Choosing a flashlight can be a difficult decision. Innovations in light bulbs make flashlights more efficient and brighter than ever with the two most energy efficient lights being the xenon and LED. Each has its own purpose and benefit and combining the two in one device makes for a perfect all around flashlight.
Basics of Xenon Bulbs
Xenon lights are those that use xenon gas to create light. There are two types of xenon lights used in LED xenon flashlights. Incandescent xenon bulbs are cheaper and of lower quality. They work the same as halogen bulbs, but use xenon gas instead of halogen to create the light. The term HID, or high intensity discharge, is often used interchangeably with xenon. These are arc light bulbs, meaning that the movement of electrons generates light across an arc. There is no burning filament that can break or burn out.
Why Xenon is Better
Both incandescent and HID LED xenon flashlights have two benefits over halogen and other incandescent light sources. Both emit light that mimics daylight, making it much easier to see things. Energy efficiency is also a hallmark of both types. However, HID xenon bulbs bring many more benefits than xenon filament bulbs. For one, a single bulb lasts approximately 3000 hours, depending on usage. In addition, the HID bulbs literally flood an area with intense, bright light; in most cases this light covers up to 50% more than standard incandescent flashlights. Another great thing about HID lights is their ability to strobe and be used for night vision with the addition of a red filter.
Basics of LED´s
LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights are electrically charged semiconductors that emit light in different colors and types, depending on the length of the "jump" the electrons make. Each type of light has a specific use, from ultraviolet to red and white. The diodes are covered with a durable plastic bulb with a rounded tip. The light bounces off the inside of the bulb toward this tip, creating a high intensity, focused beam of light. AS a result, LED xenon flashlights are very useful combination when a bright light is needed.
Why LED is the Best
LED lights are the most energy efficient, "green" lighting available as they are less wasteful, use less power and do not contain harmful materials. LED´S are replacing all other types of flashlight bulbs for these attributes as well as their durability. LED bulbs are praised for their resistance to impacts as well as extreme temperatures. A benefit of the LED over the xenon light is the LED´s ability to be turned on and off rapidly, whereas xenon bulbs require slight recharging time.
LED xenon flashlights blend the benefits of the two best lighting options available into one versatile unit. Energy efficiency and intense light are guaranteed. Battery usage will be at an all time low and the bulbs may never need replacing. Xenon bulbs provide emergency strobe lighting and night vision for tracking. LED bulbs provide many hours of uninterrupted focused light very efficiently. When purchasing the next flashlight, consider an LED xenon flashlight for its versatility, energy efficiency, and durability.
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