EDC flashlights are helpful to have on you as part of your everyday carry. Many common situations such as power outages, a car breakdown, navigating poorly lit areas, walking your dog, and work commutes call for a small, convenient flashlight. But how do you select an EDC flashlight? What are some features to look for? How many lumens does your EDC flashlight need to be?
In this post, we will talk about what exactly an EDC flashlight is, what is the lumen range you need for an EDC flashlight, what features you should consider when selecting an EDC flashlight, and some of Fenix’s best EDC flashlights. Let’s dive right in!
What Is an EDC Flashlight?
EDC flashlights, or everyday carry flashlights, are lights designed for convenient everyday carry. EDC flashlights can be easily slipped into a pack or pocket or bag. In fact, easy-carry is a necessary feature for a light to be called an EDC light.
Some people may wonder why we need an EDC light when our phones are equipped with flashlights and we carry them everywhere. Your phone flashlight, while useful in a pinch, isn’t really a light you can count on to actually light up your environment as brightly as you need. When it comes to phone flashlights vs EDC flashlights, there is no arguing that EDC flashlights are a much more practical and reliable option.
Some EDC flashlights may also be designed for various carry styles. For example, you can attach a keychain flashlight, like the Fenix E03R, to your keyring or attach a light with a body clip, like the Fenix E-LITE, to your pocket or hat brim.
How Bright Does an EDC Flashlight Need To Be?
Generally speaking, 100-300 lumens is a good range for EDC lights. For nighttime reading or searching for a fallen key under your car seat, an EDC flashlight that emits 1 to 300 lumens will help you see without bothering your eyes. The E03R keychain flashlight emits a maximum of 260 lumens, which is ideal for everyday lighting tasks.
If you work on night patrols or often find yourself in environments with different types of lighting, pack an EDC light that emits 300 to 980 lumens. This will illuminate your surroundings without disturbing others. The Fenix PD25R rechargeable flashlight emits a maximum of 800 lumens and is one of the most versatile lights you can carry.
Mechanics, technicians, and other professionals who need a dependable work light usually need an EDC light that can emit more than 1000 lumens. The Fenix PD35 V3.0 can emit a maximum of 1700 lumens to brighten low-light work environments.
What Features Should You Look for in an EDC Flashlight?
The most essential features to consider in an EDC flashlight include:
- Controls
- Carrying options
- Lighting modes
Easy-to-use controls are an important feature of an EDC light. When you are using something every day in various situations, it is necessary that you can operate it almost intuitively. For example, on the Fenix E01 V2.0 EDC flashlight, you can easily switch between three lighting modes with a quick twist of the head.
EDC lights with various carrying options are more convenient to take with you. For example, the Fenix E18R V2.0 is an ultra-compact EDC that provides versatile carry options. In addition to holding it in your hand, you can also use its two-way body clip to attach it to your cap for hands-free lighting. Or, use its magnetic tail end to make the light stand up when you need light directed upwards.
Another important feature to look for in an EDC flashlight is multiple lighting modes. Shifting from different lighting conditions, such as going from low light to no light, is easier with a flashlight with different output modes. For instance, the E-LITE mini flashlight has seven lighting modes, including three lighting levels, a red flash, and a blue light.
What Are the Best EDC Flashlights for Beginners?
There are a number of excellent Fenix EDC flashlights to explore. However, if you are just starting out getting to know EDC lights, a few recommendations will help you narrow down your options.
The Fenix E05R keychain flashlight checks all the boxes of an EDC light: compact design, multiple lighting modes, durable body, and rechargeable battery. Less than 3″ long and less than 1″ round, this EDC flashlight is convenient to carry around. Don’t let its small size fool you! The E05R can blast a maximum of 400 lumens and delivers a runtime of 30 hours on low making it a reliable everyday companion.
The Fenix E-CP Rechargeable Power Bank Flashlight is a great example of an EDC flashlight that does more than it lets on! Not only is this light ideal for everyday lighting tasks, but it also serves as a backup power bank. In addition to its other excellent features, the E-CP delivers a maximum runtime of 504 hours on Eco.
A multipurpose tool, the T6 Penlight from Fenix is another useful EDC to carry with you. Featuring a retractable ink tip and hidden Type-C charging port, the T6 makes writing and meeting everyday lighting needs effortless.
Be Prepared for Anything With an EDC Flashlight From Fenix
Overcome poorly lit environments, vehicle emergencies, and potential hazards with EDC flashlights from Fenix. Our quality EDC lights are ultra-bright, convenient to carry, and have practical features for everyday use. Make Fenix lights part of your EDC gear and meet everyday lighting situations with confidence.