10Best.Guide

Pen Light

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Good beam
  • Durable and well-made
  • Rechargeable
  • Strong pocket clip
Cons
  • Bad charging port design
  • Anodizing wears off after some time
Bottom Line
The Streamlight Stylus Pro USB is a compact, durable, and rechargeable penlight that is great for everyday carry and various tasks. However, some users have reported issues with the charging port, switch, and lifespan.
Pros
  • Sturdy and durable material
  • Bright light
  • Comes with a box to keep extra tips and batteries
  • Recessed LED prevents breakage
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Inconsistent brightness between pens
  • Defective pen lights
Bottom Line
These pen lights are durable, bright, and easy to use, making them ideal for healthcare professionals. However, there are some quality control issues, and the battery life is low.
Pros
  • Very bright light
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Cute colors
  • Heavy metal makes it feel like good quality
  • Comes in a combo pack
Cons
  • Button gets pushed easily
  • Not medical grade
Bottom Line
These pen lights are great for non-medical use and come in cute colors. They are durable and have a bright light, but may not be suitable for medical use due to their brightness and potential to damage eyes. Some users have had issues with the light turning on by itself or not staying on.
Pros
  • Great price for an everyday carry flashlight.
  • Small size makes it easy to carry around.
  • Good light output for its size.
  • Battery life is decent.
  • Bright for a single AAA battery.
Cons
  • Tail button may not function correctly.
  • Some units may not work at all.
Bottom Line
The Streamlight MicroStream Ultra-Compact Flashlight is a great option for those looking for an affordable and compact everyday carry flashlight. While it may have some issues with the tail button and battery life, its small size and good light output make it a convenient tool to have on hand.
Pros
  • Compact size and easy to carry.
  • Circle spotlight is useful for inspections.
  • LED technology produces a bright white beam with sharp edges.
  • Durable design.
  • Pocket clip prevents rolling.
Cons
  • Dim light.
  • Chromatic aberration on the circumference.
Bottom Line
The COAST G20 Inspection Beam LED Penlight is a compact and durable flashlight that is useful for inspections. The circle spotlight is a unique feature that provides a well-defined beam. However, the light is not very bright and may not be suitable for all purposes. Overall, it is a good value for the price.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Pen Lights: Types, Key Considerations, Features, Prices, Tips and FAQs

Overview

Pen lights are compact and portable flashlights that can be easily carried in a pocket or attached to a keychain. They are ideal for a wide range of applications, including camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, and everyday carry (EDC). With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to choosing the best pen light for your needs. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Types

There are several types of pen lights to choose from, including:

1. Standard pen lights: These are the most basic type of pen light, typically powered by AA or AAA batteries. They are lightweight and easy to carry, but may not be as bright or durable as other types.

2. LED flashlights: These pen lights use LED technology to provide brighter, longer-lasting light. They are typically more expensive than standard pen lights, but offer better performance and durability.

3. Tactical flashlights: These pen lights are designed for military and law enforcement use, and feature rugged construction, high brightness, and multiple modes. They are typically more expensive than other types of pen lights.

4. Rechargeable pen lights: These pen lights can be recharged using a USB cable, eliminating the need for disposable batteries. They are more environmentally friendly and can save money in the long run.

Key Considerations

When choosing a pen light, consider the following factors:

1. Brightness: Look for a pen light with a high lumen output for maximum visibility.

2. Battery life: Choose a pen light with a long battery life, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods of time.

3. Durability: Look for a pen light with rugged construction that can withstand impact, water, and other hazards.

4. Size and weight: Consider the size and weight of the pen light, especially if you plan to carry it in your pocket or attach it to your keychain.

Features

Here are some key features to look for in a pen light:

1. Waterproofing: Look for a pen light with an IPX rating of at least 4, which means it can withstand water splashes and rain.

2. Beam distance: Look for a pen light with a long beam distance for maximum visibility.

3. Grip: Choose a pen light with a non-slip grip for easy handling.

4. Switch: Look for a pen light with a reliable and easy-to-use switch.

Prices

Pen lights can range in price from less than $10 to over $100, depending on the type, features, and brand. Standard pen lights are typically the least expensive, while tactical and rechargeable pen lights are more expensive.

Tips

Here are some tips for using and maintaining your pen light:

1. Keep spare batteries on hand: If you're using a standard pen light, make sure to keep spare batteries on hand in case the ones in your pen light run out.

2. Clean your pen light regularly: Use a soft, damp cloth to clean your pen light and remove any dirt or debris.

3. Store your pen light properly: Keep your pen light in a dry, cool place when not in use to prevent damage.

FAQs

Q: What is the brightest pen light available?

A: The brightest pen lights can produce up to 1000 lumens of light. However, these are typically tactical flashlights and can be expensive.

Q: Are rechargeable pen lights better than standard pen lights?

A: Rechargeable pen lights can be more convenient and cost-effective in the long run, as they eliminate the need for disposable batteries.

Q: Can pen lights be used for self-defense?

A: While pen lights are not specifically designed for self-defense, they can be used as a makeshift weapon in an emergency situation.

Conclusion:

When it comes to choosing a pen light, there are many factors to consider, including brightness, battery life, durability, and price. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can find the best pen light for your needs and enjoy reliable and convenient illumination whenever you need it.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Slim profile fits well in pocket
  • Turbo setting is very bright
  • Easy and fast recharge
  • Long battery life
  • Two light settings
Cons
  • LED flickers sometimes
  • Easily turns on in pocket
Bottom Line
The NEBO Inspector RC is a bright and durable flashlight with a slim profile that fits well in a pocket. However, the button is too sensitive and can easily turn on in a pocket, and the flashlight is overpriced compared to similar products.
Pros
  • Very bright
  • Small and easy to carry
  • Durable and well-made
  • Great battery life
  • Can be used as a self-defense tool
Cons
  • Falls apart easily
  • Button can be pressed accidentally
Bottom Line
This flashlight is a great value for its brightness and durability, but may have some issues with falling apart and accidentally turning on. It is a good choice for those who need a small, bright flashlight for various tasks.
Pros
  • Compact and easy to carry
  • Bright light
  • Durable and long-lasting battery
  • Useful for tight spaces
  • Heavy-duty and high-quality
Cons
  • Rubber end cap can deform easily
  • Packaging is difficult to open
Bottom Line
The Milwaukee pen light is a compact and durable flashlight that provides a bright light. While it has some minor issues with durability and battery life, it is a good value for the price and a useful tool for those who work in tight spaces.
Pros
  • Bright light for ocular exams
  • Good weight and measuring tools
  • Affordable price
  • Lightweight and good for storage
  • Durable and can survive a washer and dryer cycle
Cons
  • LED blue light instead of yellow light
  • Batteries not included
Bottom Line
This pen light is a good option for ocular exams and nursing school, but be aware of the bright LED blue light and the need to purchase batteries separately. It is affordable and durable, but some users have experienced issues with reliability and brightness.
Pros
  • Clips easily into pockets
  • Good weight and durability
  • Ability to leave it on
  • Sturdy and of quality
  • Super bright and easy to use
Cons
  • Light is too bright for patients
  • Almost blue light can be uncomfortable
Bottom Line
This product is a good choice for those who need a durable and bright penlight for medical settings. However, the brightness may be uncomfortable for patients and the blue light may not be suitable for some.
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