Torches have become an everyday necessity. Since their invention, the technology has advanced a lot and now you can choose from a wide variety of torches suited to any occasion. There are the basic hand-held flashlights, flashlights that you can mount on your head or helmet, and others for specialised uses.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Torch Light?
Just like with anything else that you buy, there are several things to consider before deciding on the ideal torch. Many shops offer numerous choices and picking the right one can be tricky. Since they come with many features, you should look for a high-quality torch flashlight that has everything you need.
Consider Its Size
The first thing you need to think about is the size. Torches can be found in all sizes, so you should decide whether a small or large one will be convenient for you. Smaller ones are easy to carry around and store. They can fit in your pocket, backpack, or any drawer. You'll have them at reach whenever you need them. Larger ones are heavier and don't fit your pocket that easily. They're heavier to be carried around all the time but are useful to have at home or in your vehicle for whatever you might need them.
Consider the Most Suitable Mode of Operation
The second one is the mode of operation. They usually can be found in two modes. The buttons are probably the easiest way to turn the flashlight on and off. They can be located on the tail of the light, which allows for easy control with your thumb when you hold the torch in an overhand grip. They can be exposed or covered. The second option allows the device to stand on its tail. The buttons can also be found on the side, which allows you to operate it in an underhand grip.
The other mode of operation is twist switch. This makes it harder to manipulate it with one hand but it's less likely to be accidentally activated. It's simple to use, you just need to twist the head of the light. Many models that are designed to be used for different tasks employ both modes. In this way, you can use the function that's the most convenient at that moment.
Consider Its Power Options
The third thing is how much time you can spend on powering the light. This means what kind of batteries the torch flashlight uses.
Standard or disposable batteries can be of several types:
- AA and AAA are cheap and can be easily found. The downside is that they have limited output and aren't found in small flashlights;
- C or D cell batteries are still available but the torches are larger;
- CR123A aren't as cheap but they can be found in smaller yet more powerful torches.
Next, there are rechargeable flashlights. These are the most commonly used ones nowadays because they have a longer lifespan and are a cost-effective solution in the long run. They feature lithium-ion batteries that can be recharged through a USB connection. You can use a computer, AC or DC outlets, or solar panels. These are also more environmentally friendly because there isn't unnecessary waste. One disadvantage is the need for cables or charging docks.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations on which batteries are compatible with the torch. Otherwise, the light can be damaged.
What Are the Different Types of Torches that You Can Choose?
The Standard Light: Incandescent Bulb Flashlights
These have been around for years and probably everyone has used one or still has it at home. They produce bright light but waste energy and their batteries and lamps don't have a long lifespan. Typically, they're powered by D batteries but there are models that use other types. On the bright side, they're very affordable. Depending on their material, they can be fragile, and this was probably more true for the earliest models, but now you can find heavy-duty lights that won't break as easily.
The Most Popular Type: LED Flashlights
LED flashlights are the ones that we're most familiar with today. LED stands for light-emitting diodes, which are semiconductors that emit light when electric current flows through them. They're preferred because of their long lifespan, durability, and low energy waste. The led flashlight bulbs and batteries are long-lasting and harder to damage, which makes them perfect for outdoor activities. They cost a bit more than the incandescent torch and differ in the light that they produce. The difference is that the incandescent lights give off white light with a yellow hue. This is the typical light of electric lights and some people are more used to it. LED lights, on the other hand, have a white light with a blue hue.
The Brightest Ones: High-Intensity Discharge Flashlights
HID or high-intensity discharge lights are bright, have a durable bulb, and are more expensive than the other types. This is due to the fact that they have a current running through a ball of ionized gas. People usually pick this type when they need a portable flashlight with an extremely bright light.
The Energy-Efficient Type: Solar-Powered Flashlights
These are an eco-friendly option. They require solar energy to operate, which makes them more suitable for outdoor use. Many designs offer a second power option in case you don't have the time to charge it. Their light is weaker than the other types but they present a cost-effective option if that's what you are looking for.
Several Characteristics of Torches to Bear in Mind
- Lumens – This is the measure for the light output of the torch. Depending on your needs, you can opt for a different number of lumens but usually, you don't need much for bright light. Exceptions are people who cycle or need to spot far-off objects;
- Beam Distance – Measured in metres and shows how far the light will shine;
- Run Time – Shows how long the batteries will last or how much time before it should be recharged, and it's measured in hours;
- Impact Resistance – Test for the light's functionality. It's measured in metres and shows whether the light is resistant to accidental drops.
There are other characteristics as well and they're different for every torch. You can go for heavy-duty or water-resistant ones if that's what you need, and some torches offer more settings. They can be found in a variety of shapes and are made of different materials, like plastic, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel.
WordPress.com
No comments:
Post a Comment