A number of rechargeable flashlight models are available which plug directly into a wall electrical outlet for charging. This is convenient and eliminates the need to handle batteries, as well as the risk of corrosion. Buying such a device also provides you with a working flashlight without the need to make any additional purchases like batteries or external chargers. However, there are some drawbacks regarding initial cost and reliability.
Some useful features to look for when purchasing a wall rechargeable flashlight include a small built-in light which makes it easy to locate the flashlight during a power outage, a cigarette lighter charger so that it can also be charged in an automobile, or a built-in radio. The rechargeable battery (or batteries) inside such a flashlight sometimes need to be replaced; the cost of replacing the type of battery it uses should be considered. For example, replacement of a 3.6V Ni-MH battery will cost substantially more than replacing two Ni-MH or Ni-Cd “AA” batteries. Some rechargeable flashlights use LED lights, while others have traditional lightbulbs; the LEDs last longer and use less electricity, but are generally more expensive to buy and replace. Units with a built-in folding plug which directly plugs into the wall outlet are more convenient than those which require an AC adapter to be connected and disconnected.
Alternatives to wall rechargeable flashlights include crank/dynamo and regular flashlights with a separate battery charger. From personal experience, a regular non-rechargeable flashlight will generally last much longer than a rechargeable light, and a stand-alone battery charger usually lasts far longer as well. I have used about four rechargeable flashlights (from various brands) which failed in the same period that a single stand-alone battery charger has continued working properly, and I have rarely had a regular flashlight need repair beyond replacing the lightbulb. A flashlight powered by a crank/dynamo has the advantage of not using any electricity, and there is no need to worry about running out of power when you are away from a wall outlet or source of batteries.
Brands which make rechargeable flashlights include Streamlight, Mag-Lite, Energizer, Maxsa, Inova, and others. They can be purchased at Wal-Mart, Radio Shack, and eBay.com. Basically, the kind of rechargeable battery, type of light, and additional built-in features should be reviewed when buying a wall rechargeable flashlight. For greater reliability and/or lower initial cost, other types of flashlights should be taken into consideration as well.
