Gear criteria
Torches
Comparison criteria for household torches and headlamps for UK power cuts—runtime, batteries and indoor usability.
What we compare
- Beam flood suitable for indoor navigation (not only long-throw marketing peaks)
- Runtime at a usable indoor brightness level
- Common battery sizes or easy USB recharge with lock-out against pocket drain
- Glove-friendly switch; mode memory that does not blind you at night
- Headlamp option for hands-free tasks
- Clear labelling of measured runtime versus manufacturer claim
UK guidance prefers torches over candles in a power cut. Check the torch you already own before buying another.
How we compare
We prioritise usable indoor light, spareability, and whether claims are desk research or a firsthand test. Turbo lumen figures matter less than how long a torch runs at a comfortable household brightness.
Sources
Last reviewed 14 November 2026.