Top 10 Flashlights under $40 (For pocket carry, and daily use)

[@alanstewart2450]

It would be interesting see your Top 10 without budget restrictions.

[@Exane22]

I second this idea!

[@maxlvledc]

Too hard...I tried.

[@Reshy00]

​@@maxlvledctop 20?

[@MrMramirez23]

I would also like to see this

[@pepstein]

@@maxlvledc how about top 10 under $100?

[@bettersteps]

Been carrying the Maglite AAA Solitaire for years now. It can't be beat. Dirt cheap, made in America and extremely durable. It's a simple design that does everything anyone would need for a pocket flashlight.

[@rustybarrel516]

My daughter went off to college in August. I got her the Protac 1L-1AA to carry in her backpack specifically because of the combination of brightness, modes, and fuel flexibility. Got one for myself too. 😁

[@roflswamp6]

Coolest dad ever 😎

[@jimmylarge1148]

She lost it already. Jus sayin.

[@SolitaryWolf]

Fenix is my go to for all flashlights. Their customer service is great and the flashlights are amazing!

[@patrickvelazquez3419]

Bought to get an e20, for its superior runtimes, totally agree fénix has some pretty good flashlights

[@grattof]

I just bought my first i3t from Olight. Perfect edc light for me. That 180 lumens seem brighter. I combine my primary edc light with a Aurora A8 from Rovyvon that lives with my keys.

[@gregblau8082]

I agree. It's definitely brighter than my coast hp3 that's rated the same and 1 aaa lasts significantly longer than 2 in the coast

[@timb4425]

I think that an EDC flashlight is one of the best items to EDC after a blade. It is often overlooked but can be huge when you are in need of one. Thanks Dom.

[@sda4jesus1]

I think you're right. Last night I needed my pocket Lumintop AAA EDC to unlock a numeral lock in a darkened parking lot. Even a tiny aaa can save many a day.

[@franksantiago6909]

THANKS AGAIN MAX- I PURCHASED ONE OF THE WURKOS FLASHLIGHTS YOU SHOWCASED. GREAT LIST.

[@CesarIsaacPerez]

I still have my Streamlight I bought 7 years ago. Love that little thing still going strong.

[@SPFycool]

FYI Wurkkos FC13s does indeed support reverse charging. Just doesn't have the fancy UI and RGB power button. I was also able to fit the compact tube for FC12 to it (only fits one way). Just needed a small magnet on the negative terminal to keep the battery secure.

[@maxlvledc]

What?!?!?! Did I miss this??

[@duncdunc76]

The Streamlight Protac 1L-1AA is hard to beat if your on a budget and dont need some specific UI. Its got a simple UI and unbeatable versatility in fuel options.

[@danishfawaz2598]

Agree! The tentap prog works wonders

[@sda4jesus1]

Streamlight's such a cool brand, I feel like I'm missing out in not having one in my rotation.

[@danishfawaz2598]

@@sda4jesus1 do you currently have one? If not share ur requirements and we can recommend

[@sda4jesus1]

@@danishfawaz2598 Thank you for your interest in finding a Streamlight that meets my lighting requirements. I'll mention below a couple that have piqued my interest, and at the end my 'Dream Stream:" I dig on the form factor / lumen output of the USB Micro Stream, except I've been kind of trending away from irreplaceable power sourced flashlights. Streamlight's AAA equivalent--however--only offers 45 lumens, less than half of even Lumintop's AAA offerings. Not bright enough. I'm also impressed by Streamlight's duly lauded ProTac 1L. If I had one, I'd open carry it just for the coolness factor. The problem is, I don't run CR123 (the primary power source) anywhere else in my present system; AAs are supposed to be a useful backup, but if used as primary power source, it leaves the light underpowered for its size and weight. Streamlights have great external presentations; with their boss tactical look, they harken to Sure Fire. I think if Streamlight rolled out a compact 'fifth pocket' 14500 (AA capable) model (pref with onboard charging), the next step up emitter, and a pretty simple dual choice (Civilian/ Tactical) UI, I know they'd sell like hotcakes.

[@sloanNYC]

Great list. SOOOOO many inexpensive options that are really great. Quick note, the Wurkkos FC13s DOES have power bank ability, but for some reason it is only labeled on Amazon properly for the 6000k version. Both the 5000k and 6000k versions have it. Super weird. That 6k version is often a little more expensive while the 5k version has more lumen output for both High and Turbo mode (3500 vs the 6k 2500). When on Sale for $20 I pick some up and give as gifts. Perfect for a car or a purse to have emergency charge for your phone with some quality brightness and easy to use Strobe when needed.

[@T-Mo_]

Love my Leatherman squirt p4 and RovyVon A1 keychain setup. 4 ounces: 6 keys a multitool and flashlight.

[@the_swinging_axe]

You are an asset to the gear world!! Thank you. I rock a i1r2eos on my keys, a rovyvon a25 glow in the jacket, and a Petzl actik headlamp in my backpack. I want a slimmer picket light so I'll go with the smaller rechargeable rovyvon. I like the streamlight you showed too

[@Cynicism101]

It just goes to show there is a huge amount of budget friendly flashlights out there that are worth considering. It great having channels like this one who do the groundwork and offer the reviews so people can make an informed decision to meet their needs.

[@gerttownrecords845]

My fc13s reverse charges FYI. I had to plug it in to make sure but definitely works on my iPhone

[@maxlvledc]

Omg! I didn't even realize!!!

[@GideonR-r7s]

I carry a wurkkos for the past 4 years. I’ve only had to replace it once when I dropped it off a 12 foot ladder. I love that it’s usb type C but you can also swap out the battery too

[@lw4dbe]

The best flashlight review I’ve seen , thanks a lot!

[@Erin-Thor]

O’Light makes an AAA keychain light that’s 300 lumens that sells for $9.99 that is AWESOME! One function, it on or off, but it’s so tiny, about the size of a AAA battery, nothing extra, super small, and very functional. I used mine for years before discovering the Royvon A8. I also have two Wurkos TD02 ($18) and a TS11 ($45) that are both excellent, both 2000 lumens max. The TD02 is a good balance between between flood/spot, the TS11 is the smallest, most effective thrower/spot I’ve seen.

[@11_EVERYTHING_OEFx2]

I have the Wurkkos FC11($28-$32 on Amazon) 1300Lm@5000k, high-90CRI, IP67 water resistance, and it’s USB-C rechargeable. Pretty amazing for the price. Nice pocket clip. Comes in different colors. Goes right into my 1791-EDC Easy Up holster.

[@d2cuadrados510]

I bought a Sorfin after one of your previous videos and it has become one of my most essential edc items. Specially now with this whole daylight savings horseshit

[@patrickvelazquez3419]

Wurkkos fc12 is dangerously bright and reaches an inane distance, I love it.

[@richbeck1356]

I love flashlights even more than knives. I gave Rovyvon a try a few years ago with an original A5. Then I picked up an upgraded A5, an A23 and A25. I was initially concerned about reliability and the longevity of their batteries. Last year we ended up needing to descend Mount Moana Kea in Hawaii in the dark. My father-in-law didn’t have a light with him. I had both the A5 and A25. They both worked flawlessly for the four hour descent and gave us lots of light. Now I’m sold on the brand and use them every day.

[@richbeck1356]

Also - tried the Thrunite T1 and TC15. It didn’t take long and the batteries that were included were not able to sustain top output. Both very bright.

[@SoMoMule]

I keep a 6" rule with both us/metric on my bench too. Funny, good video. I have the ACEBEAM H16, handy little light.

[@lonestardude6283]

So happy you mentioned ReyLight! I just ordered my second one this week. Great, great light for the money!

[@MundaneGray]

He didn’t mention it. He just called it “this.” Unless you were able to read the name on the light itself while he was waving it around, you have no way of knowing what brand it is.

[@hansginzel5973]

Great video, good categorisation and selection. I like my Wurkkos TS10, TS25, TS32 with Andúril 2.0 and Nitecore Tiny on keys.

[@madsmix]

Fantastic video. The sheer breadth of research is staggering!

[@maxlvledc]

It's an obsession. Can't help it

[@lonewolf11577]

HS10 always in my pocket... stunning EDC light, 4000k high CRI, with headband... can't really ask for more than that for the price!

[@LarryReynolds591]

I literally carry a $7 harbor freight triple A light. Had to knock the corners off the pocket clip as they're sharp as nails but it works fine. No UI, just a bright light when I need it.

[@GilliGainz]

Get yourself a decent budget light and see how much better they are. e.g. Wurkkos, Sofirn, Convoy

[@sda4jesus1]

Dominic, you've got the best combination of quality/quantity edc content out there. Keep up the fantastic work. Based on your recommendations, I recently ordered a Wurkkos TS10, and FC13, along with necessary accessories. :-) Thanks,

[@maxlvledc]

Awesome! The Wurkkos customer service is good too.

[@sda4jesus1]

@@maxlvledc I'm hoping they get the order right (*fingers crossed*).

[@danishfawaz2598]

The streamlight 1L-1AA was my edc for abt 5 years, still working.. so versatile. Acebeam has a new tac AA thats worth checking

[@maxlvledc]

I have it...very very bright...but not actually a tac light

[@danishfawaz2598]

@@maxlvledc dyou have a review video on it? Im wondering if its worth the buy

[@calebmorris6687]

I'm just happy with my Maglite mini; simple turn the head on and off and easy to carry on the belt sheath.

[@jimmylarge1148]

They still make those?! Incandescent light is way way WAY better for your eyes than led.

[@calebmorris6687]

@@jimmylarge1148 Forgot I made that comment; also I don't know if they still do honestly.

[@PoopFrancis]

I’ve happened to lose every single flash light I have ever owned at the moment. So thank you.

[@tasthedingus]

thank you for the acknowledgment of the pantsless use application. i found this very helpful.

[@dharmadoggie]

Thanks for all the info! I got an AA Acebeam Pokelit instead of the right angle one that you reviewed. As a kid I remember handling some surplus WW2 2D cell right angle flashlights and never liked that format, but I suppose it was designed to be hands free; there was a clip on the back. This is solved on the Acebeam Pokelit by the hat clip, and I almost always wear a baseball hat, and have a regular headlamp for when I don't. The price of the Pokelit on Amazon varies by color of the housing, so watch for that when shopping this brand. BTW one other brand that was reviewed here has large discounts if you check the right box, so don't be put off by any posted price without checking further.

[@fluxcap4630]

New Wurkkos TS10 Titanium just dropped. I got the titanium with copper ring. 90CRI in 4k

[@sda4jesus1]

Wanted a sold out silver TS10, but settled for the dark green because iit wasn't the too ubiquitous black. Also got in 4000k.

[@bradelliott6208]

Nice coverage of a variety of flashlights

[@owenscoville3485]

I know it doesn't quite fit into the categories you've set up, but the Olight imini 2 has been fantastic for me. I wear it on my neck every day, and though I miss the size of the v1, the rechargeable nature of the v2 makes this a much more usable edc flashlight.

[@maxlvledc]

It's amazing! Just not waterproof which makes me sad

[@ChrisJB84]

Awesome video. Don’t watch them enough. But, holy pack out wall man!!!

[@thespicyswede9302]

Love your videos, keep it up!

[@lombvax]

picked up the wurkkos td02 for like 40% off on amazon recently, man for that price point and the output on it with an 18650 it’s killer for a beater in a manufacturing environment

[@HarrisonHollers]

NOTE: I believe the link to the TS25 leads to a different flashlight in the description. (SFT40) Thanks for this great review! Having fun with a flashlight rabbit hole I fell down. Started with the MS32 - looks like a nuclear bomb! Now I am here.

[@jw3971]

nice review! Have you also tested head lamps?

[@hificat101]

Hate to be that broken record, but I'd love to see your take on a Hanklight or two. It's wild that from the time you order, and they get custom built, you can have them in hand in a couple weeks.

[@Galax23]

7:10 yeah really, no other? hahah what about Lumintop AA 2.0 which works with AA and 14500? Range about $20... What about Wurkkos WK05 with 2xAA or 2x14500? And many others. Very solid review...

[@Logan2070]

Rechargeable and a good tail cap, going to try a Klaus next.

[@carl2440]

Love rovyvon, my A1 🥰🥰🥰

[@rsmith7292]

Love the Acebeam!

[@ben9and1-3rd]

I have a few of those and all have been good lights. 👍🍻

[@AlphaOmegaKnight77658]

I got that AA streamlight in my car but I’ve been thinking of having more around the house as well.

[@TylerSnyder305]

For under $40, the Streamlight microstream USB is the king. Most others are too bulky and or too complicated, plus the battery can be replaced.

[@maxlvledc]

Nope...only uses 10440, and IPX4. I3T is 80% as bright with ipx8 and using standard batteries. Pro tip: reaches 500lm on I3T with 10440, just don't run battery dry

[@TylerSnyder305]

@@maxlvledc I still find the Streamlight to be just about perfect.

[@trevermodar8903]

You forgot to mention the FC13 comes in a 2000 sft 40 bright white focused version and a 3500 lumen high CRI XHP 50 floody version as well. The button is RGB and can be programmed in many different ways. Also i believe almost all wurrkos 18650 and 18350 tubes are interchangeable. I have the FC13 with the short 18350 tube. But i can also use the 18350 tube off of the TS11. And i can put the FC13 18650 tube on the TS11.

[@paulmlemay]

can you recommend something like the I3T, but uses a AA battery? Very simple, push button, reliable

[@edwardfletcher7790]

I just got a Rovyvon A8/Jetstream knock off called the M300 from AliExpress for US$3 !! So damn happy 👍😁

[@mikeeygq]

Phenomenal list.

[@EmeryAustin]

I'd argue the ts22 beats out the ts25, I believe it has higher total lumen output at 4500 vs 4000, and higher sustained output that is one of the best right now for efficiency. I think I read it puts out 2000 steady lumens for 45 minutes. Ts22 has the new 70.3 high cri version also.

[@appleholic1553]

Thank you for your video ✌🏼️

[@dallasn16]

I have recently fell out of love with the reylight mini pineapple. I've consistently had battery problems and they don’t take a standard 10440.

[@maxlvledc]

What do you mean not take 10440? Mine works with 3 different brands

[@dallasn16]

@maxlvledc You have to use a 10440 with the recessed positive end. I had to purchase a separate 10440 from their website and it stopped working after about a year.

[@jwollner]

Sofrin HS10 and SC21 are $20 right now on their sight. I am just getting into the whole EDC idea. As a teacher I don’t have a lot of extra income to throw around. Does this seem like a deal I should jump on?

[@alterablebark54]

Are you saying a 5000mAh battery can charge from experience or from the numbers? If it's from experience than your S23U has an pretty oblitterated battery considering the inefficiencies of portable battery charging

[@patrickbasin9389]

Which ones are least likely to not come on in your pocket?

[@gbresaleking]

I loved my rovyvon a28 until the switch died and im waiting to see if they will replace it

[@Dino.-ud8vr]

Would the circuit v30 be a good budget flashlight?

[@patrickvelazquez3419]

The wko3 is a really good light it’s basically a flood fc12 without the insane throw

[@kevinhernandez62]

Which is the brightest

[@tibet1976]

I didn’t catch the name of the right angle light. Rewound a couple time, but can’t seem to catch it. Mind letting me know?

[@maxlvledc]

It's acebeam H16

[@Exane22]

Great video! You've really peeked my interest in EDC flashlights, so thank you! Do you have any recommendations for USA made EDC flashlights? I know it's a limited category but I'd love to put together a full USA carry at some point and your views would be appreciated!

[@maxlvledc]

No such thing... the cheapest decent USA light is $100. And most are basically geared ONLY toward defensive needs.

[@Exane22]

@@maxlvledc anything worth checking out in the 100-200$ range?

[@maxlvledc]

@Exane22 hmmm, yes. Depending on function and size. Prometheus makes some great usa made lights. Sadly none in the 14500 size.

[@Cake-jj9gj]

I loved my Wurkkos TS10 (but it's not rechargeable). I've bought two and lost two though so I need to buy a third now haha

[@TTime685]

Have you heard of Trustfire? Do you have any? They've come a long way

[@lukak8639]

Does wurkkos fc12 body fit on sofirn sc31t? Thanks ☺️

[@toddd7444]

IS THE BEST ONE FOR THE MONEY Olight Baton 3 Pro Max 3000 warm lights wheelchair larry Merry Christmas

[@skorpain]

Клас, дякую за огляд❤ В Україні зараз це дуже актуальна тема

[@jimmylarge1148]

Headlamps are underrated.

[@andygoodenberger5566]

I have a bunch of cr123 batteries from olight sales. What flashlight would you recommend that uses those batteries? I only want to buy one flashlight.

[@maxlvledc]

Protac 1L-1AA, easiest recommendation ever

[@bruceevans8837]

Length and pocket clip configuration are my first considerations with the pocket clip thinning the field to the greatest extent..Fuel type is a distant 3rd place. The pocket clip MUST allow emitter down deepish carry and be of substantial enough construction to be put back in the pocket one handed. The tiny double bent clips like on a Sofirn HS10 are absolute shit in that regard on an otherwise great light. I don't think the Chinese fully grasp how people use these lights. Emitter up? Not a chance in hell I'll buy one.More than 4" long? Not an edc unless you wear clown pants or carry a purse. Sofirn SC32 comes super close but the 4 click got to have a seizure to lock/unlock costs it the gold medal. That said, there are more low cost high performance options available today than I ever imagined 20 years ago. Good video thanks

[@rickanthony5147]

Max, your flashlight video came in a perfect timing. Is there a right angle EDC rechargeable, hands-free, flashlight? That will fit a 1.3 inch slot and a leather holster.

[@maxlvledc]

that sound's like a very big light, the HD15 from wurkkos can reverse charge, is 18650 and just works quite well.

[@drd5454]

Hey man! I saw ur video about top 10 aa/14500 flashlights and u decided to put sofirn s10 on the 1st place, but now u talk about streamlight😂 could u help to make my choice pls? What is the best option by price-quality u think?

[@jack.charlesc4750]

You need ..sorry I need you to make a 21700 and 26650 flashlights video for home to search and rescue in the backyard😉 and those king of stuff they are too many sc and sf series from sofirn for exemple but also wurkkos convoy and all those value brands Please I need some infos about those categories some backyard views would be great for comparing all of them I know I ask a lot .....but you listen then I watch and after I buy 😂😂

[@jack.charlesc4750]

Black Friday is coming fast and and I need advice for 21700 or 26650 flashlight

[@maxlvledc]

Hmmm, I'll try. I don't think it will come before that. But I will have a shopping list for black Friday coming!

[@serhatdundar6625]

Hi, right now the aluminium Pineapple Mini in black is available 👍

[@paulcampbell6001]

What are you generally using/carrying most days? I've seen you mention the arkfeld in a few different videos. I guess that might be a hard question since I guess you are trying out things for your videos.

[@maxlvledc]

I actually have that video coming next week

[@mikestark847]

Thanks for the great video! I'm new to flashlights, and I noticed on the Wurkkos website there are several options like XH50.2 5000-5300K, XHP50.2 6000-6500K, and SFT40 6000-6500K. I'm curious about the differences between them, besides the warmth of the light. Which one do you recommend, or are there specific uses for each option?

[@maxlvledc]

The XH are much more floody, I prefer sft40 most of the time.

[@sda4jesus1]

​@@maxlvledcGreat. I ordered your recommended emitter on my FC13.

[@tz8565]

What budget tactical flashlight would you recommend under $20?

[@carl2440]

A moins de 20 la wurkkos fc11 sans hésitations, Samsung HD high cri 1300 lumens

[@elfandre6498]

It was good if you tested the bes edc or pocket flash light longest work on singal charge)

[@maxlvledc]

I don't have the drive or the attention span lol. I depend on flashlight reviewers for that kind of info if available.

[@Alessandro-tf5xh]

I got a sofirn sc28 for 23€ and it is great

[@marklex414]

Lighting bolt! I just had an idea. A video on flashlights that reverse charge!

[@maxlvledc]

Most of them are wurkkos loo

[@johnandrews1025]

My RovyVon edc flashlight came in the mail.

[@ks-hg5vo]

Shame the thrunite ti5 in titanium isn't still around awesome pocket friendly and titanium to boot

[@jimmy_Ross]

lol i only paid 25 dollars for my wurkkos TS25 and i love it

[@olbuddyboi9122]

You didn't mention the name models of lots of these😞😞

[@maxlvledc]

Really? I thought it did for every single one I showed? I even linked them in description

[@jimmy_Ross]

wow holly grab i thought i had a few flashlights lol so cool

[@maxlvledc]

I have maybe...200 ish??

[@Hazan1fan]

I’m surprised the streamlight microstream USB didn’t make the cut

[@maxlvledc]

It's ipx4, can't use aaa

[@JJRuiz-pn2cq]

Wurkkos wk03 the best!!!

[@googleuser6635]

For some reason, I've never taken to right-angle flashlights.

[@grahamcairns2249]

What was the Aaa honorable mention? I watched 3 times and there is no name

[@rcjoe406]

I need a new top 10 ten 2024 version 😫 video please 🙏 😅😊

[@stevelee6667]

good video

[@bencross5332]

We used lanterns when i was kid now for 20 bucks you can get this...

[@goforbroke2]

The Olight Oclip light has terrible battery life, especially on strobe mode, which is what I basically bought it for. Just a heads up for anyone.

[@RedstormHunter74]

The tailswitch on the Olights is trash and wont hold up. The AAA version specifically is the one I have.

[@sincen1999]

sofirn hs40 is the best

[@Zerog461]

Have you ever done a video on different light types? I mean the candle power and bright white vs the others.

[@maxlvledc]

It's not something most people want to know about, but still a good idea. Jon Gadget did a great job explaining it.