Best Lantern For Power Outage: Top Picks For Emergency Lighting (2023)
When the power goes out, having a reliable source of light can make a significant difference in both comfort and safety. Lanterns have long been a popular choice for emergency lighting during power outages, as they’re easy to use, provide ample illumination, and are designed to be stable and highly visible.
Lanterns for power outages come in various forms, including traditional fuel-powered and modern battery-operated models. While fuel-powered lanterns can provide a bright, warm light that lasts for hours, they also require fuel and pose a safety risk if used improperly. Battery-powered lanterns, on the other hand, offer a safer alternative with myriad options such as LED lights and additional features like built-in USB charging ports. The best lantern for a power outage will be durable, provide long-lasting light, and be simple to use during an unexpected emergency.
When choosing the best lantern for power outages, some key factors to consider include the type of light source, battery life, brightness, and durability. Depending on your needs, you may also want to look for additional features such as a lantern with a built-in handle, multiple lighting modes, or the ability to charge other electronic devices.
To help navigate the world of emergency lighting, we’ve rigorously evaluated various lanterns. Our goal is to identify the best options that will make your life easier and brighter during a power outage.
Best Lanterns for Power Outages
Check out our top picks for the best lanterns to see you through those unexpected blackouts, listed below.
Etekcity Camping Lantern
No more fumbling in the dark during power outages with this reliable and user-friendly Etekcity lantern.
Pros
- Bright and dimmable with 360° lighting
- Long-lasting on 3 AA batteries
- Compact, collapsible and lightweight
Cons
- Not rechargeable, requires batteries
- Not as durable as some competitors
- Limited storage compartment
The Etekcity Camping Lantern is super easy to use – simply pull up the top and the bright LED lights come on instantly. You won’t have any trouble illuminating an entire room, thanks to its 360° lighting effect.
What impresses me even more is its size and weight. When collapsed, this lantern is no bigger than a smartphone, making it super portable. Plus, it’s lightweight, so carrying it around or packing it for a camping trip is effortless.
The military-grade ABS material of the lantern is sturdy, protecting it from the occasional bump or bang. However, don’t expect it to withstand heavy abuse. It’s also water-resistant, so a bit of rain shouldn’t be a problem. But, if you’re planning on using it in extreme weather, you may want to look for something more substantial.
One tiny downside is that the Etekcity lantern requires AA batteries to work, meaning another item you’ll need to keep on hand. It’s not a deal-breaker, but something to consider.
The storage compartment on top is a neat addition, but don’t expect to store much in there. It’s great for a few small items like spare batteries or keys, but don’t plan on using it as a catch-all.
All in all, the Etekcity Camping Lantern is a solid choice for power outages, camping, or even just for general use around the house. Just remember its limitations and make sure to stock up on batteries.
LE 1000LM Battery Powered LED Camping Lantern
This lantern is a must-have for those looking for brightness and versatility during power outages.
Pros
- Adjustable brightness up to 1000 lumens
- 4 light modes for various situations
- Extended battery life
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Slightly bulky with batteries installed
- Not rechargeable
The LE 1000LM Battery Powered LED Camping Lantern definitely impressed me with its incredible brightness and flexible features. You’ll appreciate the ease of adjusting the brightness by simply holding down the button, making it suitable for reading or illuminating larger areas during those unexpected power outages. The four different lighting modes (daylight white, warm white, full brightness, and flashing) cater to a variety of needs in and out of your home.
Another great thing about this lantern is how long it lasts on a single set of batteries. Just insert 3 D alkaline batteries (not included), and you’ll have up to 12 hours of light even under the maximum 1000 lumen setting. You won’t have to worry about constantly replacing batteries in the middle of an emergency situation.
This lantern’s IPX4 water-resistant rating means it can withstand splashing water from all angles, ensuring you stay prepared for outdoor adventures on rainy or snowy days. Its hanging hook and removable cover provide versatile options for placement and use, whether inside your tent or around your campsite. The lantern’s top handle adds to the convenience, allowing you to easily carry it around when needed.
While it does require batteries, remember that this lantern is not rechargeable, so it’s essential to have extra batteries on hand to stay prepared. Additionally, the lantern becomes a bit heavier and bulkier when the batteries are added, but the impressive brightness and burn time make up for that small drawback.
Overall, the LE 1000LM Battery Powered LED Camping Lantern is an excellent addition to your emergency supplies, providing reliable and adjustable lighting when you need it most. Don’t be caught off guard during a power outage; upgrade your preparedness game with this capable lantern.
Energizer Rechargeable LED Lantern
A reliable and versatile choice for power outages, camping trips, and DIY projects.
Pros
- Bright and durable with 1150 Lumens output
- Three lighting modes for various situations
- USB charging port for devices
Cons
- Takes 8 hours for a full charge
- No instructions included
- Battery life could be longer
The Energizer Rechargeable LED Lantern is sure to be your dependable buddy during power outages, camping trips, or whenever you need some extra light. With a removable cap and a hanging hook, you can easily achieve 360-degree area lighting, making it perfect for various scenarios.
This lantern has a solid build and uses LED technology that’s up to 12x brighter than the standard, providing up to 1150 lumens of illumination. So you can rest assured that your environment will be well-lit when it matters most. Plus, it’s IPX4 water-resistant, which means it can handle some splashes and light rain without breaking a sweat.
Multiple lighting modes include warm and cool light options, high mode for maximum brightness, and a strobe mode for safety and signaling during emergencies. The dimming feature lets you adjust the intensity to suit your needs while saving battery life. One cool thing is the USB port out that allows you to charge your devices — a handy feature when you’re out camping or in a blackout.
However, be prepared to wait about 8 hours for a full charge, and getting used to the lantern might require some guesswork since it doesn’t come with instructions. The battery life may not be as long-lasting as you’d hope, but it still offers reliable performance for most occasions.
Overall, the Energizer Rechargeable LED Lantern is a solid choice for your emergency preparedness kit.
Coleman Personal LED Lantern
This Coleman lantern should be your go-to for power outages, thanks to its durability and bright light output.
Pros
- Up to 400 lumens
- 30 hours runtime on high, 70 hours on low
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Requires 4 D-cell batteries (not included)
- Slightly bulky
- Light might be too harsh for some
This Coleman Personal LED Lantern takes lighting up your space during a power outage to a whole new level. With up to 400 lumens on high, it can cast light up to 12 meters. You won’t have to worry about stumbling around in the dark during those unexpected blackouts.
The lantern is easy to carry with its bail handle and even has a carabiner for hanging convenience. It’s water-resistant with an IPX4 rating, so you can count on it to work well outdoors in various weather conditions. The lifetime LEDs mean you’ll never have to deal with replacing bulbs; this lantern is built to last.
However, it does require 4 D-cell batteries, which are not included, so make sure you’ve got some on hand. Furthermore, the lantern may feel slightly bulky for some users, but it’s still manageable. And while the light is undoubtedly bright, it might be too harsh for those who prefer a softer glow.
Mesqool 3000 Large Capacity Hand Crank Solar Camping Lantern
Ideal choice for power outages with its multiple charging methods and 200LM brightness.
Pros
- Bright 360° illumination from 12 LED bulbs
- 3 rechargeable methods: USB, solar, and hand crank
- Built-in 3000mAh capacity battery with USB charger
Cons
- Might not be the brightest option available
- Bulky for some users
- Not fully waterproof, only IPX4
When the lights go out, you’ll want a reliable lantern like the Mesqool 3000 Large Capacity Hand Crank Solar Camping Lantern by your side. The lantern provides 200 lumens from its 12 LED bulbs, which is bright enough to light up any room during a power outage. Plus, with its 360° illumination, you won’t have to worry about moving it around to see everything clearly.
Charging this lantern is a breeze, thanks to its three different charging methods. With the built-in 3000mAh battery, you can simply use the included USB cable to charge it up. In case of emergencies or in a pinch, the handy solar panel and the hand crank will ensure that you’re never left in the dark. What’s more, the USB port can be used to charge your phone or other devices when needed.
Being compact (4.963.193.11 inches) and lightweight (0.66 lbs), this lantern is easily portable, perfect for outdoor use, such as camping, hiking, or during emergencies. The only downside is that it’s not fully waterproof, having an IPX4 rating, meaning it can handle a little splashing but not submersion.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best lantern for a power outage, there are several factors you should consider. By looking at the right features, you can ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected situation.
Battery Life
Consider the lantern’s battery life. In a power outage, you’ll need a lantern that can keep shining for hours on end. Look for a lantern with extended battery life, and don’t forget to keep spare batteries handy.
Brightness
Pay attention to the brightness of the lantern. A good lantern should provide enough light to illuminate a room or outdoor space while not being too harsh on your eyes. Some lanterns feature adjustable brightness settings, which can be quite useful in different situations.
Durability
You’ll want a lantern that can withstand rough conditions and potential accidents. Look for a lantern made of sturdy materials like metal or heavy-duty plastic. Water resistance is also an essential feature, especially if you might face rain or floods during a power outage.
Safety
Safety is crucial when selecting a lantern. Flameless lanterns are a better option than those with open flames since they reduce the risk of fire. Also, check for certifications proving the product has passed safety tests or look for lanterns with built-in safety features like overheat protection.
Portability
Finally, consider portability and convenience. A lightweight, compact lantern is easier to carry around and store when not in use. Lanterns with handles or hooks for hanging are also great features, making it simpler to position them wherever needed during a power outage.
By taking these factors into account, you can find the best lantern to ensure you’re well-equipped in case of an emergency.
