5 Best 18350 Flashlights [Reviewed in 2024] Our Top Picks

Last Updated on November, 2024

I’m sure you already know that 18350 battery-powered flashlights are one of the best possible flashlights to own. But with many options to choose from, you may need clarification about which 18350 flashlight is the best. And if that’s what you want to find out from this article, then you are in the right place.

Of the many flashlights I’ve tested, the below-listed are the best 18350 flashlights available. The included buyer’s guide will help you choose a flashlight to suit your needs.

Editor’s Choice
Nitecore MT10C
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Overall Score

5.0

#2nd Best Choice
Imalent LD70
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

5.0

5.0

4.9

4.9

4.9

Overall Score

4.9

#3rd Best Choice
Thrunite T1
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

4.8

4.8

4.9

4.8

4.8

Overall Score

4.8

A List of The Best 18350 Flashlight Reviews

1. Nitecore MT10C 920 Lumen EDC Flashlight (Editor’s Choice)

After multiple lengthy testing and assessments to find the best out of the best, I decided to rank the Nitecore MT10C as the first best 18350 flashlight.

And if you read the rest of the review, I’m sure you will agree with my decision. So let’s get started!

No doubt you already know about the Nitecore brand and its industry reputation for delivering some of the best flashlights in the market.

So nothing you read here is gonna take you by surprise cause that’s the standard Nitecore maintains. And the Nitecore MT10C is no different.

I must mention the size of the Nitecore MT10C before I get into any functional details. The size alone is a major ‘worth it’ factor of these high performing 18350 EDC flashlights. 

Weighing at only 2.14 oz (excluding battery), this 18350 flashlight is 1 inch in diameter and is only 3.6 inches long. It just fits right into your palm. I know that’s pretty small for a high-performance flashlight, but that does not in any way compromise its function.

Getting down to the functional deets of the Nitecore MT10C 18350 flashlight, they are 920 lumens strong multitasking flashlights for tactical and EDC purposes. EXTREMELY BRIGHT & EXTREMELY HANDY!

This 18350 flashlight uses a CREE XM-L2 U2 LED bead as the light source to project the 920-lumen light over a beam distance of 190 meters delivering a maximum light intensity of 9000 cd.

This particular light source provides beam distance, intensity and power efficiency above the standard compared to similar products.

These 18350 flashlights also feature a LED bulb for the red light. The red light is handy in protecting night-adapted human vision and prevents interfering with wildlife, so it is suitable for use in various outdoor situations.

This multitasking 18350 flashlight features 5 brightness levels, a red light illumination, a red beacon and 3 concealed special modes

Powered by a single IMR 18350 Li-ion battery, the flashlight can run for 30 minutes straight, delivering 920-lumen light. Even at the lowest mode, these batteries deliver an excellent 120-hour long run time.

The Nitecore MT10C flashlight embodies the most advanced PCB technology to obtain optimal performance out of the IMR batteries.

These batteries have lower internal resistance, with less self-discharge and a larger working current. Lower internal resistance means there will be less restriction in delivering the needed power spikes of the flashlight. 

Featuring a robust aluminum body, an anti-roll design and a U-shaped tail cap for standing capability, these flashlights are crafted to suit all weather and terrain operations. The flashlight is rated at IPX8 in waterproofing, so it can be submerged in water up to a 2-meter depth.

The flashlight operation is straightforward and seamless, using the tactical forward click switch and side switches. 

The versatile lighting modes make this 18350 flashlight ideal for everyday carry and various outdoor use. Do I dare say my decision to rank the Nitecore MT10C as the best of best 18350 flashlights was justified?

Key Features:

  • Versatile lighting modes- 5 Brightness levels: Turbo, High, Mid, Low, Ultra Low; Red illumination: Red Light and Red Beacon; 3 Special Mode: Strobe, SOS and Location Beacon
  • Maximum light outputon Turbo mode- 920 lumens
  • Maximum beam distance- 190 meters
  • Compatible with a single IMR 18350 Li-ion battery that gives excellent run times on all modes
  • Waterproof rating- IPX8
  • Impact resistance- 1 meter
  • Anti-roll design to prevent losing it when used in various terrains

Pros

  • Super bright light
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Versatile modes
  • Effortless operation
  • Reasonably priced

Cons

  • Pocket clip location could be improved for more convenient use

2. Imalent LD70 4000 Lumen EDC Flashlight (#2nd Best Choice)

The Imalent LD70 holds the title of the highest-lumen small flashlight available, and here’s why.

Imalent LD70, the second-best 18350 flashlights, uses a CREE XHP70.2 LED bulb to produce a 4000-lumen super strong light throwing the beam over a maximum distance of 203 meters.

Running on a high capacity of 1100 mAh 18350 rechargeable cells, the Imalent LD70 can deliver up to 15 hours of maximum run time on the lowest output.

Using the included magnetic charger, you can charge the battery pretty fast.

These 18350 flashlights are just over 3 inches long with a diameter of only 1 inch. Weighing only 87g, this flashlight is almost the size of a roll of quarters, making it the highest-lumen small flashlight available.

Some pretty incredible technology is packed into this thumb-sized flashlight to deliver a whopping turbo burst of 4000-lumen output. 

These mini 18350 flashlights feature 5 brightness levels with outputs ranging from 4000 lumens in turbo mode to 20 lumens in low mode. It also includes a strobe mode for signaling and self-defense purposes.

This mini EDC flashlight has a built-in thermal control module that automatically adjusts brightness to maintain a workable temperature. At the same time, the OLED display shows the different status of the flashlight.

Featuring an aerospace aluminum body construction, these flashlights are rated at IPX8 in waterproofing and 1.5 meters at impact resistance. The build quality and performance make it an excellent choice for various outdoor uses like hiking, camping, fishing, etc.

Key Features:

  • Strobe mode and 5 brightness levels: Turbo, High, Middle, Middle Low and Low 
  • Maximum light output- 4000 lumens
  • Maximum beam distance- 203 meters
  • Built-in thermal control module to maintain the working temperature
  • Waterproof rating- IPX8
  • Impact resistance- 1.5 meters

Pros

  • Super high output
  • Magnetic charging 
  • Memory function
  • OLED display
  • Has both even and flood optics
  • Safety lock-out feature

Cons

  • The highest output lasts only a minute, then downshifts
  • The battery is built-in, so non-replaceable

3. Thrunite T1 Flashlight (#3rd Best Choice)

The Thrunite T1 is an ultra-bright flashlight that can produce a 1500-lumen strong output at the highest brightness and throw it over a max distance of 102 meters.

A CREE XHP50 LED bulb source is used to achieve this efficiency. 

This 18350 flashlight features 5 lighting modes, including a strobe mode, offering versatility. 

Weighing 1.6 oz, the Thrunite T1 18350 flashlights are only 2.7 inches long.

Made of solid aluminum alloy, they can resist impacts up to a 1-meter distance and water intrusions up to an IPX8 rating.

These 18350 flashlights utilize a built-in 1100 mAh Thrunite 18350. On the firefly mode delivering a 0.5 lumen light, these flashlights can last 12 long days. And with the built-in low voltage indicator, you will always know when to charge your flashlight.

The Thrunite T1 is equipped with a magnetic tail cap to facilitate hands-free use.

Key Features:

  • Strobe and 4 Brightness levels: Turbo, Infinity High, Infinity Low and Firefly
  • Maximum light output- 1500 lumens
  • Maximum beam throw- 102 meters
  • Lock-out function to prevent any misoperation
  • Impact resistance- 1.5 meters
  • Waterproof rating- IPX8

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Versatile modes
  • Long runtimes on all brightness levels
  • Both neutral and cool white options are available
  • Ramping UI

Cons

  • Lasts only 3 minutes on the 1500 lumen output, then downshifts
  • No focus adjustment

4. Astrolux® WP4 LEP Flashlight

The Astrolux WP4 LEP flashlight is a long-throw EDC 18350 flashlight.

It can throw the flashlight’s highest light output, 310 lumens, at a long range of 1303 meters utilizing an OSRAM CTI LEP light source.

Featuring two lighting levels and a strobe mode, using the 18350 battery, the flashlight can run for 78 minutes at the high 310-lumen output.

These flashlights are integrated with a constant current driver to regulate the current output.

And the temperature control protection feature will protect the flashlight from high temperatures by reducing the brightness level.

When used on the 18350 replaceable tube, this flashlight is highly compact, measuring only a 99 mm length and a 32 mm diameter at the head.

Made of hard anodized aluminum alloy, these 18350 flashlights can withstand impacts from a 2-meter distance above the ground and water intrusions at an IPX6 level.

Key Features:

  • Strobe mode and 2 Brightness settings: High and Low
  • Maximum output– 310 lumens
  • Maximum beam distance– 1303 meters
  • Impact resistance– 2 meters
  • Waterproofing rate- IPX6

Pros

  • Long runtimes
  • Super long throw
  • Nicely designed and well built

Cons

  • The light beam has a green tint
  • No memory function

5. Speras M4 18350 EDC Flashlight

The Speras M4 18350 flashlights are only 3.07 inches long with a head diameter of 1.59 inches. But the strength of the light and the throw is excellent for a small and compact flashlight like this.

This mini pocket thrower can produce a 1320-lumen light at the turbo mode, throwing it over a distance of 652 meters.

These 18350 flashlights employ an advanced high-performance LED to feature 7 lighting modes facilitating versatile use.

When powered using the 18350 battery on the eco mode (0.5 lumens), the battery can hold up a long run time of 220 hours.

Charging of the 18350 battery is supported through the USB-C cable requiring only 2- hours for a full charge. Also, the flashlight clearly indicates the remaining power to help you keep track of the charging needs.

Crafted using aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, this 18350 flashlight can resist impacts from a distance of 1.5 meters and water intrusions at IP68 level.

Key Features:

  • 5 Brightness levels: Turbo, High, Medium, Low and Eco; 2 signal modes: SOS and Strobe
  • Maximum light output- 1320 lumens
  • Maximum beam throw- 652 meters
  • The Lock function prevents the activation of false triggers
  • Impact resistance- 1.5 meters
  • Waterproof rating- IP68

Pros

  • High-quality build
  • A long throw range
  • Interactive UI
  • Fast USB-C charging

Cons

  • Has a greenish tint to the beam
  • No pocket clip included

What are 18350 Batteries?

a human holding 18350 Battery

18350 batteries are powerful and efficient rechargeable cells that use advanced lithium-ion chemistry as their composition. These batteries are commonly used in high-drain devices like flashlights, cameras, and medical and security systems.

As rechargeable cells, these lithium 18350 batteries can go through hundreds of charging and discharging cycles throughout their lifespan. The number of cycles depends on storage/drain temperature, charging/discharging current, general battery quality, and the quality of the 18350 battery charger.

Note: To ensure maximum efficiency, 18350 batteries should always be recharged only using battery chargers intended for 18350 lithium batteries.

Features & Specifications of a Standard 18350 Battery

  • Dimensions (D x H)- 18 x 35 mm (0.708 x 1.378 inches)
  • Nominal voltage- 3.6 to 3.7 volts
  • Capacity- 600 to 1400 mAh
  • Standard discharge current- between 2 and 10+ Amps
  • Maximum burst current- 15 or more Amps

Types of 18350 Batteries

18350 batteries can be classified as follows based on the cell chemistry;

  • IMR 18350– Has a composition chemistry of LiMn2O4 (Lithium Manganese Oxide), a nominal voltage of 3.6-3.7 V per cell, and the maximum recommended charging voltage is 4.2 V. This type usually holds a smaller capacity but can deliver very strong currents.
  • INR 18350– Has a composition chemistry of LiNiMnCoO2 (Lithium Manganese Nickel Cobalt Oxide), very similar to the IMR version. Capable of providing strong currents with a slightly lower capacity.
  • IFR 18350– Has a composition chemistry of LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate), a nominal voltage of ~3.2 V per cell and the maximum recommended charging voltage is 3.5-3.6 V. These types are the safest types. Still, they do require a built-in BMS (battery management system) to operate safely.
  • ICR 18350– Feature a LiCoO2 (Lithium Cobalt Oxide) composition chemistry, a nominal voltage of 3.6-3.7 V, and the maximum recommended charging voltage of 4.2 V. These types usually have a high capacity, but the maximum allowed current is limited.

A Buyer’s Guide to Choose the Best Flashlight

flashlights on the table

To choose the best flashlight, it is important to pay attention to some of the flashlight’s specifications to determine the level of its overall functionality. Below are some specs that will help you choose a flashlight based on your intended purpose.

Light Output & Beam Throw

The light output, which is measured in lumens, tells you how strong the flashlight beam can shine. Higher the lumen count, the brighter the light.

The lumen counts in flashlights typically vary from 1- 4000 lumens. Different lumen counts are suitable for different purposes. Although a higher lumen count means bright light, you don’t necessarily have to choose the highest lumen count. 

The beam throw is the distance traveled by the flashlight beam. Longer the beam range, the farther the illumination pathway. 

Pick a suitable maximum light output and beam throw distance based on the purpose you see yourself often using the flashlight for.

Multiple Lighting Modes

It’s always good to have a selection of lighting levels to toggle between the modes based on the lighting requirements. 

For example, if you are taking a night stroll or camping, you may need a very bright light. Still, at the same time, if you need the flashlight for some work within the house, a moderately bright light will get the job done.

But a flashlight that gives you this flexibility between different brightness levels means you can use it for various purposes. 

Battery Capacity & Run Times

Although this review is about 18350 flashlights, meaning the above-listed flashlights utilize the 18350 batteries, the run times vary based on the capacity and type of 18350 the flashlight is compatible with. 

Constant use on high output can drain the battery life pretty fast. It is worth considering if a flashlight can deliver an acceptable run time on the highest output.

To preserve battery life as long as possible, some flashlights have ultra-low, eco or moonlight modes that give out a 0.5-1 lumen output. 

For example, a flashlight that is excellent at runtimes is the Nitecore MT10C which can run for 30 minutes on turbo mode and for 120 hours on ultra-low mode. 

a human using a flashlight at night

Portability

Whether you want to take your flashlight on your travels or use it around the house, the flashlight shouldn’t take up much storage space. To ensure easy and convenient portability, choose a flashlight that has a reasonable size and weight.

Besides, when we have options where super technology is built into small pieces of tech like the Nitecore MT10C, why even choose a bulkier model.

Durability

The durability of a flashlight matters for you to be able to rely on it. Even if it is reasonably priced, no one would want a flashlight that can easily break when mistakenly dropped. 

Check the factors that contribute to the durability of a flashlight, like the build quality, waterproofing ability and impact resistance. 

Build quality is important no matter what you intend to use it for. The build quality gives the flashlight its shock-absorbing properties allowing a bit of rough use. This comes in handy if you intend to use your flashlight outdoors very often.

Similarly, you can go for a higher waterproof-rated flashlight if you expect to use the flashlight in damp areas or around water. 

Here we’ve reviewed the best flashlights currently on the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best 18350 batteries for flashlights are Keeppower 1200 mAh IMR 18350 and Vapecell 1100 mAh INR 18350 cells, provided that the flashlight is able to handle their capacity.

18350 batteries can typically last up to 20 minutes of highest light output on average, though the run time may vary depending on battery type and capacity.

Summary

If you are on this page, that means you already know that 18350 battery-powered flashlights are one of the best options available in the market. Be it for tactical purposes or as an EDC, you can always rely on a 18350 flashlight. 

As far as my recommendation goes, I rank the Nitecore MT10C as the best 18350 flashlight from the above-listed options. It offers you versatile light settings, great run times, extremely portable, durable and much more.

No matter what your choice is, I hope the above reviews and buying guide will help you choose a flashlight to your liking.

OUR #1 RECOMMENDATION
Nitecore MT10C
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Overall Score

5.0

visa, master, amex, paypal
Pros
Super bright light
Compact and lightweight
Versatile modes
Effortless operation
Reasonably priced
Get the BEST PRICE until the end of November
Cons
Pocket clip location could be improved for more convenient use

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Author
Dillon Morrison
I have been involved in the flashlight community since 2007. My brother has a flashlight shop from where I have tested and reviewed more than 600+ different types of flashlights. You can find more about me here.

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