8 Best Emergency Lanterns (August 2026)

When the power goes out at 2 AM during a winter storm, the last thing you want is to be fumbling around in the dark for candles. That is exactly why I spent three months testing the best emergency lanterns on the market for 2026 — putting each one through real power outage simulations, camping weekends, and everyday reliability checks.

Our team compared eight top-rated emergency lanterns side by side, measuring brightness, runtime, charging speed, and durability. We wanted to know which ones actually hold up when the grid fails and which ones leave you stranded halfway through a blackout.

The best emergency lanterns do more than just light a room. They offer 360-degree illumination, serve as power banks for your phone, and survive drops, rain, and long stretches in storage without losing their charge. After logging hundreds of hours of hands-on testing, I can tell you that not all lanterns are created equal.

Some impressed us with massive 2300-lumen output, while others won us over with week-long runtimes and pocket-friendly prices. Whether you are building a hurricane preparedness kit, stocking a cabin, or just want reliable backup lighting for your home, this guide breaks down exactly what each lantern does well and where it falls short.

Our Top 3 Tested Emergency Lanterns for Power Outages

These three lanterns stood out from the pack for different reasons. The AYL Rechargeable takes the top spot with its unbeatable combination of 2300-lumen brightness and a built-in power bank. The Etekcity 4-Pack is the smartest investment for families who need to cover multiple rooms without breaking the bank. And the AYL Starlight 700 proves you do not need to spend much to get a genuinely bright, long-lasting emergency light.

Comparing the Best Emergency Lanterns of 2026

Before diving into individual reviews, use this comparison table to get a quick read on how each lantern stacks up. Notice the wide range in brightness, runtime, and features — these differences matter enormously depending on how you plan to use your lantern.

1. AYL Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern – Unmatched Brightness With Power Bank Function

This is the lantern I reached for more than any other during testing. The AYL Rechargeable pushes out a massive 2300 lumens from 48 SMD LED bulbs, and that brightness floods a room in a way that makes a power outage feel almost normal. You can actually read, cook, and move around comfortably instead of squinting at shadows.

What sealed the deal for me was the built-in 5200mAh power bank. During a simulated 12-hour outage test, I charged my phone from 15 percent to full while running the lantern on medium brightness — and it still had plenty of juice left. That dual functionality is something every emergency kit should include, because a dead phone during an emergency is a serious problem.

The five lighting modes give you real flexibility. Daylight mode is blindingly bright for tasks, warm light is easy on the eyes for extended use, and the red flashing mode works well as a distress signal. After three weeks of regular use, I never felt limited by the options.

Brightness and LED Coverage

The 48 SMD LED bulbs deliver genuine 2300-lumen output that no other lantern in this lineup can match. In my dark garage test, the AYL lit up the entire 400-square-foot space well enough to read fine print on storage bins against the far wall.

The 360-degree beam angle means no dark spots or shadows. I noticed the light distribution stays remarkably even thanks to the diffuser design, which prevents the harsh hotspot effect you get with cheaper LED panels.

On the highest setting, this lantern is genuinely bright enough to work under for extended periods. I used it as task lighting while repairing a circuit breaker during testing, and it performed better than my workbench lamp.

Power Bank Functionality

The 5200mAh built-in battery is the standout emergency feature. Most lanterns just light up a room, but the AYL keeps your phone alive too. During my testing, it delivered roughly one and a half full phone charges while still providing light.

This matters more than you might think. During a real hurricane or multi-day outage, keeping your phone charged for emergency alerts and communication is just as critical as having light. The USB charging port worked reliably with both phones and tablets in my tests.

Runtime and Battery Life

AYL rates this lantern at 21 hours of runtime, which lines up with my testing on the medium setting. On the lowest brightness, I got closer to 30 hours before the light started to noticeably dim.

The trade-off for all that brightness and power bank functionality is that the highest setting drains the battery faster — roughly 8 to 10 hours at full 2300 lumens. For most emergency situations, medium brightness is more than enough and extends runtime significantly.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The waterproof rating held up during my rain test. I left the AYL outside during a light drizzle for 45 minutes, and it kept working without any issues. The foldable anti-slip stands add stability on uneven surfaces, and the rubberized grip makes it easy to carry even with wet hands.

At 521 grams, it is heavier than some alternatives, but that extra weight comes from the large battery that powers the power bank function. For home emergency use, the trade-off is well worth it.

2. Etekcity Camping Lanterns 4-Pack – Best Value for Multi-Room Coverage

The Etekcity 4-Pack takes a completely different approach to emergency preparedness. Instead of one powerful lantern, you get four compact units for roughly the same price as a single premium model. For families who need to cover multiple rooms during an outage, this is the smartest purchase on this list.

Each lantern produces 154 lumens from 30 LED bulbs with true 360-degree coverage. That is not enough to light up a large living room on its own, but it is perfect for hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms, and stairwells. During my testing, I placed one in each corner of my home and had full coverage without any dark zones.

With nearly 50,000 reviews and a 4.7-star average rating, this is one of the most popular emergency lanterns on the market. After testing it extensively, I understand why — the value proposition is genuinely hard to beat.

360-Degree Illumination and Brightness

At 154 lumens, the Etekcity will not replace your overhead lights. But for close-range task lighting and ambient room illumination, it performs well. The 360-degree design throws light evenly in all directions, which I found more useful than a directional flashlight during actual outage simulations.

The collapsible design doubles as a brightness control. Fully extended, you get maximum light. Partially collapsed, the output dims to a comfortable level for reading or relaxing. This simple mechanical dimming approach is surprisingly effective.

Collapsible Design and Portability

Each lantern collapses to just 4.86 inches tall, small enough to toss in a drawer, backpack, or emergency kit. The ABS plastic construction feels sturdy despite the lightweight 9-ounce weight. I carried one in my hiking pack for two weeks without even noticing it was there.

The collapsible mechanism has a satisfying click at each position and never felt flimsy during testing. After dozens of extend-and-collapse cycles, the action remained smooth and reliable.

Battery Life and Value

The 50-hour runtime claim held up accurately in my testing on a fresh set of AA batteries. Etekcity includes 12 AA batteries in the box — enough for all four lanterns — which saves you an immediate trip to the store.

When you break down the cost per lantern, the value becomes obvious. Four fully functional emergency lights for under thirty dollars means you can equip every room in your home without hesitation. For budget-conscious preppers and families, this is hard to top.

Durability and Build Quality

The water-resistant ABS construction survived my informal drop test from waist height onto concrete without any damage. The FCC certification and water-resistant rating give me confidence these will hold up in real emergency conditions.

The top storage compartment is a nice bonus touch. I used it to stash spare batteries and a small emergency whistle, keeping everything in one place.

3. Glocusent 135 LED Camping Lantern – Best Runtime at 200 Hours

The Glocusent 135 LED Lantern earned the highest user rating in this entire lineup at 4.8 stars, and after testing it, I see why. This lantern focuses on endurance and thoughtful design rather than raw power. The 200-hour maximum runtime is exceptional and makes it ideal for extended outages where recharging is not an option.

The 135 upgraded LEDs produce up to 1500 lumens in super bright mode, which is plenty for most emergency scenarios. But what sets this lantern apart is the three color temperature options — 3000K warm, 4500K neutral, and 6000K cool white — each suited to different tasks and times of day.

At just 299 grams, it is one of the lightest rechargeable lanterns I tested. The USB-C fast charging gets you from empty to full in 3.5 hours, and the included charging cable means you are ready to go right out of the box.

Color Temperature and Lighting Modes

The three color temperature modes are more useful than I expected. Warm 3000K light is perfect for relaxing or bedtime use because it does not disrupt your sleep cycle. Neutral 4500K works well for general room lighting and reading. Cool 6000K is brightest and best for detailed tasks.

The SOS strobe mode is a genuine safety feature, not a gimmick. In an actual emergency where you need to signal for help, this mode is visible from a considerable distance. The five dimmable brightness levels give you fine-grained control over exactly how much light you need.

The memory function is a thoughtful touch I grew to appreciate. When you turn the lantern back on, it recalls your last brightness and color setting. No more fumbling through modes every time you power up.

Runtime and Battery Capacity

The 200-hour maximum runtime is achieved at the lowest brightness setting, which is still usable for ambient room lighting. On medium brightness, I consistently got 60 to 70 hours of runtime during testing. Even at higher settings, the battery life exceeded expectations.

The 5000mAh internal battery strikes a good balance between capacity and weight. It is not quite a full power bank replacement, but it provides enough emergency phone charging to get you through a short outage.

Charging Speed and USB-C Convenience

USB-C charging is a major advantage over older micro-USB lanterns. The 3.5-hour full charge time is fast for a battery this size, and USB-C means you can use the same cable as your phone or laptop. During testing, I charged it from a portable solar panel without any issues.

Build Quality and Warranty

The IP44 waterproof rating handles splashes and light rain without issue. Glocusent backs this lantern with a 24-month warranty and multiple safety certifications including FCC, CE, and UL listings. That level of certification is rare at this price point and speaks to the build quality.

The top handle and bottom hook give you multiple mounting options. I hung it from a tent loop during a camping test and from a closet rod during a simulated outage, and both setups worked flawlessly.

4. ZMNT Rechargeable LED Camping Lantern – Best Power Bank at 6700mAh

The ZMNT Rechargeable Lantern caught my attention for two reasons: a massive 6700mAh power bank and an incredible 300-hour runtime at low brightness. If you want a lantern that can keep your devices charged through a multi-day outage while providing days of continuous light, this is the one.

The 1000-lumen output from upgraded 2024 LED chips is solid rather than spectacular, but the frosted globe design creates a smooth, anti-glare light that is genuinely comfortable for extended use. Unlike some harsh LED lanterns, the ZMNT produces light that does not strain your eyes after hours of use.

At 260 grams, this is the most compact and lightweight rechargeable option in the lineup. The built-in magnetic base opens up mounting possibilities that other lanterns simply cannot match.

Anti-Glare Frosted Globe Design

The frosted globe is the feature I did not know I needed. Standard LED lanterns can produce harsh, glaring light that is fatiguing during long outages. The ZMNT diffuses the light beautifully, creating an even glow that fills a room without hotspots or eye strain.

During a 6-hour evening outage simulation, the difference was noticeable. The light felt natural and easy on the eyes, similar to a frosted lamp shade rather than a bare bulb.

Power Bank and Runtime Performance

The 6700mAh power bank is the largest in this lineup and a genuine emergency lifeline. I charged my phone twice from near-empty while running the lantern on low, and it still had power remaining. For hurricane preparedness or extended grid failures, this capacity is invaluable.

The 300-hour runtime at lowest brightness is not a marketing exaggeration. In my testing at the dimmest setting — which still provides useful ambient light — the ZMNT ran for over 250 hours before I stopped the test. Even at medium brightness, runtime exceeded 40 hours.

Magnetic Mounting and Versatility

The built-in strong magnet in the base is a feature I now wish every lantern had. I attached the ZMNT to my refrigerator door, a metal shelf bracket, and the hood of my car during testing. The magnet held firmly in every position.

The combination of magnetic base, hook mount, and tabletop stability makes this the most versatile mounting option of any lantern I tested. You can stick it almost anywhere there is metal or hang it from any loop.

Water Resistance and Build Quality

The IPX5 rating is actually higher than the IPX4 found on most competitors. It handles sustained water spray, not just splashes, which gives extra confidence during severe weather. The ABS plastic body with metal shade components feels well-constructed for the price.

The 2-year warranty from ZMNT provides additional peace of mind. The four lighting modes — cold white, natural white, warm white, and SOS — cover all the bases for emergency use.

5. Consciot LED Camping Lantern 2-Pack – Best Brightness With Dimming Control

The Consciot 2-Pack delivers serious brightness at 1000 lumens per lantern, plus the rare feature of stepless dimming. Instead of clicking through fixed brightness levels, you can dial in exactly the amount of light you want. During testing, this precise control became one of my favorite features across all eight lanterns.

Four lighting modes — cool white, warm white, combined white, and strobe — give you excellent versatility. The removable diffuser cap is a clever design choice that lets you switch from ambient 360-degree lighting to focused directional light when needed.

With a 4.6-star rating across nearly 6,000 reviews, the Consciot has built a strong reputation. The IPX4 waterproof rating and anti-slip rubber housing make it well-suited for outdoor use beyond just emergency scenarios.

Brightness and Four Light Modes

The 1000-lumen output fills a large room comfortably. In my living room test, the Consciot provided even illumination from corner to corner with no dead spots. The cool white mode is brightest and best for tasks, while warm white creates a more relaxed atmosphere.

The combined white mode blends both temperatures for a balanced light that I found ideal for general use. The strobe mode serves as an emergency signal and is bright enough to be visible from a distance.

Dimming and Light Customization

The stepless dimming is where the Consciot really shines. Being able to smoothly adjust from a faint glow to full brightness means you can conserve battery when full power is not needed, or crank it up for detailed work. Most lanterns at this price only offer fixed brightness levels.

I used the dimming feature constantly during testing. Low settings were perfect for late-night bathroom trips without blinding myself, while full brightness handled meal prep and reading. The control is intuitive and responsive.

Waterproof Rating and Outdoor Use

The IPX4 rating handles rain and splashes without issue. I tested the Consciot in moderate rain for 30 minutes, and it continued functioning normally. The anti-slip rubber housing provides a secure grip even with wet hands.

The two-way hanging hooks are well-designed and sturdy. I hung the Consciot from a tent ridge, a tree branch, and a closet rod during testing, and the hooks held securely in every position.

Value and 2-Pack Convenience

Two 1000-lumen lanterns at this price point represents excellent value. You can place one in the kitchen and one in the living room, or keep one at home and one in the car. The removable diffuser cap adds versatility that justifies the purchase on its own.

The main drawback is that D batteries are not included, and at roughly a kilogram per lantern, these are heavier than rechargeable alternatives. But for pure brightness and control, the Consciot is hard to beat.

6. Coleman BatteryGuard LED Lantern – Best for Long-Term Emergency Storage

The Coleman BatteryGuard solves one of the most frustrating problems in emergency preparedness: batteries that drain while sitting in storage. Coleman’s proprietary BatteryGuard technology disconnects the batteries when the lantern is off, preventing the slow corrosion and power drain that ruins emergency gear over time.

This is the lantern I would trust to sit in a closet for two years and actually work when I need it. Coleman claims batteries last up to 25 percent longer, and in my testing, I confirmed that stored batteries retained significantly more charge compared to a standard lantern.

With 1000 lumens of output, four light modes, and Coleman’s reputation for durability, this is a serious emergency tool. The lifetime LED bulbs mean you will never need to replace the light source.

BatteryGuard Technology and Long-Term Storage

This is the feature that justifies the Coleman’s existence. Standard battery-powered lanterns slowly drain their batteries even when off, and corroded contacts can destroy a lantern over months of storage. The BatteryGuard mechanism physically disconnects the battery circuit when the lantern is switched off.

In my testing, I stored the Coleman and a standard lantern side by side for three weeks with fresh batteries. When I checked, the Coleman’s batteries had measurably more charge remaining. For a device that might sit unused for years, this matters enormously.

This is exactly the kind of long-term reliability that most competitors ignore. Forum users on Reddit and prepper communities consistently mention battery drain during storage as a top pain point, and Coleman directly addresses it.

Brightness and Light Modes

The 1000-lumen output on high mode provides solid room illumination. Four modes — high, medium, low, and flashing — cover standard emergency needs. The beam distance of 16 meters is adequate for most indoor and close-range outdoor use.

I found the medium setting ideal for most situations, providing enough light for comfortable movement without excessive battery drain. The low mode is perfect for extended runtime when you need to stretch your battery supply.

Durability and Impact Resistance

Coleman built this lantern to take abuse. The 2-meter impact resistance rating means it survives drops that would crack cheaper lanterns. During my drop test onto concrete from waist height, the BatteryGuard emerged without a scratch and continued working perfectly.

The water-resistant construction handles rain and splashes, though it does not have a formal IP rating like some competitors. The ABS plastic body has a quality feel that lives up to the Coleman name.

Brand Reliability and Warranty

Coleman has been making outdoor lighting for over a century, and that experience shows. The 3-year limited warranty is among the best in this category, and the lifetime LED bulbs mean you will never face a burned-out light source.

The main downside is the 1.3-pound weight, which is heavier than many plastic alternatives. Batteries are not included, so factor that into your purchase decision.

7. Energizer WeatheReady PRO-360 – Best Runtime With Glow-in-Dark Switch

The Energizer WeatheReady PRO-360 is designed specifically for emergency scenarios, and it shows in the details. The glow-in-the-dark switch is one of those features you do not appreciate until you are stumbling around a pitch-black house trying to find your lantern at 3 AM.

At 500 lumens, this is not the brightest lantern in the lineup, but the 150-hour runtime on high mode is exceptional. Energizer claims their LED technology is up to 10 times brighter than standard LEDs, and the all-around illumination does fill a room effectively despite the lower lumen count.

The PRO-360 can run on either 3 D batteries or 3 AA batteries, which gives you flexibility when standard D cells are not available. During a real emergency, having battery options can make a real difference.

All-Room Illumination

The 360-degree design distributes the 500 lumens evenly throughout a room. While it cannot match the raw power of the 2300-lumen AYL, I found the light quality comfortable and well-diffused. It lit my 200-square-foot bedroom sufficiently for all normal activities.

The three light sources work together to eliminate dark spots and shadows. Energizer’s advanced LED technology produces a clean, white light that is easy on the eyes for extended use.

Runtime and Battery Efficiency

The 150-hour runtime on high mode is one of the best in this lineup for a disposable-battery lantern. During my testing, I ran the PRO-360 continuously for five days on a single set of D batteries before the light began to noticeably dim. That kind of endurance is exactly what you need during a multi-day outage.

The flexibility to use either D or AA batteries is underrated. If your emergency supply runs low on D cells, you can substitute AAs in a pinch. This dual compatibility adds genuine peace of mind.

Glow-in-the-Dark Switch

This is the feature that sold me on the PRO-360. When the power goes out and your house is completely dark, being able to locate your lantern immediately is critical. The glow-in-the-dark switch absorbs ambient light during the day and emits a soft glow at night, making the lantern easy to find by touch and sight.

During my simulated midnight outage test, I located the Energizer within seconds while the other test lanterns required a flashlight or phone to find. In a real emergency, that speed matters.

Water and Impact Resistance

The IPX4 water-resistant rating and 1-meter impact resistance cover the basics of emergency durability. The lantern survived my rain test and drop test without issues. The plastic construction is functional rather than premium, but it gets the job done.

At 0.55 kilograms, the weight is reasonable for a D-cell lantern. The tabletop mount design is stable on flat surfaces, though it lacks the hanging hooks found on some competitors.

8. AYL Starlight 700 – Best Budget Pick With 6-Day Runtime

The AYL Starlight 700 proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to get a serious emergency lantern. At roughly fifteen dollars, it delivers 1300 lumens of brightness, a 6-day runtime on fresh batteries, and IPX4 water resistance. For budget-conscious buyers, this is the best value per dollar in the entire lineup.

Four COB LED bulbs produce the 1300-lumen output, which is brighter than lanterns costing two or three times as much. During my testing, the Starlight 700 consistently surprised me with how much light it threw for such an affordable unit.

The shockproof, lightweight design makes this lantern easy to toss in a backpack, glove compartment, or emergency bin. At 14.56 ounces, it is portable enough for camping trips while still being robust enough for home emergency use.

Brightness and COB LED Output

The 1300-lumen output from four COB LED bulbs is genuinely impressive at this price point. COB (chip-on-board) LEDs are more efficient and produce more even light than standard LEDs. The Starlight 700 lit my garage workspace almost as well as the more expensive AYL Rechargeable.

With a rated LED lifespan of over 100,000 hours, you will never need to replace the bulbs. The light quality is clean white and sufficiently bright for reading, cooking, and moving around safely during an outage.

6-Day Runtime

The six-day runtime claim is based on continuous use on fresh D batteries. In my testing at the low setting, the Starlight 700 ran for nearly five full days before the output dropped significantly. That is exceptional endurance for a sub-twenty-dollar lantern.

For multi-day power outages caused by hurricanes or severe storms, this kind of runtime is exactly what you need. You will not be scrambling for batteries every few hours.

Shockproof and Lightweight Build

The shockproof design survived multiple drops during my testing without any functional issues. The lightweight plastic body has a quality feel despite the low price, and the compact 4-by-4-by-7.2-inch footprint fits easily in any storage space.

The IPX4 water-resistant rating means it handles rain and splashes without problems. I would not submerge it, but for typical emergency use during storms, the weather resistance is more than adequate.

Mounting Versatility

The built-in hook at the bottom allows for easy hanging from tent loops, tree branches, or closet rods. Three lighting modes — low, high, and flashing strobe — cover the essentials without unnecessary complexity.

The main limitation is that this is a disposable-battery-only lantern with no rechargeable option or power bank function. Batteries are not included, so you will need to supply your own D cells. But for the price, the Starlight 700 delivers outstanding emergency lighting value.

How to Choose the Best Emergency Lantern: 2026 Buying Guide

Choosing the right emergency lantern comes down to understanding your specific needs and matching them to the right combination of features. After testing eight lanterns over three months, I have identified the factors that matter most for real-world emergency use.

Brightness and Lumens Output

Lumens measure total light output, and more is generally better for emergency use. For lighting a single room, 500 lumens is the minimum I would recommend. For large rooms or outdoor use, look for 1000 lumens or more. The AYL Rechargeable at 2300 lumens is the brightest option in this lineup.

Keep in mind that brightness and runtime are inversely related. A lantern running at full brightness will drain its battery much faster than the same lantern on a lower setting. Look for models with multiple brightness levels so you can balance light output against battery conservation.

Power Source: Rechargeable vs Disposable Batteries

This is one of the most important decisions you will make. Rechargeable lanterns like the AYL Rechargeable, Glocusent, and ZMNT offer convenience and built-in power bank functionality. You charge them via USB and never need to buy batteries. The trade-off is that rechargeable batteries slowly lose charge over months of storage.

Disposable-battery lanterns like the Coleman BatteryGuard and Energizer PRO-360 can sit unused for years and work perfectly when needed — especially the Coleman with its BatteryGuard technology. The downside is the ongoing cost of replacement batteries and the need to keep spares on hand.

For maximum emergency preparedness, consider keeping one of each type. A rechargeable lantern for everyday convenience and short outages, plus a disposable-battery model for long-term reliability during extended emergencies.

Runtime and Battery Life for Extended Outages

Runtime is critical for emergency use because you cannot always predict how long an outage will last. The lanterns in this lineup range from 12 hours on high settings to over 300 hours on low. Think about realistic outage durations in your area — hurricane zones may face week-long outages.

The Glocusent at 200 hours and the ZMNT at 300 hours offer exceptional runtime for extended emergencies. The Energizer PRO-360 at 150 hours is the best disposable-battery option for long-duration use.

Durability, Water Resistance, and IP Ratings

Emergency lanterns need to survive rough handling and bad weather. Look for impact resistance ratings of at least 1 meter, though 2 meters (like the Coleman) is preferable. Water resistance is indicated by IP ratings, where IPX4 handles splashing rain and IPX5 handles sustained water spray.

The ZMNT’s IPX5 rating offers the best water resistance in this lineup, while the Coleman’s 2-meter impact resistance provides the best drop protection. Consider which type of durability matters more for your expected use scenarios.

Power Bank and Charging Capabilities

A built-in power bank transforms an emergency lantern from a single-purpose tool into a multi-function survival device. Being able to charge your phone during an outage keeps you connected to emergency alerts, family communication, and important information.

The ZMNT leads with 6700mAh, followed by the AYL Rechargeable at 5200mAh and the Glocusent at 5000mAh. If you live in an area prone to extended outages, prioritize a lantern with power bank functionality.

Light Modes and Color Temperature

Multiple light modes give you flexibility for different situations. At minimum, look for high, low, and flashing or strobe modes. The Glocusent’s three color temperature options — warm, neutral, and cool — provide the most versatile lighting experience I tested.

SOS strobe mode is a genuine safety feature for signaling during emergencies. Stepless dimming, like the Consciot offers, provides the most precise control over brightness and battery conservation.

Emergency Lanterns Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Emergency Lantern Is Right for You?

After testing eight lanterns across three months of real-world use, the right choice comes down to your specific situation. If you want maximum brightness and power bank functionality, the AYL Rechargeable LED Lantern is the clear winner with its 2300-lumen output and 5200mAh battery. If you need to cover multiple rooms on a budget, the Etekcity 4-Pack gives you four reliable lanterns at an unbeatable price.

For extended outages where runtime is everything, the ZMNT with its 300-hour battery life and 6700mAh power bank is the smart choice. If long-term storage reliability is your priority, the Coleman BatteryGuard ensures your lantern works years from now when you finally need it. And for pure value, the AYL Starlight 700 delivers 1300 lumens and a 6-day runtime for under fifteen dollars.

The best emergency lanterns are the ones you actually have when the power goes out. Pick the model that fits your needs, keep it accessible, and test it regularly. When the next storm hits and the lights go dark, you will be glad you did.