The 5 Best 18650 Flashlights for EDC
Mikey Bautista
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Show of hands: who's carrying an 18650 flashlight for EDC? Probably not many of you. But that's OK, we're here to tell you what it's all about and why it's so awesome. The 18650 lithium-ion battery—so named for its 18mm diameter, 65mm length, and cylindrical shape—is one of the most popular battery form factors in production. Its size and features make it ideal for electronic applications, like laptop and electronic car batteries, and even portable battery chargers.
An 18650's higher voltage, bigger capacity, and reusability make flashlights one of the better beneficiaries of its benefits. We're talking upwards of 1000 lumens in your pocket, runtimes measured in weeks and months (yes, months), and no longer having to buy disposable batteries which is always good for the environment.
Below we've rounded up 5 of the best 18650 flashlights on the market. They're lights that make full use of the battery's capabilities but remain compact enough for everyday carry. You can go ahead and put away those AA, AAA, and CR123A lights—you won't be needing them from here on out.
Zebralight SC63
For many flashlight enthusiasts, a Zebralight is the first and last stop for an 18650 flashlight because of its design, features, and sheer customizability. The SC63 (and its neutral white tint brother the SC63w) is the latest and greatest of their compact 18650 lights, and features their best tech on offer. Its Cree XHP35 LED outputs a whopping 1300 lumen max, but can also run up to 7.1 months on its lowest 0.01 lumen setting. Its electronics regulate its outputs and protect against parasitic battery drain. A single side switch lets you operate and program the SC63's extensive outputs and modes to your exact needs. And with a 3.64” machined aluminum unibody and built-in clip, it's one of the smallest 18650 lights you can carry in your EDC.
ThruNite TC12 V2
With six output modes and up to 1100 lumens of light, the ThruNite TC12 V2 certainly isn't lacking in the brightness department. But it's best feature is its built-in micro USB charging port. Yes, the very same you find on your smartphone and portable battery packs, meaning charging its included 18650 battery is as easy and convenient as charging the rest of your gear. As an everyday light, the TC12 V2 is up to any task thanks to its type III hard anodized aluminum body, and at 5.5”and 3 ounces is still compact enough to carry in your pockets.
ArmyTek Partner C2 Pro V3
If it's sheer power, distance, and toughness you're after, then the appropriately named ArmyTek Partner C2 is the wingman for you. Got any football fields that need lighting up? With its Cree XHP35 LED it outputs an unprecedented 2100 lumens up to 192 meters. Paired with that insane output is some of the best build quality you'll find in a flashlight. ArmyTek protects the Partner C2 from every angle with an impact-resistant body that can withstand drops of up to 10 meters, and an IP68 rating that deals with dust and depths of up to 10 meters, too.
Olight S2 Baton
I love and still carry the Olight S1 Baton and consider it one of the best flashlights overall for EDC to this day. That said, a little more power and a lot more runtime couldn't hurt. And with 950 lumens on high and 24 hours on low, the S2 Baton is the perfect upgrade. The S2 comes with the same compact design and the easy-to-use interface as the S1, with a narrow profile and single side button switch. Despite its length from the battery it remains one of the smallest 18650 lights you can buy, making it one of the best for everyday carry.
Convoy S2+
If you're still on the fence despite all the benefits you get from 18650 flashlights, the Convoy S2+ is the entry-level light for you. For a minimal investment you get 490 lumens of output, multiple modes, a rugged aluminum alloy body, and a carry-friendly size and lanyard. And for a little bit more, KAMOLTECH can customize the S2+'s circuit and LED to fit your EDC needs exactly.
Are you carrying an 18650 flashlight? Did we miss your favorite for our picks, or any other good ones we should know about? Let us know in the comments below!
He has lived through many personal and professional lives, spending nearly a decade in the workforce management industry, a minor career in gaming, and has lent a hand with entrepreneurial efforts back home in the Philippines. He has also been an active participant and helped build a number of significant social communities online, both for EDC and his other hobbies.
Mikey has been at the cusp of gaming, technology, and the internet since the ‘90s and continues to lend his experience, expertise, and authority to all his pursuits. When not online, in a game, or watching movies, you'll find him in the gym, speedrunning his next hobby, or talking at length about EDC with anyone willing to listen.
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