Best Lantern for Power Outage and Camping

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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Do you always end up frustrated when the power goes out unexpectedly and for long? Probably, you have the essential flashlight as your power-emergency companion, but it is inadequate for broader lighting. Subsequently, we recommend investing in the best lantern for power outage emergencies for long-lasting and brighter solutions.

We have also gone ahead and put together a detailed buying guide for the best lanterns to use during sudden power outages. As you purpose to invest in a quality lighting companion, let's first understand the idea of a lantern.

What is a Lantern?

A lantern is a portable light source with a protective enclosure that allows light through its transparent material. Historically, a lantern has been portrayed as having a candle or oiled wick and hung on room walls for lighting. Alternatively, a modern lantern uses batteries as its power source for increased portability, burn time and brightness.

Subsequently, the modern lantern lights up spaces instantly, during a power blackout. Besides power blackouts, a modern lantern is also a reliable light source for outdoor trips such as camping with a remarkable burn time. Therefore, having understood the concept of a lantern, let's review the eight best lanterns for power blackout occurrences.

Which lantern is the best for power outage?

1. Vont 2 Pack LED Camping Lantern

Sale
Vont 2 Pack LED Camping Lantern, Super Bright Portable...
  • Super bright & long lasting: Equipped with 30 crazy bright LEDs,...
  • Compact & lightweight: Unique, patented collapsible design that...
  • Waterproof & indestructible: Constructed with aircraft grade...
  • Makes a perfect gift for anybody: We all have a friend or a...
  • Lifetime warranty: You can rest in knowing that your camping...

Our top pick for the best lantern for power outage emergencies is the Vont 2 pack LED camping lantern. From its name, it is ideally made for camping trips, but this pack is also suitable for power blackout situations. This lantern pack comes with 30 LED bulbs for an all-around brightness distribution. In addition, we love this lantern model for its long battery life of more than 90-hours, which is enabled by three AA batteries that come with this pack.

Besides its power capacity, this LED lantern comes in a waterproof design for indoor and outdoor suitability. It is also convenient to carry and hang using its foldaway handle. This handle ensures that you can safely hang your Vont lantern and go about your activities. In addition, this lantern pack also comes with a stylish yet simple design that maximizes easy portability and optimal lighting.

This dual lantern pack is also impact-resistant in the presence of adverse conditions. However, despite the use of disposable AA batteries, this lantern pack assures users of power efficiency due to its low-power yet bright lighting. Finally, the Vont 2 pack comes with a lifetime warranty as a mark of quality.

Pros:

  • Durable battery life
  • Low-energy LED bulbs
  • Versatile outdoor and indoor application
  • Foldaway handle for easy carrying
  • Impact resistance
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Collapsible for adjusting brightness

Cons:

  • Need for extra battery backup

2. LE LED Camping Lantern

Sale
LE LED Camping Lantern, Battery Powered LED with...
  • High Brightness & Dimmable: Long press the button to adjust...
  • 4 Lighting Modes: Short press the button to switch light modes...
  • Long Battery Life: Powered by 3pcs D alkaline batteries, it can...
  • IPX4 Water Resistant: It could protected against splashing water...
  • Hanging Hook & Removable Cover: With a hook the bottom and a...

We also recommend the LE LED camping lantern with four lighting modes. This lantern is one of the brightest options on our list, with 1,000 lumens. Moreover, it has a 3600 coverage for vast areas such as backyards and campsites. This lantern is powered by three D-batteries that provide consistent lighting between 12-25 hours.

Nonetheless, the battery life is not impressive due to its large brightness capacity and might require backup batteries for reliability. Additionally, this lantern for power outages is portable with two hooks for flexible hanging with better lighting. In the presence of adverse weather conditions, this LED lantern is waterproof with an IPX4 rating. Subsequently, this LE LED lantern is applicable during a power blackout and a camping trip or a hike.

Furthermore, this lantern has an adjustment feature for using the different lighting modes. Despite being one of the brightest LED lanterns, you can switch from maximum power to a calmer mode with less brightness. Overall, this is the best LED lantern for outdoor situations during power outages.

Pros:

  • Impressively bright
  • Adjustable brightness modes
  • Easy handling and carrying
  • Versatile for outdoor application360lighting coverage
  • Long battery life under moderate brightness
  • Water-resistant

Cons:

  • Unreliable without extra D batteries

3. Etekcity 2 Pack Portable LED Lantern

Sale
Etekcity Lantern Camping Lantern Battery Powered Lights...
  • ULTRA BRIGHT: Includes 30 individual low consumption LED bulbs...
  • LONG-LASTING: Light up at least to 30 hours of regular,...
  • EASY TO OPERATE: Easily expand or collapse the lantern to turn on...
  • TACTICAL STORAGE: The top lid of the lantern contains a small...
  • DURABLE MATERIALS: Constructed with military grade ABS...

Another incredible lantern pack for power outages is the Etekcity pack of 2 lanterns. These two LED lanterns work great for power outages at home and special events due to their incredible long burn time of more than 30-hours. In addition, the power source of this lighting pack is 12 AA batteries which luckily come as part of the package. Also, due to its 30 LED bulbs and the circular design, this lantern illuminates in a 3600 orientation.

As part of its brightness adjustment, these lanterns are collapsible for controlling the light output depending on the extent to which the globe section is extracted from the outer casing. Moreover, its outer casing is constructed with lightweight military-grade plastic for durability. While handling, this LED lantern pack comes with unfoldable handles for pulling the retractable body to get the shining light. Considering its quality, lighting performance and price, this is a worthy investment for power emergencies.

Pros:

  • Energy-saving feature
  • Easy to operate
  • Longer burn time
  • Adjustable brightness
  • Durable outer casing

Cons:

  • Lacks versatile lighting modes
  • Doesn't consider night vision

4. LE LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable Four Light Modes

Sale
LE LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable, 1000LM, 4 Light...
  • Convenient and Portable: There is one hook on the top and one...
  • Bright and Water Resistant: With 360 degree beam angle and 1000...
  • Long Play Time: This 4400mAh rechargeable lantern flashlight is...
  • Dimmable and 4 Light Modes: Simply press the switch of the lamp...
  • Rechargeable & 4400mAh Power Bank: The camping light can also...

This LED lantern is another lighting EVER product on our list that doubles as a power bank. Also, this is the first LED lantern with a lithium-ion battery power source that is rechargeable. Specifically, this lantern has two lithium-ion battery units for more battery power to enable its 1000 lumen brightness with a battery life of 12 hours. Additionally, its LED lights cover a 3600 lighting angle, meaning it lights in all directions.

Furthermore, this lantern comes with four lighting modes: white light, warm light, white-warm combination, and flashing strobe light. You will also enjoy carrying this LED lantern using its top hook, which can also hang this lighting device. Furthermore, you only need a USB cable to charge your mobile devices during a power blackout as a power bank. Finally, this lantern has an IPX4 rating suitable for outdoor activities for dust and water resistance.

Pros:

  • Adjustable lighting options360lighting
  • Easy to carry and hang
  • Adequately bright light
  • Versatile outdoor and indoor use
  • Rechargeable battery
  • Acts as a power bank
  • Water-resistant

Cons:

  • Battery life is not impressive at high brightness

5. MalloMe LED Lantern

MalloMe LEDs Camping Lantern Flashlights 4 Pack - Super...
  • ✅ ULTRA BRIGHT - Cut through the darkest of nights and survive...
  • ✅ PORTABLE LIFE SAVER FOR ALL SITUATIONS - As small as your...
  • ✅ KIDS LOVE THEM - Upgrade your camping lights with a touch of...
  • ✅ BUILT TO LAST - Don't just look at the beautiful design -...
  • ✅ PERFECT CAMPING GIFT FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS - If you're after...

If you want an ambient addition to your power emergency kit, the MalloMe LED lantern would be a great choice. This top-notch lantern for power outages has 146 lumens with 360-degree lighting. Additionally, this LED lantern for power outages runs on 3 AA batteries which don't come with the lantern.

Also, the LED lights have a 100,000-hour lifetime for an extended power emergency companion. We also love its collapsible design, which makes this lantern compact for carrying and storing. Notably, this low-lumen yet ultra bright led light can be used for power outages, work, reading and outdoor lighting. Eventually, this emergency light companion is weather-resistant with a heavy-duty casing that is durable.

Pros:

  • Multipurpose
  • Water-resistant
  • Durable build
  • Collapsible design for easy carriage and storage

Cons:

  • Low lumen capacity for wide-area lighting

6. LE LED Camping Lantern with 6 Light Modes

Sale
LE LED Camping Lantern Rechargeable, Brightest...
  • Sufficient Brightness: CREE XPG2 R5 LED in this camp night light...
  • Rechargeable and Power bank: The portable torch searchlight...
  • 6 Light Modes and Dimmable: This usb rechargeable flashlight...
  • Water Resistant: The IPX4 waterproof rating of this usb camp...
  • Multipurpose LED Camping Light: The camp lamp with a comfortable...

If you seek a lantern with more targeted light, the Lighting EVER LED lantern with six lighting modes is appropriate. Based on its title description, this lantern has six lighting adjustments, including four lighting forms and two brightness levels. Subsequently, the higher lumen brightness is for more expansive areas, while the lower lumen capacity is built for smaller areas. Besides the white light brightness, this lantern also has a red light that can either flash or stay on continuously as an emergency light.

Further, into its bargain, this lantern is IPX4 rated, to mean it's water-resistant. Additionally, this lantern for power outages comes with a lithium-ion battery that can last 2.5-4.5 hours as a lantern and 3-6 hours as a headlight. Apart from its lighting functions, this LED lantern also serves as a power bank for charging mobile devices via a USB port using a USB cable. Eventually, this lightweight lantern offers enough brightness for diverse spaces.

Pros:

  • Versatile application
  • Red and white light
  • Water-resistant
  • Serves as a power bank
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Targeted lighting

Cons:

  • Limited burn time

7. EZORKAS 2 Pack Rechargeable Camping Lanterns

EZORKAS 2 Pack Camping Lanterns, Rechargeable Led...
  • Super Bright & Large Area Brightness. The latest COB bulbs offer...
  • Rechargeable & Long-lasting. It is a rechargeable camping lantern...
  • Durable & Water-resistant. Compact lamp body prevents it being...
  • Novel Design & Lightweight. Collapsible design (by pushing and...
  • What You Get. 2 pack lantern, 2 USB charging cable. 24-Month full...

Another rechargeable lantern on our list is the Ezorkas pack of two lanterns. This LED lantern pack of 2 comes with adjustable height and brightness through a handle at the top. Moreover, it is also easy to use with a simple push down to kill or dim the light. Besides its bright light functions, this lantern also has strobe toggles, an SOS light for emergencies and a flashlight.

Most applicable, this LED lantern can effectively light up your space in the case of power absence and trails during outdoor activities. Uniquely, this lantern is powered by a rechargeable battery, and you can power it using three AAA batteries. Nonetheless, the AAA batteries don't come with the package.

This lantern is built with a sturdy ABS compound that makes it water-resistant and durable on its exterior. Moreover, this lantern has a magnetic base for ensuring that it doesn't slip on metal surfaces. As a result, this pack is a steal at its price, considering it is highly versatile, durable, and functional.

Pros:

  • Has an SOS feature
  • Durable build
  • Water-resistant
  • Versatile
  • Uses bother rechargeable and disposable batteries
  • Non-slip base

Cons:

  • Limited brightness

8. Coleman Multi-Panel LED Lantern

Sale
Coleman LED Lantern | Quad Pro 800 Lumens LED Lantern
  • LUMENS: Up to 800 lumens for base; 100 for panels
  • BEAM DISTANCE: Up to 18 meters for base and 13 meters for panels
  • RUNTIME: Up 20 hours for base, 3 for panels
  • RECHARGEABLE PANELS: 4 Take-Along light panels recharge on base
  • USB PORT: Keeps mobile devices powered

Last on our list is another excellent lantern, namely, the Coleman Multi-Panel LED lantern. Notably, the light panels of this lantern are powered through a rechargeable battery or D-batteries. This lantern requires eight D-batteries for the disposable power options, providing a bright output for over 20-hours. Moreover, it has a brightness level of 800 lumens which is ideal for more expansive areas.

Also, this LED lantern is a good lighting option since it is durable and IPX4 rated. We also love it because it is water-resistant. Finally, this is the best LED lantern from Coleman for use during a power blackout.

Pros:

  • Conservation on D-batteries
  • Uses two power options
  • Bright lighting
  • Water-resistant
  • Adequate burn time
  • Lightweight
  • Versatile for indoor and outdoor activities

Cons:

  • Lacks diverse lighting options

Benefits of an Emergency Lantern for Power Outage Situations

  • Constant lighting for reliability during power emergencies.
  • Easy operation when power is out for quick lighting.
  • Relaxation when lights go out. Since panic kicks in during an emergency outage, a lighting backup ensures that you can get things in order even when it's dark.
  • Energy efficiency for solar-powered lanterns that eliminate the hassle of buying batteries.
  • Affordable lighting options during power outages
  • Adjustable lighting modes for situation flexibility.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing the Best Lantern for Power Outage Emergencies

1. Power Source

The first consideration for a lantern meant for emergency lighting is its power source. Primarily, the best LED lanterns use two types of power supply: disposable batteries or rechargeable batteries. On the one hand, the disposable batteries can last about 10 hours on average, but such LED lanterns will require you to have extra batteries on standby. On the other hand, rechargeable batteries can last a quality LED lantern longer lighting periods, with the extra advantage of being rechargeable.

In addition, you can also find LED lanterns that apply both forms of battery power, which are suitable for unexpectedly prolonged power outages or longer excursions. More relevantly, most LED lanterns allow the use of AA and DD batteries, which are readily available in stores near you. Considerably, DD batteries last longer due to their higher power capacity, making them the ideal choice for most of the best LED lanterns for power outages.

Regarding the rechargeable batteries, some lanterns for power outages come with built-in units which only require recharging. Ideally, LED lanterns with this power option might come as solar-powered lanterns with a solar panel or include a hand crank for convenient battery charging. Others include charging ports for connection to an electric socket or power banks. Eventually, the best lantern for power outage emergencies should guarantee reliable lighting when lights go out or when you go off-grid.

2. Size and Weight

Power outages in most cases mean emergencies and often come with inconveniences. Accordingly, it would be best to have a lighting companion that is compact and lightweight to carry around in such situations. Luckily, most lanterns for power outages are lightweight with compact designs for comfortable carrying and placement on surfaces. If you prefer a LED lantern for carrying around, it should be lightweight, while standing LED lanterns for a camping trip can weigh slightly more.

Therefore, under this factor, the best LED lantern should be inflatable and collapsible for increased portability during outages and easy storage when power gets back. Nonetheless, we also consider you might only be interested in the light during such emergencies, but the size and weight might reduce your illumination hassles.

3. Brightness

At the core of choosing the best LED lanterns is brightness since the end goal is lighting up the darkness. Significantly, in the current context, our primary focus is on LED lanterns. According to the LED technology, brightness is measured in terms of lumens. Therefore, the best LED lanterns match the lumen capacity to the place, time and utility intention.

During outages, you might require different night light levels depending on your activities. For example, wider spaces such as your backyard might require more brightness, while smaller spaces or concentrated activities require soft or ambient brightness. In addition, the more lumens, the brighter a lantern is rated. Most applicably, 250 lumens would be enough to light up an entire room, while 800 lumens would be ideal for dark outdoor spaces visibility in all corners.

Fortunately, most LED lanterns for power outages have brightness adjustment features for extra versatility in different situations. Therefore, the best LED lantern should have dimmable capabilities to suit any or most outage situations. Nonetheless, such versatile lanterns for power outages are a bit pricey but are worthy investments. Ultimately, the more brightness you use, the more battery juice is consumed.

4. Light Adjustment

Next to brightness are light modes that come with the best led lanterns for power blackouts. However, as earlier mentioned under brightness, enough light depends on the width coverage of the dark space. For this reason, modern LED lanterns for power outages come with multiple light modes, including white, warm, super-bright and SOS emergency modes. Subsequently, an LED camping lantern with an adjustment switch provides flexibility across these different lighting modes.

In addition, some lanterns come with a red light option where bright light is not preferred. Ideally, red light is recommended when you want to preserve night vision. However, if there is a power blackout and you want to activate an SOS emergency for help, the red light would be ideal with the advantage of battery preservation. Therefore, you can also go for LED lights that provide both white and red light.

5. Burn Time

Burn time refers to the period a lantern can provide light before going out. Most LED lanterns for power outages have varied capacities ranging between 15-100 hours. So even before we recommend it, you would probably go with an LED lantern with longer battery life. Also, understanding the burn time of a lantern helps you know how long to keep it on depending on the length of an outage.

As you look for the best burn time in the market, bear in mind that brands always provide burn periods that align with the lowest lumen utility. Similar to high battery consumption under the highest lumens, the burn time is also short under the highest brightness settings. To help you monitor the estimated burn time, you can consider getting a lantern with a battery level indicator for prudent light management.

6. Durability

We also acknowledge that power outages come with several risks of falls, bumps and might be accompanied by bad weather. For this reason, the best lantern for power outage emergencies should be built with durable materials for protection against adverse weather conditions and falls. For instance, a power blackout might be caused by a hurricane or heavy rains, and you need to move something in your backyard. Also, as you move around your house, an LED lantern is prone to scratches, which can be resolved by rubber paddings.

In the case of impact resistance, manufacturers of the best LED lanterns include the tested tolerable heights of a fall without the risk of a lantern shattering. Moreover, any LED lantern comes with an IP rating as the guiding indicator concerning waterproofing and dust-proofing. With respect to dust, a figure between one and five covers dust resistance, while six is considered dustproof. However, if an X is used instead of a 0, the manufacturer is confident it can tolerate some dust.

Regarding water exposure, a figure between one and six indicates water resistance, while waterproofing is denoted by 7 or 8. Subsequently, a waterproof LED lantern is better than a water-resistant lantern, depending on the prevailing conditions during an outage. Overall, you should consider an impact-resistant, dustproof and waterproof for maximum readiness for any outage situation.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Lantern for Power Outage Emergencies

1. Are lanterns better than flashlights?

Yes, lanterns are superior to flashlights because their battery life lasts longer, making the latter run longer. Also, LED lanterns use smaller battery capacities such as AA batteries and D batteries since they conserve energy. Lanterns are also better because they illuminate more expansive areas, unlike flashlights that use targeted lighting.

Image source: hikertrack.com

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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