Top 10 AA flashlights: Complete Buying Guides & Reviews

An AA flashlight refers to the type of battery used. When choosing the best flashlight for your everyday carry, it is important to consider the type of battery it’s widely uses or not. We list 10 best AA flashlight below, based on average user rating and comments given by users who have bought and used these flashlights.

The 10 Best AA Flashlights

Best 4 AA Battery Flashlight – ThruNite TN4A

 

The ThruNite TN4A a compact and powerful LED thrower. It gives a great light efficiently as it adopts the latest CREE XP-L HI LED technology. It is powered by four AA batteries and reaches a maximum output of 1050 lumens. The TN4A is a better choice to use everywhere as its AA batteries are economical and readily available.

A ThruNite ITC technology applied in this flashlight makes the light to automatically lower the current when the temperature in LED rises to 80 degrees centigrade to protect damages that may arise from overheating. The flashlight comes in six modes: Firefly, Low, Medium, High, Turbo, and Strobe; it also has a memory that sets the last mode used.

Its body is constructed to last with a premium aluminum type-III hard anodized aircraft grade. The anodized ultra-clear tempered glass lens with anti-reflective coating makes the design durable. Another merit that cannot go without mentioning is the reverse polarity protection system that prevents the light from damaging.

Specification:

Weight: 218.6g (without batteries)
Dimensions: 111.5mm in length and 45.5mm in diameter
Lowest Setting: Strobe (1050 lumens/150 lumens)

Highest Setting: Firefly (0.2 lumens/80 days)

Observations

This flashlight comes with a decent price and provides an impressive brightness of 1150 lumens for any flashlight out there. This is an ideal flashlight for outdoor since its beam reaches up to 326 meters enabling you to see everything when in use. It is a compact and durable flashlight and cannot break easily.

It has a high waterproof capability and therefore providing great usage in almost any environment. One merit that increases the effectiveness of this flashlight is its high adjustable capability and the different modes that are very useful.

 

Best AATactical Flashlight – Sunwayman V11R 

 

The Sunwayman V11R Cree XM-L U2 is a tactical flashlight that has revolutionized EDC flashlights. It is powered by one 16340 or 14500 battery only with one optional AA extender. It generates up to 500 lumens on turbo mode but it does not exceed 5 minutes when in continuous use.

This flashlight utilizes a unique digital sensor, the magnetic control system with infinite variable output switch that can be easily accessed by slightly twisting the rotator ring from left to right for minimum and maximum output. Its high-quality OP reflector maintains great throw distance and spread with an ideal beam pattern. It throws an effective beam distance of 130 meters.

Specification:

Weight: 50g (without batteries)
Dimensions: 84mm in length and 23mm in diameter
Lowest Setting: (1 lumen/35 hours)

Highest Setting: (190 lumens/1.5 hours)

Observations

Its ability to use a Li-ion rechargeable CR123A battery that can pump out an immense 500 lumens is an advantage for users. It has a perfect finish, brighter with a higher output making it an ideal for anyone in the dark. The most important thing about this flashlight is the adjustable light output. From a minimum dim setting to a turbo-blast 500 lumens.

Don’t be confused with its small structure. It is a versatile flashlight with high-intensity output making it an ideal light for both everyday use and as an emergency backup. It can also be used by hikers, campers, nighttime driver and just about anyone in the dark.

 

Best Lightweight AA Flashlight – Olight S1A Baton 

 

This is a compact flashlight that outshines competitors with its lightweight and ability to produce a whopping 600 lumens of bright white light reaching up to 118 meters away. This is made possible with its Cree XM-L2 LED. It has the ability to automatically go dim after one minute on high output to prevent overheating.

This light also features four steady outputs ranging from 220 lumens down to 0.5 lumens with an additional tactical strobe function that enables a wider range of lighting needs. It is powered by a normal AA battery or a rechargeable 14500 battery which provides a higher voltage for the light to achieve its maximum output.

Specification:

Weight: 1.29oz. (37.5g) (without batteries)
Dimensions: 79.5mm in length and 18.4mm in diameter
Lowest Setting: (0.5 lumen/600 hours)

Highest Setting: (600 lumens/0.016 hours)

Observations

This is a great light for EDC. It is short, compact and lightweight and provides a decent light output. It has well-spaced modes and uses an Alkaline or NiMH batteries which are easily available. It goes ahead to give you a higher output when running on a 14500 battery. Its strong clip makes it hard to lose and simple user interface design which is essential for EDC flashlights.

 

Zanflare F2S (Tactical flashlight)

The Zanflare F2S is the latest upgrade form Zanflare F2. It has a simple interface and of good quality.  It is powered by 2 x AA batteries and constructed with Aerospace Grade Aluminum body with anti-scratching type III hard anodization. This solid and durable flashlight has a signature of a single-line spiral knurling look that is simple and quite smooth.

It comes with a Cree XP-G2 LED enabling it to deliver output up to 200 lumens. The head which has a squared section provides an anti-roll effect enabling it to change different modes. This neat features in addition to others like battery level indicator make this flashlight an ideal selection.

Specification:

Weight: 2.57 oz. (73g) (without batteries)
Dimensions: 180mm in length and 95mm in diameter
Lowest Setting: (15 lumen/30 hours)

Highest Setting: (200 lumens/0.63 hours)

Observations

The Zanflare F2S is a decent flashlight for people on a budget as is comes with an incredibly low price. Mostly low price synonymous with low quality but in this case. The flashlight is surprisingly durable and can be quite useful. A demerit of this flashlight is its low brightness with a maximum of 200 lumens. This low brightness level might be ideal if you need it for your basic use.

Best High Lumen AA Flashlight – Nitecore EA41 

 

The Nitecore EA41 is a palm-sized member of the prestigious Explorer series. It is one of the brightest searchlights that runs with 4 x AA batteries. It utilizes a Cree XM-L2 LED to offer a maximum massive output of 1020 lumens. It has five setting lumen outputs providing a range of suitable brightness for almost all your everyday lighting needs.

In addition to the wide range of brightness levels, it also equipped with a range of construction features that make it easy to handle and durable, this includes a tapered aluminum housing with knurled grips, dual switch design that offers mode selection, corrosion-resistant Type III anodized hard coat, an activation control, and instant strobe.

Specification:

Weight: 5.33 oz. (151g) (without batteries)
Dimensions: 177mm in length and 40mm in diameter
Lowest Setting: (1 lumen/400­­ hour)

Highest Setting: (1020 lumens/1hr 45min)

Observations

This searchlight has an extremely compact size, its features are versatile and an ultra-high-intensity beam. The high contrast enables users to see things more clearly, therefore, making it one of the ultimate lighting tool for both working professionals and outdoor enthusiasts.

 

Coast Polysteel 600R – Tactical flashlight

 

The Coast Polysteel 600R is a tactical rechargeable flashlight that is waterproof, drop proof, and crush proof. It is powered by 4 X AA batteries or the included lithium battery pack which includes an output which allows the recharging of other devices using a USB cord.

This is the very strong light that will suit your needs if you work in an environment that subjects your equipment under constant stress. It comes with a pure beam focusing optic with twist focus to make the light ultra-durable and ready to withstand any weather. It is encased in a stainless steel core and features a deep crosshatch polymer body.

 

Specification:

Weight: 12 oz. (340g) (without batteries)
Dimensions: 200mm in length and 47.2mm in diameter
Lowest Setting: (73 lumen/40­­ hours)

Highest Setting: (710 lumens/2hr 15min)

 

Observations

Even though it might not be the strongest flashlight, it is still decent with a maximum light output of 710 lumens which is quite high. The beam can reach a distance of 247 meters which is ideal with its low price. The Polysteel 600R LED in virtually unbreakable and backed by Coast’s lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. It has also been tested and rated to ANSI/FL1 standards.

 

Streamlight 88061- ProTac LED flashlight

 

This is one bright and compact flashlight that is very powerful. It operates with a single AA or C123 lithium batteries enabling it to fit comfortably in one hand. It is a small compact flashlight with a 6000 series machined aircraft aluminum with anodized finish.

The tons of settings in this flashlight makes it very flexible and very handy. Users can select 1 of 3 different programs: High-Strobe-Low (Factory Default), High Only, Low-High, through a TEN-TAP programmable switch.

Specification:

Weight: 2.57 oz. (73g) (without batteries)
Dimensions: 108mm in length and 21.6mm in diameter
Lowest Setting: (40 lumen/14 hours)

Highest Setting: (350 lumens/1.5 hours)

Observations 

This is a perfect everyday carry light. It is small in size, compact, lightweight and has a big illumination. Even with a single AA, it has the ability to throw a beam distance up to 160 meters. The tons of settings, impact resistance capability and a removable pocket clip makes it quite impressive.

Best AA PenLight – Streamlight 88033 

 

If you want a small tactical flashlight, this is the best AA flashlight for your needs! It uses C4 LED technology (that is shock-resistant) to produce a 155-lumen beam of light with a 115-meter beam distance. The 2 AA batteries should last for 2 hours if the light is set to High intensity, or 36 hours when set to Low intensity.

Like any good tactical flashlight, this flashlight is made of anodized Aluminum and also has an impact-resistant tempered glass lens that is O-ring sealed. The flashlight has some useful features, that include a push-button tail switch, variable light intensity, strobe mode, anti-roll face-cap, and a removable pocket clip. It is also waterproof to 1 meter (it is IPX7 rated) for 30 minutes. 2 AA lithium batteries and a nylon holster are included when you purchase this flashlight.

This is a small flashlight, with the following dimensions: Length: 5.97 In (15.16 Cm) Major Diameter: 0.90 In. (2.29 Cm) Barrel Diameter: 0.65 In. (165 Cm).

Streamlight 90541 Survivor 6-3/4-Inch LED Flashlight

 

The Streamlight 90541 is made to last as it is made of high impact Nylon and is O-ring sealed to make it weather resistant (it is IPX4 rated). The lens is made from Lexan Lens with silicone anti-scratch coating. The light is produced from a 3 Watt Luxeon LED, which is impervious to shock. The manufacturer claims that this is the brightest Right-Angle LED flashlight in the world at 140 lumens when in High mode.

The flashlight offers microprocessor controlled high and low lighting modes and emergency flash mode. 4 Alkaline AA batteries provide 4-hours of run time on High mode, 15-hours of run time on low mode, 8-hours of run time on Flash mode and 20-days of run time in Moonlight mode.

This is the best AA flashlight if you need to have your hands free, as it can stand on its own or it can be clipped to something using the spring loaded clip.

Best AA Focusing Flashlight – Coast HP14 

 

The Coast HP14 is one of the brighter flashlights on our list of the 5 best AA flashlights, with a light that produces a beam of 339 lumens with a beam distance of 175 meters (574 feet)! Coast’s Pure Beam Focusing Optic System with Fingertip Speed Focus Control provides is designed to provide beam consistency from spot to flood, with no dark rings typically associated with focusing flashlights; and you can lock the beam focus in any position you want with the Beam Lock System.

This flashlight is made from lightweight Aluminum and rubberized O-ring to ensure water resistance. A good sign of the manufacturer’s belief in the quality of their product is Coast’s lifetime guarantee against defects in materials and workmanship.

Best AA Compact Flashlight – Fenix LD41 Flashlight

 

Another bright flashlight, the Fenix LD41 is listed to produce a light beam of 520 lumens with a beam distance of 200 meters, using Cree XM-L (U2) LED. It has the different outputs that you would expect from the best AA flashlight, as it has 6 output modes that include strobe mode and SOS mode. The 4 AA batteries should provide a lifespan of 2 hours 10 min when on Turbo mode (520 lumens) and 160 hours when in Low mode (5 lumens).

The body of the flashlight is made of anodized Aluminum with an anti-abrasive finish, while the lens is made form a toughened ultra-clear glass lens with anti-reflective coating. Similar to the other flashlights on our list of the 5 best AA flashlights, this flashlight is waterproof with an IPX8 rating. A holster, lanyard, and a spare O-ring are included with the flashlight.

Best Cheap AA Flashlight – MagLite M2AMW6 

 

You can not have a list of the best AA flashlights without a MagLite on the list. This little flashlight uses 2 AA batteries that should provide a lifespan of 5.25 hours. As common to the best AA flashlights, the MagLite is made from Aluminum and has a sealed O-ring for water-resistance.

This is not the brightest flashlight as it only produces 14 lumens. It does have some useful features, such as the additional bulb in the tail cap to produce a candle mode. You can also switch the beam from a focused spot to a wider flood beam. The beam is noted to have a distance of 96 meters.

If you are looking for a reliable little flashlight that is made by one of the world’s best know flashlight manufacturers – and supports a good cause – then we highly recommend this little MagLite flashlight!

 

Things to consider when buying an AA flashlight

If you are planning to buy an AA flashlight? this section will take you through some important points you will need to consider. Although most AA flashlight may look similar, the overall quality and functionality may be determined by a few factors.

The following are useful and informative factors that should help you find the perfect model of the flashlight that suites your needs.

Design and Shape

You will notice that there are a variety of AA flashlight designs options for you to choose from in the market. A standard design style consists of a tube-like handle that contains batteries which operate with other units to provide typical light output.

You should aim for compact and light models as they are very easy to handle. The casing should also be rugged to ensure a firm grip. You should avoid models with slick casings as they can be slippery during rough weathers such as rain or snow.

Light Output

Light output is measured in lumens. This is simply a measure of brightness a flashlight can produce. Lumens are an important factor when choosing an AA flashlight. A low lumen light might be less useful if you need it for outdoor activities such as hunting, hiking, walking, searching, or rescue missions. The same case applies to a high lumen light which is needed just for night time reading.

Lumens on AA flashlights vary from 20 lumens up to 3500 lumens. A high lumen light has the capability of projecting a beam of light more than 200 meters. New batteries enable a flashlight to produce maximum lumens at its peak utilizing the unit’s full functionality. An AA flashlight with density settings is more preferable as it can be used in any situation.

Battery type/ Run time

AA batteries are probably the most common type of batteries used by electronic devices. AA batteries, or “double A” batteries, are alkaline batteries that measure 49.2–50.5 mm (1.94–1.99 in) in length including the button terminal—and 13.5–14.5 mm (0.53–0.57 in) in diameter. An AA battery is composed of a single electrochemical cell which may be either a primary battery (disposable) or a rechargeable battery. The exact terminal voltage and capacity of an AA size battery depends on the cell chemistry.

Always check the flashlight specs and find out the power consumption guide. This will help you know how long your battery will last and avoid an instance when your light goes off when halfway your destination or reduced to a candle flame when you most need it.

Choose rechargeable lithium-Ion batteries to reduce your cost and extra weight. Also, look at the charging points, they should be recharged through a USB port, an AC or DC outlet or even the convenient solar panel.

Size and Weight

This is an extremely important factor to consider depending on how you want to use the flashlight. You will need a small sized AA flashlight that fits the palm of your hand if you will be using the unit in a tight space. This ensures easy handling hence making it effective and reliable to the task at hand.

If you want an AA flashlight to use during camping, hiking or any other outdoor activities, you will probably want a larger flashlight with a wider beam, so as to light up a wider area. Big flashlights tend to be heavier than their smaller counterparts. You should, therefore, consider it regardless of the usage.

Cost and Benefits

It is common to walk to the nearest store and look for the best bargain while buying an AA flashlight. Low priced units might not always be the best option while making a purchase decision. The most expensive flashlights, on the other hand, will not always guarantee you a quality product.

Before visiting the shopping store, you need to know the importance of the flashlight, its reliability, brightness levels required, battery type, and beam intensity among other features. This will help you tailor your budget to fit your most desirable flashlight at the same time have an idea of features when looking for best deals available.

You need to have a good idea of the capabilities before you set off to the store. Beginners with low use should go for standard AA flashlights. They can be easily maintained, are affordable and can be long-lasting. Professionals and outdoor activities, on the other hand, need a substantial AA flashlight that not only performs well in terms of light projection but also has longer runtime, rechargeable and allows multiple adjustable settings for different usage.

Conclusion

AA batteries are a popular power option for flashlights, as they are cheap to replace and can be used on other electronic devices too if needed. What do you think is the best AA flashlight?