Flashlight

The 10 Best Handheld Spotlights of 2021

Photo: PowerSmith

The handheld spotlight is one of the most versatile and powerful flashlights that you can get. This device is unbeatable when it comes to brightness and beam distance.

It is an excellent choice for those looking for a light for hunting, camping, or other outdoor activities where a good light source is important.

Moreover, the handle of this device is large and very ergonomic. Unlike a regular flashlight, you can comfortably hold the handheld spotlight for an extended period without experiencing hand fatigue.

Without any further ado, let’s check our handheld spotlight review below and see which model you need to get.

10 Best Handheld Spotlights – Review

IMAGE

PRODUCT

FEATURES

1. DeWalt DCL043 (Best Overall)

  • Excellent build construction
  • Good brightness of 1,000 lumens
  • Equipped with a red light for hunting
  • The head can be adjusted 90 degrees
VIEW ON AMAZON

2. Streamlight 44900 (Best Runtime Spotlight)

  • Long runtime of 82 hours
  • Excellent beam distance of 625 meters
  • Portable and lightweight at 0.88 lbs
  • The lens scatters light evenly
VIEW ON AMAZON

3. Ustellar Novostella (Best Multifunction Spotlight)

  • Contains both a side and front light
  • Fully waterproof with an IPX-4 rating
  • Good overall brightness
VIEW ON AMAZON

4. Csndice US-0809 (Extremely Bright)

  • Superior brightness of 9,000 lumens
  • Excellent beam distance of 700 to 900 meters
  • Long runtime of 24 hours
VIEW ON AMAZON

5. Stanley SL3WAKS (Most Lightweight)

  • Extremely lightweight at 0.65 lbs
  • Small and compact
  • Large and ergonomic handle
VIEW ON AMAZON

6. Stanley LEDLIS (Bright & Clear Light)

  • High brightness of 2000 Lumens
  • The light does not cause eye fatigue
  • Runs quite efficiently without overheating
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7. PowerSmith PSL10700W (Fully Waterproof)

  • It can be used underwater
  • Durable and long-lasting build construction
  • It comes with 3 light modes
VIEW ON AMAZON

8. Stanley SL5W09 (Easy to Use by Beginners)

  • Easy and straightforward to use
  • 3 light settings
  • Made from impact-resistant polymer
VIEW ON AMAZON

9. Brinkmann FBA_9507440 (Flexible)

  • Decent brightness of 1,100 lumens
  • Outputs a wide-angle beam
  • Tempered glass lens
VIEW ON AMAZON

10. Cyclops CYC-X500H (Simple & Easy to Use)

  • Easy to use
  • Come with a red lens
  • The handle has an always-on lock
VIEW ON AMAZON

PRODUCT

1. DeWalt DCL043

(Best Overall)

  • Excellent build construction
  • Good brightness of 1,000 lumens
  • Equipped with a red light for hunting
  • The head can be adjusted 90 degrees
VIEW ON AMAZON

2. Streamlight 44900

(Best Runtime Spotlight)

  • Long runtime of 82 hours
  • Excellent beam distance of 625 meters
  • Portable and lightweight at 0.88 lbs
  • The lens scatters light evenly
VIEW ON AMAZON

3. Ustellar Novostella

(Best Multifunction Spotlight)

  • Contains both a side and front light
  • Fully waterproof with an IPX-4 rating
  • Good overall brightness
VIEW ON AMAZON

4. Csndice US-0809

(Extremely Bright)

  • Superior brightness of 9,000 lumens
  • Excellent beam distance of 700 to 900 meters
  • Long runtime of 24 hours
VIEW ON AMAZON

5. Stanley SL3WAKS

(Most Lightweight)

  • Extremely lightweight at 0.65 lbs
  • Small and compact
  • Large and ergonomic handle
VIEW ON AMAZON

6. Stanley LEDLIS

(Bright & Clear Light)

  • High brightness of 2000 Lumens
  • The light does not cause eye fatigue
  • Runs quite efficiently without overheating
VIEW ON AMAZON

7. PowerSmith PSL10700W

(Fully Waterproof)

  • It can be used underwater
  • Durable and long-lasting build construction
  • It comes with 3 light modes
VIEW ON AMAZON

8. Stanley SL5W09

(Easy to Use by Beginners)

  • Easy and straightforward to use
  • 3 light settings
  • Made from impact-resistant polymer
VIEW ON AMAZON

9. Brinkmann FBA_9507440

(Flexible)

  • Decent brightness of 1,100 lumens
  • Outputs a wide-angle beam
  • Tempered glass lens
VIEW ON AMAZON

10. Cyclops CYC-X500H

(Simple & Easy to Use)

  • Easy to use
  • Come with a red lens
  • The handle has an always-on lock
VIEW ON AMAZON

1. DeWalt DCL043 – Best Overall Handheld Spotlight

Photo: DeWalt

  • Brightness: 1,000 lumens
  • Runtime: 4 – 13.5 hours
  • Beam Distance: 465 meters
  • Weight: 1 lb

The DeWalt DCL043 is primarily the best overall handheld spotlight in this review. This model has an excellent build construction, 3 quality LED chips that output 1000 lumens, a red light for night vision, and its pivotable head.

Clearly, this model is built to last and extremely durable. You can use it as a heavy-duty spotlight without the risk of it breaking as it even has an over-molded lens cover.

The 3 powerful LED lights can output a maximum of 1,000 lumens. Not the brightest model but still more than enough for most uses.

You will also appreciate that this model has a red LED light so that you can easily see in the dark. Excellent for those who want to use this spotlight for hunting at night. In addition, the beam distance of 465 meters is adequate for a wide range of uses.

What we also like about this unit is that it has a head that can easily be pivoted up to 90 degrees. This makes it versatile and easy to use.

All in all, the DeWalt DCL043 is certainly one of the best handheld spotlights for the money.

The only issue with it is that the price could have been more competitive. It also contains 2 light settings, one high beam, and red light. There is no low light mode in this model.

Pros:

  • Superior build construction
  • Decent brightness of 1,000 lumens
  • Red LED light for night vision
  • 90 degrees pivot head

Cons:

  • There is no low light mode
  • The price could have been better
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2. Streamlight 44900 – Best Runtime Handheld Spotlight

Photo: Streamlight

  • Brightness: 550 lumens
  • Runtime: 10 – 82 hours
  • Beam Distance: 178 - 625 meters
  • Weight: 0.88 lb

When it comes to runtime, the Streamlight 44900 is unbeatable. This model has an impressive runtime of 10 hours on its highest setting and 82 hours on the lowest.

So, this model is the best handheld spotlight for those looking for long hours of usage.

Furthermore, in its highest setting, it can output 550 lumens of light. Considering the small size of this spotlight, this is decent, although not the brightest out there.

Also, it weighs only 0.88 lb, so it is lightweight and highly maneuverable. It will not cause hand fatigue even with extended use.

We also like its beam distance of 625 meters. This unit is equipped with a parabolic reflector dish that scatters the light in an optimal manner, even as long distances. You will be able to see your target clearly.

The only caveats are the lens, which easily gets scratched. You need to be careful with it. Also, with its maximum brightness of 550 lumens, this unit is certainly not the most powerful handheld spotlight out there.

Pros:

  • Long runtime of 82 hours
  • Decent beam distance of 625 meters
  • Lightweight at 0.88 lb
  • The parabolic reflector dish scatters the light evenly

Cons:

  • Not the brightest model
  • The lens gets scratched easily
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3. Ustellar Novostella – Best Multifunction Handheld Spotlight

Photo: Novostella

  • Brightness: 1,000 lumens
  • Runtime: 2.5 – 5 hours
  • Beam Distance: 350 – 700 meters

The Ustellar Novostella is a unique and multifunction handheld spotlight. This model contains a regular beam projector at the front as well as a side searchlight. You can use it in a wide range of situations, from hunting to camping.

Best, it is also IPX-4 waterproof for outdoor usage. It is equipped with a powerful 4,000 mAh that is easy to recharge. Of course, you get all accessories like USB cables and a charger for recharging this battery easily.

When it comes to the front beam, you can quickly and easily change between the 2 different modes.

There is a high mode that outputs a powerful 1,000 lumens brightness to 700 meters. This unit can also output 500 lumens of light up to 350 meters on its low setting.

The only downside with the Ustellar Novostella is its relatively low runtime of 2.5 hours to 5 hours.

But despite all this, it is still one of the best rechargeable handheld spotlights that you can get, especially considering that it is waterproof and multifunction.

Pros:

  • Multifunction. Equipped with front and sidelights
  • IPX-4 rated. Waterproof and can be used outdoors
  • Bright and powerful handheld spotlight

Cons:

  • Low runtime of 2.5 to 5 hours
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4. Csndice US-0809 – Extremely Bright Handheld Spotlight

Photo: Csndice

  • Brightness: 9,000 lumens
  • Runtime: 8 – 24 hours
  • Beam Distance: 700 – 900 meters
  • Weight: 1.1 lbs

The Csndice US-0809 is a superior handheld spotlight when it comes to brightness. In fact, this model has a powerful LED that emits 9,000 lumens. It is the brightest handheld spotlight that you will find in this review.

But it doesn’t stop at the brightness. Indeed, it also has an impressive beam distance of 700 to 900 meters, depending on the brightness setting that you choose. This will allow it to shine very long distances with great ease.

Moreover, switching between the different light settings is very easy and can be done with the push of a button. The button is located right on the handle itself.

What we also like is its long runtime of 24 hours on its lowest setting. Not to mention the fact that this handheld spotlight is also fully waterproof so you can safely use it outdoors.

The only issues are that the plastic build construction is not the most robust we have seen. It has a cheap feeling to it. Additionally, the top handle is not coated with a soft rubber material for comfort and lacks ergonomics. This model is not suited for extended use.

Pros:

  • Superior brightness of 9,000 lumens
  • Long beam distance of 700 - 900 meters
  • Long runtime of 8 - 24 hours
  • It is waterproof

Cons:

  • It has a cheap plastic feel
  • The handle is not very ergonomic
Check Price on Amazon

5. Stanley SL3WAKS – Most Lightweight Handheld Spotlight

Photo: Stanley

  • Brightness: 400 lumens
  • Runtime: 13 hours
  • Weight: 0.65 lb

The Stanley SL3WAKS is the best handheld spotlight when it comes to weight. In fact, this model weighs only 0.65 lbs, which makes it extremely lightweight and highly maneuverable.

It will not cause hand fatigue even when used for an extended period. Added to the fact that it is equipped with an ergonomic handle that promotes comfort. This handle is coated with a soft rubber material that is also anti-slip. Therefore, even if it gets wet, you will still enjoy a full grip.

Additionally, it’s small and compact, so you can easily store it. Best, due to its small size, it can easily fit in a jacket pocket as well. We also like its runtime of 13 hours, even if its brightness of 400 lumens is not the best we have seen.

All in all, the Stanley SL3WAKS not the most powerful model out there, but one of the best handheld LED spotlight when it comes to portability and comfort.

Pros:

  • Very lightweight at 0.65 lbs
  • Ergonomic and comfortable handle
  • Small and compact. Easy to store

Cons:

  • The brightness is only 400 lumens
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6. Stanley LEDLIS – Bright and Clear Light

Photo: Stanley

  • Brightness: 2,000 lumens
  • Runtime: 1 – 7 hours
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs

The Stanley LEDLIS is a versatile handheld spotlight that is equipped with a single LED chip. However, this LED is very efficient and can output an impressive 2,000 lumens of brightness. Surprisingly, the light remains clear and comfortable to the eyes.

This model can run continuously for 7 hours, and it runs quite efficiently without overheating. Additionally, the handle is soft and comfortable, so no problem holding this spotlight even after extended use.

We also like the bright yellow color that makes it highly visible at night. There are 2 light modes of this model, a motor that can output 700 lumens for 7 hours and another 2,000 lumens for 1 hour. You get a lot of versatility there.

All those factors make this model one of the best cordless handheld spotlights on the market. The only problem with it is its weight of 1.5 lbs, which is a bit heavy, especially for those planning to use it for long periods.

Pros:

  • High brightness of 2,000 lumens
  • The light does not cause eye fatigue
  • Soft and comfortable handle

Cons:

  • A bit heavy at 1.5 lbs
Check Price on Amazon

7. PowerSmith PSL10700W – Fully Waterproof

Photo: PowerSmith

  • Brightness: 700 lumens
  • Runtime: 1.5 hours
  • Beam Distance: 500 meters
  • Weight: 2.38 lbs

What demarks the PowerSmith PSL10700W from the rest of the competition is its build construction that makes it waterproof. Indeed, you can submerge this handheld spotlight up to 12 feet underwater with ease.

Under the hood, we find a bright 10W LED that produces 700 lumens of light. This is more than enough to clearly illuminate your surroundings. And in case you need a long beam, then don’t worry because this model has a decent beam distance of 500 meters.

Best, you can also use it for heavy-duty purposes because it has excellent build construction. It will last a long time, even with heavy usage. Also, it is equipped with 3 modes. One emergency mode, and a high and low beam setting.

The only issue with this model is its relatively weak runtime of 1.5 hours. Clearly, this model is not the best cordless handheld spotlight for extended use. However, for casual use outdoors or in the water, this model is an excellent choice.

Pros:

  • Fully waterproof
  • Decent build construction. Durable and long-lasting
  • Comes with 3 light beam modes

Cons:

  • The runtime is only 1.5 hours on high brightness
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8. Stanley SL5W09 – Easy to Use by Beginners

Photo: Stanley

  • Brightness: 1,000 lumens
  • Runtime: 10 hours

If you have never used a handheld spotlight before, then the Stanley SL5W09 is one of the best rechargeable handheld spotlights for you. Indeed, this model is extremely easy to use by absolute beginners.

It comes with 3 brightness settings, and you can quickly and easily change with the 3-position trigger button. If you want a brighter light, push harder on the trigger button.

Moreover, it has an excellent build construction from an impact resistant Polymer that makes it durable and long-lasting. The handle also is quite ergonomic and comfortable.

We also like the fact that this small spotlight has a decent brightness of 1,000 lumens. Considering its ease-of-use, we have no problem recommending this model as one of the best handheld spotlights on the market for beginners.

However, the only issue with it is that it can get quite hot, especially with extended use. We recommend you take a break every now and then to allow this spotlight to cooldown.

Pros:

  • Very easy to use by beginners
  • It contains 3 brightness settings
  • Comfortable and ergonomic handle
  • Excellent built construction from an impact resistant Polymer

Cons:

  • It can get hot with extended use
Check Price on Amazon

9. Brinkmann FBA_9507440 – Flexible Handheld Spotlight

Photo: Brinkmann

  • Brightness: 1,100 lumens
  • Runtime: 20 minutes
  • Beam Distance: 420 meters
  • Weight: 6 lbs

The Brinkmann FBA_9507440 is one of the most flexible and versatile models because you can use it almost anywhere, from automotive to camping and anything in between.

It may only output 1,100 lumens of brightness, but it is still one of the brightest handheld spotlights that you will find in this review.

We also appreciate the fact that the lens is made from tempered glass. This prevents it from getting scratched, which will allow it to output a clean light for longer periods. Additionally, the lens itself is quite large and produces a clean and comfortable light.

It will clearly illuminate any area, large or small, with ease. The beam distance is also quite decent at 420 meters. Sure, it is not the best cordless handheld spotlight when it comes to beam distance, but for most people, it is more than enough.

Also, there is a locking mechanism on the handle, so you don’t have to constantly press on the power switch to get a light.

The only problems are its price, which is quite expensive when compared to others. Also, it weighs 6 lbs, so it is significantly heavier than the competition.

However, if you need a flexible handheld spotlight that outputs a clean light, then this model is an excellent choice.

Pros:

  • Decent brightness of 1,100 lumens
  • Outputs a wide-angle beam
  • Tempered glass lens to prevent scratching
  • Equipped with a locking trigger

Cons:

  • It is expensive
  • Heavy at 6 lbs
Check Price on Amazon

10. Cyclops CYC-X500H – Simple and Easy to Use

Photo: Cyclops

  • Brightness: 500 lumens
  • Runtime: 3 – 12 hours
  • Weight: 2.24 lbs

The Cyclops CYC-X500H is a handheld spotlight that concentrates on ease-of-use. It is easy to activate and that the handle is quite large and comfortable regardless of hand size.

Additionally, it has a decent brightness of 500 lumens. This is not the brightest handheld spotlight that you will find in this review but is still good enough, especially for general-purpose and casual use.

It comes with 2 light settings, a high and low. You can quickly change between the 2 settings with the push of a button. But best, it also has an Always-On lock, so you don’t have to keep pressing on the power switch to keep the light going. Pretty neat!

What we also like about this spotlight is that it comes with a detachable red lens. You can use this red lens for hunting as it will not scare away your prey. This feature alone makes it quite versatile when compared to other models.

The only caveat is its lack of durability. Indeed, this model is not suited for heavy-duty use.

Pros:

  • Simple and easy to use
  • You get a detachable red lens for hunting
  • Always-on lock button

Cons:

  • Not very durable
Check Price on Amazon

How to Buy the Best Handheld Spotlight

Photo: Stanley

1. Battery & Charging

The best portable spotlights on the market right now have a lithium-ion battery. With this type of battery, you can freely carry the spotlight anywhere, and you don’t have to limit your movements with a cord.

They are also extremely heavy-duty, as this type of battery offers better performance and durability.

Moreover, any battery-operated spotlights need to come with a charger out of the box. Ensure that the manufacturer clearly states the amount of time the battery needs charging.

The charger also needs to be equipped with safety functions like automatic power-off, over-heat, and over-voltage protection.

These will prevent damage from happening to both the charger and the spotlight.

2. Brightness Settings

The brightness of the handheld spotlight is measured in lumens. The greater the lumens, the brighter the spotlight will be.

For casual use, any handheld spotlight that can deliver a brightness of at least 500 lumens is more than enough.

However, there are still very bright models like the Csndice US-0809 that can deliver an impressive 9,000 lumens.

And for best flexibility, ensure that your handheld spotlight has different brightness settings that you can easily switch to.

This has the added benefit of not only making the spotlight more versatile to use but also help to save battery power in case you use the low light setting more often.

3. Runtime

The runtime of the handheld spotlight varies from model to model. It depends on many factors, from the bulb to the general efficiency of the device.

In most cases, a quality model should offer you at least 1 hour of runtime.

However, if you need to use your handheld spotlight for long periods, then you might want to consider models like the Streamlight 44900 . This model offers an impressive 82 hours of runtime on its lowest setting.

4. Beam Distance

One of the biggest advantages of the handheld spotlight is its ability to flash a light at very long distances. In fact, some models can effectively shine 900 meters or more.

So, if you need to see objects in the dark at long distances, it is best to go with a model that has a long beam distance.

However, keep in mind that spotlights that can shine longer distances usually cost more because they are more powerful.

5. Waterproof

In case you are planning to use your handheld spotlight outdoors, then you need to ensure that it is fully waterproof in order to prevent damage.

A fully waterproof handheld spotlight like the PowerSmith PSL10700W will contain special seals to prevent humidity and water from entering the device.

6. Durability

You don’t want your handheld spotlight to break easily. Therefore, ensure that you get a unit that is built with durability in mind.

Many top-rated handheld spotlights are made from quality materials like polycarbonate that provide the device with a long lifetime.

The outer shell of the spotlight needs to be at least made from a tough ABS plastic.

But for maximum durability, go with a model made from aircraft-grade aluminum. This material will not corrode and offer you a very long lifetime.

7. Portability

One of the things that make the handheld spotlight such a flexible device is its portability. Indeed, you want a spotlight that is highly maneuverable and lightweight.

We recommend that you go with a model that has a weight of around 1 lb for maximum portability. At this weight, your spotlight will not cause hand fatigue even with extended use.

8. Ergonomic Handle

An ergonomic handle is very important with this device. After all, the handle is where your hand interacts with the spotlight, so it needs to be as comfortable as possible.

Ensure that the handle has an ergonomic form factor and made for soft and comfortable material.

Conclusion

Some of the best things about the handheld spotlight are its ease of use, long beam distance, and high brightness. Regardless of the type of outdoor activity you perform, you need to invest in a quality handheld spotlight.

If this is your first time purchasing this tool, you cannot go wrong with the DeWalt DCL043 . It has an excellent build construction and has a decent brightness.

And if you’re looking for a model with a long runtime and don’t want to recharge frequently, then go with the Streamlight 44900 . It is by far the best handheld spotlight when it comes to runtime.

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