In the field of portable lighting devices, products have been continuously upgraded and iterated over the years, from simple everyday carry (EDC) tools to highly professional equipment. Two of the most notable products in this industry are the magnetic torch and magnetic flashlight, as they not only have improved the illumination effect, but also made the products easier to use and more convenient. This article aims to identify and describe the characteristics of magnetic torch lights and magnetic rechargeable torches, as well as present four representative products from Olight.
What Makes a Magnetic Torch So Special?
Magnetic torches and magnetic flashlights use magnets in their design, allowing them to be fastened to metal surfaces. This feature is invaluable for hands-free operation, allowing the user to direct light exactly where required, while keeping their hands free for other tasks. This function is useful in automotive work, construction, and emergency situations, where light is most beneficial.
Hands-free Lighting
The most obvious benefit of magnetic torch is that you can stick it to any piece of ferrous metal, keeping the light exactly where you need it without having to hold the light in your hand. This is useful for working on repairs, reading maps, or setting up camp, freeing up both hands. A magnetic flashlight lets you point the beam where you need it most, whether that is under the hood of your car, on a home project or in a tent at night.
Versatile Positioning
Magnetic torches represent a new level of versatility because they enable you to position the light source anywhere you like by gluing the flashlight to any metal surface. Once attached, you can move the beam in any direction and angle at any time. The light can be pointed upwards to generate overhead lighting, downwards to illuminate hard-to-reach spaces, or used to check a car’s engine from above, light up a tent, or perform household maintenance at limited reach. With a magnetic torch light, the light beam can be placed right where you need it, without using a stand or a holder.
Durable Construction
Being an alternative flashlight, they are often made of rugged, impact-resistant materials. Some magnetic flashlights have tough aluminum or polycarbonate bodies that can withstand accidental dropping or rough treatment, so they are suitable for use outdoors or in job sites – wherever toughness is desired. Other magnetic torches are made with water-resistant or waterproof ratings that make them suitable for use outdoors in the rain or near water. Whatever the reason for your flashlight use, your magnetic torch will be ready for the job.
Rechargeable Batteries
Many modern magnetic torches feature rechargeable batteries, which are easy to swap and don’t require buying disposable batteries and save you from the hassle of having to replace batteries. Magnetic rechargeable torches usually use lithium-ion batteries, which give you long run times and a consistent output throughout the discharge cycle. Plug it into a USB port or just place the light on a charging dock to recharge. Some of them even have charging indicators so you can know the battery status. With a magnetic rechargeable torch, you can have a reliable light source to go to anytime.
Compact and Portable
Contrary to their sheer power and rugged construction, many magnetic torches are also pocket-sized, so you can take them with you just about anywhere. They’ll fit in your pocket, backpack, or tool bag, so you’ll always have a portable light when you need it most. They’re perfect for everyday carry, travel or to keep in your emergency kit. If you’re heading out on a hike or hitting the road, you’ll want to keep a magnetic torch in your pack or glove box.
Multiple Light Modes
Most magnetic torches feature multiple light modes to increase convenience by allowing you to adjust the output to your needs: high, medium, and low outputs are the most common, but some torches also include special modes (strobe or SOS) for emergencies, and a few offer a red-light mode for night vision preservation that can also be used as a signal in the dark. The optimal battery life can be achieved, and the appropriate output chosen, by selecting the suitable light mode for each task or environment.
Uses for Magnetic Flashlights
Automotive Work
These magnetic torches that stick to metal are a great tool for any automotive technician or DIY enthusiast. When working under the hood of a car, you can use a magnetic flashlight and simply stick it to any metal surface. You can then direct the light precisely without having to hold the light in your hand. For example, you can use your lights to inspect belts, hoses, or other components of an engine, or simply to change the oil or replace filters. It’s also super handy to use your magnetic torch light when you’re changing a tire at night. You can just stick it to the body of your car or one of the wheel wells to see what you’re doing.
Home Repairs and Maintenance
A magnetic flashlight is useful for hundreds of home repair and maintenance tasks. When working on plumbing, electrical systems, or HVAC units, hook the magnetic torch onto a metal pipe, conduit, or duct. The hands-free lighting will shine the beam exactly where you need it. It’s especially helpful in tight situations like under the kitchen sink, in crawl spaces, or attics. During a power outage, a magnetic torch light can be affixed to a metal shelf or cabinet to illuminate the room.
Camping, Hiking, and Outdoor Activities
For any outdoor enthusiast, magnetic torches are an essential item. On a camping trip, a magnetic flashlight can be attached to your car’s roof or hood to provide overhead lighting as you are setting up camp or cooking meals. Inside your tent, a magnetic torch can be stuck to tent poles or hanging loops to provide light for reading, card games, or organizing gear. On a hike or backpacking trip, a magnetic torch light is compact enough to easily clip onto your backpack or clothing for quick access when you need to have your hands free for some hiking.
Emergency Situations
A magnetic flashlight can save the day if there’s a power outage, natural disaster, or roadside emergency. Keep a magnetic rechargeable torch in your home’s emergency kit as well as in your car’s glove compartment. If your car breaks down at night, a magnetic torch can be stuck to your car hood or roof and can illuminate the area around your vehicle while you assess the situation or wait for help to arrive. If the power goes out, a magnetic flashlight can be used to guide you around your home, locate supplies, or signal for help.
Professional Use
Magnetic torches are used by many professionals for their daily occupations. Electricians, HVAC technicians and plumbers often make use of a magnetic flashlight to illuminate the workspace to allow them to perform their tasks accordingly while keeping their hands free. Construction workers and contractors will find magnetic torch lights very handy when they need to work in partially finished buildings, or the area is dimly lit. Emergency responders such as firefighters and paramedics use magnetic torches to shine the area of the accident quickly or to clip the light to their gear to allow hands-free operation.
Hobby and Leisure Activities
Magnetic flashlights can help to improve many different hobbies and leisure pursuits. Restoring vehicles like cars or motorcycles often involves working in the engine bay or under the car. A magnet torch light can sit on the engine bay and focus its light where you need it. Photography and videography: Sometimes, you need a small, adjustable light source. A magnetic torch light can be used as a filler light to help highlight a subject or remove shadows. Hobbyists who work on small parts, such as modelers or model train enthusiasts, or those who solder things together like electronic hobbyists, can benefit from the hands-free illumination offered by a magnet flashlight.
Olight's Innovative Magnetic Torches
Olight is renowned for its high-quality and innovative lighting solutions. Here, we explore some of their top models featuring magnetic capabilities:
Seeker 4 Pro
The Seeker 4 Pro is a flagship model that stands out for its impressive 4,600 lumens output and a beam distance of 260 meters. It includes a dual charging system: a Type-C charging and an MCC3 magnetic charging option, making it incredibly versatile. The magnetic tail cap allows it to be attached to any ferrous surface, providing illumination while keeping your hands free.
Arkfeld Pro
The Arkfeld Pro combines a magnetic flashlight with a green laser and UV light, making it one of the most versatile EDC (Everyday Carry) flashlights on the market. It’s ideal for multiple practical applications, including forensic analysis and leak detection, thanks to its strengthened 900mW UV light.
Perun 2 Mini
The Perun 2 Mini is a compact, powerful headlamp that doubles as a magnetic torch light. It can be used as a headlamp or detached and magnetically attached to surfaces for hands-free use, making it perfect for tight spaces or when you need both hands for tasks.
Baton 4
Finally, the Baton 4 is a small yet powerful magnetic rechargeable torch that provides up to 1,300 lumens. Its compact size, combined with a strong magnetic tail cap, offers immense utility for everyday carry.
Magnetic torches and magnetic flashlights represent a leap in the functionality of handheld lighting devices. Whether for professional use, outdoor activities, or home projects, the integration of magnets significantly enhances the practicality of these devices.
