What you should know and how to choose the best option for you
According to respondents from a third-party survey, rechargeable flashlights and headlamps are the future of personal lighting and are now the preferred choice–for good reason.
Although rechargeable products often come with a higher price tag, the value they provide is well worth it. Rechargeable flashlights and headlamps are helpful for the environment, more energy-efficient and don’t require batteries to be replaced.
There are two main types of rechargeable batteries that power flashlights and headlamps. It’simportant to understand these different battery types as there are pros and cons for both.
Lithium-Ion and Lithium-Polymer batteries
The two common types of rechargeable batteries that can affect the shape and efficiency of the product: Lithium Ion (Li-ion) and Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries.
What’s are the pros and cons of each?
Li-ion batteries are typically cylindrical or coin-shaped batteries with an aluminum or stainless-steel casing. Li-Po batteries are a type of Li-ion battery that includes a polymer electrolyte, and their shapes can vary.
Because Li-ions have a metal casing, they are more protected from damage. . Li-ions are typically more energy-dense and take a longer time to charge than LiPos, although they are more effective at maintaining brightness over time. In contrast, LiPos can have different shapes as their construction is a ‘pouch’ instead of a cylinder, allowing for more diverse flashlight shapes and are lightweight. If the heaviness of the product is a consideration, LiPos will offer a better option. LiPos are also able to run efficiently in extremely cold temperatures.
Regardless of battery type, rechargeable flashlights offer considerable value and are generally a sound purchase.
Choosing the right rechargeable product for you
If you expect to use your flashlight or headlamp outdoors in cold weather, consider using a headlamp or flashlight with a Li-Po battery. This could be useful in harsh winters as the battery efficiently operates in low temperatures. A Li-Po powered flashlight could be a godsend in a winter storm.
If you know you’ll be wearing a headlamp for an extended period need to use a flashlight for an extended period, a Li-Po battery light may be a preferred option. Flashlights and headlamps with LiPos tend to be lighter weight and depending on overall product design may be helpful in finding something compact that t weigh you down.
If you need a light that’s powerful and will hold a strong beam for an extended amount of time without needing to be frequently recharged, a Li-ion powered flashlight may be a great option.
Popular flashlights powered by Li-ion batteries:
Popular products powered by Li-Po batteries:
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Sources
- M is for Marketing. June 2021. “Flashlight & Headlamp Audience Insight.” 14.
- https://www.electronicdesign.com/power-management/article/21806525/whats-the-better-battery-for-your-portablesli-ion-or-li-poly
- https://blog.ravpower.com/2017/06/lithium-ion-vs-lithium-polymer-batteries/
- https://www.batterypowertips.com/difference-between-lithium-ion-lithium-polymer-batteries-faq/