9 Best 21700 Flashlights [2024 Updated Reviews]

Last Updated on November, 2024

Whether you are looking for an everyday carry flashlight or a tactical flashlight, one of the main deterrents is the battery type. 21700 flashlights are the name given to flashlights that use 21700 batteries. Most flash-o-holics prefer one over the other based on their personal battery preference.

There are many incredible 21700 flashlights, which is why it’s essential to filter out the best ones and dig into their specifications. Here’s a rundown of the best 21700 flashlights.

Editor’s Choice
Acebeam L19 2.0
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

5.0

Overall Score

5.0

#2nd Best Choice
Olight Warrior X 3
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

4.9

4.9

4.9

5.0

4.9

Overall Score

4.9

#3rd Best Choice
Thrunite T2
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

4.8

4.8

4.9

4.8

4.8

Overall Score

4.8

9 of the Best 21700 Flashlights

We’ve done the legwork for you by summarizing and reviewing the best 9 “21700 flashlights.”

1. Acebeam L19 2.0 Flashlight (Editor’s Choice)

Acebeam is one of the flashlight market leaders, with a presence in 89 countries over the last 12 years. Acebeam L19 2.0 is an easy-to-carry powerhouse.

It has a maximum output of 2200 Lumens that can reach up to 3500 ft (0.6 miles/1km) 

The extended range visibility comes in handy when hunting or fishing at night.

If you are a hardcore outdoorsman, this will be the best flashlight to get your hands on.

The L19 2.0 is not too heavy for a tactical flashlight; it weighs only 284.3g/10.03 oz, including batteries, and the length is 6.44 inches. This flashlight fits perfectly in the Harries technique icepick grip when engaged in outdoor activities. 

It is IP68 waterproof and is submersible up to 5 meters underwater. The L19 2.0 is built so strongly that its head’s spike bezel can also be used as an emergency glass breaker. Its internal cooling system and premium built quality make the flashlight durable.

You’ll be getting a 5-year warranty on repair or replacement. Most flashlights come with 5 or fewer modes. But L19 2.0 comes with 6 different brightness modes, plus the strobe mode. That is a “WOW’ effect for this flashlight. It can run up to 62 days in moonlight mode

Key Features:

  • Light source: SFT40 HI white LED
  • Max. lumens and beam throw: 2200 lm, 3500 ft (0.6miles/1Km)
  • Charging: USB charging cable
  • Runtime: Up to 62 days
  • Waterproof: IP68 Waterproof
  • Modes: 6 (Moonlight, low, Mid 1, Mid 2, high, turbo), strobe
  • Size: weight 284.3g / 10.03 oz (including battery), length: 6.44 inch)

Pros

  • Built for hardcore/outdoor use
  • Higher lumen count for max brightness
  • Longer beam range
  • Strobe mode availability
  • User interface suitable for outdoor use
  • Emergency glass breaker/ self-defense

Cons

  • Slower charging (5 hours for a full charge)

2. Olight Warrior X 3 Tactical Flashlight (#2nd Best Choice)

The Olight Warrior X 3 is a handy-to-carry tactical flashlight produced by the innovative flashlight company “Olight.” Warrior X 3 light is reliable, well-made, and robust. 

The anodizing has a nice, thick feel and the ideal level of smoothness. It has a maximum output of 2500 Lumens which can reach up to 1837 feet (560 meters/0.3 miles) 

The high output and design are suitable for outdoor use, and Olight has provided some unique features that will make your outdoor activities much easier and more convenient.

Warrior X 3 weighs only 255g/8.99oz, including the battery, and the length is 5.89in/149.5mm. This flashlight comes with a unique steel warrior ring that provides a comfortable and secure grip in any situation or condition. 

The ring has a striking tip that can also be used as a self-defense tool. Warrior X 3 is IPX8 waterproof and dust-proof, which means it’s submersible for up to 1.5 meters underwater for 30 minutes. 

It has a glass-breaking strike bezel; the three zirconium beads embedded in the front bezel instantly shatter glass in an emergency. The Warrior X 3 is a must-have addition to your outdoor kit because it is practical, has prominent safety features, and comes with a 05-year warranty. 

Even though the Warrior X 3 has 2500 lumens, it only has two brightness modes: low and high, which is mainly a disadvantage but can be an advantage if you always need high brightness quickly. This flashlight can run for up to 08 hours in its low mode. 

Key Features:

  • Light source: High-Performance Cool White LED (6500K)
  • Max. Lumens and beam throw: 2500 lm, 1837 feet (560 meters/0.3 miles)
  • Battery: Customized 5000mAh 21700 Lithium-ion battery
  • Charging method and time: MCC3 USB magnetic charging, 4 hrs
  • Runtime: High mode (2.5+129+13 minutes), low mode 8 hrs
  • Waterproof: IPX8 (up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes)
  • Modes: 2 (Low, high)
  • Size: weight 255g / 8.99oz (Including the battery), length: 5.89in/149.5mm
  • Other features: Optional dual-button magnetic remote switch for mounting on a long-distance setup, indicator light and vibration every 30 secs after 10% battery 

Pros

  • Outdoor specialist
  • Higher lumen count for max brightness
  • USB magnetic charging
  • One button operation
  • Optional remote switch
  • Emergency glass breaker/ self-defense
  • Low battery vibration indicator

Cons

  • 2 modes only
  • No strobe or SOS mode

3. Thrunite T2 (#3rd Best Choice)

Guiding you “Through the night,” that’s the motto of the company “thrunite,” which has been producing flashlights since 2009. Thrunite T2 gives you the luxury of 3757 lumens

That’s a lot of light produced by a flashlight which only weighs 132.7 g/4.68oz and length only to be 4.4 inches/112mm. 

T2 is a beast when it comes to performance. For such a small flashlight, it produces enough light in 5 different modes including a strobe mode.

It has a very floody beam, reaching up to 524 feet (158 meters). The maximum runtime is 77 hours in low mode.

T2 is IPX8 waterproof and dust-proof, which means it’s submersible for up to 1.5 meters underwater for 30 minutes. 

This beast has five modes you can access with a single button, and this is truly a portable lifesaver. It’s a must-have if you want higher brightness but prefers to carry a miniature flashlight. The Thrunite company provides a 2-year replacement warranty.

Key Features:

  • Light source: Cree XHP70.2 (NW) Cool White LED
  • Max. Lumen and beam throw: 3757 lm, 524 feet (160 meters)
  • Battery: Thrunite-branded 5000 mAh 21700 Lithium-ion battery
  • Charging method and time: USB C charging,3 hrs
  • Runtime: Turbo mode: (2m/216m), low mode 77 hrs
  • Waterproof: IPX8
  • Modes: 5 (Firefly, low, medium, high, turbo), strobe
  • Size: weight (132.7 g/4.68oz including the battery), length: 4.4 inches/112mm

Pros

  • Smaller in size for high brightness
  • One-button operation for 5 modes
  • Strobe mode availability
  • Extremely reliable output
  • Lanyard availability 

Cons

  • Customized cell / proprietary cel
  • Only 2 years warranty 

4. Fenix HT30R

Fenix is a brand known for producing a wide range of quality lights for different purposes.

The Fenix HT30R stands out from the rest of the 21700 flashlights because it has LEP light projection. This flashlight can produce a maximum of 500 lumens.

LEP is an abbreviation for Laser Excited Phosphor and uses a white laser as its light source.

LEP flashlights have a very tight hotspot, intensely bright output in the center of the beam, no-spill, and a long throw. 

Even though the HT30R produces 500 lumens, the beam can discover up to 4921 ft (1500m/0.9 miles). The HT30R is very comfortable to hold and operate, but the length is too long to be the best EDC 21700 flashlight. 

The length is 7.05 inches (179 mm), and the weight is 264 g (9.31 oz.). The main reason for the longer length is that it is not LED but rather LEP, which is much longer to accommodate advanced optoelectronics. There are two modes and a strobe mode. The maximum runtime is 7.5 hours. 

The HT30R links with a pocket clip to attach it, but this flashlight could be better in everyday carry and is helpful to focus a narrow light beam when hunting or spotting something in the dark. 

The tail has two buttons; the tactical switch is to perform momentary on, and upon releasing it, the light turns off. This LEP flashlight has a waterproof rating of IPX8 and a warranty of 5 years from the date of purchase for free repairs, and their customer service is superb.

Key Features:

  • Light source: LEP 10W high-performance white Class 1 laser modules
  • Max. Lumens and beam throw: 500 lm, 4921 ft (1500m/0.9 miles)
  • Battery: Fenix ARB-L21-5000 V2 5000mAh 21700 li-ion battery
  • Charging method and time: USB C charging, 3 hrs
  • Runtime: High mode (2hr20m), low mode (7hr15m)
  • Waterproof: IPX8
  • Modes: 2 (Low, high), strobe
  • Size: weight (264 g / 9.31 oz. including the battery), length 7.05 inches (179 mm)

Learn more about Fenix HT30R here.

Pros

  • Long beam distance
  • White laser light
  • Strobe mode availability
  • Tactical and functional switches
  • Clippable and lanyard availability 

Cons

  • Bigger in size for only 500 lumens
  • Not suitable as EDC 

5. Nitecore P20iX

P20iX is produced by the award-winning flashlight company “Nitecore,” which is known for excellent quality and aesthetic flashlights.

You can enjoy 4000 lumens if you own a P20iX, which has a maximum reach of 725 feet (221 meters). 

This is ideal for security, law enforcement, assault operations, military personnel, or self-defense.

The Nitecore P20iX is significantly light for such a powerful tactical flashlight; it weighs only 116g/4.09 oz, including batteries, and the length is 5.57 inches.

The P20iX is a compact and lightweight beast, but that doesn’t stop it from shattering through glass with its steel bezel that has silicon nitride ceramic inlays. And that’s something most flashlights don’t allow, on top of breaking glasses, the flashlight has a waterproof rating of IP68. 

The Nitecore P20iX stands out from the rest with its 6 modes plus the strobe mode and two switches; a tactical tail switch and a strobe-ready button. Just imagine a strobe mode with 4000 lumens. The low mode can run up to 350 hours

Not to forget, you’ll be getting a 3-year warranty on repair or replacement.

Key Features:

  • Light source: 4 x CREE XP-L2 V6 LEDs
  • Max. Lumens and beam throw: 4000 lm, 725 feet (221 meters)
  • Battery: Nitecore 21700 i Series Lithium battery
  • Charging method and time: USB C charging, 4 hrs
  • Runtime: Turbo mode (30m), ultra-low mode (350hr)
  • Waterproof: IP68 (up to 5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes)
  • Modes: 6 (Ultra-low, low, mid, high, higher, turbo), strobe
  • Other features: Tactical tail switch, strobe ready mode button
  • Size: weight 116g / 4.09 oz (including the battery), length: 5.57 inches 

Pros

  • Aesthetic built and stable in the hand
  • Excellent brightness
  • 2 switches (tail switch included) 
  • 6 modes availability
  • Double press to activate strobe mode
  • Provides light for 350 hr per full charge

Cons

  • No side clip or lanyard 

6. Convoy S21E

Convoy is known for its simplicity. Their S21E fits perfectly in your palm, ensuring you can concentrate on your work without worrying about it falling off or feeling uncomfortable. 

The compact S21E can generate a maximum of 2400 lumens of power that can reach up to 583 feet (178 meters) and operates in 4 modes and a strobe mode. 

The S21E can be used as an EDC flashlight as it is compact with a weight of 98g (3.4 oz) and a length of 4.5 inches.

This buddy flashlight will help you get through your everyday lighting needs and won’t take up much of your space. 

It is waterproof up to IPX4 and can run for 36 hours in the lowest mode. Convoy is so simple that it does not offer a warranty. What it gives you instead is the strobe mode. But the S21E would be an excellent value for your money. 

Key Features:

  • Light source: Nichia 519A (4000K) LED SST40 / SFT40
  • Max. Lumens and beam throw: 1300 lm, 738 feet (225 meters)
  • Battery: 21700 lithium battery flat-head without protection board 
  • Charging method and time: USB C charging, 3 hrs
  • Runtime: Mode 1 (36 hrs), mode 4 (1hrs 53m/6hrs 11m) 
  • Waterproof: IPX4 
  • Modes: 5 (Moonlight, mode 1, mode 2, mode 3, mode 4), strobe
  • Size: weight (98g / 3.4 oz including the battery), length: 4.5 inches

Pros

  • Compact design
  • Excellent brightness and reach
  • Strobe availability
  • Perfect EDC flashlight

Cons

  • No warranty
  • No tail switch 

7. Lumintop X1L

The ever-growing flashlight brand with a standing rabbit under a flashlight beam produces the X1L.

It can produce a maximum of 750-lumen power in turbo mode, reaching about 2385 feet (727m/0.4 miles).

The beam performance is perfect for using the X1L as an everyday carry flashlight. 

The finish is built pretty well, with great anodization. The weight is 182.4 g / 6.44 oz with the battery, and the height is 4.61 inches (117 mm).

The X1L is pretty compact and comes with a removable clip. The X1L’s grip could be better for such a compact flashlight. 

The only grip you get is from the clip. The distance from the body to the head is much narrower, so this is not the best if you have buttery fingers or giant hands. It has a waterproof rating of IPX8 and the maximum runtime is 470 hours in eco mode.

Within 30 days of purchase, you get the option of free repair or replacement for factory defects and a 5 years customer warranty. Lumintop will repair the product free of charge if problems develop with regular use.

Key Features:

  • Light source:  Osram CULNM1.TG_CN
  • Max. Lumens and beam throw: 750 lm, 2385 feet (727m/0.4 miles)
  • Battery: 21700 lithium battery flat-top (Batteries/cell is not included)
  • Charging method and time: USB charging (USB cable or charger not included), 3 hrs
  • Runtime: Eco (470h), turbo (15s+1.5h)
  • Waterproof: IPX8 (up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes)
  • Modes: 5 (Eco/moonlight, low, medium, high, turbo)
  • Size: weight 182.4 g / 6.44 oz (including the battery), length: 4.61 inches (117 mm)

Pros

  • Portability
  • Excellent beam reach as an EDC
  • Tail switch 
  • Deal with 5 modes 

Cons

  • Charger and batteries not included
  • The grip is lesser
  • Turbo mode lasts only 15 seconds

8. Nitecore MH25S

Yet again, the MH25S is another top-quality 21700 flashlight produced by the prestigious flashlight tycoon “Nitecore.”

The MH25S is the brightest long-throw tactical flashlight that is small enough to carry in your pocket without even feeling it. 

It throws a maximum of 1800 lumens for 1653 feet (503m). 

The Mh25S gives you two operating modes, daily mode, and tactical mode, and you have the luxury of enjoying 5 flashing modes plus the strobe mode, SOS mode, and beacon mode.

The maximum runtime is 53 hours in ultra-low mode. 

With the battery, this all-arounder weighs only 204 g (7.2 oz) and measures 6.1 inches (155 mm) long. You’ll be getting a 3-year repair warranty. The MH25S can handle any weather condition on earth thanks to its advanced temperature regulation and IP68 waterproof rating. 

The MH25S is an interesting and loyal companion, whether you use it for work-related duties, on patrol, or hiking and exploring. 

Key Features:

  • Light source: SST-40-W LED
  • Max. Lumens and beam throw: 1800 lm, 1653 feet (603m)
  • Battery: 21700 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
  • Charging method and time: USB C charging, 4 hrs
  • Runtime: Low (53h+20m), turbo (20m, 2h, 2h 18m)
  • Waterproof: IP68 (up to 5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes)
  • Modes: 5 (Ultra-low, low, medium, high, turbo), strobe, SOS and beacon mode
  • Size: weight 204 g / 7.2 oz (including the battery), length: 6.1 inches (155 mm) 

Pros

  • Allrounder
  • 2 switches; daily mode & tactical mode
  • Excellent runtimes 
  • Great overall performance 

Cons

  • Could have improved runtimes 

9. Cyansky K3

Cyansky is regarded as one of the best-quality hunting light brands on the market. They position their flashlights to be the best option for a hunter.

The Cyansky K3 has a maximum of 1600 lumen power and a very floody beam that can reach up to 1968 feet (600m). 

However, the K3 can be used for law enforcement, military operations, and self-defense and will support any other outdoor activities.

It has 4 light modes and a strobe mode. The maximum runtime is about 100 hours in low mode.

The Cyansky K3 tactical flashlight comes with a stiff zirconia bezel, which helps you easily handle close combat and break windows in emergencies. It weighs about 206.8 grams / 7.29 oz. and is 5.94 inches (15.1 cm) long and rich in body details. 

This flashlight gives you an attachable clip, and the K3 can handle challenging conditions and guarantees an IPX8 waterproof rating. You’ll be getting a 5-year repair warranty.

Key Features:

  • Light source: LUMINUS SFT-40-W LED Long-range focused light
  • Max. Lumens and beam throw: 1600 lm, 1968 feet (600m)
  • Battery: 21700 5000mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery
  • Charging: USB C charging, 3 hrs
  • Runtime: Low (100h), turbo (2m+2h)
  • Waterproof: IPX8 (up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes)
  • Modes: 4 (Low, medium, high, turbo), strobe
  • Size: weight 206.8 grams / 7.29 oz (including the battery), length: 5.94 inches (15.1 cm)

Pros

  • Excellent built for a tactical flashlight
  • Zirconium breaking spikes
  • Simple user interface
  • Superb grip and tail button

Cons

  • No direct access to strobe or turbo

What is a 21700 Flashlight?

Flashlights may be referred to by different names depending on the type of batteries used. Some may choose one for its disposable batteries, others for its mAh, and yet another for its 21700 battery.

However, one of the top three factors a flashlight buyer will consider when purchasing is the battery. The 21700 battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery commonly used in flashlights. It gets its name from its dimensions, which are 21mm in diameter and 70mm in length. 

The mAh (milliampere-hour) range of these batteries is exceptionally high, ranging from 3000 to 5000. A flashlight with a higher mAh capacity will last longer and produce higher output.

Things to Consider Before Buying a 21700 Flashlight

a flashlight in the case

Lumen Count

Lumen levels in various 21700 flashlights on the market can range from 20 to 15,000 lumens. If you only need an EDC light, a flashlight with 2000 lumens is a waste of money. It’s best not to buy a flashlight only based on its lumen levels.

Runtimes

Your flashlight should be your companion when it’s needed. The light should last until you safely conclude the activity you are engaged in. An average EDC flashlight must last at least 6 hours or more, anything below that? Stay away.

Batteries; 21700 Batteries vs Other Batteries

21700 flashlights cannot use AA batteries; they are rechargeable. 21700 flashlight batteries produce the same amount of power as larger batteries, such as the 26650 batteries, but 21700 batteries are less bulky.

Furthermore, the 21700 battery produces a higher output and can keep it running longer than an AA battery.

Durability and Reliability

What’s the purpose if everything is perfect but the flashlight is not reliable? The 21700 flashlight you are buying needs to be impact resistant and waterproof. The body material and the build design is important as well. The body material needs to be corrosion proof and the reflector to be unbreakable.

FAQs

The IMALENT MS18 is the world’s brightest 21700 flashlight, with 100,000 lumens, which is enough to light up a football field.

Yes, 21700 flashlights can be used as self-defense lights, as long as they range from 500 to 1200 lumens and have cool-white light.

The number of flashing modes needed in a 21700 flashlight depends on the intended use. For everyday carry (EDC) purposes, one mode is sufficient, but two or more are preferable for outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts 

It’s impossible to say which is the better 21700 flashlight for you, as each differs from another. That’s why it’s best to analyze these flashlights thoroughly and choose one that aligns with your expectations. 

But the Acebeam L19 2.0 is the best overall 21700 flashlight that you can buy without having to compare them. It will get your needs met, whether you’re looking for tactical or EDC purposes.

Anyway, these are ranked based on our analysis and preferences; feel free to pick and rate as you see fit.

OUR #1 RECOMMENDATION
Acebeam L19 2.0
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
Built for hardcore/outdoor use
Higher lumen count for max brightness
Longer beam range
Strobe mode availability
User interface suitable for outdoor use
Emergency glass breaker/ self-defense
Get the BEST PRICE until the end of November
Cons
Slower charging (5 hours for a full charge)

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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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