The Best Lightweight Flashlights for Any Task
Are you looking for the best lightweight flashlight around? When it comes to your gear, every ounce matters. From backpacking to everyday carry, having a compact flashlight that won’t add unnecessary weight can be the difference between a good day and a very bad one.
Below we’ve rounded up five of our favorite flashlights ideal for everyday carry, backpacking, hiking, camping and other outdoor adventures. Each one weighs under 5 ounces including battery so you can cut weight without losing utility.
NITECORE TINI (0.47 oz)
Brightness: 380 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 70 yds
Battery: Built-in li-ion; USB rechargeable
Why we love it: The NITECORE TINI might be the smallest flashlight on our list, but the 380 lumen output from this keychain flashlight is bright enough to rival some full-size lights. TIR optics give you a smooth beam that won’t cause harsh glare when reading, and instant access to Turbo means you’ll always have a burst of light waiting at your fingertips.
NITECORE TUP (1.87 oz)
Brightness: 1000 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 197 yards
Battery: Built-in li-ion; USB rechargeable
Why we love it: If NITECORE had stopped at making a 1000 lumen flashlight the size of a thumb, we would have been impressed enough. But this flashlight takes it beyond impressive by adding luxury features rarely seen on a pocket flashlight such as the brightly lit OLED display that always lets you know what mode you’re in, and more importantly, how much battery is left.
NITECORE MT10C (2.01 oz / ~2.61 oz including battery)
Brightness: 920 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 207 yds
Battery: 1x IMR18350 or 1x CR123A
Why we love it: Our list includes a few flashlights in the 900-1000 lumen range, but the NITECORE MT10C is the only one that also includes a secondary red light. Why is that important? This low light option can preserve night vision and is less likely to attract unwanted attention from insects and wildlife alike. The MT10C also incorporates a tactical-style tail cap so light is always a button press away.
NITECORE TIP2 (1.35 oz)
Brightness: 720 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 101 yds
Battery: Built-in 500mAh li-ion
Why we love it: This upgrade to the best-selling TIP doubles output to 720 lumens while keeping the same compact footprint the TIP was celebrated for. The TIP2 also includes a new magnetic quick-release tailcap so it’s easy to take it on and off your keys for use or stick it to metal objects for hands-free light!
NITECORE MH20GT (3.13 oz / ~4.73 oz including battery)
Brightness: 1000 lumens
Peak Beam Distance: 396 yds
Battery: 1x 18650 or 2x CR123A
Why we love it: One of the biggest limits of smaller flashlights is that throw distances are often underwhelming. The NITECORE MH20GT rethinks what’s possible with its 1000 lumen output rated for up to 396 yards of throw distance. If you need your beam to cover long distances, make sure this rechargeable flashlight is part of your gear.
* Weights including batteries are estimated and for reference only. Actual weight may vary depending on the batteries used.