Top 10 Torches for 2025: Illuminate Your Adventures with the Best

When you reach for a torch at 2am because the power's gone out or you're setting up camp as darkness falls, the last thing you want is a dim beam that barely lights up your tent pegs. We bring you the absolute best for 2025, from pocket rockets that'll live on your keyring to serious lumens that turn night into day. Whether after something for the glovebox, toolbox or your next wild camping trip, we've found the perfect torch for you.

What's the brightest torch I can actually carry in my pocket?

The Nitecore EDC33 is frankly ridiculous for its size – imagine holding 4000 lumens in something that fits comfortably in your jeans pocket. This little powerhouse uses Nitecore's new NiteLab UHi 20 LED with a 9-core design, giving you both a search spotlight and a Lumin Shield floodlight in one compact package. The built-in 4000mAh battery charges via USB-C (finally, no more hunting for proprietary cables), and it's got an optical sensor that automatically adjusts brightness when something gets too close. At 450 metres beam distance, you'll spot that footpath marker long before you need it. The EDC33 is IP68 waterproof and can take a 2-metre drop without breaking a sweat, making it perfect for everyday adventures where you need serious light without the bulk. 

Which torch should I keep in my car for emergencies?

The Fenix TK16 V2.0 is what you want rattling around in your glovebox. With 3100 lumens of regulated output and a 380-metre beam range, it'll light up a country road like it's Wembley Stadium. What makes this brilliant for emergencies is the dual tail-cap switch system – even with cold, wet hands, you can operate it single-handed without fumbling through menus. The included 5000mAh 21700 battery charges via USB-C and gives you nearly three hours on turbo mode, though you'll probably use the lower settings, which run for days. The tungsten alloy glass breakers on the bezel aren't just for show – they'll get you out of a car window if needed. It's built like a tank with aircraft-grade aluminium and IP68 waterproofing, so leaving it in your car through British winters won't phase it.

What's the best keyring torch that won't weigh me down?

The RovyVon Aurora A5 Gen 4 answers your prayers if you're tired of using your phone's torch. At just 15 grams and smaller than a car key fob, you'll forget it's there until you need it. Don't let the size fool you, though – this tiny titan pumps out 650 lumens on high, with a moonlight mode at 0.5 lumens perfect for finding the keyhole without waking the neighbours. The glow-in-the-dark polycarbonate body means you'll find it in your bag even in complete darkness, and the magnetic tail lets you stick it to anything metal for hands-free light. With USB-C charging that takes just an hour and side LEDs offering white, UV or red light options, it's the Swiss Army knife of keyring torches. The 75-hour runtime on moonlight mode means you can use it every night for months between charges. 

Which work light will survive my building site?

Meet the NEBO Big Larry Pro+, the torch that laughs at your roughest workday. This isn't your typical torch – it's got a 600-lumen COB work light that floods your entire work area with even light, plus a 220-lumen top flashlight for when you need a focused beam. The magnetic base is strong enough to hold it sideways on a steel beam, and the pocket clip means it's always within reach. The direct-to-red function sets it apart – it preserves your night vision when working in dark spaces. The dimming function with memory recall means it always turns on at your preferred brightness. IPX7 waterproofing and aircraft-grade aluminium construction mean it'll survive being dropped in a puddle or knocked off scaffolding.

What's the ultimate headlamp for serious outdoor adventures?

The Petzl Nao RL is what happens when French engineering meets mountain rescue requirements. With 1500 lumens of reactive lighting that automatically adjusts to what you're looking at, it's like having a smart torch strapped to your head. Weighing just 145 grams despite its power, you'll barely notice it during those pre-dawn summit pushes. The reactive lighting technology is genuinely game-changing – look at your map and it dims to save your night vision, look up the trail and it brightens to show you the way. The 3200mAh battery sits at the back of your head for perfect balance, and you get up to 32 hours of runtime in eco mode. When navigating technical terrain in the dark, you want the best. The IP67 rating means it'll handle any weather the British mountains throw at it. 

Which torch gives me maximum power when size doesn't matter?

The Imalent MS03 is absolutely bonkers – 13,000 lumens from something the size of a Coke can. This palm-sized monster uses three CREE XHP70 LEDs to create what can only be described as portable daylight. The 4000mAh 21700 battery somehow manages this insane output while keeping things relatively cool thanks to excellent thermal management. You won't run it on turbo for long (both for battery life and because you'll temporarily blind everyone within a kilometre), but having that power available when you need to light up an entire field is incredible. Perfect for search and rescue volunteers, serious night photographers or anyone who wants to own the most powerful torch in their village. The build quality is exceptional with proper IPX8 waterproofing and premium aluminium construction that dissipates heat efficiently. 

What's the best all-round torch for camping and hiking?

The Fenix PD36R Pro strikes the perfect balance between power and practicality for outdoor adventures. Its 2800 lumens will light up your entire campsite. The 5000mAh battery means you're not constantly worrying about charging, and when you do need to top up, the USB-C port works with the same cable as your phone. The rotary collar lets you switch between modes without cycling through brightness levels you don't need, and the IP68 rating means it'll survive being dropped in a stream. At 380-metre beam distance, you'll spot trail markers and camping spots from ages away. The temperature regulation prevents overheating when running on high for extended periods, making it reliable when you really need it.

Which tactical torch do professionals actually use?

The Fenix PD36 TAC is what you'll find on the belts of police officers and military personnel who buy their own kit. Built specifically for professional use, the 3000-lumen output is paired with a mechanical dual-switch system that works reliably even with thick gloves. The rotary collar switches between Tactical and Duty modes – Tactical gives you instant access to turbo and strobe, while Duty mode offers all brightness levels for general use. The 274-metre beam uses a combined throw and flood pattern perfect for searching and area lighting. Professionals love the reliability – the all-metal silent tactical switch won't fail when it matters, and the shock-absorbing springs at both battery ends mean it survives being mounted on firearms. The ultra-compact design means it doesn't snag on kit, and the IP68 rating handles any weather conditions you'll work in.

What's the perfect balance of size and power for everyday carry?

The Fenix E12 V3.0 is the torch equivalent of your favourite Swiss Army knife – not the most powerful, not the smallest, but absolutely perfect for daily life. Running on a single AA battery (yes, the kind you can buy at any corner shop), it gives you 200 lumens on high with a runtime that'll last weeks of regular use. The magnetic tail cap is genuinely useful for hands-free work under the bonnet or finding that dropped screw behind the washing machine. At just 82mm long and 54 grams with battery, it disappears in your pocket but feels substantial. The memory mode means it always turns on at your preferred brightness, and the two-way clip works on pockets or cap brims. IP68 waterproofing and 100-hour runtime on low mode make it the torch you'll actually carry every day rather than leaving at home.

Which versatile torch works as both a headlamp and a handheld?

The Nitecore HC33 gives you the best of both worlds with its clever L-shaped design. Use it as a 1800-lumen headlamp for hands-free work, or remove the headband and it becomes a right-angle torch with magnetic tail cap that sticks anywhere. The 100-degree flood beam is perfect for close-up work, while the 187-metre throw handles distance when needed. Weighing just 51 grams, it's one of the lightest high-output headlamps available, making it comfortable for all-day wear. The L-shape design means the weight sits lower on your forehead, reducing bounce when running or climbing. Temperature regulation prevents overheating, and the IP68 rating means it'll handle proper British weather. HVAC engineers and electricians love this because it transitions seamlessly from crawling through loft spaces to detail work on wiring. The 330-hour runtime on low means you can use it daily for months between battery changes.

Your perfect torch is waiting

From the pocket rocket Nitecore EDC33 to the daylight-creating Imalent MS03, there's something here for every adventure, job, and midnight dog walk. The technology has come so far that even budget options now offer features that would've cost hundreds a few years ago. Whether you need reliable emergency lighting, professional work illumination or just want to be the person everyone turns to when the lights go out, investing in a quality torch from Heinnie Haynes means you're sorted.

Don't wait for the next power cut or camping trip to realise your old torch isn't cutting it – pick your perfect light and discover what you've been missing in the dark.