How to choose the right light

A guide to choosing a flashlight or headlamp: what lumens, beam distance and IP rating mean, and which light suits which use.

What to look at when choosing

Luminous flux (lm)

Tells you the overall brightness. Around the house and in town 200–500 lm is enough; for terrain and distance look for 1,000 lm and more.

Beam distance (m)

How far the light reaches. A spot beam throws further and more tightly, a flood beam lights a wide area.

IP rating

Resistance to dust and water. For rain choose at least IPX4; for diving and demanding terrain IPX7–IPX8.

Battery runtime

Depends on the mode you choose. Watch the capacity (mAh) and convenient charging – most of our models charge over USB-C.

Beam types

Spot = a narrow beam for distance, Flood = wide coverage up close, Spot+Flood = a versatile combination of both.

Controls and modes

Stepless dimming, last-mode memory, SOS/strobe and a lockout against accidental activation in your pack are all useful.

Choose a light by how you will use it

EDC & every day A compact light for your pocket, keys, the car or a walk with the dog. Camp & outdoors Powerful flashlights with long throw and runtime for trips into nature. Running & sport Light headlamps with a comfortable strap and steady light on the move. Work & workshop Headlamps that keep your hands free, with even flood light for close work. Tactical use Rugged, high-output flashlights with fast controls for demanding conditions. Headlamps Light where you look – for hiking, DIY and night runs.

Read more in the Magazine

A flashlight for the car: what it must have A flashlight for the car: what it must have Read the article → Warm vs. cool light: which colour temperature to choose Warm vs. cool light: which colour temperature to choose Read the article → How many lumens and how much intensity? The difference on our own numbers How many lumens and how much intensity? The difference on our own numbers Read the article →

Not sure which light to pick?

Write or call us and we will advise based on what you will use it for.

We will help you choose