A Rechargeable torch Buyers Guide

You never know when you might need a torch! Rechargeable models are the most cost-effective illuminators and have become increasingly popular in recent years. They are available in a range of models and sizes from handy pocket torches to the daddy of the range – the floodlit heavyweight models. If you’re on the go a lot, you’ll be relieved to know that most rechargeable torches come with an in-car charger and USB port so you’re able to charge when you’re out and about. Some of the more sophisticated high-end models even have a floating charge system where you can choose to charge your torch using magnetic contact charging.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

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When it comes to choosing the rechargeable torch model that is right for you, there are three main factors you need to think about:

● Model
● Material
● Bulb type & beam strength

Model

Rechargeable torches come in a range of shapes and sizes. If you’re just looking for a torch for day-to-day, general use – for letting the dog in the garden at night or to use in the tent on a family camping trip – then a keyring torch, despite being small, is likely to be sufficient for what you intend on using it for. Keyring torches may be small in size but the light they emit is pretty impressive and will easily light up an average-sized room or pathway.

If you’re not convinced on a keyring torch and have something a little more substantial and versatile in mind, then you might be better suited to a pocket model torch. Measuring approximately 7cm in length, they’re more substantial than a keyring torch. They’re available with a range of beam strengths from around 10 – 800 lumens, with the higher lumen models capable of illuminating large rooms, gardens and walkways. With basic models costing around £7, they won’t cost you an arm and a leg either.

If you plan on using your rechargeable torch to illuminate larger areas, in possibly more demanding conditions, then consider a larger, more substantial pocket-sized model, usually measuring approximately 12cm long, with a more powerful beam strength usually around 1,000 lumens.

If you intend on using your torch for sporting activities or work – basically anything where you need your hands – then consider a head torch. These models leave your hands free but still provide light in the direction you’re facing.

The daddy of the rechargeable torch family is the heavyweight flood light torch. These bad boys have an unbelievable beam strength of around 1,500 lumens – now that’s impressive! They’re obviously heavier and longer than the smaller models – usually at least 20cm in length – but they can illuminate a rugby pitch in the push of a button! The light strength is usually adjustable in terms of power mode and lighting type – a sweeping beam or more focused lighting mode for when precision is needed. This type of rechargeable torch is favoured by those looking for a model suitable for professional use.

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Housing Material

So what material is the best rechargeable torches made from? The material may vary but regardless of whether it is metal, plastic or rubber, your torch needs to be robust, lightweight and ideally, water and shockproof.
Metal rechargeable torches tend to be made from aluminium; it may not be as strong as steel but it’s lightweight, meaning it’s easier to carry around and hold. Titanium is used as it’s both strong and light but having both these attributes comes with a higher price tag so think about your budget when shopping around.

Plastic torches tend to be in a lower price bracket than their metal counterparts but, unless you’re going for a stronger model made from shock-resistant plastic, the housing of the torch is likely to be less robust than aluminium or titanium and so care needs to be taken not to drop or step on the casing as it’s got the potential to crack.

Light Source

When shopping for a rechargeable torch, pay particular attention to the bulb type: depending on which type you choose, the level of light output, projection length, beam strength, battery consumption and light colour will vary.

Below is a brief summary of the four most common bulb types and a quick round-up of the advantages/disadvantages of each.

● Incandescent (traditional style bulb) – low cost; emits soothing ‘warm’ light; limited burn time compared to other bulb types.

● Halogen – similar to incandescent bulbs but more energy-efficient; gives off cool, bright, white light; can be hot to touch

● Xenon – emits very bright light which has ‘bluish’ tint; less robust than LED bulbs and not as energy efficient.

● LED – the most energy-efficient of the four main bulb types and, although also cost-efficient, they’re expensive to buy initially.

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The best bulb for a rechargeable torch

Lumens are used to describe the brightness of light bulbs. The higher the lumens value, the brighter the bulb. It is a legal requirement in the UK that all lightbulbs display this information on the packaging. An average-sized pocket-model rechargeable torch, suitable for domestic use, will contain a bulb with a strength of around 50 lumens, which is more than enough for use around the house or garden. The larger, heavyweight rechargeable torches far exceed this with bulb strength of 1000+ lumens, making them ideal for professional use.

There are four main types of bulb used in rechargeable torches:

Incandescent bulbs

Incandescent/filament bulbs – also known as the ‘traditional’ lightbulb – are the least expensive bulb type; the downside is they have a relatively short burn time – no more than around 1000 hours. Unavoidably, they can become hot to touch during use due to the electric current flowing across a tungsten filament. The glass casing not only conducts heat but is also fragile – it doesn’t take much to damage the delicate housing of the filament.

Halogen Bulbs

More expense than incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs work in a similar way but have a far longer burn time as halogen gas is used instead of argon and nitrogen. As well as being on the pricey side, the filament of halogen bulbs generates a lot more heat although, as a result of this, a greater volume of light is emitted.

Xenon Bulbs

The clue’s in the name – xenon bulbs use the gas of the same name to emit a bluish-tinted light for a longer period than both halogen and incandescent bulbs; they’re the most energy-efficient of the three – they produce more light for a longer period.

LED Bulbs

LED light bulbs are the most energy-efficient bulb of the four main types. On average, an LED light bulb uses a mere 12% of the energy consumed by both halogen and incandescent bulbs, but emits the same amount of light with a huge burn time of up to 50,000 hours! LED bulbs are favoured by many of us because of the clean, sharp, bright white light they produce. They are initially expensive – you need to be prepared to spend more at the outset – however, you will recoup your money further down the line when your LED bulb just keeps on going!

Optional additional features

The best rechargeable torches will come with additional features as standard whereas more basic models may offer them as optional add-ons. All these extras are focused around ease of use and/or consumer peace of mind:

● Battery-level indicator light
● Easy-grip/non-slip handle
● USB charging station
● Detachable adjustable carrying strap
● Waterproof casing
● Adjustable beam
● Power bank feature
● Shock-proof/drop resistant
● Cold weather resistant
● Wrist strap
● Lengthy warranty
● Variety of lighting modes

Last update on 2024-12-12 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Frequently Asked Questions