The 18650 flashlight is one that uses lithium-ion batteries. 18650 refers to the size of the battery, 18mm x 65mm. These are rechargeable batteries that are thrice as powerful as ordinary AA flashlight batteries. They are high-capacity batteries that have extended battery life. They can be recharged 500+ times before they are disposed of. These batteries are also small in size, which is perfect for everyday carry flashlight. So, what is the best 18650 battery flashlight? I have explained everything in this Best 18650 Flashlight article that you should know.

Our Recommended 3 Best 18650 Battery Flashlights List

ImagesTop 18650 FlashlightsFeatures includes
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Bundle: Fenix UC30 Rechargeable Flashlight (UC35 PD35 Ultra-Compact Version) CREE XM-L2(U2) LED and LegionArms USB Charging Cord
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  • Features such as reverse polarity protection, intelligent circuits, and side switches

  • Max Lumens: 1000

  • Different light modes or better focus

  • Included Battery

  • Medium price
  • High Lumen Choice
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    Outlite A100 High Powered Handheld Flashlight, Portable LED Handheld Flashlight, Torch Light For Camping Hiking
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  • High lumens waterproof tactical flashlight for camping

  • Max Lumens: 2000

  • Included Battery

  • Lowest price
  • Rechargeable Flashlight
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    PowerTac M5 LED Flashlight
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  • Features USB Magnetic Cable For Fast Charging

  • Max Lumens: 1300

  • Medium price
  • Summary of Contents

    Our Top Pick Fenix UC30 Rechargeable 18650 Flashlight Video Review

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    Top 15 Best 18650 Flashlight Reviews in 2024

    When it comes to deciding which tactical flashlight is the best for consumers, the choice always varies.
    This is a result of great rivalry among manufacturers in their quest to create the latest devices. In no particular order, let us have a look at the top 5 details and link where to buy 18650 batteries.

    Fenix UC30 Rechargeable 18650 Flashlights (Our top pick)

    FENIX UC30 uses CREE XM-L2 (U2) LEDs, and the bulbs have a life span of 50,000 hours. The LEDs produce 1000lumens(old 960 lumens) powered by 2600mAh 18650 batteries. These are high-capacity lithium batteries that are rechargeable. CR123 batteries can be used as an alternative. The UC30 guarantees a beam of high intensity for use in the dark that has a beam distance of 669 feet.

    Technical Specifications of the Fenix UC30 Tactical

    Features Fenix uc30
    Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens (old 960lm)
    Minimum Brightness: 5 Lumens
    Maximum Runtime: 150 hours (5 lumens)
    Minimum Runtime: 1 hour & 25 minutes (1000 lumens)
    Beam Distance: 253 Meters
    Modes: 5 (5, 50, 150, 350, 1000 lm)
    Battery includes: Yes (One 18650 rechargeable battery)
    LED: CREE XP-L HI V3
    Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
    Waterproof standard: IP68 (Underwater 2 meters)
    Length: 130 mm
    Weight: 77 grams
    Price: Best 18650 FlashlightCheck Price

    It has an indicator that lets you know when your flashlight is running out of charge. There is a USB port on the flashlight and a legion Arm USB charging cable that can be carried in your backpack wherever you go.

    Fenix UC30 include LegionArms USB Charging cord & Integrated Micro USB charging port cover

    It has 5 brightness modes which include a strobe mode. This Fenix UC30 has a number of accessories that you can’t miss. These include a holster, lanyard, O-ring, and a pair of USB dust plugs.

    Fenix PD35 TAC Review – Brightest 18650 Flashlights

    Fenix PD35 TAC is yet another model of Fenix flashlights, but with a greater light output than the previous one. It is black in color with a brightness of 1000 lumens. It works with one 18650 battery and offers an alternative of a pair of 3V C123 lithium batteries.

    Technical Specifications of the Fenix PD35 Tactical

    Features Fenix PD35 Tac
    Lumens: 1000 lm
    Maximum Runtime: 29 hours 15min (60 lumens)
    Minimum Brightness: 8 Lumens
    Minimum Runtime: 1 hour 10 minutes (1000 lumens)
    Beam Distance: 200 Meters
    Outdoor Modes: 6
    Tactical Modes: 3
    Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
    LED: Cree XP-L (V5)
    Waterproof standard: IPX-8 (2 meters for 30 minutes)
    Length: 137 mm
    Weight: 89 grams
    Battery: One rechargeable 18650 battery
    Price: Fenix PD35 TACCheck Price

    It has two major modes a tactical mode and an outdoor mode. The tactical mode is further subdivided into the turbo, Strobe, and low modes. There are two switches for shifting easily between these modes. One switch is positioned mid-body and one at the base for turning on and off.

    When using this Fenix pd35 tac, one needs not worry about the output adjusting itself unexpectedly because the output is managed digitally.

     

    Nitecore P12GT 1000 Lumen Flashlight

    The Nitecore brand is known for its unique and high-performance flashlights. Every year, they come up with new or improved products to meet the ever-rising demands of customers. For instance, the Nitecore P12GT has undergone an upgrade(Old version Nitecore P12) to provide a flashlight that covers a longer distance than its predecessor. The latest P12GT version covers 350 yards, while the former covers only 254 yards. Still, the latest model has maintained all the exceptional features but also changed its Cree XM-L2 to Cree XP-L LED, which is superior.

    Apart from the few changes made, the P12GT is still one of the best EDC flashlights, and it is very bright. It produces a maximum of 1000 Lumens and comes with 4 light levels and 3 special light modes. Together, they make up a versatile flashlight that can be used in the wild, at home, or at work sites. In addition, this best 18650  flashlight is very easy to use with its tactical tail cap switch and a firm grip that can be held even in wet or sweaty conditions.

    Technical Specifications of the Nitecore P12GT Flashlight – 1000LM

    Features Nitecore P12Gt
    Maximum Brightness: 1000 lumens
    Minimum Brightness: 0.2 lumens
    Maximum runtime: 520 hours
    Minimum runtime: 1.5 hours
    Peak beam intensity: 25700 cd
    Max beam distance: 320 meters
    LED: CREE XP-L HI V3
    Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
    Battery Type: 1 x 18650 or 2 x CR123A
    Waterproof:
    Yes
    Dimension: 140 mm
    Weight: 91 g
    Modes: Location Beacon, SOS, Strobe
    Battery Include: No
    Price: Check Price

    Pros:

    Cons:

    Fenix TK16 Best Budget Rechargeable Flashlight Review

    Powered by either a 1x 18650 battery or two CR123A batteries, the Fenix TK16 can provide you with a maximum runtime of 150 hours. The TK16 is very bright and produces a maximum of 1000 Lumens. This is enough to blind an attacker or a stray animal. If you operate in tricky conditions like mines, this is a great flashlight for you. Because it can withstand crashing or even when dropped in water, it will still function perfectly. The dual switch simplifies things for you as you switch it on using the tail cap switch and access the modes via the side switch.

    The five light modes of flashlight help you perform various tasks like reading a map with low light or using strobe mode to blind an assailant. Additionally, it has special features like the low-voltage battery warning and an intelligent memory function that make using the light to be fun.

    Technical Specifications of the Fenix TK16 Tactical Flashlight

    Features Fenix TK16
    Lumens: 1000 lm
    Beam Distance: 240 meters
    Modes: 5
    Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
    LED: Cree XM-L2 U2
    Waterproof: IPX-8 standard (Underwater 2 Meters for 30 Min.)
    Body: aircraft-grade aluminum
    Weight: 49 grams
    Battery: Fenix ARB-L2M 2300mAh 18650 batteries and Two EdisonBright CR123A lithium batteries
    Price: Check Price

    Benefits of the Fenix TK16

    Setbacks of the Fenix TK16

    Klarus Upgraded XT11GT Tactical Flashlight

    The Klarus XT11GT is a compact and sturdy flashlight built for tactical use. The body of the flashlight is made of durable aluminum alloy, and it has a hard-anodized finish. It can defy an impact of up to 1-meter and has a water resistance rating of IPX8. The Klarus XT11GT 2000 Lumen flashlight uses Cree XHP35 HD E4 LED that is indestructible and very powerful. The light offers users three light settings, which are outdoor setting, tactical setting, and advanced tactical setting. Also, it is easy to use with a tactical tail cap switch and side switch for mode selection.

    When the battery is low, the battery level indicator will notify you, and you can easily charge the battery by connecting a standard micro USB cable to the direct recharging function on the flashlight. Additional accessories of this light include an O-ring, USB charging cable, a lanyard, a rechargeable 18650 battery, mini USB light, and a wall adapter.

    Technical Specifications of the Klarus XT11GT-2000LM

    Features Klarus Upgraded XT11GT
    Lumens: 2000 lm
    Beam Distance: 316 meters
    Modes: 2
    Material: Aluminum
    LED: CREE XHP35 HD E4
    Waterproof: IPX8 standard
    Weight: 4.6 ounces
    Battery: One Lithium-ion battery is required. (included)
    Price: Check Price

    Pros:

    Cons:

    Fenix HL60R Rechargeable LED Headlamp

    Are you a construction worker, electrician, technician, angler, hiker, or backpacker? Here is the best 18650 flashlight headlamp for your lighting needs. The Fenix HL60R comes with a great USB recharging system. It also offers two battery options which are either 1x 18650 rechargeable lithium battery or 2x CR12A batteries. I will choose the former because of its runtime and performance. Whether you use it in the rain or on top of the mountain, this headlamp will still provide you with sufficient lighting, and it will defy tough conditions like rain or dropping.

    The Fenix HL60R uses Cree XM-L2 T6 neutral white LED that is unbreakable and produces a maximum of 950 Lumens. To use this flashlight, simply turn it on using the side switch and use the red light or cycle through the five light levels.

    Technical Specifications of the Fenix HL60R USB Rechargeable Headlamp

    Features Fenix HL60R
    Lumens: 950 lm
    Maximum Runtime: 100hours
    Minimum Brightness: 1 lm
    Minimum Runtime: 48minutes
    Beam Distance: 116 Meters
    Outdoor Modes: 6
    Included:  2600mAh battery, USB cable, headband, headlamp strap, top headband mount, spare O-ring
    Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
    LED: Cree XM-L2 T6 Neutral White LED
    Waterproof standard: IPX-8 (2 meters for 30 minutes)
    Length: 87mm
    Weight: 121g
    Battery: One rechargeable 18650 battery
    Price: Check Price

    Benefits of the HL60R Headlamp

    Setbacks of the Fenix HL60R headlamp

    Klarus XT12 Custom battery type 18650 Flashlight

    Klaus has a rugged look that indicates its mechanical strength. It is an equally powerful, illuminating light of 1600 lumens. It is powered by a 18650 battery that is tailor-made specifically for this Klarus XT12; two CR123A batteries are also compatible.

    Related: Klarus xt12gt Review 2024: Tactical Cree Led Rechargeable flashlight

    It comes complete with a magnetic charger that can locate the standard USB port on the device. It is a tactical flashlight, therefore resistant to scratches and reliable for emergency situations.

    Technical Specifications of the Klarus XT12GT Tactical light

    Features Klarus XT12GT
    Lumens: 1600 lm
    Beam Distance: 306 meters
    Modes: 3
    Material: Aluminum
    LED: CREE LED XHP35 HI D4
    Waterproof: IPX8
    Weight: 4.6 ounces
    Battery: One Lithium-ion battery is required. (included)
    Price: Check Price

    It has a waterproof rating of IPX8 which means it can still work even when it is immersed 2m underwater. Without batteries, it weighs 152g only. You can also check the newer version klarus xt12gt.

    LED Outlite A100 Flashlight Review

    This Outlite A100 boosts the light output of 2000 lumens and has a zoom function that varies the brightness. You can see objects at 500-700 lumens without zooming and 700-900 when zooming. The bulb type is the CREE XML-T6 LED.
    A single 3.7V 18650 battery is enough to power it. This is brought together with a charger. The Outlite A100 also allows 3 AA batteries, just in case.

    Technical Specifications of the Outlite A100 Handheld Flashlight

    Features Outlite A100
    Lumens: 2000 lm
    Modes: 5
    Material: Aluminum
    LED: XM-L T6 LED
    Water Resistant: Yes
    Weight: 5.3 ounces
    Battery: Lithium Metal batteries required
    Price: Check Price

    Outlite A100 has 5 adjustable modes, which are high, medium, low, and SOS. It is user-friendly and has an On and Off switch for operation.
    It can balance perfectly on a flat surface, which frees both your hands when using it. Outlite A100 is carefully constructed with aluminum and is waterproof. Its uses are versatile.

    Keychain super mini LED flashlight is included as a freebie. Moreover, Outlite A100 is the cheapest 18650 battery flashlight.

    Cree XM-l Flashlight Powertec E5

    Last but not least in this best 18650 flashlight is the Powertec E5 which is an everyday carry flashlight. It has this powerful look that is accompanied by the brightness of the light it produces. The Cree XML LEDs produce a strong 950 lumens. Like other 18650 flashlights, it uses one Li-ion battery or 2 CR123A lithium batteries.

    Technical Specifications of the PowerTac E5 LED Flashlight

    Features PowerTac E5
    Lumens: 950 lm
    Modes: 5
    Material: Aluminum
    LED:  Cree XM-L U2 LED
    Water Resistant: Yes
    Weight: 2.4 ounces
    Battery: 2 x CR123A or 1 x 18650
    Price: Cree xm-l flashlight Powertac e5 reviewCheck Price

    It has a switch that is easy to locate on its surface for powering on and off. It has 5 brightness levels firefly, high, medium, low, and Strobe, which is adjusted by twisting the head slightly.

    ThruNite TN12 EDC LED 18650 Flashlight Review

    The ThruNite TN12 flashlight does it all. From providing very bright light to resisting impact and water, this is a great choice of light for outdoor activities. In addition, it has a simple-to-operate stainless steel side switch with one hand. The Cree XM-U2 LED bulb lasts longer and is powerful.

    Technical Specifications of the ThruNite TN12 EDC LED Torch

    Features ThruNite TN12
    Maximum Brightness: 1050 Lumens
    Minimum Brightness: 0.4 lumens
    Maximum runtime: 74 days
    Minimum runtime: 95 minutes
    Peak beam intensity: 12800 cd.
    Max beam distance: up to 218 meters
    LED:  CREE XM-L2 U2 LED
    Body: Aircraft-grade aluminum
    Battery Type: 1*18650 /2*CR123 batteries.
    Waterproof:
    Yes
    Dimension: 143mm
    Weight: 86g
    Modes:  Firefly, Low, Medium, High, and Turbo.
    Battery Include: No
    Price: thrunite tn12 reviewCheck Price

    Main features:

    Pos:

    Olight SR52 Intimidator Best 18650 Flashlight

    Olight is a famous brand with quality led lights. This simple but highly performing EDC light has a Cree XM –L2 bulb and side switch cycle. It is well constructed with an aircraft-grade aluminum body for longevity. The 1200 lumen ensures that the user has enough light to lighten dark places. Are you looking for the smallest 18650 flashlights? Then buy this Olight SR52 flashlight.

    Technical Specifications of the Olight Intimidator SR52 Flashlight w/ 1200 Lumen LED SR52-XML2

    Features Olight SR52
    Lumens: 1200 Lumens
    Modes: 3
    Material: Aluminum
    LED:  Cree XM-L U2 LED
    Water Resistant: Yes
    Beam Distance: 580 Meters
    Weight: 2.8 pounds
    Battery: 3 X Genuine Olight 3400mAh 18650 Li-Ion rechargeable batteries and Olight Omni-Dok smart battery charger included
    Price: Olight SR52 reviewCheck Price

    Main features:

    Pros:

    ThruNite TN36 LED Flashlight

    With an aircraft-grade aluminum body, the Thrunite TN36 is a well-built light for longevity. In addition, it has Cree XP-L V6 led that lasts long and is bright. The compact design makes it easy to keep and use the light as it fits well in hand. Also, it is easy to operate with the advanced electronic metal switch.

    Technical Specifications of the ThruNite TN36 Limited Version 11000 Lumen 

    Features ThruNite TN36
    Lumens: 11000 lumens
    Modes: 5
    Material: Aluminum
    LED: Cree XP-L V6 LED
    Water Resistant: IPX-8 Standard (2meters).
    Beam Distance: 353m.
    Weight: 427g
    Battery: 18650 (ThruNite IMR 18650 3100Mah)
    Price: thrunite tn36 reviewCheck Price

    Main features:

    Pros:

    Klarus Improved XT11S Rechargeable Flashlight

    As you carry your mobile phone and Swiss Army Knife, remember to attach or slide the Klarus XT11S LED flashlight. This 4th generation ultra-compact XT11s light from Klarus is a very powerful and reliable flashlight. It is not only strongly built to defy outdoor hardships, but it can also resist water up to 2 meters for 30 minutes. The Improved XT11S can reach up to 330 meters on a very dark night and sustain you for more than 260 hours when you are out there camping. It is also very bright as it produces a maximum of 1100 Lumens. With the tactical tail cap switch and side switch, you can utilize this flashlight using just one hand. Easily recharge the flashlight by connecting the USB charging cable to the USB port.

    Technical Specifications of the Klarus Improved XT11S:

    Features Klarus Improved XT11S
    Lumens: 1100 lm
    Beam Distance: 330 Meters
    Modes: 3
    LED: CREE XP-L HI V3
    Waterproof: IPX-8 water protection (2 meters submersible rating)
    Weight: 115g (without battery)
    Battery: A rechargeable 18650 battery
    Price: klarus xt11s reviewCheck Price

    Product description:

    Pros:

    Cons:

    SOLARAY Pro ZX-1 Handheld Tactical Flashlight

    The SOLARAY Pro ZX-1 series flashlight is one of the best-selling SOLARAY flashlights in the market. Not only is the flashlight strongly constructed from sturdy aircraft-grade aluminum, but it is also compact and water-resistant. Besides, it has a tail cap switch that makes operating the flashlight to be easy. Also, one can adjust the zoom function to access either flood or spot beam. This is a very powerful flashlight as it produces maximum Lumens of 1200. This makes the flashlight to be ideal for outdoor use.

    Technical Specifications of the SOLARAY Handheld LED Tactical Flashlight – Professional Series ZX-1 Kit

    Features SOLARAY Pro ZX-1
    Lumens: 1,200 lumens
    Body rugged aircraft-grade aluminum with an attached deluxe lanyard
    Modes: Multiple Selection Modes
    LED: CREE XML-T6 powered LED
    Waterproof: Yes
    Weight: 5 ounces
    Battery: Solaray rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion or AAA alkaline batteries
    Price: solaray reviewCheck Price

    Features of the SOLARAY handheld LED flashlight

    Benefits of the SOLARAY LED flashlight

    Fenix UC35 Rechargeable Flashlight

    The new Fenix UC35 V2.0 rechargeable flashlight is 10mm shorter than the former model but still retains most of the exceptional features. It is well as a convenient grip for easy handling of the flashlight even intense situations. Made of a durable aircraft-grade aluminum body, this flashlight can resist an impact of up to 1-meter, and it is waterproof with a rating of IP68. Moreover, it is very easy to charge via its USB port. Similar to many tactical flashlights, this LED light produces a very bright light on a maximum of 1000 Lumens. It can also run for 800 hours on moonlight mode, making it great for camping. This is the best 18650 flashlight of 2024.

    Technical Specifications of the Fenix UC35 V2.0 LED

    Features Fenix uc35 v2.0
    Maximum Brightness: 1000 Lumens
    Minimum Brightness: 1 Lumen
    Maximum Runtime: 800 hours
    Minimum Runtime: 2 hours & 15 min.
    Beam Distance: 266Meters
    Modes: 5 brightness outputs plus Strobe
    Battery includes:  One rechargeable 18650 Li-ion battery (included) or two CR123A batteries
    LED: Cree XP-L HI V3 LED
    Body: oxidation-resistance aluminum
    Waterproof standard: IP68
    Length: 5.5” (140mm)
    Weight: 3.1 oz. (89g)
    Price: fenix uc35 v2.0 reviewCheck Price

    The flashlight offers the user 5 light modes, and the brightest mode covers a distance of 266 meters/291 yards, which is 73 yards more than the previous model. Other quality features include anti-roll design, battery level indicator, and tactical tail switch. Use the tactical tail cap switch to turn on the light and side switch to select a model of choice.

    Pros:

    Cons:

    If you are looking for a tactical 18650 flashlight, then this is the best to buy.

    Why buy the Best 18650 flashlight? Explain 18650 battery flashlight features:

    There are a few features that make 18650 flashlights very unique and beneficial for everyone.

    18650 battery Power

    The main reason why you should buy a 18650 flashlight is because of power. Power is determined by the type of bulb used, the number of bulbs and batteries used to power the flashlight. The best types of bulbs are LEDs. LEDs have replaced the traditional types of bulbs, thereby improving the quality and quantity of light output. These LEDs are also different; there are the older type and the new type. Examples of the new types are Cree XM-L and Cree XM-L2. It is important to note this when looking for the best flashlights.

    Flashlight Size and weight

    Another reason why you should buy this type of flashlight is the size. There are different sizes of 18650 flashlights depending on the number of lithium batteries used. The advantage of having a flashlight that uses more Li-Ion batteries is that it produces more light compared to one that uses less. On the other hand, the advantage of buying a flashlight that uses a single 18650 battery is the reduced size that is convenient to carry. A suitable size is always a decision left for consumers to make.
    Cheap 18650 batteries lights

    Flashlight Durability

    The best 18650 flashlights are built strong with materials such as aircraft-grade aluminum or titanium. They are also given a polished finish as an addition. The finishing is done using a nickel of graphite. As a consequence, these flashlights are resistant to scratches and abrasion.
    This type of construction makes them shockproof and slight drops when using them, which is not a big concern. Many of them are tightly sealed for water resistance. They have different water resistance capacities, which are indicated by their waterproof ratings. Therefore, these flashlights can be used in a storm and other difficult weather conditions. Those that are made of stainless steel are resistant to rust and so can last for a long period of time.

    18650 batteries are more powerful & versatile.

    Economical

    It is not hard to find a 18650 flashlight under $50. It is good to point out that this flashlight saves your money because; many of them use a single battery. Secondly, the batteries are rechargeable. Therefore, you don’t have to buy batteries every now and then. They have a long battery life too, which means you don’t have to worry when they will be drained so that you can buy new ones. Manufacturers often include an extra set of batteries as well.

    Best 18650 batteries for flashlights

    If you already have a flashlight and now want to replace your battery, then check our below list. We have listed here the best 18650 batteries for flashlights. We have selected these two batteries according to their performance, rechargeable-ability, quality, and lasting.
    Check Price

    Conclusion

    If you go through all the 18650 flashlight reviews, you should be able to find a flashlight with the features and functions that work for you at a good price. I hope you have gotten your answer after reading this Best 18650 flashlight. You can comment below for more information.

    2 Responses

    1. Fenix is a trust-able brand. They are making high quality flashlight. Here, you are suggesting fenix flashlight as a first choice. Thus, I purchased Fenix PD35 TAC last month. And, i just want to thank you that it is working great for me. Although, price is little bit high but I am very happy what i get.

      1. Thank you for your feedback. Fenix price is a little bit high, it’s true. And, Most of the people always look cheap flashlight and compromise with quality. You bought quality flashlight and thus you are getting quality service.

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