Everyone needs light to see by in the dark, and sometimes you need a flashlight in order to do so. In emergency situations and power outages, or when in the woods or a vehicle, a flashlight is an indispensable item. One ingenious innovation that replaces the need for batteries and provides security in dangerous situations is what is known as hand crank flashlights.
Product FAQ
1. What Are Hand Crank Flashlights?
Hand crank flashlights are basically flashlights that are powered by the use of a hand-crank which creates an electrical current that stores in the battery. The battery is rechargeable and does not have to be replaced.
2. What Do Hand Crank Flashlights Do?
Hand crank flashlights will light up areas in emergency situations or ordinary home, auto, or camping uses. They are designed for situations where there is no accessibility to extra batteries. The hand crank mechanism provides independent power.
3. How Do Hand Crank Flashlights Work?
The hand crank mechanism within the flashlight is turned by hand, which powers an electric motor that creates an electrical current which charges the battery. This in turn powers the flashlight without the need for batteries.
4. Where Can You Buy Hand Crank Flashlights?
Hand crank flashlights are available at many sporting goods stores or other places such as Amazon.
5. What Are the Advantages of Hand Crank Flashlights?
The advantages of hand crank flashlights clearly include the ability to operate the flashlight independent of the need for fresh batteries. This is excellent for those who are in emergency situations or who have traveled into the wilderness on camping trips and don’t have access to more batteries. You can also save on money for normal battery usage for use around the home or in your car or other situations.
HOW we reviewed
We reviewed these products extensively through studying online reviews and testimonials, product descriptions, product specification sheets, industry reviews of the manufacturers, and other information that allowed us to analyze and evaluate each of the hand crank flashlights that we have selected here.
Our goal is to give consumers as much information as possible to aid in their purchasing decision of hand crank flashlights for their personal use and enjoyment, as well as safety.
Overall Price Range of This Product (and Similar Products)
We reviewed these products extensively through studying online reviews and testimonials, product descriptions, product specification sheets, industry reviews of the manufacturers, and other information that allowed us to analyze and evaluate each of the hand crank flashlights that we have selected here.
Our goal is to give consumers as much information as possible to aid in their purchasing decision of hand crank flashlights for their personal use and enjoyment, as well as safety.
What We Reviewed
- Energizer Weatheready 3-LED Carabineer Rechargeable Crank Light
- Safe-T-Proof Solar, Hand-Crank Emergency Radio, Flashlight, Beacon, Cell Phone Charger
- Thorfire Hand Crank Solar Powered Rechargeable Flashlight
- ENHANCE NIGHTLUX Outdoor LED Camping Lamp with Hand Crank
- MECO Hand Cranking Solar Powered Rechargeable Flashlight
- Bigfoot Outdoor Compact Solar Camping Tent Lantern & Flashlight
- Kaito KA404W Wind-up 5-LED Flashlight
- SUAOKI Camping Lantern Flashlight Powered by Hand Crank and USB Charging
- LifeLight LED Emergency Water Resistant Multi-Purpose Hand Crank Flashlight
- igadgitz Xtra 5m Waterproof Eco Rechargeable Solar & Hand Crank LED Torch Flashlight
Product comparison table
Energizer Weatheready 3-LED Carabineer Rechargeable Crank Light
- 3 bright white Nichia LEDs provide strong illumination
- Handy carabiner clip makes it easy to hang and remove light
- Rechargeable system never needs batteries as they gain Kinetic energy from cranking
- Lifetime LED never needs replacing
- 1 Minute of cranking provides 3 minutes of light
Features
This is our Top Choice of rechargeable crank flashlight. Three Nichia LEDs offer bright whitem strong illumination. The flashlight comes with a carabiner clip that makes it easy to hang the light and prevents loss. Hand cracking action provides 3 minutes of light for every 1 minute of cranking. Lifetime LED lights never need to be replaced.
PROS
- Emits strong light
- Short cranking time permits long use
- LED lights require no replacement
CONS
- Some users unhappy with the crank time
- The crank will break in some cases
- Not suitable for all uses
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Manufacturer provides a warranty against leakage of battery within flashlight.
Safe-T-Proof Solar, Hand-Crank Emergency Radio, Flashlight, Beacon, Cell Phone Charger
- Great Gift Idea!
- Cell Phone Charger Included!
- No Batteries Required
Features
This flashlight has a few neat features such as a solar panel to keep it charged during the day, an ergonomic handle, and easy to spot coloring so you can locate the flashlight quickly. The hand crank action will power an AM/FM radio and cell phone charger, as well, which makes it incredibly useful in this day and age.
PROS
- Many different uses make this an all-purpose hand crank flashlight
- Powerful light illuminates wide areas
- Simple to use and operate
CONS
- Solar panel may not work well for some users
- May require long cranking times to operate some features
- Light may dim for some users
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Warranty is available after you buy.
Thorfire Hand Crank Solar Powered Rechargeable Flashlight
Features
This flashlight features both solar and hand cranking power. After cranking for only one minute, this flashlight is powered for almost an hour, and one hour of solar exposure provides two hours of power. This unit is waterproof and his submersible up to 45 feet. High quality LED bulb provide strong illumination large areas.
PROS
- Durable and reliable
- Suitable for home or outdoor use
- Not likely to malfunction
CONS
- Does not have an indicator for charging
- Some users do not like plastic construction
- Light color has a blueish hue, not suitable for all users
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Manufacturer provides a 40-day money-back warranty and an 18-month, worry-free warranty.
ENHANCE NIGHTLUX Outdoor LED Camping Lamp with Hand Crank
- MULTI-PURPOSE CAMPING LANTERN: The dual mode NightLUX FL2 can be used as a lantern (42 Lumens) or a flashlight (13 Lumens) || Perfect for use in tent, car, attached to betl or strap, and more!
- 2 BRIGHTNESS MODES: Equipped with 12 LED diodes, the FL2 can be toggled to utilize a combination of LEDs for a bright setting and a low setting || Light up the night or have a subtle reading light
- NO BATTERIES REQUIRED: The FL2 can be charged via USB or through the hand crank || Always have light with the hand crank and easily charge your light in the car or with an external power bank!
- BUILT-IN CARABINER CLIP: Located at the top of the FL2 is an openable clip to allow attachment to the ceiling of tents, backpacks, belt loops, car handles, and anywhere else!
- 3 YEAR WARRANTY: Backed by our 3 Year Manufacturer Warranty
Features
This is actually a camping lamp rather than a flashlight. It can also be used as a flashlight. Comes with features such as two brightness modes and a built-in carabiner clip. Suitable for many outdoor uses and camping situations. This unit also charges with a USB port and is suitable for home use. Constructed with 12 LED diodes that can be toggled for low or high light settings.
PROS
- Holds charge for a long time
- Lights up entire spaces with bright light
- Very bright light when needed
CONS
- Light not bright enough for some users
- May not survive some falls or impacts
- Buttons not be easy to locate in the dark
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Comes with a standard 3-year warranty on defects of material or workmanship.
MECO Hand Cranking Solar Powered Rechargeable Flashlight
- Emergency flashlight With Built-In Rechargeable battery, store energy in for a long time, NO
- High conversion efficiency, Cranking for 6 mins gives an hour light, Ready for the uncertain world
- Classic Design, Durable, Army Green vs Dim Gray,Outdoor Survival Gear, Best Gift for Outdoor
- Size: 124x45x32mm Weight: 86g With A Quick to Use Carabiner Clip, Clip it on your backpack and take
- 100% Brand New, Guaranteed by MECO! 40 days money back guarantee!
Features
This is an awesome little flashlight that provides an hour of light for only 6 minutes of cranking time. Will store energy for a long period of time. This is an exceptionally small little flashlight measuring 124 mm by 45 mm by 32 mm and weighs only 3 oz. Excellent for survival, adventure, or emergency situations. Handy carabiner clip makes this light easy to secure and prevent loss.
PROS
- Stores energy for long periods of time
- Solar power will run the light for 15 minutes after every 1 hour of sun exposure
- Small and lightweight
CONS
- The on-button turns on accidentally frequently
- Sometimes will not keep a charge
- Light is not exceptionally bright
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Comes with an unconditional lifetime warranty.
Bigfoot Outdoor Compact Solar Camping Tent Lantern & Flashlight
No products found.
Features
These hand crank flashlights come in a two pack, and for just one minute of crank time they will operate for approximately 80 minutes at a time. One excellent feature is the ability to charge them during the daytime using their solar panels so you don’t have to spend much time cranking them at night. These awesome little lights are attractive and functional and are waterproof to a depth of 45 meters.
PROS
- 3 Lighting modes, high, low, and SOS
- Charge by USB or solar
- Comes with hanging hook
CONS
- Hinges are weak
- Doesn’t position fully
- May be too heavy for some backpacking
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Covered by manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty.
Kaito KA404W Wind-up 5-LED Flashlight
- Multi-functional hand crank LED flashlight with AM/FM NOAA weather radio, cell phone charger & emergency siren
- Self-powered flashlight and radio for outdoor use and emergency preparedness
- Super-bright, long-life & energy-efficient 5-LED flashlight
- Built-in DC 5V output port for charging cell phone and other compatible portable device
- Bult-in speaker and telescopic antenna for loud, crispy sound and razor-sharp reception
Features
Comes with multi-function hand crank and an AM/FM NOAA Weather Radio. Features an emergency siren and cell phone charger as well. The built-in speaker will produce quality sound for entertainment, and the radio is equipped with a telescopic antenna for pinpoint pull-in of station signals. Five LED bulbs provide super bright light that illuminates wide areas.
PROS
- Excellent for emergency situations
- Can be used for outdoor or indoor purposes
- Imported and made with fabric materials
CONS
- The cranking mechanism will produce fatigue
- The siren may be too loud for some users
- The crank handle may be poorly secured
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
The manufacturer offers a 24-month full warranty.
SUAOKI Camping Lantern Flashlight Powered by Hand Crank and USB Charging
- Two Modes: the high brightness LED mode is perfect for finding your way in the dark, while a low mode is great while reading, as an area light, or as a tent light
- Two Forms: the light can be used as a lantern when expanded or as a flashlight when compacted, making it a dual-purpose light
- Charging Option: the battery can be charged by cranking or by a standard Micro USB cable, without requiring a proprietary cable common with some other brands
- Extra Power: the hand crank and the USB output can be used together to top off your smartphone, tablet, other Suaoki products, or any other gadgets
- Portable Design: the light can be shrunk to half its length and conveniently stowed away in a bag, backpack, or any other carry
Features
This handy little flashlight can be charged with the USB port or by hand cranking. You can set light to two modes of brightness, either high or low, and the unit can be used as a lantern or a flashlight. The portable design of this unit features a collapsible construction that folds to half its size. This unit can also be used to power smartphones and other small devices.
PROS
- Excellent to find the way in the dark or read
- Lightweight and easy to store
- No cable required for use
CONS
- Feet may fall off
- Some parts may be missing
- May work poorly after long periods
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Comes with a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty..
LifeLight LED Emergency Water Resistant Multi-Purpose Hand Crank Flashlight
Features
This handy flashlight has a variety of features and a multi-tool kit construction. Suitable for emergency home or car use, the easy hand crank powers the flashlight for hours at a time. Fully water and shock this resistant, unit is designed to be durable and reliable. The LED light can be used as a flasher for vehicle use. It includes a mini-hammer that can break car windows for emergency entrance. Capable of recharging cell phones as well.
PROS
- Contains 4 strong magnets
- Excellent for emergency situations
- High-powered light
CONS
- Not optimal for camping or boating
- No radio
- No solar panel
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
igadgitz Xtra 5m Waterproof Eco Rechargeable Solar & Hand Crank LED Torch Flashlight
Features
This excellent little flashlight has a great set of features including all-weather design for any environment, low/high, emergency settings and 3 LED bulbs that shine with intense power. Comes with solar panels and crank dynamo charging capability. High-efficiency cranking mechanism permits 1 minute of cranking to power the flashlight for over 1 hour at a time. High-powered solar panel allows you to use the flashlight for an hour and a half or more for one hour of sunlight exposure.
PROS
- Waterproof up to 45 feet
- Easy to use
- Simple and convenient
CONS
- Large and may not be suitable for backpacking
- 4-hour battery life may not be suitable for all users
- Light may be too bright for some users
- Where to Buy
- Warranty
Comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty.
The Verdict
Of all the hand crank flashlights we have reviewed, we have found that the Kaito model is the number one choice. We rate this flashlight five out of five stars for price, range of features, and overall performance capabilities. We highly recommend this hand crank flashlight for anybody whether they are using it for home, auto, camping, or emergency situations.
Last update on 2024-12-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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