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Everyone should have a stellar compact flashlight for everyday carry. But the truth is that most of the good ones are pretty expensive, and not everyone can afford those. However, this does not mean that there are no top-notch small flashlights that are affordably priced.
In fact, many budget-friendly portable torches are ideal for those who do not want to spend a lot of money on a flashlight. Whether it is for your EDC gear, survival or emergency kit, etc., you can find quality compact flashlights that are priced under $50. In this article, we give you what factors you need to consider when buying a decent flashlight and also the best flashlights under $50 you can find on the market.
Are you looking for a cheap flashlight? How do you know which one is best with so many different ones out there? Here is a look at some of the things you should look for when shopping for an affordable flashlight:
Body:
In most flashlights available on the market today, manufacturers use a form of scratch-resistant type III anodizing on the body. They also often use aerospace or aircraft-grade aluminum. Expensive or cheap, this is one of the things you should look for in a flashlight. Make sure that your under-$50 flashlight has a solid body that will make it last a long time.
Waterproof:
Small or large, many of the flashlights available nowadays are waterproof. This means that you can immerse your flashlight in the water, usually for about 30 minutes in 1-meter deep water. Although a cheaper flashlight is unlikely to have an outstanding waterproof or water-resistant feature, it is still good to have it as it allows you to use it in the rain.
Emitter:
One of the essential parts of a flashlight is the emitter – it produces the light beam. Most manufacturers these days use CREE emitters in LED flashlights. However, cheaper LED flashlights will probably have older generation emitters, but it is still something you should look at when buying a suitable flashlight.
Brightness Levels:
How many levels of brightness does your flashlight provide? This is another crucial feature you should consider. High-quality flashlights usually have multiple levels that offer the right amount of light you need. You may not find many brightness levels in a cheap flashlight, but you should pick one with the basics, including SOS, useful in emergencies.
Heat Dissipation:
Most LED flashlights get a little hot when used on the highest setting, but high-quality, more expensive flashlights will have good heat dispersion. In cheaper ones, this heat could shorten the life of the electronics. Additionally, if the entire body gets hot, it could affect the batteries too. Therefore, if you are shopping for an affordable flashlight, you should ensure that the body is well made so that the heat does not damage it too quickly.
Batteries:
Most cheap flashlights are powered by ordinary AA or AAA batteries. The more expensive ones often come with rechargeable batteries, etc., but they cost a lot to replace. AA or AAA batteries are a prudent choice as they are readily available and do not cost a lot. In addition, you can buy several to keep as backup for when your flashlight runs out of juice.
Brand Name:
Unknown manufacturers make not all cheap flashlights. However, many brands that produce high-quality, innovative flashlights have affordable products. You should choose a brand name that is known for making quality flashlights. They may not be as good as the pricier ones, but you will still obtain a great flashlight that meets your needs at an affordable price.
You might want to also check our best keychain flashlights article.
THE TOP 10 FLASHLIGHTS UNDER $50
1. FENIX E12
Fenix is one of the leading names, providing high-quality lights for all kinds of applications for portable flashlights. The Fenix E12 is one of the manufacturer’s budget options and a poignant choice if you are looking for an affordable flashlight under $50.
Precision-machined from high-quality aluminum, this flashlight is well constructed and will last quite a while. It is also great for outdoor use. With a maximum output of 130 lumens, you will be surprised by its brightness in the dark. The Fenix L12 comes with Bright and Dim lighting modes, so it is pretty simple and easy to use, perfect for EDC. If you want an affordable flashlight, this is one of the best choices out there.
Conclusion:
Although it is not as bright as some of the other flashlights we have used, we think that the Fenix E12 is a great buy when looking for an affordable light under $50. It is the ideal light for EDC. It is straightforward to operate, and the grip feels good in the hand.
We are highly impressed by the solid construction of high-quality aluminum, especially in low-priced light. This flashlight is sure to last you quite a long time. If you are shopping for a cheap flashlight, we recommend the Fenix E12.
Pros
· (+) Easy to use, making it ideal for EDC
· (+) Good grip
· (+) Compact and lightweight yet solid body
Cons
· (-) Not bright enough for some
Specifications
· Lumens: 130 Lumens
· # of Batteries: One AA
· Battery Duration: 40 h (low)
· Weight: 3.2 oz
· Water Resistant: IPX-8
2. NiteCore MT10A
Introducing the NiteCore MT10A, the best flashlight under 50 for any outdoor activity. This high-output LED flashlight utilizes a CREE XM-L2 U2 LED to emit up to 920 lumens of bright white light. So whether you’re camping, hiking, fishing, or just need a reliable light source for everyday use, the MT10A is sure to come in handy. It’s also waterproof under IPX-8 standards, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to two meters of water. And for added safety and convenience, there’s a red LED that provides constant/flashing illumination.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a powerful and durable flashlight, the NiteCore MT10A is an excellent choice. With its high-output LED and waterproof design, this light is perfect for any outdoor activity. It’s also effortless to use, with a simple on/off switch and three brightness levels. We highly recommend the NiteCore MT10A for anyone in need of a good-quality flashlight.
Pros
· (+) High-output LED
· (+) Waterproof design
· (+) Small enough to go anywhere
Cons
· (-) It has just 50 meters range
Specifications
· Lumens: 920 Lumens
· # of Batteries: 1xAA
· Battery Duration: 30 minutes
· Weight: 0.13 Pounds
· Water Resistant: IPX-8
Check out our recommended survival headlamps article.
3. LUMINTOP TOOL AA 2.0
LUMINTOP TOOL AA 2.0 is a high-output flashlight that’s perfect for use in emergencies or when you need a powerful light source. With its Cree top-of-the-line XPL-HD LED, this flashlight can emit up to 650 lumens of brightness, making it ideal for seeing in dark or difficult conditions. This best flashlight is also built with an IP68 waterproof certification, making it resistant to water submersion up to 6.5 feet. Because it uses easily available AA batteries, you’ll always have a way to power your light when you need it most.
This excellent flashlight is made of military-grade anodized surface and aircraft-grade aluminum, making it rugged and lightweight, perfect for taking with you on your next camping trip or hike. Plus, it features four lighting modes, including mode memory plus strobe, so you can always find the right light setting for the task at hand. And don’t worry about cycling through flashing modes to adjust the brightness. The Tool AA 2.0 flashlight will remember the last mode used so you can pick up right where you left off.
Conclusion:
We highly recommend the LUMINTOP TOOL AA 2.0 flashlight for anyone looking for a top-quality, high-output light. This flashlight is perfect for any situation with its tough and durable construction. And with its easy-to-use interface and four lighting modes, it’s sure to meet your needs. So don’t wait any longer; order your LUMINTOP TOOL AA 2.0 flashlight today!
Pros
· (+) Cree top-of-the-line XPL-HD LED
· (+) IP68 waterproof certification
· (+) Uses easily obtainable AA batteries
· (+) Made of military-grade anodized surface and aircraft-grade aluminum
Cons
· (-) Constantly Lit tail cap
Specifications
· Lumens: 650 lumens
· # of Batteries: 14500 or AA
· Battery Duration: 60 h (low)
· Weight: 0.83 oz
· Water Resistant: IP68
4. STREAMLIGHT POLYTAC 88850
The Streamlight PolyTac 88850 is a cool-looking affordable flashlight that uses C4 LED technology. It is impervious to shock and features a Borofloat glass lens. With the tail cap push button, you can efficiently operate the light with one hand for constant or momentary on.
The Streamlight PolyTac 88850 also features a TEN-TAP programmable tail-switch that allows you to select one of the three different programs. In addition, the parabolic reflector produces a concentrated beam with excellent peripheral illumination. So if you are looking for a high-quality, affordable flashlight that is feature-rich and built to last, you should check out the Streamlight PolyTac 88850.
Conclusion:
The Streamlight PolyTac 88850 is one of the top flashlights under $50 because it has excellent technology and features. It is easy to use and provides super-bright light. It looks great and feels comfortable to hold as well. We had some difficulty removing the clip, but this is not a big deal unless you need to get rid of that clip.
The Streamlight PolyTac 88850 is solid and sturdy. Since it is impervious to shock, you can use it even in rough conditions. This is a superb flashlight for the money. We recommend the Streamlight PolyTac 88850 to anyone looking for a quality flashlight under $50.
Pros
· (+) Impervious to shock, making it ideal for rough use
· (+) Uses C4 LED technology
· (+) Built with quality materials for durability
Cons
· (-) Difficult to remove the clip
Specifications
· Lumens: 275 Lumens
· # of Batteries: Two CR123A
· Battery Duration: 65 h (low)
· Weight: 4.2 oz
· Water Resistant: IPX-7
Learn more about the best survival flashlights by clicking here.
5. ThruNite Archer 2A V3
Are you looking for a tiny but mighty flashlight? The ThruNite Archer 2A V3 is the perfect flashlight for everyday use. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. With an output of 450 lumens, it provides plenty of light to see what’s ahead. The beam reaches 143 meters away, making it ideal for camping, hiking, or other outdoor activity. Plus, the tactical dual-button design makes it easy to turn on/off and never accidentally shuts off or changes mode.
Furthermore, ThruNite Archer 2A V3 is reliable, durable, and perfect for almost any situation. This flashlight is impact-resistant, waterproof, and dustproof, powered by two AA batteries. With a high-performance SST20 LED and five modes, the Archer 2A V3 is perfect for anyone looking for a trustworthy flashlight that’s easy to find replacement batteries for. Constructed from an aerospace-grade aluminum body with a military-grade Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish, this flashlight is versatile and tough enough to handle anything you throw at it.
Conclusion:
We really liked the ThruNite Archer 2A V3 flashlight. It is tiny but mighty, with an impressive output of 450 lumens. The beam reaches 143 meters away, perfect for almost any situation. Plus, the tactical dual-button design makes it easy to turn on/off and never accidentally shuts off or changes mode.
Pros
· (+) Compact and lightweight
· (+) Dual-button design is easy to use
· (+) Five modes for different situations
Cons
· (-) No clip can make it challenging to keep track of
· (-) body made from aluminum, which can make it a bit heavy for some
Specifications
· Lumens: 450 Lumens
· # of Batteries: One AA
· Battery Duration: 2 h (high)
· Weight: 1.69 oz
· Water Resistant: IPX-8(2m)
6. Streamlight 66608
The Streamlight 66608 Strion DS is an excellent flashlight for anyone looking for a durable and reliable light. This flashlight is made with an aerospace-grade aluminum body and features a military-grade Type III hard-anodized anti-abrasive finish. It’s also waterproof, dustproof, and impact resistant. With a C4 LED, this flashlight provides a high lumen output of 250 lumens. The beam reaches up to 245 meters away and features five modes, including strobe.
It also has a run time of 3.5 hours on low, so you can use it throughout the day without having to worry about running out of power. Plus, the USB cord and lanyard make it easy to keep track of and transport.
Conclusion:
This Streamlight 66608 is the perfect flashlight to have with you on the go. It attaches to your visor so you can have both hands free, and it has a multi-function push-button tail switch. Plus, it’s rechargeable in just 4 hours!
You never know when you might need a flashlight, so why not be prepared with this one? It’s small and lightweight, so you can take it with you wherever you go. And it has a sliding metal sleeve to protect the USB port.
Pros
· (+) Durable and reliable
· (+) Aerospace-grade aluminum body
· (+) Waterproof, dustproof, and impact resistant
· (+) C4 LED provides a high lumen output
Cons
· (-) No clip can make it challenging to keep track of
· (-) No beam distance information available
Specifications
· Lumens: 250 Lumens
· # of Batteries: Lithium Ion cell pack
· Battery Duration: 3.5 h (low)
· Weight: 1.2 oz
· Water Resistant: IPX-4
We recommend checking our top penlights article.
7. OLIGHT I5T EOS
The Olight I5T EOS is a great flashlight for anyone looking for a small and lightweight light. This flashlight is made with an aircraft-grade aluminum body and has a hard-anodized finish. It’s also waterproof, dustproof, and impact resistant. With its CREE XP-L HD, V6 LED, this flashlight provides a max output of 300 lumens. The beam reaches up to 60 meters away and features five modes, including strobe.
The tail switch design allows quick mode shifting through a convenient tail switch. A dual-direction pocket clip with a small pearled silicone surface for an anti-slip experience can achieve hands-free. In addition, the I5T is equipped with a PMMA optic lens producing a soft and balanced beam for comfortable use.
Conclusion:
This Olight I5T EOS is the perfect flashlight to have with you on the go. It has a small and lightweight design, so you can take it with you wherever you go. And it has a tail switch design that makes it easy to shift between modes.
Another best thing about this flashlight is that its rechargeable. Unfortunately, however, we could not find beam distance information. Nevertheless, you never know when you might need a flashlight, so why not be prepared with this one?
Pros
· (+) Small and lightweight
· (+) Aircraft-grade aluminum body
· (+) Hard-anodized finish
· (+) Waterproof, dustproof, and impact resistant
· (+) CREE XP-L HD V6 LED provides a max output of 300 lumens
Cons
· (-) Does not come with spare O-rings
Specifications
· Lumens: 300 lumens
· # of Batteries: Two AA
· Battery Duration: 20 h (low)
· Weight: 2.12oz
8. COAST PX1
Weather-resistant and impact-resistant, the Coast PX1 is a high-performance flashlight with a virtually indestructible LED. In addition, the flashlight has an innovative feature – pure beam focusing optic with twist focus so you can adjust the type of beam you want for your situation.
You can shape your flashlight beam from Flood to Spot with the twist focus by simply twisting the head. The reversible pocket clip makes the Coast PX1 versatile to use – you can secure it in your pocket or attach it to the bill of a hat. No matter what application you have in mind, the Coast PX1 is one of the top flashlights available at a low price.
Conclusion:
We think that the Coast PX1 is one of the most well-made inexpensive flashlights today. The beam focusing optic feature is handy as it allows you to adjust the beam focus depending on your needs. The size is also perfect as you can carry the light in your pocket, purse, backpack, etc., basically, everywhere you go.
The light that this compact flashlight emits is incredibly bright, ensuring that you have reliable illumination whenever you need it. We think that the reversible clip could be improved, but there are no complaints other than that. If you are looking for a flashlight under $50, we recommend the Coast PX1.
Pros
· (+) beam focusing optic with twist optic for adjusting the beam
· (+) High-quality materials for durability
· (+) Impact and weather-resistant
Cons
· (-) Reversible clip could be made better
Specifications
· Lumens: 315 lumens
· # of Batteries: Three AAA
· Battery Duration: 41 h (low)
· Weight: 4.2 oz
· Water Resistant: IPX-4
Check out our selection of the highly-rated flashlights under $100 article by clicking here.
9. WOWTAC A1S
The WOWTAC A1S is a small, lightweight LED flashlight that produces dazzling light. The flashlight is made of high-quality aluminum alloy and has a hard-anodized finish, making it resistant to scratches and impacts.
Featuring an impressive max brightness of 1150 ANSI lumens, this CREE LED flashlight can produce a beam up to 909 feet long. It’s also made from AL T6061-T6 material and waterproof to IPX-7 standards, which can withstand all weather conditions. In addition, the intelligent light modes make it easy to adjust the brightness level or switch to strobe or SOS mode when needed. And with its anti-slip knurling and pocket-size shape, the A1S is perfect for handheld use or attaching to tactical devices.
Conclusion:
We think that the WOWTAC A1S is one of the best-LED flashlights on the market today. It’s small and lightweight but still has a high lumen output. The intelligent light modes make it easy to use, and the strobe and SOS features are great for emergencies. And with its anti-slip knurling and pocket-size shape, it’s perfect for everyday carry.
If you are looking for an affordable and high-quality LED flashlight, the WOWTAC A1S is a great option.
Pros
· (+) Small and lightweight
· (+) High lumen output
· (+) Intelligent light modes
· (+) Waterproof to IPX-7 standards
Cons
· (-) Battery not very durable.
Specifications
· Lumens: 1150 lumens
· # of Batteries: ‎1 Lithium-ion battery
· Battery Duration: 18 h (medium)
· Weight: 3.07oz
· Water Resistant: IPX-7
10. Sofirn SP33 V3
The Sofirn SP33 V3 is a high-lumen LED flashlight that’s perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It features a CREE XHP 50.2 LED with a max brightness of 3500 lumens, making it one of the brightest flashlights on the market. The flashlight is also USB rechargeable, making it easy to keep the battery charged.
The Sofirn SP33 V3 is also made from high-quality aluminum alloy with a hard-anodized finish, making it resistant to scratches and impacts. And with its anti-slip knurling and pocket-size shape, it’s perfect for handheld use or attaching to tactical devices. In addition, the flashlight has a built-in memory function that remembers the last mode used, making it easy to use.
Conclusion:
The Sofirn SP33 V3 is an excellent choice for those who want their light to be both affordable and reliable. It has many features that make it stand out, such as its reasonable price point of under 50 dollars! In addition, the CREE XHP 50.2 LED is one of the brightest LEDs on the market, making this flashlight perfect for outdoor activities. And with its anti-slip knurling and pocket-size shape, it’s ideal for handheld use or attaching to tactical devices.
The Sofirn SP33 V3 is an affordable and bright flashlight that will provide you with the perfect light for any situation. It has three modes: low, high, or medium brightness levels to suit your needs at every moment! We highly recommend this flashlight for anyone looking for a great deal!
Pros
· (+) Affordable price point
· (+) Bright LED with a max of 3500 lumens
· (+) USB rechargeable
· (+) Hard-anodized finish for scratch and impact resistance
Cons
· (-) Some users have complained that it does not work after a few days.
Specifications
· Lumens: 3500 lumens
· # of Batteries: 1 × 18650 battery (not included)
· Battery Duration: 26h (low)
· Weight: 13.1 oz
· Water Resistant: IPX-8
FAQs:
What is the difference between a Cree and Sofirn LED?
Cree LED flashlight bulbs are known for their high brightness and long lifespan. They are often used in high-end flashlights. Sofirn LED flashlight bulbs offer good brightness and quality but lower prices than Cree LEDs. In addition, it has a built-in memory function that will remember the last mode used. This is an excellent feature for those who are always on the go! Both Cree and Sofirn LED flashlight bulbs are a perfect choice for those looking for a dependable flashlight.
What is the difference between an LED flashlight and a regular flashlight?
LED flashlights use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce light, while regular flashlights use incandescent bulbs. LED flashlights are often brighter, more durable, and more efficient than traditional flashlights. Additionally, they usually have multiple modes, such as low, medium, and high brightness levels and strobe and SOS modes. LED flashlights are perfect for everyday use or emergencies.
How many lumens should I look for in a flashlight?
This answer depends on what you plan to use the flashlight for. For general use, we recommend a flashlight with at least 100 lumens. However, if you need a flashlight for tactical use or outdoor activities, then look for one with a higher lumen output. Furthermore, make sure to check the beam distance and candela of the flashlight to get an idea of its brightness.
How many modes should a flashlight have?
Flashlights come in different modes, but most flashlights come with three modes: low, medium, and high. However, some flashlights come with more or fewer modes. If you need a flashlight for specific purposes, then make sure to check the mode options before purchasing.
Can I use 18650 rechargeable batteries in my flashlight?
Yes! Many flashlights are compatible with 18650 rechargeable batteries. Be sure to check the specifications of your flashlight to see if it is compatible. If not, you may need to purchase specialized batteries for your flashlight.
What if my flashlight doesn’t work after a few days?
This is a common complaint among some flashlight users. If your flashlight doesn’t work after a few days, then we recommend contacting the manufacturer to see if there is a warranty or return policy in place. Alternatively, you can search for reviews online to see if others have had the same issue.
Conclusion
Everyone should have a compact flashlight that they can rely on when they need a source of light in a dark place. Whether for security or finding things in the dark, having a small light can be extremely helpful as you never know when you might need it.
There are countless top-notch flashlights with innovative designs on the market, but most of them are pricey, so not everyone can afford them.
However, if you do a little research, you will find that many flashlights under $50 meet your needs perfectly. The ones mentioned above can give you an idea of what to look for so you can buy the perfect affordable flashlight for your needs.
