Last Updated on June 15, 2025
EDC stands for Everyday Carry—the collection of items you carry with you daily to stay prepared for various situations. Typical EDC items include your phone, wallet, keys, and sometimes a pocket knife. But did you know that a flashlight is one of the most essential EDC tools you can own?
A reliable flashlight proves invaluable during unexpected power outages, nighttime dog walks, late commutes, or roadside emergencies like changing a flat tire in the dark. That’s why having a compact, high-quality EDC flashlight is a smart move. However, finding the best EDC flashlight for the money can be challenging with so many options out there.
What to Look for in the Best EDC Flashlight
When shopping for an EDC flashlight, you’ll come across various models like 18650 flashlights, AA flashlights, single AAA flashlights, and USB rechargeable flashlights. But the most important factor to consider is size—your EDC light should be compact and pocket-friendly.
Other crucial features include:
- ✅ Brightness (Lumens) – The higher, the better for visibility and safety
- ✅ Water Resistance – Look for IPX ratings for outdoor reliability
- ✅ Shock Resistance – Durable enough to survive accidental drops
- ✅ Battery Type – Choose between rechargeable or disposable batteries
- ✅ Switch Mechanism – Easy one-handed operation is ideal
- ✅ Build Quality – Anodized aluminum or stainless steel for durability
Top 4 Best EDC Flashlight Comparison Chart
| Image | EDC Flashlights | Lumens & Modes | Feature Details |
|---|---|---|---|
(2025 Editor’s Choice) Check Price | Olight S1R Cree XM-L2 CW Compact EDC LED Flashlight Read Review | Lumens: 1000 Modes: 3 | |
(High-lumen Choice) Check Price | ThruNite TN12 XP-L Cool White EDC LED Flashlight Read Review | Lumens: 1050 Modes: 6 | |
(Tactical Choice) Check Price | Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1L-1AA Dual Fuel Professional Tactical Light Read Review | Lumens: 350 Modes: 4 | |
(Cheap Choice) Check Price | LUMINTOP Tool AA EDC Flashlight Read Review | Lumens: 550 Modes: 3 |
If you’re seeking expert guidance on the best EDC flashlights, then this guide provides comprehensive buying advice to help you make an informed choice.
Why You Need an EDC Flashlight in 2025?
With hundreds of options available today, selecting the right everyday carry flashlight can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this EDC flashlight buying guide and review to help you make an informed decision.
Flashlights differ in terms of build materials, brightness, beam distance, run-time, and overall performance. Choosing the best EDC flashlight isn’t just about convenience—it can play a vital role in personal safety and preparedness.
Top Rated Best EDC Flashlight Reviews – 2025 Edition
Owning a flashlight significantly enhances your personal security and day-to-day readiness. Whether you’re dealing with a suspicious stranger in a dark garage or needing to find your way during a blackout, the best EDC flashlight will light your path, help you signal for assistance, or even disorient a threat if necessary.
So, what are the top EDC flashlights of 2025? We’ve reviewed and handpicked the best models based on performance, durability, portability, and value. If you’re looking for a high-quality EDC flashlight, check out our top-rated picks below!
Olight S1 Baton EDC Flashlight (Our Top Pick)
The Olight S1 Baton remains one of the best EDC flashlights in 2025 thanks to its ultra-compact design, excellent performance, and reliable construction. Delivering a maximum brightness of 500 lumens, this flashlight easily illuminates dark rooms, camping trails, or emergency situations. Equipped with a high-performance Cree XM-L2 CW LED and a PMMA TIR lens boasting 90% light transmittance, the Olight S1 Baton produces a strong, bright white beam with impressive clarity.
With its intuitive side switch, users can effortlessly power on the flashlight and cycle through 3 brightness levels along with 2 special modes, making it highly versatile for everyday use. Whether you need a quick burst of light or an extended runtime for prolonged tasks, the Olight S1 Baton consistently delivers. That’s why it remains our top pick as the best EDC flashlight for 2025.
Technical Specifications of the Olight S1 Baton
Features |
Olight S1 Baton |
| Maximum Brightness: | 500 Lumens |
| Minimum Brightness: | 8 Lumens |
| Maximum Runtime: | Up to 25 Days (on moonlight mode) |
| Beam Distance: | 110 Meters |
| Light Modes: | 3 Standard Modes + 2 Special Modes (Strobe & Turbo) |
| LED Type: | Cree XM-L2 CW |
| Length: | 2.4 Inches |
| Weight: | 1.12 Ounces |
| Power Source: | 1 x CR123A Battery (Required, Not Included) |
Check Today’s PricePros:
- Delivers bright, high-quality light with a maximum of 500 lumens.
- Multiple modes: 3 brightness levels and 2 special modes for versatile use.
- Durable pocket clip for convenient everyday carry.
- Excellent grip ensures secure handling even in wet conditions.
- Long runtime, especially when operated on lower settings.
- Strong construction with an anti-scratch, corrosion-resistant finish.
- Extremely lightweight and compact; perfect for pockets or keychains.
Cons:
- May feel too small for users with larger hands.
- Battery not included in the package; needs to be purchased separately.
Streamlight 88061 ProTac LED Light
If you’re looking for a dependable EDC flashlight for camping, hiking, or everyday carry, the Streamlight ProTac is an excellent choice. This compact flashlight is equipped with a powerful 3-watt super high influx LED that offers an impressive lifespan of up to 20,000 hours, ensuring consistent and uninterrupted illumination. With a maximum runtime of approximately 6.75 hours on continuous use, it’s perfect for extended outdoor adventures.
The Streamlight 88061 ProTac runs on lightweight CR123A lithium batteries, providing reliable and efficient power without adding unnecessary bulk. Its dual-direction pocket clip allows for easy attachment to your belt, pocket, or backpack, making it highly portable and convenient to carry.
Designed with safety in mind, this flashlight is RoHS compliant and adheres to all applicable European Community Directives, ensuring it meets strict environmental and safety standards. The magnetic tail cap offers hands-free operation, making it extremely practical when working in dark or tight spaces where you need both hands free.
Check Today’s PricePros:
- Lightweight and highly portable for everyday carry
- Durable construction built to withstand tough conditions
- Offers 3 versatile light modes for various scenarios
- Convenient two-way pocket clip for secure attachment
- Simple and user-friendly operation
- Waterproof with an IPX7 rating for reliable performance in wet conditions
Cons:
- The switch may wear out prematurely if not handled carefully. Use with caution to extend its lifespan.
Lumintop 550 Lumen Pocket-Size Flashlight
The Lumintop 550 Lumen Pocket-Size Flashlight continues to stand out in 2025 as one of the most affordable and reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) flashlights under \$30. Powered by the advanced Cree XP-L HD LED with an impressive lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, this compact flashlight delivers consistent performance for years. Whether you need a reliable light for everyday use, emergency situations, or outdoor adventures, the Lumintop flashlight is a great companion.
Constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, the flashlight offers exceptional durability while remaining lightweight and easy to carry. Its compact design allows for effortless one-handed operation, making it highly convenient for daily use.
Related Product: What is the Best Keychain Flashlight in 2025?
The flashlight offers three versatile light modes, allowing users to easily adjust brightness levels based on their needs. Whether you’re hiking, hunting, camping, or simply searching for lost items in your yard, this flashlight adapts to every situation. Its impact-resistant design ensures that accidental drops do not compromise its functionality, while its IPX8 waterproof rating allows for reliable use even in harsh weather conditions.
Check Today’s PricePros
- Certified IPX8 waterproof rating for reliable performance in all weather conditions.
- Durable and long-lasting aircraft-grade aluminum construction.
- Resistant to impact, corrosion, and daily wear.
- Compact, portable, and extremely lightweight, ideal for everyday carry.
- Three adjustable output modes for various lighting needs.
- Ergonomic design with a firm grip for easy one-handed operation.
- Backed by an impressive 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the flashlight’s brightness may not fully meet the advertised 550 lumens under certain conditions.
ThruNite TN12 EDC Light Tool
Made with the latest Cree XP-L V6 LED technology, the ThruNite TN12 EDC flashlights are the brightest flashlight on this list. It produces a maximum output of 1100 Lumens on its 18650 rechargeable battery. The battery is USB rechargeable via the cord. The side switch allows you to toggle between six different modes. This is the perfect flashlight for your outdoor needs as it offers 6 light modes. The modes are the firefly, low, medium, high, turbo, and strobe modes. The upgraded stainless steel switch is easy to use, and the thick head makes the light to be more impact resistant.
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Pros:
- Durable aluminum construction
- Pocket clip and lanyard for easy storage
- Compact and lightweight EDC flashlight
- Centralized LED for a focused beam
- Extremely bright light with a maximum of 1100 Lumens
- Supports USB charging
- Powered by the energy-efficient 18650 batteries for a longer runtime
- 6 light modes for different uses
Cons:
- It is somehow bigger and heavier than most EDC flashlights
- The tactical flashlights are a bit costly
Nitecore MT1A Mini LED Flashlight
If you’re looking for a compact, reliable, and everyday-use flashlight, the Nitecore MT1A Mini LED Flashlight is an excellent option to consider. Built for convenience and durability, this small yet powerful flashlight fits effortlessly into your pocket, purse, or backpack, making it ideal for daily carry. Despite its subcompact design, the MT1A offers impressive versatility with 5 brightness levels, along with strobe and SOS modes for emergency situations.
In this Nitecore MT1A Mini LED Flashlight review, we’ll explore why this model remains one of the best tactical EDC flashlights for 2025.
Related article: Need a rechargeable light? Check our best rechargeable flashlight list
Outstanding Build Quality and Durability
The Nitecore MT1A Mini is designed to endure tough environments. Constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, it offers excellent resistance to water, corrosion, and impacts. Whether you’re using it outdoors or in extreme conditions, this flashlight performs reliably. The anti-roll design prevents it from rolling away if accidentally dropped, while the rugged exterior provides added protection from damage.
Power-Efficient and Convenient Battery
One of the standout features of the Nitecore MT1A is its ability to run on a single AA battery. This makes it highly convenient for users who prefer widely available and affordable battery options. Unlike some models that require specialty batteries, AA batteries are easily accessible, making the MT1A a perfect companion for everyday use, travel, and emergency kits.
Compact But Feature-Packed
Even though it’s small in size, the Nitecore MT1A Mini LED Flashlight offers a variety of lighting options to suit different situations:
- 5 Brightness Levels – Easily adjust the output to match your lighting needs.
- Strobe Mode – Ideal for self-defense or signaling.
- SOS Mode – Helpful for emergencies and rescue situations.
With a maximum output of 180 lumens, it’s not the brightest flashlight in Nitecore’s lineup, but it provides sufficient illumination for general tasks, making it one of the best AA-powered EDC flashlights on the market.
Check Today’s Price Pros:
- Simple and easy operation with a convenient two-mode interface.
- Includes an extra lumen tactical keychain flashlight for added portability.
- Versatile with 5 adjustable brightness levels.
- Resistant to water and impact, perfect for outdoor and emergency use.
- Anti-roll design ensures it stays put when set down or dropped.
- Durable aerospace-grade aluminum alloy construction.
Cons:
- Modest brightness output, with a maximum of only 180 lumens compared to newer models.
Klarus Mi7 best EDC Flashlight
If you are looking for the best EDC flashlight under 50, then buy this flashlight. The klarus Mi7 flashlight is a very durable and bright EDC tactical light. If you want a tactical quality flashlight but small, then this is the flashlight for you. Klarus is known for its sturdy and versatile flashlights. The Klarus Mi7 may be just a small flashlight, but it still delivers in tough conditions. It is the perfect EDC light for your hunting, camping, hiking, fishing, or rescue missions. Made of sturdy aerospace-grade aluminum, this flashlight is both impact and water-resistant. Switch the flashlight to the lock-out mode and slip it into the pocket. You will not have any accidental activation.
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Pros:
- Ergonomic design
- Lightweight and portable
- One-touch access to different light modes
- Over-discharge protection
- Scratch-resistant
- The light is Micro USB rechargeable via a USB charging port
- Waterproof and impact resistant
- Extremely bright light with a maximum of 700 Lumens
Cons:
- Slightly costly
LED Flashlight Coast G19
In addition to their line of quality knives, flashlights, and multi-tools, Coast flashlight products offer a lifetime warranty. The Coast G19 LED flashlight is offered at a very affordable price. It is also compact and lightweight, making it suitable for everyday use. Even though it is small, the G19 inspection light provides an excellent illumination that covers up to 20 meters. In addition, it can run for 2 hrs 30 minutes. The firm grip allows you to hold it firmly, even in wet conditions. Put it in your front pocket or attach it to your belt using the clip.
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Pros:
- Simple and compact design
- Portable and lightweight
- Impact and water-resistant
- Firm grip for easy use
- Coast lifetime warranty
Cons:
- It’s very small and not very good for medium hands.
- Not the brightest light to have on a dark night
Surefire Defender Flashlight Series
The Surefire Defender flashlight series continues to be one of the top choices for those seeking a reliable, high-performance EDC flashlight for self-defense and daily use. With an impressive maximum output of 300 lumens, the Surefire Defender delivers powerful illumination for various situations, from general lighting to emergency protection.
One of its standout features is the ergonomic tactical magnetic tailcap, allowing for quick and easy activation of maximum brightness during critical situations. Whether you’re navigating a dark area or responding to an emergency, the Surefire Defender ensures immediate access to full output with minimal effort.
The Surefire flashlight is powered by a high-energy CR123A lithium battery, which provides extended runtime and dependable performance. This battery type is highly preferred for tactical and professional use due to its long shelf life and consistent power delivery.
When faced with a physical threat, the aggressive strike bezel offers an added layer of self-defense. Its rugged bezel can be used to strike an attacker, giving you a practical defensive option when needed. The flashlight’s revolutionary pocket clip allows versatile carry positions, enabling you to attach it securely in any direction for quick access.
Thanks to its robust aerospace-grade aluminum body, high-lumen output, and self-defense capabilities, the Surefire Defender flashlight is widely regarded as one of the best EDC tactical flashlights for self-defense in 2025.
Check Today’s PricePros:
- Dual tailcap click switch allows intuitive, one-handed operation
- Durable aerospace aluminum construction for maximum impact resistance
- Effective self-defense strike bezel for emergency situations
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for everyday carry (EDC)
- Weatherproof and reliable even in harsh outdoor conditions
- Precision TIR lens delivers a focused and efficient beam
Cons:
- Priced higher than many standard EDC flashlights on the market
Fenix PD25 LED Tactical Flashlight
Offered by one of the most trusted brands on the market, Fenix pd25 is a great flashlight for outdoor lovers. The 550 Lumen flashlight produces a very powerful beam of light that reaches up to 130 meters. It is powered by one 16340 rechargeable Lithium ion battery or 3V CR123A lithium batteries. Li-ion batteries are known for better runtime with long battery life. The flashlight can last for 100 hrs on low mode, which is amazing for such a light. Whether it’s raining or not, the flashlight will still function as it is rated as IPX8 waterproof. Despite these excellent features, this EDC flashlight weighs less and can be kept with much ease. The Fenix PD25 is one of the best EDC flashlight under $100, offering powerful performance, compact design, and reliable durability at an affordable price point.
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Pros:
- Uses Cree XP-L (V5) LED with a lifespan of 50 000 hours
- Produces bright light with a maximum of 550 Lumens
- The tactical flashlights have a low-voltage warning function to let you know when to change the battery
- This light has an anti-roll design that prevents the flashlight from rolling when it falls
- It is versatile as it offers 5 light modes and strobe mode
Cons:
- It accidentally lights on in the pocket
Surefire 6 PX Pro Flashlight
The Surefire 6PX Pro is a simple but powerful flashlight. It uses a virtually indestructible LED bulb that emits a maximum of 600 Lumens. This is further boosted by the polycarbonate micro-textured reflector that creates an excellent beam of light. To turn on the light, you can use the dual tactical tail cap switch for momentary-on and then access the high or low light modes with 200 Lumens and 15 Lumens, respectively. You will get better runtime on a low setting.
In addition to these features, the Surefire 6PX pro has a mil-spec hard-anodized finish to defy corrosion. You can also use this flashlight in rainfall as it has a waterproof rating of IPX4.
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Features:
- Aerospace aluminum construction
- Maximum of 200 Lumen
- Polycarbonate micro-textured reflector
- Hard-anodized finish
- Dual tail cap switch
- Hard strike bezel
- Virtually indestructible LED technology
- Two light modes
Pros:
- It is lightweight and portable
- The light is sold at a very good price
- It produces excellent light
- The EDC light is waterproof
- It is durably made with a strong aerospace aluminum body
- Easy to use with the dual-output tail cap clicky switch
Cons:
- It doesn’t have a firm grip, and it tends to slip from the hand during use
GearLight LED S1000 EDC Tactical Lights
If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable tactical flashlight, the GearLight LED S1000 is a fantastic choice. At a budget-friendly price, you receive two GearLight S1000 EDC flashlights in one convenient bundle. This makes it a perfect gift for outdoor enthusiasts, such as your son who loves camping, hiking, or emergency preparedness.
Despite its affordable price, the GearLight S1000 delivers impressive performance. It offers 5 versatile light modes (High, Medium, Low, Strobe, and SOS), allowing you to easily adjust brightness depending on your activity. The flashlight’s zoom function enables you to focus the beam for long-distance spotlighting or widen it for a broad floodlight effect — ideal for both camping and search operations.
The GearLight S1000, which is the earlier version of the GearLight S1200 light, operates using either 3 AAA batteries or a single 18650 rechargeable battery, providing you with flexible power options depending on availability and usage. When camping or during power outages, the bright zoomable beam ensures visibility in any situation.
Designed to withstand harsh conditions, the flashlight is weather-resistant, making it effective even in rain or dusty environments. Its indestructible LED bulb guarantees long-term durability and consistent performance for years to come.
Pros of the GearLight LED S1000:
- Durable military-grade aluminum body ensures longevity
- Suitable for self-defense applications
- Shock-resistant and weather-resistant for outdoor reliability
- 5 lighting modes to handle multiple situations
- Tactical tail switch allows easy one-handed operation
- Anti-roll design prevents it from rolling off surfaces
- Comes with a USB rechargeable cord for convenience (newer models)
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry
- Very affordable compared to similar models
Cons of the GearLight LED S1000:
- The actual brightness may be slightly lower than advertised; for higher brightness, consider the Imalent DN35 2200 Lumens flashlight.
- Switching between the multiple light modes may feel slightly cumbersome for some users.
GearLight LED S1000 EDC Tactical Lights
At such a great price, you will get two GearLight EDC flashlights in one bundle. Buy the flashlight bundle as a present for your son, who loves outdoor activities. This handheld flashlight might be cheap, but it is very powerful. It comes with 5 light modes for different uses. The S1000 initial version of GearLight s1200 light runs on 3x AAA batteries or a single 18650 rechargeable battery. If you are out camping and want a very bright light, zoom it in for a spotlight or out for a flood beam. Moreover, it will defy all weather conditions to be it rain or dust. This is because it is weather resistant. The indestructible LED bulb will provide you with years of use.
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Pros:
- Strong, military-grade aluminum body
- Ideal for self defense
- Weather and shock-resistant
- 5 light modes for different purposes
- It has a tactical tail switch for easy one-handed operation
- Anti-roll design to prevent rolling when it falls accidentally
- USB rechargeable cord included
- Lightweight and compact design
- Very affordable
Cons:
- Not as bright as advertised. For better brightness, you can use the Imalent DN35 2200 Lumens flashlight
- Cycling through the different modes is a bit challenging
Features to look for in the best EDC Flashlight
Each and every one of us have those items that we can’t miss to carry on a daily basis. A Flashlight is one of them.
Type of bulb
– before the LED bulb was discovered, most flashlights used the incandescent bulb. Today, many flashlights with EDC included usually use LED (light-emitting diode) bulbs. These are preferred over incandescent bulbs because they provide greater efficiency, greater brightness, better battery consumption, and are indestructible.
Lumens
– the number of Lumens a flashlight has determined how bright your light will be. Normally, everyday carry flashlights come with Lumens of between 50 and 1000. Depending on what you want to use the flashlight for, you can either go for a powerful or less powerful light. For instance, a 50 to 200 Lumen flashlight will be the best deal if you want a light for home use. But if you want an EDC for outdoor use, then you should consider a light with at least 400 Lumens or more.
Battery type
– how long do you intend to use the flashlight? Is it just for a few hours or for the entire night? The type of battery your flashlight uses will determine how long the flashlight will last. A good number of EDC flashlights are powered by AA, AAA, or CR123A batteries. AA and AAA batteries are very easy to find and cheap, too. CR123A batteries are not easy to find but provide the longest run time. They are also lighter when compared to AA batteries. Also, consider buying a rechargeable flashlight that provides the best run-time.
Waterproof rating
– there is a high chance that you will have to use your flashlight in extreme weather conditions, like when it’s raining. A good flashlight should be in a position to offer you light even when the conditions are not favorable. For this reason, make sure that you check the water resistance rating of the flashlight. Most of them are rated using the IPX code. It can be IPX4, IPX7, or IPX8 waterproof rating.
Related article: Which One is More Advanced Between Klarus XT11GT and XT12GT?
Construction
– since you will be carrying the flashlights every day, it is prone to fall, crash, or get some knocks. So, having a quality and sturdily made flashlight will resist breaking or spoiling on impact. That’s why you should consider buying a flashlight built of metal instead of plastic. As a result, you will end up using the flashlight for a very long period of time.
Size of the flashlight
– the aim of EDC is to have a flashlight that can provide you with light, but at the same time, it shouldn’t be a burden to carry. Ideal EDC flashlights should be small enough to fit in your pocket easily. Hence, you will need a flashlight that is less than 4-inches long, and it should be light. This means that you will have to sacrifice things like runtime and brightness. The smaller the light, the less powerful it becomes. Though, there are some exceptional small, everyday carry flashlights. In addition, a short light will be easy to slip into your pocket than a longer one. Even some EDC flashlights can be used as a keychain flashlights. Durably constructed EDC lights can also be used for self defense.
Type of switch
– no one wants a flashlight that takes them ages to switch on. Before you buy a flashlight, ensure that it is easy to operate. A one-handed operation light is the best, especially if you need it in an emergency scenario. Also, the side switch should not turn on itself when put in the pocket. This will drain your battery for nothing.
Weight
– I wouldn’t want to weigh down my pocket with a heavy flashlight. Therefore, it is crucial that you consider the weight of the flashlight before buying. For instance, aluminum and titanium flashlights are lighter than steel flashlights. Also, use CR123A batteries as they are lighter.
Summary
Not every EDC flashlight that you see out there is worth having. First, you need to know what features you desire the most and the purpose of the flashlight. Some are built for tactical use, while others are just good for simple lighting needs. Also, there are those that offer stunning brightness, and others are known for their versatility. Whatever the case, you should ensure that you spend your cash on a flashlight that will be reliable and deliver when you need it to. In the above list, we have offered you flashlights that are sturdily built, powerful, and easy to carry. Most of the time, people take flashlights for granted until they are in need of them. But, it is one of the essential items that you should carry.
FAQ: Best EDC Flashlight
Question: What features should I look for in an EDC flashlight?
Answer: The best EDC flashlight should be portable, well designed for easy carry in your pockets or for attaching to the keychain, they should have a strong housing to withstand impact, be bright with various light modes, and they should have a good waterproof rating.
Question: Which batteries should I choose for my EDC light, between AA and Lithium-ion batteries?
Answer: Normally, EDC flashlights are powered by either AA or Lithium-ion batteries. AA batteries are easily available and are cheap. The only challenge is that they tend to drain faster. On the other hand, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries run for a longer period of time but cannot be easily found. Also, they are quite expensive than AA batteries. Also, lithium batteries are usually larger, and having an EDC flashlight of this ort will take up much space in your pocket.
Question: How long do EDC Flashlights last?
Answer: This depends on the type of material the EDC flashlight is made of. Most of the EDC lights are made with a durable polymer material that is long-lasting. But overall, it depends on how well you maintain your flashlight. Also, a flashlight that is waterproof has a higher chance of lasting longer than one that is not protected from water.
Still, have a question after reading this best EDC flabeshlight review? Comment below.