Torches, although seemingly simple pieces of outdoor equipment, have gone a long way in the past several years in terms of technological advancement. In fact, most modern torchlights are filled with features, use advanced materials for their construction, use different types of high-tech batteries and use a wide range of illuminating sources. The most popular and technologically advanced torchlights are typically the ones using LED technology, whose power is measured in Lumens.
When looking for the best LED torches, you'll come across a million different brands, which makes selecting one even more difficult. The market is oversaturated, which is why you should look for reputable brands like Olight, Nitecore, Fenix, ThruNite and Klarus torches. Even when you decide on a brand, picking can still be somewhat tricky. Olight, Nitecore, Fenix, ThruNite and Klarus torches come in a wide range of models, and all of them vary in features and capability. With that said, here are the most important factors to consider when buying a torch.
As aforementioned, the first thing you should look for in a torch is its power, which is measured in Lumens. More Lumens doesn't always equal more power, which is why you also need to pay attention to side factors like beam distance and focus. The beam distance represents how far the torch can illuminate in front of you, whereas the focus represents the wideness or narrowness of the beam. As for Lumens, anything above 450 is considered good enough for basic tasks. However, worth noting is that the more Lumens a torch has, the faster it will drain the battery.
Speaking of batteries, you need to decide between disposable and rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries are ideal for people who are going to use the torch frequently, simply because they'll save a lot of money down the road. However, there's the added cost of having to buy a battery charger. Disposable batteries, on the other hand, are ideal for occasional users, just because they're widely available and much cheaper.
And lastly, consider the construction of the torch. Generally, outdoor torches are made of aluminium or high-quality plastics that can withstand the elements and are moisture and impact resistant. A torchlight is only of use to you if it's functioning, so you need to make sure you get a reliable model. However, the torch should also be lightweight enough to conveniently carry wherever you go for extended time periods, so you'll have to make a compromise between toughness and compactness.
As aforementioned, the first thing you should look for in a torch is its power, which is measured in Lumens. More Lumens doesn't always equal more power, which is why you also need to pay attention to side factors like beam distance and focus. The beam distance represents how far the torch can illuminate in front of you, whereas the focus represents the wideness or narrowness of the beam. As for Lumens, anything above 450 is considered good enough for basic tasks. However, worth noting is that the more Lumens a torch has, the faster it will drain the battery.
Speaking of batteries, you need to decide between disposable and rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries are ideal for people who are going to use the torch frequently, simply because they'll save a lot of money down the road. However, there's the added cost of having to buy a battery charger. Disposable batteries, on the other hand, are ideal for occasional users, just because they're widely available and much cheaper.
And lastly, consider the construction of the torch. Generally, outdoor torches are made of aluminium or high-quality plastics that can withstand the elements and are moisture and impact resistant. A torchlight is only of use to you if it's functioning, so you need to make sure you get a reliable model. However, the torch should also be lightweight enough to conveniently carry wherever you go for extended time periods, so you'll have to make a compromise between toughness and compactness.
