Arbitrary List of Popular Flashlights - Fall Equinox 2026 Edition
In honor of Fall Equinox, I've made an updated list of popular flashlights. It's getting darker if you're in the northern hemisphere!
With the Pro version, Wurkkos has responded to user feedback and addressed some of the criticisms of its predecessor. The fold-out wings on the Wurkkos HD02 Pro can now also be rotated, allowing the light to be directed in almost any desired direction. Another new feature is a 660 nm red light that helps preserve the eyes’ dark adaptation. The powerful spotlight, UV light and green laser remain largely unchanged.
However, there are problems with the charging function, which has been unreliable for both me and other users. It is currently impossible to determine conclusively whether these are isolated cases or a fundamental issue. The manufacturer was informed of the problems but was unable to provide any concrete information even after several weeks. Another issue is that the plastic diffusers in the wings can come loose when the light is used at high brightness.
I had specifically criticized the non-rotatable floodlight wings on the previous model. Wurkkos has done an excellent job of addressing this issue in the new Pro version. The red light is also a useful addition. The charging problems are all the more disappointing. Otherwise, the Wurkkos HD02 Pro would be nearly perfect.
English review at BudgetLightForum
German review on my website
As may be obvious from the frequency of my posts here lately, I've been going through the flashlight accumulation startup phase. I'm ready to let some of my early missteps go.
I like the peer-to-peer, no platform fee of something like reddit's r/flashlight monthly pinned BTS thread. Would there be appetite for something like that here, or does that just make moderation tedious?
Is there already a trade-friendly fedi solution that could support something as specialized as (ahem) enthusiast flashlights? TY in advance.
L-R: orange Wurkkos FC11C 4kk, green Emisar DA1K NTG50 4200k, white Emisar DW4 NTG35 1800k/SST20 red 660nm, blue Wurkkos TS27, coyote Acebeam T35 SFT40 5kk, green aluminum reylight pineapple mini.
DA1K was the most pleasing for just admiring the trees. I had lost the T35 in an apron pocket and just found it yesterday. Better beam distance than I remembered.
My pockets grow full. I’m tempted to ride outside more often. Are my lights cruisin’ for a bruisin’ if I take this route? Tell me your horror stories. Cause it sure would make it easier to carry 18650 lights outside in my belt or pocket.
This is a Wurkkos CL01 that I use in a dark computer nook so people can see me on video phone. It’s hanging on the arm of an adjustable mirror. It works, just curious what others do. I have the tiny tripod for it, but I can’t set it in front of the compy.
For those who find the Wurkkos HD02 too large and heavy as an EDC flashlight, the Wurkkos HD02 Mini is a suitable alternative. Despite its significantly more compact dimensions, it doesn’t skimp on features: in addition to the powerful spotlight, there is a warm-white floodlight and a red light. The foldable wing for use as a small lantern is also included. Details such as the rotary switch, the long two-way clip and the magnetic tailcap with tripod thread complete the package.
With so many features, minor firmware bugs aren’t entirely surprising. However, I do consider it problematic that the adhesive holding the diffuser on the wing can come loose at high brightness. A 660 nm red light would also have been nice.
Overall, I still consider the Wurkkos HD02 Mini a successful EDC flashlight. With its wide range of features, it proves to be a practical companion for everyday use.
English review at BudgetLightForum
German review on my website
The Sofirn HS23 has a lot to offer: The headlamp features three channels with spotlight, floodlight and 660 nm red light, which can be conveniently switched between using a rotary switch. It also has an integrated USB-C charging function.
Despite its simple operation and practical features, I have one major criticism of the HS23: It is simply too heavy for a headlamp. Even an 18650 battery feels borderline to me in a headlamp, so a large 21700 battery is all the more unsuitable for this application. Personally, I would prefer a shorter runtime and more frequent battery changes rather than having to wear a relatively heavy flashlight on my forehead for extended periods.
However, the HS23 can make sense when high brightness is required for extended periods. If a helmet is already being worn for work, the additional weight is less of an issue. The good regulation is also an advantage in this case, as it keeps the brightness constant for a long time.
English review at BudgetLightForum
German review on my website
Great hardware, poor software – that’s the Sofirn SK31 in a nutshell. The combination of a powerful LMP LHP73B with a well-regulated driver, a two-stage tail switch, a separate switch for the lockout and a screwed cover for the USB-C charging port provide the perfect hardware foundation for a great flashlight.
The operation is all the more disappointing. The two-stage switch leaves much of its potential unused. For example, there is no direct access to the lowest or highest brightness level and in Tactical Mode, the switch must be held halfway down for a full five seconds to keep the flashlight on. Minor firmware bugs make the overall experience even less enjoyable.
English review at BudgetLightForum
German review on my website
Arbitrary List of Popular Flashlights - Summer 2026 Edition
In honor of the 2026 solar eclipse, I've made an updated list of popular flashlights. Sorry I missed solstice.
The Imalent BTL50 is not a zoom flashlight in the traditional sense, yet the width of its beam can still be adjusted – without any moving parts. This is made possible by an integrated diffuser whose strength can be controlled electronically. This technology is extremely rare in flashlights, but highly practical.
Although the flashlight feels compact and comfortable to handle, the capacity of the built-in battery is somewhat limited for its size. The flashlight stands out with its slightly futuristic design and stylish leather-like covering. The width of the beam is adjusted with a rotary control, which allows for smooth, intuitive operation. A pocket clip or holster, however, would have been a welcome addition.
English review at BudgetLightForum
German review on my website
cross-posted from: https://sopuli.xyz/post/48392158
I can't decide between the SFT-25R and SFT-40 emitters. The price difference between them is negligible, and every online article seems to have differing opinions on which one has more throw, spill, etc.
Also, I am indecisive on the colour temperature. 5000K is daylight coloured apparently, while 6500K is cooler (blue tinted) and 3000K is warmer (yellow tinted, only available for SFT-40). I don't like cooler lights, so I guess I will probably go with 5000K (unless 3000K isn't super warm, then maybe that one?)
I am going with the Conway T6 as it's compatible with regular AA batteries (like my IKEA Laddas), but as I understand, lights with built-in charging functions (e.g. Skilhunt EC150) usually don't work with NiMH batteries, only Li-ion 14500 batteries.* I don't think the Conway T6 has that, but I could be wrong. The T6 also cokes in a really unique purple colour!
*small edit: I meant that the charging bits don't always work for NiMH batteries for most flashlights, the light itself would still work. The wording is a little unclear, sorry about that!
edit 2: I'm purchasing the T6 w/ the SFT-40 3000K emitter! Thanks everyone!
The Nitecore P27iX is a tactical flashlight that impresses with a well-designed user interface and four special "M515S" LEDs. The multi-stage tail buttons provide direct access to four brightness levels, while a sliding switch reliably protects the flashlight against accidental activation. Only the SET button on the head requires some getting used to. Also worth mentioning are the battery level indicators and the USB charging port with its metal flip cover.
The width of the beam can be adjusted in three steps – a useful, though not strictly essential feature. In addition to the four regular brightness levels, there are two particularly bright modes called "Search" and "Lumin Shield". Some of the button assignments can be customized to suit personal preferences.
A major drawback, in my view, is the proprietary battery. A design that works with standard 21700 cells would have been clearly the better option. The NL2155HPi is not only relatively expensive at over $30, but its long-term availability is also not guaranteed.
English review at BudgetLightForum
German review on my website
The Armytek Predator Pro Max lives up to its name: compared to its predecessor, it is brighter, has a longer runtime and more throw – all while maintaining nearly the same size. It comes with a new side button, which eliminates the need to loosen or tighten the head to adjust the brightness. Other features like the electronic tail switch and the convenient magnetic charging system are still included.
However, if you don’t want to use the flashlight at full power all the time, it can quickly become a challenge to use: in the dark, the side button for adjusting the brightness is hard to find, as it neither stands out in color nor in shape.
English review at BudgetLightForum
German review on my website
