Choosing Between Rechargeable and Battery Operated Flashlights

Flashlights play a crucial role in our everyday lives, but their benefits are even more enhanced in both tactical and survival situations. There is no debate on if one should own a flashlight, but you may ask yourself which type of flashlight is the best? The answer to this question comes down to overall needs and situational use. In this blog post, we will help in this journey by providing the pros and cons of both a rechargeable and a battery operated light. 

Understanding Rechargeable Flashlights

Advantages

Rechargeable flashlights have several advantages compared to it's rival. The first is the cost effectiveness of utilizing a rechargeable light. The cost to initially purchase such light may be higher, but over time not having to spend on replacement batteries, save in the long run. In addition, rechargeable lights become an environmental friendly option too. By eliminating the need to replace batteries, users also eliminate the need to dispose of waste. Another major advantage is in a survival or bugout situation, the ability to recharge will make travel much lighter. Mainly because there is no need to pack batteries which can be heavy. 

Types

There are typically two type of ways to charge your rechargeable flashlight. The first does not require any removal of batteries and has a built in USB port to the light itself that recharges. The next, can require the removal of the battery itself and either plugging into a USB port or hooking to a battery pack. Both ways are very effective and do not require much time to get back to 100%. A favorite rechargeable light that we offer is the Torchy 2K by NEBO. This compact light has 2,000 lumens and is equipped with a clip that allows it to be worn on caps to convert into a head lamp of sorts. 

Considerations

When choosing your rechargeable flashlight there are some things to consider in your decision. The charging option is important because of the methods. Some rechargeable lights strictly rely on solar charge, which is ideal for the outdoors. Much like our Rechargeable Spotlight and Lantern and our Solar/Wind Up Flashlight with Radio. Lights that require USB port charging can also be great for the outdoors when pairing with a solar charger. Rechargeable lights that require an outlet for the batteries to sit in it's pack would not prove valuable in a situation where electricity is scarce.

Another factor to consider is the battery life and runtime. Users want to make sure that their flashlight is going to last them beyond a few uses. Most companies will include an info sheet, so it is transparent how long the lights will last in each mode. Lastly, consider durability and waterproof ratings. If utilizing outside, some sort of water proofing should be included in the event of utilization in the rain. A high impact resistance is also a perk if the light is dropped. 

Exploring Battery Operated Flashlights

Advantages

If leaning towards a battery operated flashlight, there are also a few advantages users enjoy. The most obvious is the instant availability to replace batteries and get the light back up and running. By quickly swapping out depleted batteries, you can ensure little to no down time when the flashlight goes out. Another advantage is the wide range of battery types, many at home use lights utilize a common battery that is kept in stock. Both AA and AAA are still heavily used for remotes, toys and other items. So, having replacement batteries on hand is not as big of a burden when the light goes out.

Types

Traditional alkaline battery flashlights use standard alkaline batteries, which are widely available and easy to replace. This type of light is what was utilized by the military for years with their GI Type D-Cell Flashlight and Mini Army Style Flashlights. These lights are also unique because the come equipped with several multi color discs that can be placed over the beam to change the color the light. Other battery operated lights may use a high performance lithium-ion battery which results in longer run time and higher performance, but typically are not sold everywhere. 

Considerations

When considering a battery operated light, users should keep in mind battery life and runtime, cost and compatibility. Evaluate the light's battery life and runtime to ensure it has a desired life and runtime. This information will go hand and hand with the cost affiliated with replacing your batteries. Lights that drain batteries quickly or that require an expensive battery might add up very quickly. Lastly, some lights may offer both the ability of standard batteries, rechargeable batteries and solar charge. This gives users the best of both worlds and allows for a backup plant to easily be executed. 

Conclusion

When it comes down to which is better for you, the decision is ultimately yours. When considering circumstances, frequency of use and places, the decision should be easy. In a world of technology and with USB ports nearly everywhere, the rechargeable light is the most convenient option where you do not have to worry about having batteries on hand. However, if you do go to use your flashlight and discover that it is dead, having batteries quickly replace it and giving your light life is convenient. 

In our opinion, having both styles is the most ideal. When it comes to home, have rechargeable lights and monitor them to ensure they are charged, but should the electricity go out, having a battery light on hand is a great idea. When it comes to your bugout bag, utilizing a solar charger with a rechargeable light is ultimately the most effective way to go about it. Regardless of which type of light you choose, make sure you are well informed on the run time and durability and order all of your flashlights and survival needs from Gear Up Surplus!