10 Best 18650 Flashlights 2025 in the United States

The Streamlight 89000 ProTac 2.0 is a robust tactical flashlight that delivers an impressive 2,000 lumens of brightness, making it suitable for law enforcement, security, and inspection services. It has a solid aluminum build, ensuring durability and a lightweight feel at 8.2 ounces, making it easy to carry. The flashlight features a tactical tail cap switch for easy one-handed operation, including momentary and constant on modes, as well as a strobe function.

It is IP64-rated for dust-tight and water-resistant performance, enhancing its reliability in tough conditions. The included SL-B50 battery pack can be recharged using a USB-C cable, which is convenient and ensures you don't run out of power quickly. However, the high brightness mode drains the battery in just 2.25 hours, which might be limiting for extended use.

The TEN-TAP programmable feature adds versatility by allowing users to customize the light settings to their preferences. Although the beam distance is impressive at 262 meters, the runtime could be a drawback for prolonged operations. Given its high power, compact size, and various tactical features, the Streamlight 89000 ProTac 2.0 is a great fit for professionals in demanding fields who need a reliable and powerful light source.

The Fenix PD36R Pro is a standout choice for anyone needing a reliable 18650 flashlight, especially for tactical and everyday carry purposes. Its impressive brightness of 2800 lumens makes it exceptionally powerful, allowing for visibility over a distance of up to 415 yards, which is great for outdoor activities or emergency situations. The dual tail switch design enhances usability, making it easy to adjust brightness levels or activate the strobe feature with one hand, which is particularly beneficial in urgent scenarios.

Battery life is another strong point, offering up to 42 hours of runtime on lower settings. This means you won't be left in the dark during extended use, which is perfect for camping or long hikes. The USB-C charging capability adds convenience, allowing for fast charging, which is a big plus for those on the go.

There are a couple of considerations. While the flashlight is designed for durability with its anodized aluminum body, its size might be somewhat bulky for users looking for a lightweight option for everyday carry. Weighing more than some compact models, it may not be the best fit for those who prioritize minimalism in their gear. Additionally, while the flashlight includes useful features like adjustable light modes, users looking for more specialized settings might find it lacking compared to other high-end models. The included accessories, such as a holster and lanyard, do enhance its portability and accessibility, but some users might desire more comprehensive options for mounting or attachment.

The Fenix PD36R Pro shines in brightness, battery life, and user-friendly features, making it ideal for tactical users, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing a dependable flashlight. Just keep in mind its size and weight if you're searching for something more compact.

The Streamlight 88083 ProTac 2L-X USB flashlight is a versatile option in the 18650-flashlight category, offering notable brightness at 500 lumens with a beam distance of 165 meters on its high setting. Its robust construction, made of anodized aluminum, aligns well with durability expectations, while being lightweight at 4.5 ounces, making it convenient for everyday carry.

The flashlight stands out with its multi-fuel capability, operating on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries included with the package, and supported by a USB charging method. This feature ensures it’s ready for use without frequent battery replacements, although the runtime on high is limited to just over 3 hours, which could be a constraint for extended use.

Streamlight’s TEN-TAP Programming adds flexibility by offering three selectable modes: high/strobe/low, high only, or low/high, catering to different lighting needs. However, users looking for prolonged battery life might find the high setting’s duration somewhat restrictive. The flashlight includes practical design elements like an anti-roll head and a removable pocket clip, which enhances its portability and usability. Additionally, a nylon holster is provided for secure transport. Its water-resistant feature (IPX7 rating) ensures functionality in wet conditions, making it suitable for outdoor activities like camping or for industrial use.

Despite being highly ranked in its category with positive customer feedback, some users may find the flashlight’s light modes challenging to navigate initially. The warranty offering adds value, covering potential manufacturing issues over the product's lifetime. This flashlight is particularly suited for users needing a reliable, portable, and durable lighting solution for DIY, home defense, and outdoor activities.