9 Best Survival Flashlights of 2021

The survival flashlight is a special type of flashlight that is used by people who usually brave the wilderness at night. Survivalists, campers, hunters, are amongst the main people who should always have a LED survival flashlight by their side.

What really separates this flashlight from others is its build construction and IPX-rating. Indeed, the survival flashlight was designed to be used outdoors.

It can withstand high levels of humidity and many models have reinforced and air-tight gaskets so they can be used in water.

If you happen to be looking for the best survival flashlight for the money, here are our impressions and review of models that are worthy of your consideration.

• Lumens: 1200 lumens
• Dimension: 5.9 x 2 x 2 inches
• Product Weight: 10.1 ounces
• Types of battery:18650

The Gearlight S1200 is one of the best deals in this review as it is one of the most durable survival flashlights on the market.

It has a strong aluminum body that is thick and durable. It doesn't add much to the overall weight of the tool, and at 10.1 ounces, it still remains portable despite being built like a tank.

But it does not stop here. This flashlight has a powerful 1200 lumens that are more than enough for anyone trying to find his way in the dark. The manufacturer says that it shines 12 times brighter than an incandescent light. This is a very efficient LED survival flashlight.

Moreover, what we like about this unit are the 5 light modes that add a lot of versatility to it. The SOS light-mode is an absolute must in a survival flashlight, and we're glad that the Gearlight S1200 has it.

Further, one of the best things about this model is its battery versatility. Indeed, this unit can accept both a heavy-duty 18650 battery as well as 3X AA batteries in case of an emergency.

• Dimension: 5.8 x 1.8 x 2.4 inches
• Product Weight: 6.21 ounces
• Types of battery: In-built Ni-MH

The Thorfire is an odd looking survival flashlight. This model does not carry the traditional battery present in a flashlight, but it has an inbuilt battery that is powered by a cranking system.

This does not provide a lot of light, but it is largely sufficient when you are in survival mode.

Additionally, the manufacturer claims that cranking this flashlight for one minute will generate enough light that will last at least one hour.

But one of the best features of this survival flashlight is definitely its water compatibility.

Indeed, it is fully waterproof for up to a depth of 13 meters. With this kind of stat, this flashlight is definitely one of the best survival flashlights when it comes to water.

The only caveat with have with this model is its plastic build construction. While it is still fairly durable it is significantly less resistant than a model made from an aluminum alloy.

However, it is all not that bad as it still remains a highly portable survival flashlight that has a lot to offer.

If you are planning to go fishing and require a good source of light then this is a very good model to consider.

• Dimension: 5.5 x 1.6 x 2.8 inches
• Product Weight: 3.05 ounces
• Types of battery: In-built Ni-MH

The PrimalCamp uses a very similar cranking system to the Thorfire above. Except that it is much more affordable and has a couple extra features for the money.

Basically, by cranking this flashlight it turns a dynamo inside that charges a small in-built Ni-MH battery in the device.

What we know of this battery is that it is very efficient and can contain a charge for a long time. Therefore, you do not have to constantly keep cranking to get a light.

Moreover, this particular survival flashlight has an extra feature. It uses solar power to recharge its battery.

You might say that it is very practical but we see this as an irrelevant feature since we don't think that the battery will be able to hold a charge that long, especially if you charge this device during the day.

Hopefully, that cranking system is easy-to-use and will give you a charge very quickly.

All in all, this is an extremely affordable survival flashlight that will come in handy. The only result we have is that it is built entirely out of plastic which is not very durable.

But as a spare flashlight, we think that this is a worthy purchase.

• Lumens: 800 lumens
• Dimension: 6.2 x 1 x 1.5 inches
• Product Weight: 5.3 ounces
• Types of battery: 18650

We are quite familiar with the design of the LuxPower V1000. This is basically an OEM design that is rebranded and used by multiple other manufacturers.

However, it does not mean that the tool has a bad design nor that the quality and feature set is bad. On the contrary. This is a very good survival flashlight for the money as it offers plenty to the table.

For one, it's a pack of 2 for the price of one. It has a durable and long-lasting aluminum body. Furthermore, there is a zoom feature in this unit that allows the user to adjust the beam distance. Very practical if you want to sign an object at a distance.

Moreover, the 5 light modes in the LuxPower V1000 adds a lot of versatility. When it comes to brightness, it can output 800 lumens which are very bright.

Further, the handle is ergonomic as it has grooves on it which makes it anti-skid and comfortable to hold. You can safely hold this survival flashlight with wet hands and it will not slip away.

• Lumens: 300 lumens
• Dimension: 3.6 x 2.1 x 1.1 inches
• Product Weight: 4.8 ounces

If you need a very compact survival flashlight then you probably want to consider the Gyman 003. Indeed, this is a slim and compact model that despite its very small size still manages to output a decent 300 lumens of light.

The tail cap is orange which makes it much easier to see in the dark and it also comes with a pen clip for better accessibility and portability.

Again, despite its very affordable pricing, we see that the manufacturer did not skip on build construction. It is made from a solid aluminum alloy.

Furthermore, the lens is concave and anti-scratch which will help prolong the quality of the light in the long term. There is a wide range of applications for this budget survival flashlight, from hiking to biking.

In our opinion, this model is definitely one of the best budget survival flashlights for the money.

• Lumens: 200 lumens
• Dimension: 2 x 5.9 x 2.4 inches
• Product Weight: 3.03 ounces

The Meco is one of those cranking survival flashlights we have seen a couple times in this review. This particular model focuses on the price and feature set.

Just like the other models covered so far, it promises an efficient and long-lasting illumination by simply cranking it for a few minutes.

The only caveat we have with this type of survival flashlight is the build construction.

It is made entirely out of plastic which in our opinion is not very durable, especially if you plan to use this unit every day out in the open.

However, for the price, there is literally next to nothing that can beat this little device. It has a lot of practical uses and even comes with a carabiner belt clip so it is extremely easy to carry around.

All in all, we recommend this survival flashlight only if you are on a strict budget or need a secondary emergency flashlight.

• Dimension: 3.5 x 7.5 x 4 inches
• Product Weight: 10.9 ounces

The Safe T-proof ER01 is one of the most innovative survival flashlights we have ever seen. It is not simply an illumination tool, but also a radio that can capture AM and FM radio frequencies with its inbuilt antenna.

This model works with the traditional cranking which powers the inbuilt battery. Although, we are not sure the exact type of battery technology used inside this unit.

However, since it is bigger than the average survival flashlight we can only assume that it also has a bigger battery that can hold a charge for a longer period of time.

Further, this device can be powered by a 6V DC current and it also has an outlet to charge a smartphone. Extremely helpful in case of an emergency.

Definitely, the Safe T-proof ER01 is possibly the best survival flashlight in this entire review simply because it is very good at what it does.

The only caveat we have is that it is built from plastic, therefore not the most durable survival flashlight out there. For those looking for a very versatile and heavy-duty survival flashlight, we highly recommend you try the Safe T-proof ER01.

• Lumens: 250 lumens
• Dimension: 8.3 x 4.9 x 2.4 inches
• Product Weight: 17.6 ounces
• Types of battery: 18650

Brilliant is the word that comes to mind when we have to describe the FutureSky. This is a 3 in 1 device that incorporates a regular flashlight, a knife and an emergency flashlight in one tool.

But what really separates this unit from others is definitely its build construction. It is one of the best build quality we have seen in a survival flashlight, by far.

The device is made from a premium grade aircraft aluminum alloy that makes it very durable and long-lasting.

The knife in this survival flashlight is easily accessible and it is so sharp that it will cut through anything very easily.

Moreover, the emergency light will flash a beam for up to a distance of 300 meters. This is very far, thus allowing help to spot you from a big distance.

But what we really like about this device is its long runtime. It is powered by 2 heavy-duty 18650 batteries that provided with a lot of power to last longer than other survival flashlights.

This model is definitely not the brightest several flashlights for the money, but certainly one of the longer lasting ones.

• Lumens: 200 lumens
• Dimension: 7.8 x 1.3 x 1.8 inches
• Product Weight: 10.7 ounces
• Types of battery: 18650

It is hard to describe the Eceen USB simply because it is more than just a flashlight. This is an all in one survival tool that can also be used as a hammer, a knife or a compass depending on your situation.

All this versatility might be helpful for some, while others might see it as trying to do too much.

Indeed, despite having one of the best build quality in this review, it only outputs 200 lumens which are not very compelling for its big size.

But one thing that saves its grace is that it is solar powered with its 5V 50 mA solar panel. However, you can still charge this flashlight the regular way using the provided USB charging cable.

Its length of 7.8 inches actually gives it a good handling and can comfortably be used as a hammer when required. This will make an excellent camping survival flashlight as well.

Let's not forget that it even has a compass. Furthermore, the handle has antiskid grooves making it practical to hold with wet hands. This flashlight is not waterproof but it is water resistant so do not go swimming with it.

If you want a good LED survival flashlight for your need, then try to look for those features.

1. Brightness

The brightness is the most important factor in a survival flashlight. Eventually, it is the brightness that will tell how useful the flashlight really is. The brighter the flashlight, the more useful it is.

Especially if the unit allows you to change light modes from high to low which makes it even more versatile.

This brightness is measured in lumens. Look at this value and choose a model that matches your need. Remember, anything that is above 200 lumens is a very bright light.

2. Runtime

In a survival flashlight, brightness is not everything.

We think that the runtime of the flashlight is one of the most important, if not the most important factor to consider. It basically shows you how long the flashlight can stay on without the battery dying out.

If you are planning to use your flashlight for an extended period at night then you need to go with a model that has a higher runtime.

3. Weight

The weight is another very important factor in a survival flashlight. It makes it more portable. If you plan to use your flashlight for long hours, it is always best to go with a model that does not weight a lot. Again, we see that this factor will depend on your need.

4. Size

The size of the flashlight will eventually be responsible for the general handling. That is, the longer the flashlight, the more comfortable it will be to hold as there is simply more surface area that the hand can grab on.

However, longer is not always the best. If you won’t be using your flashlight for an extended period and storing it in your pocket, then it is better to go with a model that is more compact.

5. Battery Type

The battery type in an LED survival flashlight basically dictates the efficiency of the device. A heavy-duty battery like 18650 has good efficiency and a long recharge cycle of hundreds of times. It also ensures that the flashlight has a better runtime overall.

Therefore, choose models that come with a lithium-ion battery like 18650 rather than those with traditional AA batteries.

6. Number of Batteries

Logically, the more batteries the flashlight can accommodate the batter the runtime of the device.

Moreover, it has more power to output more brightness. Models that come with more than 1 battery is usually a better choice.

7. Material

The durability of the survival flashlight is directly linked to the construction material. The best survival flashlights for the money are usually made from a lightweight and durable aluminum alloy material.

Furthermore, this metal does not rust and can be used for any type of outdoor activities. Needless to say that it is also more resistant and long-lasting than plastic.

8. Feature

A rich set of features makes the survival flashlight a versatile tool. Features like different light modes and beam distance adjustment can make all the difference in the world.

Thankfully, most of these flashlights are full-featured and you get a lot for your money.

1. Camping

Going on a camping trip? The survival flashlight will be an excellent companion. Afterall, it was designed for being a good outdoor illumination tool.

It has multiple light modes that make it versatile and suitable for a wide range of camping uses.

Most campers will prefer the low-light mode that all survival flashlight can do.

It is a low-light setting that is not too harsh on the eyes and creates a warm environment that any camper will appreciate.

2. Hunting

While the survival flashlight cannot substitute a real hunting flashlight because it lacks the special red and green light modes, you will be amazed how good it performs.

The efficiency of the LED driver in a survival flashlight provides a clear and bright light that allows the user to clearly see ahead of him.

Best, most survival flashlights have a feature for adjusting the beam distance making it a very practical tool for a hunting party.

3. Exploration

Since the survival flashlight has a widespread light, it is an ideal tool for night exploration.

Moreover, the beam adjustment in this tool makes it even more practical as an exploration device as it allows the user to see clearly at a distance.

4. EDC

EDC means "Every Day Carry". This is a flashlight that is usually a general purpose for casual as well as for heavy-duty users.

Due to the strong durability and rich features of the survival flashlight, we think that it will make an excellent EDC flashlight .

That’s a wrap! We come to the end of this article. We have a few very good models in this review. Including some of the brightest survival flashlight for the money.

Additionally, you have also learned the factors to look for as well as ways to use this special type of flashlight.

As we’ve seen, the survival flashlight is an indispensable illumination tool. If you are out in the wilderness, whether on your own or in a group, you have no excuse not to get one. It can even save lives.

If you have still not found the best survival flashlight for your need and budget, we welcome you to go through this review again.