Best AA Flashlight Reviews – Single AA , 2 AA, Led EDC?
Imagine you are at home, watching a movie with your family, and suddenly the power goes out in your entire home. You check, but the power is off on your whole street, and when you look for a flashlight, you cannot find any. At this moment you realize that it is important for you to find yourself a new flashlight for this kind of situation. That way, you won't be left in the dark in case the power should go out again!
Whether you are planning a camping trip with your family or you are just looking for a flashlight that will give you some peace of mind in case of a power outage, there are a variety of different types to pick from. When it comes to choosing a flashlight, you want to get something that is perfectly suited to your needs. Since there are a lot of different flashlights on the market, you will want one that will tailor specifically to what you want to do with it.
With so many choices, you might be wondering what kind of flashlight would work out best in a variety of situations, or perhaps you are looking for more than one flashlight to have on hand in case of an emergency, and want to know what the best flashlight for the job might be.
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The Difference Between AAA And AA Flashlights
While there aren't too many differences in terms of AAA and AA flashlights, at least not in these more modern times, there are still a few different things to consider when you are looking to purchase a new flashlight. For example, what is the intended use for the flashlight?
A flashlight powered by AAA batteries makes a better "every day use" flashlight, while a flashlight that is powered by AA batteries is more ideal for camping and use for power outages when you might need a stronger beam with a wider reach.
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The first difference between the two that you might notice is the fact that AAA flashlights tend to be smaller and more compact. These flashlights are a little more portable and easier to store, making them ideal for survival bags, pockets, and hand bags. These flashlights tend to carry the same amount of power, but can often require more battery power than a AA battery powered flashlight.
You might also notice that the beam of the flashlight will not be as wide as a larger flashlight that is powered by AA batteries. The beam from these flashlights often do not reach as far, either, so they aren't always ideal for camping trips and walks in the dark at night.
The second difference is that with a lot of AA battery powered flashlights, you will notice that they fall into the category of being an actual tool in a lot of hardware stores and supermarkets. While not technically a tool, like the larger flashlights that are powered with C and D batteries.
These flashlights are usually very large, where a flashlight powered by AA batteries is still rather small in size. While a flashlight of this size might still fit into hand bags and backpacks, you might notice that it is a bit more difficult to get them into pockets and the like.
So what is the main difference between the two? The fact that the AA powered flashlights are more ideal for camping or survival bags, as you can use them to navigate in the dark a lot better than the flashlights that are powered by AAA batteries. AA battery powered flashlights tend to have a wider and stronger beam with a farther reach, allowing you to see more and worry less about missing anything important, like that tree root or the crack on the sidewalk that you don't want to trip over!
How To Choose The Right AA Flashlight
There are a few factors you might want to keep in mind when you are purchasing a AA powered flashlight. These include the amount of batteries you want to have to use in the flashlight, the size of the flashlight, the weight, and the material that it is constructed from. All of these are important to keep in mind when you are purchasing a AA battery powered flashlight.
Since AA batteries are one of the more popular battery sizes, you might decide to go with a flashlight in that category for that fact alone. After all, you're likely to always have the batteries on hand, and if you use a lot of AA batteries for different purposes, you might even make the choice to try out some rechargeable AA batteries that you can use them over and over again instead of just one time.
If you have already decided to choose an AA battery powered flashlight instead of a flashlight that runs on AAA batteries or another type of battery, you might be thinking next of what to choose in terms of the flashlight itself.
Size Of The Flashlight |
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One of the most important things that you might be looking for when purchasing a flashlight powered by AA batteries is the size of the flashlight. If you are looking for a smaller flashlight, you can typically find some that are powered by only a single AA battery, although some of these flashlights might not have as strong of a light beam or be as long lasting as some that take more than one AA battery.
However, if size is important to you, then you will have plenty of options from which to choose from, as many reputable companies make smaller versions of larger flashlights, and several that are specifically made smaller for campers and hikers.
Material Of The Flashlight |
Another thing you might be concerned with when it comes to purchasing a flashlight that is powered by AA batteries is the material from which the flashlight is made.
If you are looking for something a little more durable than your standard issue plastic flashlight, you might choose one that is made from an aluminum alloy material, as it can more easily withstand drops, bumps, and falls without breaking. These flashlights tend to weigh a bit more than their plastic counterparts, but they can work out really well if you plan on using the flashlight a lot in outdoor locations or to put into a survival gear bag.
If you are looking for something made from plastic, keep in mind that these are usually cheaper, but they tend not to last as long or survive falls and bumps as well as those that are designed for rugged use.
Best AA Flashlight Reviews 2017
**Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
1. Pro 300 Series Tactical Flashlight By Elite Tactical - Best Military Grade 3 AA Flashlight Brightest
Via Amazon.com
If you need something a little more tactical and hardcore to use for hunting, camping, or hiking, the Pro 300 Series Tactical Flashlight by Elite Tactical is a great choice. The waterproof design of the flashlight allows you to use it in all weather conditions, making it ideal for sports or outdoor activities. The larger size of the flashlight is perfect for gripping, and feels sturdy in your hand.
The flashlight is also shockproof, meaning it can be dropped or bumped and will still work just fine! Made from military grade materials, this flashlight can take a lot of abuse, so it is a great choice when choosing a flashlight for outdoor activities or keeping on hand for emergencies. The 1200 lumen brightness feature combined with the adjustable zoom feature allows you to have plenty of light when and where you need it most.
The included battery charger can be troublesome and difficult to use, and there is a lack of instructions telling you how to use the charger and how to tell when the battery is charged.
Pros
- Larger design
- Charging ability
- Durable
- Waterproof
- Shockproof
- 1200 lumen brightness
- Zoom/Adjustment feature
Cons
- Difficulty with charger
- Lack of instructions
2. ThruNite TN4A LED Flashlight Powered By 4 AA Batteries - Best 4 Aa Flashlight
Via Amazon.com
The ThruNite TN4A LED flashlight is a great LED flashlight that is powered by 4 AA batteries with a promise of long lasting light and plenty of use before needing to change batteries. The larger size of this flashlight makes it perfect to have on hand indoors or out, and makes a great emergency or every day use flashlight.
The flashlight can output up to 1150 lumens, making it incredibly bright and powerful. The lens is ultra clear and not only anti-glare, but it is also tempered, making it safe and durable. The electronic switch and low voltage power make it silent, and the ITC (Intelligent Temperature Control) feature makes sure that it never gets hot enough to burn or overheat.
The flashlight lasts for long periods of time on lower modes, but on the ultra bright mode, the batteries tend to get drained a lot quicker and need to be replaced more often than if the flashlight is on a lower mode.
Pros
- 4 different modes
- Ultra bright mode with 1150 lumens of light
- Intelligent Temperature Control prevents overheating or burning
- Silent operation
- Tempered lens with anti-glare technology
- Smart memory allows the flashlight to remember the last mode you were using
Cons
- Larger and bulkier than other models
- Batteries drain quickly on ultra bright setting
3. J5 Tactical V1-PRO 300 Lumen Ultra Bright Flashlight - Best AA Tactical Flashlight
Via Amazon.com
The J5 Tactical V1-PRO 300 Lumen Ultra Bright Flashlight is designed for use in tactical situations, and would be the perfect addition to your emergency kit at home or on the go. The flashlight has a max output of 300 lumens, and features an incredibly bright LED light that can shine a beam up to six hundred feet! The modes on this flashlight include intelligent, high, low, and strobe, allowing you to see in a variety of situations.
The flashlight runs off on a single AA battery. This flashlight is ideal for camping, hunting, or emergency on the go situations, as it is designed to be very durable and easy to use. You can bump or drop the flashlight, and it is designed to survive it without issue! The compact size of the flashlight allows you to carry it in a pocket or clip it onto a belt or backpack.
The light is not as bright as other models, with only 300 lumens, and it's been noticed that the light starts to dim after frequent use without the battery being drained. Sometimes this can be fixed with a new battery, but other times the flashlight slowly starts to dim again rather quickly.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Powered by a single AA battery
- Long lasting battery life
- Emits light up to six hundred feet
- Compact size
- Durable
Cons
- Lens tends to loosen over time
- On/off switch can become faulty
- Light dims quickly in some flashlights
4. Streamlight 88061 ProTac 1L-1AA 350 Lumen Professional Tactical Flashlight - Best Single AA Battery Flashlight
Via Amazon.com
The Steamlight 88061 ProTac Professional Tactical flashlight runs on only a single AA battery and is ideal for those who are looking for something incredibly durable. The flashlight has a heavy duty aluminum housing that allows you to use it in rugged situations, such as camping and hiking.
The 1000 lumen flashlight has a tail cap switch that allows you to keep it on constantly or use different modes, such as the strobe mode, which works out wonderfully in emergency situations. The holster and pocket clip make it easy to carry with you at all times, so you always have it with you.
The flashlight has a switch that can wear down over time, leaving you needing to contact the company to receive a replacement switch. The sensors inside the on/off switch can stop working after plenty of use, which can leave the flashlight more difficult to turn on or off.
Pros
- Single battery flashlight
- Aluminum housing
- 1000 lumens for extra brightness
- Durable
- Multiple modes available on flashlight: low, high, and strobe light mode
Cons
- Heavier weight due to aluminum housing
- Switch on flashlight can wear down over time
5. Streamlight 88033 ProTac 2AA 250 Lumen Professional Tactical Flashlight - Best 2 AA Flashlight
Via Amazon.com
The Streamlight 88033 ProTac 2AA 250 Lumen Professional Tactical Flashlight runs on the power of 2 AA batteries, which makes the size of the flashlight compact and ideal for carrying on outdoor adventures or leaving in a drawer in case of emergencies. The flashlight is a bit longer than many other models, allowing you to easily grip.
The clip on the flashlight housing makes it great for carrying in a pocket or on a belt loop. The LED technology promises 50,000 hours of lifetime use for the flashlight, and since it takes only 2 AA batteries, you can easily replace them at any time.
The anti-roll face cap allows you to set the light on a table, and this flashlight is also waterproof up to one meter for thirty minutes. The flashlight has multiple modes that are easy to switch to due to the one handed operation of the flashlight.
This flashlight is not built to be as durable as other models, and dropping it or bumping it repeatedly can lead to the flashlight or switch breaking. The lens in the light has been reported to break easily when misused, so this might not be the perfect light for rugged use.
Pros
- Multiple modes, including high, low, and strobe light
- Lifetime use of the flashlight is high
- Anti-roll face cap ensures the flashlight stays put
- One touch button to switch modes
- Powered by 2 AA batteries
Cons
- Not as durable as some other models
- Is not always consistent with the on/off switch
6. Rockbirds LED Flashlight, A100 Mini Super Bright 3 Mode Tactical Flashlight, Best Tools For Hiking, Hunting, Fishing And Camping (2 Pack) - Best Cheap Aa Flashlight
Via Amazon.com
If you are looking for a great AA battery flashlight on a budget, the Rockbirds LED Flashlight is a great choice. The compact size of the flashlight runs on a single AA battery, and the clip on the flashlight makes it a great choice to add to your pocket, backpack, hunting vest, or hat.
The flashlight has a skid proof and water resistant design, making them great for all weather use, and the aluminum alloy casing and aluminum alloy reflector make this flashlight durable for climbing, hiking, or camping.
The adjustable focus range is a great selling point for this flashlight, as you are able to sweep the light over a large area and still be able to see just fine. The LED bulb has a maximum lumen output of 300 lumens, and can cover 300 meters with light.
The on/off switch on these flashlights can break quickly with repeated use. The button can either get stuck and not turn off, or it can be difficult to get the flashlight turned on if the switch starts to wear down over time.
Pros
- Compact size
- 300 meter coverage
- 300 lumens
- Durable
- Water resistant
Cons
- Lens is not as high quality as othe rmodels
- On/off switch can fail over time with repeated use
7. Hausbell 7W Ultra Bright Mini LED Flashlight Tactical Flashlight (2 Pack) - Best Aa Led Flashlight
Via Amazon.com
The Hausbell 7W Ultra Bright Mini LED Flashlight is portable, durable, and easy to use. The three settings on the flashlight give you the ability to choose your light level - bright, dim, and strobe - and the single LED can provide a maximum of up to 300 lumens. The flashlights have been designed to be skid proof and water resistant, which makes them perfect for hunting, camping, or hiking.
The small design makes the flashlight easily portable, and the clip on the side gives you the choice of how you wish to carry your flashlight. A great feature of this flashlight is the ability to concentrate the flashlight beam on a narrow area, or expand the beam to cover more ground.
Since this flashlight is not as high quality as some of the other brands available on the market, they tend to wear down and stop working if used repeatedly over time. The on and off switch can fail, or the flashlight itself can wind up shorting out.
Pros
- Compact design
- Durable
- 3 modes - bright, dim, and strobe
- Water resistant design
Cons
- On/off switch can fail if used too often
- Flashlight wears down over time and stops working
8. ThorFire TG06S Flashlight 500 Lumen Ultra Bright 5 Modes EDC Cap Light Mini Pocket Torch Powered By One AA or 14500 Battery Not Included, TG06 Upgraded Version - Best AA EDC Flashlight
Via Amazon.com
This compact ThorFire TG06S Flashlight is an ultra bright flashlight that promises 500 lumens of light. The flashlight uses only a single LED bulb to output plenty of light, and the flashlight has five different modes available for your needs: high (500 lumens), medium (200 lumens), low (50 lumens), moonlight mode (1 lumen), and strobe mode, which is great for emergencies.
The clip makes it ideal for carrying in a pocket or even on a hat or visor when camping or hiking. The compact size is ideal for plenty of purposes, such as in a hand bag or backpack, or keeping in the car. The housing of the flashlight is made from aircraft graded aluminum alloy to ensure durability if used for camping, hiking, or hunting.
When set on lower levels, the light on the flashlight can sometimes flicker, causing it to turn on and off or simply stop working altogether in some models. If you are purchasing this flashlight to use on the high modes, this should not be a problem.
Pros
- Five different modes
- Durable aircraft graded aluminum alloy construction
- Compact size
- Clip
Cons
- Light can flicker on lower modes
- End of flashlight can get very hot
Conclusion
If you are looking for a high quality flashlight to take on your next camping or hiking trip, or if you are looking for something to add to your emergency bag or box at home, there are plenty of choices out there.
The AA flashlight offers more power, brighter light, and a wider coverage area than the AAA battery flashlights, making them the ideal choice. Also, many people tend to have more AA batteries on hand or more readily available opposed to AAA batteries. Some flashlights have different modes, others have different weights and constructions, and of course, the ability to zoom or concentrate the flashlight beam on a certain area.
When choosing a flashlight, it is important to keep in mind what features you are looking for and which ones that you will use the most.
