8 Best Flashlights for Power Outage [Lights for Blackouts]

Last Updated on February, 2025

Whether you’re faced with a pesky blown fuse or a storm-induced power outage, a good flashlight will be your number one best friend (forget Mike, he can’t compete with a good flashlight!)

But given how many flashlights there are on the market, how exactly will you be able to find the best possible replacement for Mike?

Many things make a flashlight perfect for a power outage and you need to consider them all. Good thing for you; I’ll be covering all of this and more in this article!

Stick around to discover the eight best flashlights for power outage situations, PLUS what features you need to look out for in such a flashlight.

Editor’s Choice
Fenix E20 V2
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

5.0

4.9

4.9

5.0

5.0

Overall Score

5.0

#2nd Best Choice
Acebeam E70 Mini
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.9

Overall Score

4.9

#3rd Best Choice
Nitecore MH12 V2
Brightness
Beam distance
Runtime
Durability
Price

4.8

4.8

4.9

4.8

4.8

Overall Score

4.8

The Top Flashlights for Power Outages

1. Fenix E20 V2 (Editor’s Choice)

Coming in at No.1 on our list as the best light to use during a power outage is the Fenix E20 V2. 

The Fenix E20 lights are compact, thin and lightweight flashlights that are just 5” long and 0.68” in diameter at their heads.  

These lights weigh 1.5 oz (42g) without batteries, which means they are super portable!

It uses regular AA batteries and is operated by a single tail switch, which is just as convenient as it sounds. 

If you want a rechargeable option, these lights also accommodate the Ni-MH AA rechargeable battery cells, which you can use instead of AA batteries.

There are four lighting modes, including an eco mode that emits just 5 lumens, which is perfect for when you want to extend runtime as much as possible during a power outage that looks like it’ll stretch on for eternity. Eco mode has a beam throw of 49ft.

The other available modes are the low mode (30 lumens and a beam throw of 115ft), medium mode (150 lumens and a beam distance of 249ft ) and the high mode (350 lumens and a beam throw of 413ft). 

The maximum light output is 350 lumens from a Luminus SST20 LED module, which makes the Fenix E20 V2 ideal for use as an emergency flashlight when a power outage occurs because this amount of light will not be disorienting in a dark room.

Additionally, the Fenix E20 V2 is made of 6061-T6 aerospace grade aluminum and has an IP68 rated water-resistance, making it great for both outdoor and indoor use.

So, all in all, you’re getting the best light money can buy! 

Key Features of the Fenix E20 V2

  • Four lighting modes available.
  • Weight- 1.5 oz (42g) without batteries.
  • Power source- AA batteries or Ni-MH AA rechargeable cells.
  • Maximum light output- 350 lumens.
  • Maximum beam throw- 413ft (126m).
  • IP68 rated water-resistance.

Pros

  • Compact and portable.
  • Durable as it is made of good quality materials and has water resistance.
  • Has a range of light modes.
  • A light output that does not disorient you in complete darkness.
  • Accommodates both rechargeable battery cells and simple AA batteries.

Cons

There are honestly no complaints or drawbacks regarding this light, which is why it’s the number one best light on our list.

This is probably the best choice of flashlight you could make. In fact, I dare you to find something wrong with the Fenix E20 V2.0. Trust me; you’ll have a hard time doing so!


2. Acebeam E70 Mini High-CRI (2nd Best Choice)

As its name implies, the Acebeam E70 Mini is the smaller version of its much larger brother, the E70.

These lights are powered by 18650 lithium-ion rechargeable cells that have a battery life of 56 hours in ultra low mode. 

It’s compact and lightweight like most other lights on this list and can easily fit into a pocket, bag, or glove box.

But, it is a bit larger and heavier than the Fenix E20 V2, for example. It has a head diameter of 1.02” (26mm), a body diameter of 0.92” (23.4mm), and a weight of 72g (2.53oz) without the battery.

The E70 mini uses three of the latest high CRI Nichia 519A LEDs to produce a maximum power of 2000 lumens, a max beam throw of 787 ft (153m),and a max runtime of56 hours.

It boasts six power modes plus a strobe mode, with the lowest mode having an output of 12 lumens, which is perfect for using less energy when a lengthy power outage occurs.

The E70 mini has an IP68-rated water-resistance and impact resistance of 1 meter. 

For safety purposes, the Acebeam E70 Mini has both a lockout mode and a double-click for switching on feature.

It’s also made of excellent quality, oxidation-resistant aero grade aluminum and has an HAIII hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish, and you all know what that means. It means the E70 mini has exceptional durability!

Key Features of the Acebeam E70 Mini

  • Six lighting modes available.
  • Power source- 18650 lithium-ion rechargeable cells.
  • Maximum light output- 2000 lumens.
  • Maximum beam throw- 787 ft (153m).
  • IP68 rated water-resistance.
  • Impact resistance of 1 meter.

Pros

  • Durable as it is waterproof and drop resistant.
  • Has a good design.
  • Has a range of light modes.
  • Accommodates a rechargeable battery.

Cons

  • Comparatively larger and heavier than the Fenix E20 V2.
  • You need to double-click to switch the light on, which can take some getting used to.

3. Nitecore MH12 V2 (3rd Best Choice)

The Nitecore MH12 V2 lights have a maximum power output of 1200 lumens and a beam throw of 220 yards at an intensity of 10,200 cd.

It has four lighting modes plus a strobe, beacon, AND SOS mode, which means the Nitecore MH12 V2 can come in clutch as an emergency flashlight. 

The lighting modes and their runtimes that the Nitecore MH12 V2 lights offer are as follows:

  • High light mode: 3 hours and 45 minutes
  • Mid light mode: 8 hours
  • Low light mode: 46 hours
  • Ultra Low light mode: 1500 hours
Nitecore MH12 v2

The Nitecore MH12 V2 lights work with all of the following power sources:

  • NITECORE NL2150
  • 21700 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
  • 18650 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
  • Primary Lithium Battery
  • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery

You can also tick water resistant and impact resistant off your lists because this light has got you covered on that aspect, with a water resistance rating of IP68 and an impact resistance of up to 1m.

The Nitecore MH12 V2 is a bit larger than the previous two flashlights, which isn’t a problem on its own but could pose an issue if you’re specifically looking for a compact light. 

For reference, this battery-powered light is 158mm long and has a head and tube diameter of 25.4mm and a tail diameter of 27.2mm. It weighs 84.5g.

The light is made of premium grade HA III aluminum and has a good build quality overall, which means- you guessed it! It’s a handy dandy durable light.

Key Features of the Nitecore MH12 V2

  • Four lighting modes available including strobe, beacon and SOS modes.
  • Power source- Multiple rechargeable cells listed above.
  • Maximum light output- 1200 lumens.
  • Maximum beam throw- 660ft (220 yards).
  • Maximum runtime- 1500 hours in ultra low power mode.
  • IP68 rated water-resistance.
  • Impact resistance of up to 1m.

Pros

  • Durable as it is made of premium grade materials, and is water- and impact-resistant.
  • Has a range of lighting modes.
  • Accommodates a rechargeable battery.
  • Excellent battery life.

Cons

  • There is no USB-C output.
  • UI is not very convenient as getting to a specific light mode requires cycling through all the other lighting modes.

4. Buysight Bright Rechargeable Searchlight

Another rechargeable battery number, this flashlight has a battery life of over 20 hours on a high brightness setting.

You should note, though, that this light is quite bulky and will nowhere near fit your pocket if that’s something important to you.

However, this light is easy to hold, has two brightness levels, and is water-resistant and impact resistant. 

It’s made out of impact-resistant ABS and rubber waterproof plug to accomplish the latter features, and since it’s IPX 6-rated waterproof, you can safely take it out in a storm.

Buysight Bright Rechargeable Searchlight

The Buysight Bright Rechargeable Searchlight has a max light output of 6000 lumens, and its light source is an LED light.

BUT the real reason why this light is on this list is because it can be used as a power source to charge your smart devices, which makes it ideal for emergency use during a power outage! 

Key Features of the Buysight Bright Rechargeable Searchlight

  • Two lighting modes.
  • Maximum light output- 6000 lumens.
  • Maximum battery life- over 20 hourson the highest power setting.
  • IPX 6-rated water-resistance.
  • Impact resistance.

Pros

  • Acts as an emergency power source.
  • Has two levels of brightness.
  • It is relatively inexpensive.
  • Water resistant and drop resistant.
  • Accommodates rechargeable batteries.

Cons

  • Bulky in size.

5. Nitecore T4K Flashlight

The Nitecore T4K light is a keychain EDC light with an insane amount of power.

Weighing just 2.72 oz (77.1g), this light of compact size boasts a maximum power output of 4000 lumens. And it’s about the size of your thumb!

But hold your horses ladies and gentlemen, we have a catch. The Nitecore T4K lights have a runtime of only 10 seconds when it comes to their turbo mode of 4000 lumens.

That means you’ll be left with just a quick burst of a high power light.

Nitecore T4K A

Nevertheless, these lights offer four other lighting modes to keep your place lit up in the midst of power outages in the night. These lighting modes are as follows:

  • High power mode- 200 lumens and a runtime of 2 hours and 45 minutes.
  • Mid power mode- 65 lumens and a runtime of 7 hours.
  • Low power mode- 15 lumens and a runtime of 21 hours.
  • Ultra Low power mode- 1 lumen power output and a runtime of 67 hours. 

With this device, you can enjoy a maximum beam throw of 684ft (208.4m), plus an IP rating of IP54 and impact resistance of up to 1m.

The Nitecore T4K lights run on built-in 1000mAh USB-C rechargeable batteries and can be recharged in under 1.5 hours.

Key Features of the Nitecore T4K Flashlight

  • Five lighting modes available.
  • Weight- 77.1g.
  • Power source- 1000mAh USB-C rechargeable battery.
  • Maximum light output- 4000 lumens for 10 second bursts.
  • Maximum battery life- 2 hours and 45 minutes on high power mode.
  • IP54 rated weather resistance.
  • Impact resistance of up to 1m.

Pros

  • Durable as it is weather and impact resistant.
  • Compact and convenient.
  • Has multiple power modes available.
  • Easy to use UI.

Cons

  • The runtime for the turbo power mode is 10 seconds.
  • Very pricey.

 6. Vulta Hurricane 620 LED Flashlight

The Vulta Hurricane 620 has an aluminum body with a Mil-Spec Type III hard-anodized finish, a stainless steel bezel, and a tempered glass lens for the safety of the light. 

These features help maximize this light’s durability, throw distance (154m), impact resistance, and scratch resistance. Additionally, the Hurricane 620 is IPX8-rated waterproof.

The light is battery-powered and runs on two CR123 or RCR123 batteries or one 18650 battery. The max battery life amounts to 50 hours on low mode, which can easily carry you through an extended power outage.

Vulta Hurricane 620 LED Flashlight

Its CREE XM-L2 LED light produces a maximum power output of 620 lumens and offers you four lighting modes, with the lowest mode offering an output of 20 lumens. 

You can also access strobe and SOS mode, making the Hurricane 620 LED flashlight a good emergency flashlight option.

You can check convenience off your list as well because the Hurricane 620 is operated using a simple side switch AND is just 4” long. Its small size will enable you to carry it around your house easily or keep it on you when you’re on the road.

Key Features of the Vulta Hurricane 620 LED Flashlight

  • Four lighting modes available.
  • Power source- Two CR123 or RCR123 batteries or one 18650 battery.
  • Maximum light output- 620 lumens.
  • Maximum battery life- 50 hours on the lowest lighting mode.
  • IPX8 rated water-proof.
  • Impact resistant.

Pros

  • Durable with impact, scratch, and water resistance.
  • Convenient to use and compact.
  • It accommodates batteries that can be recharged and have good battery life.
  • It offers different lighting modes.

Cons

  • Has a comparatively lower maximum power output of just 620 lumens.
  • Tend to get hot.

7. MagLite ST3D116 LED 3-Cell Flashlight

The Maglite ST3D116 LED 3-Cell Flashlight is made of aluminum and has weather-resistant sealing around its head, making this light impact resistant, corrosion resistant, and waterproof.

It uses MAG- LED lighting technology and is battery-powered with three D-cell power to provide you with the benefit of long-range illumination. 

Its beam throw measures 364 meters, and its runtime amounts to 79 hours, which is excellent for emergency use.

A great feature of this light is that you can twist its head to adjust from spot lighting to a flood beam, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use at night during a power outage.

MagLite ST3D116 3-Cell

The MagLite ST3D116 LED has a maximum light output of 131 lumens and an energy-efficient battery management system where the light output is automatically adjusted depending on the battery life you have left.

It’s also super convenient, with a push button design that enables easy on-off operation.

Key Features of the MagLite ST3D116 LED 3-Cell Flashlight

  • Light output is automatically adjusted as the battery drains.
  • Weight- 425.2g.
  • Power source- 3-D cell batteries.
  • Maximum light output- 131 lumens.
  • Maximum battery life- 79 hours.
  • IPX4 rated weather resistance.
  • Impact resistant.

Pros

  • Good durability with impact, corrosion and water resistance.
  • It has an energy efficient battery management system.
  • Convenient to use.
  • Can switch between spot lighting and a flood beam.

Cons

  • It has a low maximum light output of just 131 lumens.

8. Streamlight 74751 Strion LED Rechargeable Flashlight

The Streamlight 74751 Strion flashlight uses an LED light with a maximum power output of 615 lumens. 

This light measures 5.9 inches in length and 3 inches in width and height. This means it is pretty compact and convenient to carry around.

It has a battery life of about 1.25 hours in its highest power setting and about 4.5 hours in its lowest power setting.

When the battery power dies out, it is designed to be able to reach a fully charged state in just three hours. 

Streamlight 74751 Strion LED Rechargeable Flashlight

The batteries that go with this flashlight are 3 AAAA alkaline batteries, and the flashlight is made with a clamp-style charger holder that helps prevent overcharging the light.

The Streamlight 74751 Strion offers you a beam throw of 219 meters and is impact resistant as it uses C4 LED technology.

This device is highly durable, as it is made of an aluminum aircraft structure that makes it corrosion and water-resistant.

This light can stand some tough times because it also has a high-temperature glass lens in place for the safety of its LED light bulb.

It also comes with three power modes plus a strobe mode. The lowest mode produces a light output of 160 lumens.

Additionally, this light is straightforward to control as it is solely operated by a push-button tail switch that enables one-handed operation.

Key Feature of the Streamlight 74751 Strion LED Flashlight

  • Three lighting modes available.
  • Weight- 147.4g.
  • Power source- 3 AAAA alkaline batteries.
  • Maximum light output- 615 lumen.
  • Maximum battery life- 4.5 hours in the lowest lighting mode.
  • IPX4 rated weather resistance.
  • Impact resistance of up to 2m.

Pros

  • Durable as it is impact, corrosion, and water resistant.
  • Convenient to operate.
  • Compact and portable.
  • The battery recharges in a short period.
  • There are multiple power modes available.

Cons

  • The lowest lighting output of 160 lumens is not low enough to work as a moonlight mode.
  • Relatively low runtimes.
  • Very pricey.

What Should You Look for in a Flashlight to Use During a Power Outage?

a Candle in dark room

The question still stands- what features make a flashlight excellent to use during a power outage?

Let’s take a look at these features right now!

Adjustable Light Modes

Choose a flashlight with adjustable light modes that will enable you to either increase or decrease the brightness levels as required. 

Then, you don’t have to keep your light switched on at maximum brightness all the time; you can dim the light when necessary to conserve battery life. Saving battery life can save you from spending a ton on costly battery replacements AND keep you well equipped to deal with lengthy power outages.

Brightness

flashlight on the floor

To ensure that your room is fully lit up during a power outage, you need to purchase a light with an output of at least 250 lumens. 

If you need to use the light outdoors in the dark, it’s best to choose an 800-lumen flashlight.

Portability

When dealing with power outages, having a light source that you can carry around easily is always handy. 

Therefore, you should set your sights on compact flashlights to help in these emergency situations.

Durability

While good quality flashlights are more costly, they save you more money in the long run by being more durable. 

A light source intended for emergency situations needs to be able to handle A LOT. It must withstand shock impact AND be waterproof if you need to go out during a storm-induced power outage. 

More rugged flashlights made of military-grade material will serve you best.

Battery Life

a humn holding Fenix E35 V3.0 with a battery

If you live in an area with frequent power outages, you may want to opt for a rechargeable flashlight to avoid burning through batteries (and your money) at the speed of light.

You can recharge your light beforehand and keep replacement batteries on you if the battery juice runs out. 

However, a flashlight with 50-150 lumens can light up a room and last for 6-12 hours on its highest settings before needing to be recharged, so, likely, you won’t face many problems in that regard.

Bottomline

We can all agree that power outages suck, but a good flashlight can make it seem like you’re not even going through one.

If you live in an area prone to a lot of bad weather and power outages, it’s super important that you get yourself a flashlight to use in times of emergency.

We 100% recommend the Fenix E20 V2 the best light on our list- to be your flashlight of choice because of how thoroughly suitable it is to use during a power outage. It’s rechargeable, durable, easy to use and will not disorient you in the dark. 

What more could you possibly ask of a flashlight?

So, now that you know what flashlights are worth your money, make sure to treat yourself today!

FAQs

The best flashlights for a power outage are the Fenix E20 V2, the Acebeam E70 Mini High-CRI, and the Nitecore MH12 V2.

Yes, 1000 lumens is more than enough to provide adequate lighting from a flashlight, as the average flashlight has a maximum light output of 100 lumens. This amount of lumens will allow for very good visibility even from a far distance.

OUR #1 RECOMMENDATION
Fenix E20 V2
Brightness
Beam Distance
Runtime
Price

5.0

4.9

4.9

5.0

Overall Score

5.0

visa, master, amex, paypal
Pros
  • Compact and portable.
  • Durable as it is made of good quality materials and has water resistance.
  • Has a range of light modes.
  • A light output that does not disorient you in complete darkness.
  • Accommodates both rechargeable battery cells and simple AA batteries.
  • Get the BEST PRICE until the end of February
Cons
  • To be honest there are no cons

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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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