At first glance, a cheap piece of lighting gear and a higher-quality one might look and seem pretty similar. However, if you can get a closer look and perhaps take turns hefting each of them in your hands, you’ll notice some key differences. That’s because the build quality, material quality, underlying technology, and overall performance can vary significantly between them.
Think of the last time you held a quality flashlight in your hand. You could probably feel the durability of the materials right away. You may have also noticed the quality of the light beam and its impressive brightness. A cheap flashlight, on the other hand, typically feels flimsier and has a weaker beam. Still, you might wonder if it’s worth investing in the more expensive piece when you can spend so much less on a cheaper option. Here’s why it’s far better to own one great piece of gear than a drawer full of inferior ones.
Benefits of Investing in a Great Flashlight
It may seem like you’re saving money by purchasing cheap flashlights and replacing them when they inevitably break or stop working. However, investing in one great flashlight can typically save you money in the long run. A high-quality flashlight will likely last longer than its poor-quality counterparts. Here are some of the top benefits of paying a higher up-front cost for a really good flashlight:
Durability
A great LED flashlight is specifically designed to withstand harsh conditions. People often use flashlights in rugged situations, including power blackouts, while camping, or while working on projects. Therefore, it’s crucial to have a trustworthy, durable source of lighting you can rely on when you need it the most.
Superior Performance
When you’re in low-level light conditions, you want a flashlight that’s capable of lighting your way. A single good piece of lighting gear is much better than a drawer full of cheap ones because it offers superior performance. Quality lights are typically brighter and have a better beam than their lesser-quality counterparts. They also often have multiple brightness modes, so you can customize your beam based on your illumination needs.
Better Battery Life
One of the most desirable features of a well-crafted flashlight is its advanced, long-running battery. Many durable flashlights have efficient power management, meaning they offer longer-lasting illumination than less-efficient models. An efficient battery is crucial, whether you’re riding out a power outage or embarking on a camping trip.
Advanced Features
Advanced flashlights sometimes offer features beyond simple illumination. Some flashlights have specialized modes, such as SOS signals, strobe lights, or adjustable beam patterns. Some even double as portable power banks, equipped with USB charging ports you can use to charge other small devices.
Problems You Might Experience With Poor-Quality Flashlights
Now that you know the advantages of purchasing a high-quality flashlight, you may be wondering if low-quality flashlights are really that bad. After all, they provide decent light for an unbeatable price. However, you could end up with more frustration than you bargained for if you settle for the cheapest lighting gear out there. Here are some of the problems you might experience if you buy a poor-quality flashlight:
It Breaks Soon After Purchase
It’s nice to save a few bucks on a less durable flashlight, but you may regret your decision soon afterward. The cheapest flashlights are often inexpensive because they’re made with low-grade materials and craftsmanship. Therefore, they’re more likely to break soon after you buy them or the first time you accidentally drop them on the trail. You could continue replacing your broken flashlights with equally cheap options. However, you can stretch your dollar further by investing in a single great flashlight, instead.
The Light Isn’t Very Bright
Inexpensive flashlights often have low lumens and poorly focused beams. Therefore, their output is often inconsistent and unimpressive. If you want to be able to rely on your flashlight for optimal illumination, it’s best to purchase a higher-quality option.
The Battery Dies Faster
Low-quality flashlights are often equipped with equally shoddy batteries. They’re typically inefficient and need to be recharged or have the batteries replaced often. In critical situations, you don’t want to reach for a flashlight with a dead battery. Instead, invest in a flashlight with a long-lasting battery that will work when you need it to.
There Are No Additional Features
The least expensive lighting gear typically doesn’t have any extra features. Therefore, you may not be able to signal for help very easily with it or adjust its beam to your liking. Some people don’t mind having flashlights with the single function of illumination. But if you want a light that’s capable of doing more, you’ll need to be willing to pay a few extra bucks.
Conclusion
Your flashlight isn’t just a convenience tool. It could very well become your lifeline in a power outage or on your next multi-day backpacking trip. By investing in a quality piece of lighting gear, you’ll have greater peace of mind and increased safety in a wide variety of situations. Once you experience the difference between a great flashlight and a poor-quality one, you’ll never want to go back to sacrificing performance just to save a few bucks.