BEST WATERPROOF FLASHLIGHTS 2023

The outlite A100 Portable is an ultra-affordable product that is unquestionably the best waterproof LED flashlight for the money.

Unlike many other comparable models, the A100 is an incredibly affordable light that offers a fair bit of utility. Built with durable aluminum alloy, and an IPX5 rating, the model is ideal for nighttime angling, watersports, or even hunting.

Yet, the most remarkable part of the small waterproof flashlight is its lumen capacity. At 2000 lumens, the product lights up an entire 1000 square foot room. This is further complemented by the model’s five-hour battery capacity, which uses AAA or optional rechargeable batteries.

BRAND: Outlite
WEIGHT: 5.28 ounces
DESIGN & DURABILITY: Durable Aluminum Alloy
WATERPROOFING: IPX5
BRIGHTNESS: 2000 Lumens
BATTERY: 5 hours
SUITABLE FOR: Hiking, Climbing, Angling
FEATURES: Telescopic zoom with five illuminating modes

BRAND: Anker
WEIGHT: 6.24 ounces
DESIGN & DURABILITY: Durable Anodized Aluminum
WATERPROOFING: IPX5
BRIGHTNESS: 900 Lumens
BATTERY: 6 hours
SUITABLE FOR: Fishing, Hunting, General Watersports
FEATURES: Fully extendable body to zoom in and out on targets

Small but mighty is the name of the game for Olight’s 300-lumen waterproof flashlights, as the tiny models do a great job illuminating an area when needed.

The Olight I5T is an IPX8 light crafted out of anodized aluminum, that is formed into a helix pattern. The swirled pattern gives handlers a better grip and makes it easier to use the product in wet conditions.

Many other waterproof flashlight reviews also vouch for the product, as it includes a handful of unique features such as a hat clip, push-button switch, and a variety of attractive colors. Although the expected battery life is just 1.3 hours, the I5T is still a great option for the jockey box in boats, trucks, UTVs, and fishing backpacks.

Dorcy certainly isn’t new to the illumination industry, as the brand has created great products for decades that can be found in garden sheds, atop fireplace mantles, and inside of boat lockers.

The Dorcy waterproof battery powered floating LED is yet another piece of greatness from the brand, as the rubber bodied product is certainly the best waterproof floating flashlight on this list.

Granted, the LED light is nothing fancy compared to some of the other models listed here. It is just a 200-lumen light with a rubber body, that works really well. Aside from being able to float, there aren’t really any other features that make the product stand out. But thankfully, being extremely water-resistant, and capable of 17 hours of run time, is enough to land the Dorcy a top spot as one of the best waterproof LED flashlights.

BRAND: Dorcy
WEIGHT: 4 ounces
DESIGN & DURABILITY: Rubber
WATERPROOFING: NA
BRIGHTNESS: 200 Lumens
BATTERY: 17 hours
SUITABLE FOR: Boating, Swimming, Fishing
FEATURES: Lightweight plastic ensures the light floats in water

Although the brand is primarily known for its batteries, Energizer does a pretty great job crafting an LED waterproof spotlight that can be used in countless situations.

Energizer’s LED spotlight does exactly what any outdoor spotlight should. It offers 600 lumens of concentrated light, up to 6 hours of use, and a rugged shell that can withstand drops from 20+ feet.

Due to the light’s robust durability, it is often found in construction sites, loading docks, and other construction-oriented jobs that require a sturdy light. Nevertheless, it is still suitable for boating, angling, and general watersports, as the exterior shell offers IPX4 water resistance. All in all, the product is one waterproof rechargeable LED flashlight that is certainly worthy of any sportsman’s attention.

BRAND: Energizer
WEIGHT: NA
DESIGN & DURABILITY: Durable Rubber
WATERPROOFING: IPX4
BRIGHTNESS: 600 Lumens
BATTERY: 6.25 hours
SUITABLE FOR: Boating, Angling, ATV Adventuring, Construction
FEATURES: Beam extends up to 1000 feet, includes USB charging cable

The Genwiss Dive Light is without question the best underwater flashlight available, as it is fully capable of being submerged and used underwater.

Even at depths of 250 feet below the surface, the Genwiss Dive Light holds up as it prevents water seepage while still discharging a 1000 lumen beam. However, what makes the underwater LED flashlight so reliable, is its quality construction and materials. Each model is crafted out of sturdy aluminum alloy material, with three threading O-rings to create a firm barrier against water with an IPX8 level of protection.

Regardless of what it is used for, the dive light is a great option that can illuminate any setting. When paired with a reliable dive watch, adventurers can easily explore the darkness of the depths.

BRAND: Genwiss
WEIGHT: 11.68 ounces
DESIGN & DURABILITY: High-Strength Aluminum
WATERPROOFING: IPX8
BRIGHTNESS: 1000 Lumens
BATTERY: 13 hours
SUITABLE FOR: Diving, Hiking, Sailing, Angling
FEATURES: IPX8 rating for use underwater

Nitecore’s MH10 USB rechargeable flashlight is a great option for any adventurers searching for a reliable light.

The jet-black light is crafted out of aluminum alloy and tested to an IPX8 rating. The rating allows the product to be submerged up to 6.5 feet underwater, however it is still best used on dry surfaces.

To the delight of many, the 1000 lumen flashlight is fully rechargeable and can be charged with a USB cord through an outlet, PC, or car adapter. The button placement is in a bit of an awkward position as it is near the front of the light, but aside from that, there truly aren’t any other flaws. All in all, the Nitecore is a pretty safe bet for any angler, skier, or watersport fan that needs a reliable light to shine through the dark.

BRAND: Nitecore
WEIGHT: 2.65 ounces
DESIGN & DURABILITY: Aero-Grade Aluminum Alloy
WATERPROOFING: IPX8
BRIGHTNESS: 1000 Lumens
BATTERY: 1.25 hours (at max brightness)
SUITABLE FOR: Angling, Hiking, ATV Adventuring
FEATURES: Beam extends up to 750 feet

The Fenix PD35 V2.0 is a small waterproof flashlight that is extremely handy for just about any situation.

With an IP68 ANSI rating, the PD35 is anything but susceptible to the elements. While that may draw the attention of many, it is really the battery life of the 1000 lumen light that captures the largest audience. Most 1000 lumen lights can’t last much longer than an hour, but Fenix nearly triples that, with a total run time of 3 hours.

Additionally, the product includes rechargeable batteries, which prevents users from having to regularly purchase disposable ones. All in all, the light is a pretty great option for hiking, skiing, backpacking, and angling.

BRAND: Fenix
WEIGHT: 3.04 ounces
DESIGN & DURABILITY: Aluminum Alloy
WATERPROOFING: IP68
BRIGHTNESS: 1000 lumens
BATTERY: 3 hours (at max brightness)
SUITABLE FOR: Sailing, Boating, Hiking, Angling
FEATURES: IP68 makes the product suitable for extreme weather conditions

BRAND: Streamlight
WEIGHT: 6.2 ounces
DESIGN & DURABILITY: Anodized Aluminum
WATERPROOFING: IPX7
BRIGHTNESS: 1000 Lumens
BATTERY: 1.25 hours (at max brightness)
SUITABLE FOR: Angling, Boating, Hiking, Sailing
FEATURES: Strobe setting capable of running for 20 hours

Brightness

A flashlight’s light output is measured by a unit called a lumen. Each lumen essentially equates to how much visible light can be observed by the human eye. So naturally, more lumens equate to a greater level of light output.

Most outdoor flashlights range from 200 to 1000 lumens, with the upper end being remarkably bright. The only tradeoff to such brightness is that the battery on a device drains quicker with a higher lumen setting.

Waterproof Components

Not all waterproof lights are meant to be used below the surface for sports such as diving, as they don’t possess the necessary materials to be able to withstand such an environment.

With that being said, it is important to evaluate a light’s waterproof components before totally submerging it underwater. Lights with an ANSI rating of IPX4, IPX5, IPX6, and IPX7 are not suitable to be used underwater. Only lights with a rating above IPX8 have solid enough components to be used under the surface and taken through the depths.

Durability

A good light is only as reliable as its durability. If small bumps and drops stop a light from working, then it is essentially useless.

Thankfully almost any modern rechargeable waterproof flashlight is crafted out of durable aluminum, or reinforced polymer. Both materials do a great job protecting the interior components of a light, and prevent them from falling victim to minor drops. Rubber is also a great option; however, it is far rarer to find models crafted with the material.

Cheap plastics are well worth steering clear of, as they rarely offer durability, and can crack or break from extremely minor incidents.

Buoyancy

Although it is somewhat of a subcategory of waterproof components, the buoyancy of a light is a critical factor that can either delight or disappoint handlers.

Not even the best waterproof LED flashlight on this list is buoyant, which just goes to show how rare the feature is. However, there are still plenty of models such as the Dorcy Waterproof light that can easily float. But before ever choosing a light for a boat, do the recommended research to discover if it can float on water.

1. What is the difference between a regular and waterproof flashlight?

Regular flashlights are quite different from waterproof flashlights, as they are not equipped to handle moisture or precipitation.

A solid waterproof flashlight is created with a minimal number of seams, durable materials, and a sealed lens to prevent water from seeping into the internal mechanisms. The large majority contain O-rings and other sealants, which lock water out from the internal mechanisms.

Standard flashlights on the other hand, rarely have any components that would make them waterproof. They usually lack O-rings or sealed sides, which essentially allows water to flow right in. Before selecting a waterproof flashlight, check its ANSI rating.

2. How do ANSI waterproof ratings work?

The ANSI system is an organized way of displaying the water-resistance of an object. The goal is to provide consumers with a better understanding of an object’s total waterproof capabilities.

ANSI codes are documented with a standard IP code, followed by two digits. The first of the two digits represent a product’s protection against solid particles, such as cords, fingers, wires, and screws. For the most part, the first digit isn’t that critical for waterproof lights.

The second digit, on the other hand, measures a product’s protection against liquids. The scale, which starts at 0 and ends at 9, indicates just how proofed a product is for water. 0 equates to zero protection, while 9 indicates max protection. At level 8, most products can be used for extensive periods underwater.

3. Can all waterproof flashlights be used underwater?

Unfortunately, not all waterproof lights are suitable to be used underwater. Some simply don’t contain the necessary components and are more for use around wet climates on land.

With that being said, most lights with an ANSI rating of IPX8 or greater can be used underwater. Many may be capable of working at great depths, such as dive lights, whereas others may only be capable of working at minimal depths such as 6 feet.

However, even lights rated at IPX8 may differ from one another. Certain brands such as Genwiss craft their IPX8 dive lights to be used 200+ feet below the surface, while others such as Nitecore only recommend just mere feet.

4. How do I maintain a waterproof flashlight?

Not even the best underwater flashlight can hold up under the surface unless it is properly cared for, which can be done after each use in a few quick and easy steps. The most effective way to guarantee the success of a light is to regularly maintain it and keep it free of dirt, sediment, and other materials.

To clean a light, start by removing all the debris on the outside with an alcohol pad or toothbrush. The process is fairly quick and doesn’t require too much diligence. If a regular pad isn’t removing the grime caught in cracks, then reach for a Q-tip or finer bristled brush.

Once the exterior of a light is clean, the interior can be cleaned and maintained. Water and grime will rarely build up on the internal components of a light, but on the off chance that it does, it needs to be removed immediately to guarantee future success.

After removing the interior grime, check to make sure the O-rings are clean and moist. If they are dry and cracked, they will have to be replaced. However, if they are just lacking lubricant, then they can be salvaged.

The most effective way to lubricate an O-ring is to remove it from the product, then slip it back on. But if that isn’t possible, then simply apply a fair stream of lubricant from any product designed for flashlights or other small gadgets.

To keep a flashlight in its best working condition, maintain it after each trip where it was exposed to the elements, or rather every month.

5. Who makes the best waterproof flashlights?

The best waterproof flashlights are likely made by SureFire, as the brand has an incredible lineup that is often trusted by medical and law enforcement professionals.

What makes SureFire such a great brand is its sheer reliability, as its products can take an absolute beating and still work like new. This can certainly be seen with the G2X Tactical, which is crafted with a durable polymer body to resist impact and sudden damage.

But when it comes to ranking the best waterproof flashlights, the true distinguishing factor is a product’s brightness and ability to cut through the darkness. Most SureFire lights offer 600+ lumens, which cuts through the night sky like a blade of light. The clean beam truly entices most individuals and keeps them loyal to the brand years after their first purchase.

As always, we create our content with you, fellow adventurers, in mind. So, how’d we do? Did you find this informative? Did it help you make a decision? Did we miss anything? We’d love to hear from you below. Thanks for reading and we hope your next adventure is a great one!