.
Are you looking for the highest possible brightness? The most durable flashlight? The smallest tactical flashlight? Are you trying to get the best bang for your buck? Or are you trying to get the most possible battery life for a long backpacking trip?
Ultimately, there’s no single “best” flashlight. There’s just the one that works best for your purposes.
We hope our flashlight reviews have helped you find that perfect light. We certainly like to think we’ve chosen a wide enough variety for everybody, but even if you end up going another direction, we hope you became a more educated consumer.
Visit the OutdoorWorld Reviews homepage for more information and expert reviews of other tactical gear.
The Review
11 Best & Brightest Tactical Flashlights
Here are the ratings of the 11 brightest tactical flashlights on the market.
Review Breakdown
-
Streamlight 88040
-
GearLight
-
Streamlight 75458
-
Streamlight 69260
-
SureFire G2X
-
Fenix TK35UE V2.0
-
PowerTac M5
-
SOLARAY
-
EcoGear FX
-
Gracetop
-
SAMLITE
11 Best & Brightest Tactical Flashlights DEALS
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