Best LED flashlights

Top pick: Fenix PD36R Pro — a rechargeable tactical light that reviewers rate as a top all-rounder for a powerful beam, long runtime and quick charging. It's the one to buy if you want one light that does everything; the trade-off is its larger size.

Who the others suit:

• Fenix PD25R — same brand's compact rechargeable, easier to pocket or keep in a glovebox.
• Acebeam E75 — rechargeable, water-resistant and built for rough outdoor use.
• Nitecore EDC17 — slim flat rechargeable with a UV and green-laser extra; good for everyday carry.
• ThruNite Archer 2A V3 — runs on ordinary AA batteries, so it never needs a charger; ideal for a drawer or emergency kit.
• Olight Marauder 2 — a huge-output light for search-and-rescue or lighting up a yard; overkill for most homes.
• Multi-packs (NIUTA, TAZTIR, Bell + Howell) — cheap way to put a light in every room and car.

Rule of thumb: rechargeable for regular use, AA/AAA for lights that sit unused until an outage.