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10 Best Pen Flashlights 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

OLIGHT Arkfeld Ultra 1400 Lumens EDC Flat Flashlight, Rechargeable Compact Pocket Flash Light Combines White LED, UV and Green Beam, Triple Sources Perfect for Checking, Working (Olive-Green)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,133
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type
Beam Distance

Most important from
645 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Delivering up to 1400 lumens, the light output is bright, consistent, and perfect for a wide range of tasks.
Battery Type
The magnetic charging system is remarkably convenient and fast, eliminating the need for extra cables.
Beam Distance
A wide-angle UV light is included for close-up inspection tasks, though it doesn't project far distances.
Durability
The flashlight's solid aluminum body feels incredibly durable and built to withstand tough conditions.
Size and Weight
Its slim, rectangular profile and sturdy clip make it extremely pocketable and easy to carry every day.
Switch Type
Adjustable light levels and a unique selector switch make switching between modes seamless and user-friendly.

The OLIGHT Arkfeld Ultra is a compact and versatile pen-flashlight designed for everyday carry and outdoor use. It delivers a strong 1400 lumens of white light, which is bright enough for most tasks like working, camping, or emergency needs. In addition to the white beam, it offers a UV light and a green beam, expanding its usefulness for checking items, detecting stains, or special signaling.

The flashlight uses a rechargeable lithium polymer battery, which is convenient and eco-friendly, and it includes a magnetic charging cable for easy recharging. Its size is slim and lightweight (just over 4 ounces), making it comfortable to carry in a pocket without feeling bulky. Made from O-aluminum, the Arkfeld Ultra feels sturdy and durable, with a high-quality glass lens that resists scratches and maintains clear light output over time. The matte olive-green finish gives it a sleek, modern look, and it is also waterproof, which helps in various weather conditions.

While it has multiple beams, the green and UV lights are relatively low power (green ≤5mW), so they are best suited for specific tasks rather than illumination. Also, the compact size means its battery life might be shorter under high brightness use compared to bigger flashlights. This pen-flashlight is ideal for those looking for a reliable, multi-purpose light that can handle daily tasks, outdoor adventures, and specialized needs without taking up much space.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,133
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type
Beam Distance

Most important from
645 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Delivering up to 1400 lumens, the light output is bright, consistent, and perfect for a wide range of tasks.
Battery Type
The magnetic charging system is remarkably convenient and fast, eliminating the need for extra cables.
Beam Distance
A wide-angle UV light is included for close-up inspection tasks, though it doesn't project far distances.
Durability
The flashlight's solid aluminum body feels incredibly durable and built to withstand tough conditions.
Size and Weight
Its slim, rectangular profile and sturdy clip make it extremely pocketable and easy to carry every day.
Switch Type
Adjustable light levels and a unique selector switch make switching between modes seamless and user-friendly.
#2

OLIGHT IMINI 2 EDC Rechargeable Keychain Flashlight, 50 Lumens Compact and Portable Mini LED Keyring Lights with Built-in Battery Ideal for Everyday Carry and Emergencies (Black)

Rating
9.8
Brightness (Lumens)
Durability
Size and Weight

Most important from
4109 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
This flashlight is brighter than the one on my phone and incredibly tiny with everything built in.
Durability
The build quality is top-notch and it's fun to fidget with.
Size and Weight
This flashlight is brighter than the one on my phone and incredibly tiny with everything built in.
Switch Type
It's very convenient with no on/off button, just pull it off to turn it on.

The OLIGHT IMINI 2 EDC Rechargeable Keychain Flashlight is a compact and lightweight flashlight that fits well in the pen-flashlight category, making it a great choice for everyday carry or emergency situations. With a brightness of 50 lumens, it offers adequate illumination for close-range tasks, although it may not light up larger areas due to its limited beam distance of 1.5 meters. The built-in rechargeable battery is a significant plus, allowing for convenient charging through a USB plug, which takes just 60 minutes for a full charge.

One of the standout features is its instant activation; you can turn it on simply by detaching it from the magnetic cap, which is user-friendly. The flashlight also has a magnetic base, enabling a hands-free experience when attached to metal surfaces—ideal for tasks that require both hands.

While the 50-lumen output is sufficient for many everyday uses, it may not be bright enough for tasks that require more powerful lighting. Additionally, the flashlight is designed primarily for close-range visibility, which might limit its effectiveness in certain outdoor scenarios. The small size and lightweight design (only 19.5 grams) are perfect for carrying around, but users should be cautious with its durability despite being made of aluminum and rated for a 1.5-meter drop resistance.

Rating
9.8
Brightness (Lumens)
Durability
Size and Weight

Most important from
4109 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
This flashlight is brighter than the one on my phone and incredibly tiny with everything built in.
Durability
The build quality is top-notch and it's fun to fidget with.
Size and Weight
This flashlight is brighter than the one on my phone and incredibly tiny with everything built in.
Switch Type
It's very convenient with no on/off button, just pull it off to turn it on.
#3

GearLight S100 LED Pocket Pen Light- 2 Small, Compact Flashlights with Clip for Tight Spaces, Police Inspection, Nurses & Medical Use

Rating
9.6
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type
Size and Weight

Most important from
15148 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Surprisingly bright and provides a clean white beam, perfect for night walks.
Battery Type
Uses regular AAA batteries, avoiding the need for expensive or special batteries.
Size and Weight
The compact size fits easily in a pocket, making it very convenient for everyday use.

The GearLight S100 LED Pocket Pen Light is designed for those who need a reliable and compact flashlight for close-up tasks. Its standout feature is its compact size, measuring just 5.25 inches in length and weighing 1 ounce, which makes it ideal for carrying in a pocket or clipping onto a belt or bag. This portability is enhanced by the included removable clip, making it a convenient choice for professionals like nurses and mechanics, as well as for everyday use in inspections or repairs.

The flashlight offers a brightness level of 100 lumens, which is suitable for lighting up concentrated areas. Powered by two AAA batteries, it provides adequate illumination for various tasks, although the batteries are not included with the purchase. The light source is LED, known for its energy efficiency and longevity, further adding to the product's appeal.

In terms of durability, the GearLight S100 is made from military-grade aluminum, making it tough enough to withstand drops and temporary water exposure. This durability makes it a reliable choice for rough handling situations, such as outdoor activities or emergencies. The flashlight's design also features an easy-to-use switch, enhancing its practicality in urgent scenarios. Potential buyers should consider the need for frequent battery replacements, given the reliance on AAA batteries, which may be a downside for some. This pen-flashlight is best suited for those prioritizing portability and durability over high lumens or extensive beam distance.

Rating
9.6
Brightness (Lumens)
Battery Type
Size and Weight

Most important from
15148 reviews

Brightness (Lumens)
Surprisingly bright and provides a clean white beam, perfect for night walks.
Battery Type
Uses regular AAA batteries, avoiding the need for expensive or special batteries.
Size and Weight
The compact size fits easily in a pocket, making it very convenient for everyday use.

Buying Guide for the Best Pen Flashlights

Pen flashlights are compact, portable lighting tools that are designed to be carried easily in a pocket or clipped to clothing. They are ideal for a variety of tasks, from professional use in medical and mechanical fields to everyday carry for general use. When choosing a pen flashlight, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best fit for your needs.
Brightness (Lumens)Brightness, measured in lumens, indicates how much light the flashlight emits. This is important because it determines how well you can see in different lighting conditions. Pen flashlights typically range from 10 to 200 lumens. For general use, 10-50 lumens is usually sufficient. For more demanding tasks, such as inspections or outdoor activities, you might want a flashlight with 100 lumens or more. Consider your primary use to decide the appropriate brightness level.
Battery TypeThe type of battery a pen flashlight uses affects its runtime, convenience, and cost. Common battery types include AAA, AA, and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. AAA and AA batteries are widely available and easy to replace, making them convenient for general use. Rechargeable batteries are more cost-effective in the long run and environmentally friendly, but they require access to a charging source. Choose a battery type based on your preference for convenience and environmental impact.
Beam DistanceBeam distance refers to how far the light can reach, which is crucial for tasks that require seeing objects at a distance. Pen flashlights typically have a beam distance ranging from 20 to 100 meters. For close-up tasks, such as reading or inspecting small areas, a shorter beam distance is sufficient. For outdoor use or situations where you need to see further away, opt for a flashlight with a longer beam distance.
DurabilityDurability is determined by the materials and construction of the flashlight. This is important if you need a reliable tool that can withstand rough handling or harsh environments. Look for flashlights made from high-quality materials like aircraft-grade aluminum, which offers a good balance of strength and weight. Additionally, consider water and impact resistance ratings. For professional or outdoor use, higher durability is essential, while for casual use, standard durability may suffice.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of a pen flashlight affect its portability and ease of use. Pen flashlights are designed to be compact and lightweight, but there can still be variations. Smaller, lighter models are easier to carry and handle, making them ideal for everyday carry or use in tight spaces. Larger models may offer more features or longer battery life but can be less convenient to carry. Consider how and where you will carry the flashlight to choose the right size and weight for your needs.
Switch TypeThe switch type determines how you turn the flashlight on and off, which can impact ease of use and reliability. Common switch types include tail switches, side switches, and twist switches. Tail switches are often preferred for their ease of use with one hand, especially in tactical situations. Side switches can be more convenient for everyday use, while twist switches offer simplicity and reliability. Choose a switch type based on your preference for ease of use and the specific tasks you will be performing.

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