7 Best Handheld LED Spotlight [2020 Reviews] | Home Remodeling Contractors – GLAMO Light Mirrors India.

Let’s take a look at the aspects you need to consider when buying the right spotlight for home, jobsite, or outdoor use.

Light Output

A spotlight’s output is measured in lumens. The higher the lumens, the brighter the beam. But the spotlight’s lumens is just the tip of the iceberg. There are also other aspects you need to consider, including the beam distance and the beam intensity.

Durability

There’s nothing wrong with buying an inexpensive spotlight if you’re going to use it occasionally. But if you need it for work, then you might as well invest in a durable LED spotlight.

Most spotlight bodies are made of plastic, specifically ABS plastic. This type of plastic is rigid, sturdy, and has a fantastic abrasion resistance. A spotlight with a thick and sturdy ABS plastic body won’t break easily when accidentally dropped. Some are even designed to be water-resistant, or even waterproof. 

Some handheld spotlights, on the other hand, are made of aluminum alloy. This material is generally sturdy, but make sure to get the thicker ones for better impact-resistance. Make sure that the bezel is made of heavy-duty stainless steel or plastic to ensure that the lens will not crack when you accidentally drop the spotlight.

Type of Battery

In the past, handheld spotlights were powered by conventional AA or AAA NiCad or alkaline batteries. These batteries are available almost everywhere — from your favorite hardware store to that convenience store down the corner. Some conventional batteries are rechargeable and affordable. 

But you need two or more conventional batteries to power a single spotlight. Although these batteries are cheaper than lithium-ion ones, the cost of buying non-rechargeable batteries can add up in the long run. And although they are ubiquitous for the most part, there’s always the risk of your favorite store running out of stock. That can be a problem if you live in a remote area.

Then there are newer handheld spotlights that are powered by lithium-ion batteries. LED spotlights powered by lithium-ion batteries are generally more expensive than those powered by conventional batteries, but they are cheaper in the long run as you don’t need to run to the store and purchase a pack every time you run out of juice. They can be recharged many times, are low maintenance, and more stable than conventional batteries. Their self-discharge rate is also significantly lower than that of conventional batteries.

But, of course, lithium-ion batteries have their limitations. They are generally more expensive, and they tend to overheat. They are also prone to aging, and can lose capacity over time.

Water-Resistance

If you work outdoors, or you work as a plumber, restoration expert, or volunteer in search and rescue operations, then one of the first aspects you have to consider when choosing a handheld spotlight is its water-resistance. Check its IP or ingress protection rating before buying the product.

The Goodsman Rechargeable Spotlight, for example, is rated IP67. This means that the unit is protected from total dust ingress and water spray from any direction. The Energizer HC-600 LED Spotlight and Craftsman CMXLFAG65280 LED Handheld Spotlight, on the other hand, are rated IPX4.

Strobe and SOS Modes

Spotlights typically have two modes: on and off. Others have three: high, low, and off. Some, on the other hand, have other functions, such as strobe and SOS modes. If you work in law enforcement, military, or emergency services, then a spotlight with a strobe function is essential. Some spotlights also have an SOS mode so you can use them during emergencies.  

Weight and Size

LED spotlights can be pretty bulky and heavy, especially if they’re powered by lithium-ion batteries. Heavier units are often more durable than lighter spotlights, but they can be difficult to carry especially if you’re also lugging other tools.