Car torch - which model to choose?

Car torch - which model to choose?

A flashlight is not a mandatory element of car equipment, but that doesn't mean it's not worth having one. Drivers usually limit themselves to having only those items in the car that are required by law. Nevertheless, it is worth considering having a flashlight in the car, as it can prove useful in various unforeseen situations, such as changing a damaged wheel after dark.

Read our guide to find out what to look for when choosing a car flashlight. Check which type of flashlight — headlamp, mini keychain, or magnetic — will be the best choice for you.

Car flashlight — rechargeable or battery-operated?

Currently, most flashlights available on the market are powered by rechargeable batteries. These models can be recharged multiple times, eliminating the need to regularly buy new batteries. This is not only a money saver but also a contribution to environmental protection. Moreover, rechargeable flashlights are simply very efficient and provide strong lighting even for many hours. However, it must be remembered that rechargeable batteries can discharge in both low and high temperatures, e.g., when the flashlight is left in the car in freezing or hot weather for an extended period.

As for battery-powered flashlights, they have a significant advantage — their replacement is quick and easy, and batteries, especially those in the AA or AAA standard, are widely available and relatively inexpensive. However, it should be noted that rechargeable batteries usually provide more power and longer runtime than regular batteries. It's also important that despite the low cost of batteries, in the long run, you will spend more money on all the batteries than on one decent rechargeable battery.

In summary — for the car, we recommend purchasing a rechargeable flashlight. This is because such models are usually equipped with powerful LED diodes and generate a large amount of light. These models are characterized by high efficiency, and additionally, many of them can be charged directly through the car socket.

USB-rechargeable car flashlight – why should you choose it?

USB-rechargeable flashlights are always a good choice. In the event of a battery discharge, you then have the option to charge the device directly in the car. Nowadays, most cars are standardly equipped with USB ports, which, in addition to charging mobile phones, can also be used to power flashlights.

Wuben Flashlight
Wuben T600 Flashlight - the battery is charged using a USB-C cable

Owners of older car models can equip themselves with an inexpensive USB to cigarette lighter adapter to charge this type of flashlight. Moreover, many of us carry a power bank every day, so if the car doesn't have a USB port, the flashlight can be charged in this way without any problem.

Remember to always check the flashlight's compatibility with the charger or power bank. Before use, familiarize yourself with the product's instruction manual.

Is it worth buying a multifunctional flashlight for the car?

While the primary purpose of a flashlight is to illuminate the surroundings, in the case of a device intended for the car, it's worth considering a model offering additional functions.

An example is specialized tactical flashlight models, which are useful in emergency situations. Some of them are equipped, for instance, with a glass breaker, which, if necessary, allows you to quickly and effectively break a car window.

Olight Javelot
Olight Javelot Matte Black Tactical Flashlight - equipped with strobe mode

Magnetic car flashlight - how does it facilitate work on the car?

Besides typical tactical flashlights, it is worthwhile to pay attention to models equipped with a magnet. They are particularly useful during emergency situations on the road when you need to illuminate, for example, the engine, while keeping both hands free for work. This is especially important if you are traveling alone and have no one to hold the flashlight and illuminate the appropriate place.

Flashlight on car body
Olight Perun 2 Flashlight is equipped with a strong magnet on the cap, allowing for stable attachment to any steel surface

In this type of flashlight, depending on the model, the magnet can be located at the end of the flashlight on the cap or on its side. Both handheld flashlights, headlamps, and angled flashlights are often equipped with magnets.

Headlamp as a car flashlight – a good option for DIY enthusiasts

A headlamp is one of the best options for the car. As you wear it on your head, you have free hands for work, and it simultaneously illuminates precisely the spot you are looking at. It is ideal, for example, for checking the engine or undercarriage, where you need to illuminate dark corners. It's easier then to locate fluid leaks or other technical issues.

When choosing a headlamp, it is essential to consider that it will be worn on the head, so it should be lightweight and not burdensome. The attachment system is also important, which should be suitably adjusted to our head to ensure comfortable wearing over a long time. The lighting modes available in a given headlamp model are also crucial. The highest power mode is suitable for illuminating larger distances, while the lowest mode allows lighting small distances without the risk of being blinded by reflected light. The ability to adjust the angle of the light beam is also significant, enabling you to direct the beam exactly where you need it at the moment.

Mini car flashlight – a practical keychain that fits in your pocket

If you do not want to store a larger flashlight in the car, you can always consider choosing a compact version in the form of a keychain. Although it won't replace a larger flashlight with a lot of lumens, it can sometimes be a lifesaver because it will still shine more brightly than a phone flashlight.

Mini flashlights, contrary to appearances, are not just unnecessary gadgets. They can achieve a power of even 90 lumens or more and have a range of several tens of meters. For comparison, the range on a phone is usually only about 10 meters, and the power is just about 20 lumens – the difference is substantial.

Watch the video where we present the mini Olight I3E EOS flashlight!

Offer of car flashlights at MILITARY.EU

Explore our extensive range of flashlights that will work as models for your car! We offer products from many renowned brands such as Olight, XRG, Ledlenser, Mil-Tec, and Petzl.

At MILITARY.EU, there is a wide selection of flashlights, including classic handheld, headlamps, angled flashlights, and many others, such as keychain flashlights. The offered flashlights are very durable and, depending on your needs, have varying power. Order a flashlight for your car today and be ready for any situation!