The best MagLite torch for most people is the ML300LX 2D: 487 lumens, a 323 metre beam and up to 260 hours of light in Eco mode, in a size that fits a door pocket or a bedside drawer. If you want more reach, choose the 3D. If you want something to carry, choose a Mini MagLite or the Solitaire.
These are our five picks from the MagLite range, ranked. For the history of the brand and how to upgrade an older torch to LED, see Discover MagLite.
Quick picks
- Best all-rounder: MagLite ML300LX 2D
- Longest beam and runtime: MagLite ML300L 3D
- Best for the glove box: Mini MagLite 2AA Pro
- Best for a pocket: Mini MagLite 2AAA
- Best for your keys: MagLite Solitaire
The best MagLite torches compared
| Model | Max output | Beam distance | Batteries | Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ML300LX 2D | 487 lumens | 323 m | 2 x D (not included) | 232 mm | 566 g with batteries |
| ML300L 3D | 746 lumens | 403 m | 3 x D (not included) | 298 mm | 331 g without batteries |
| Mini MagLite 2AA Pro | 332 lumens | 172 m | 2 x AA (included) | 168 mm | 118 g with batteries |
| Mini MagLite 2AAA | 84 lumens | 116 m | 2 x AAA (included) | 127 mm | 49 g with batteries |
| Solitaire | 37 lumens | 55 m | 1 x AAA (included) | 81 mm | 24 g with battery |
How to choose a MagLite
Pick the size first
MagLites share the same simple design, so the real decision is size. A D-cell torch is a household and vehicle light: it is too big for a pocket, but it throws a long beam and runs for a very long time. A Mini MagLite is something you carry. The Solitaire is a backup that you forget is there until you need it.
Two cells or three
The 3D is longer than the 2D and gives you more output, more reach and more runtime in return. If the torch will mostly sit in a cupboard or a vehicle, take the 3D. If you will carry it on a walk around the property or keep it beside the bed, the 2D is easier to handle.
L or LX
The ML300L has the classic MagLite finish. The ML300LX has a matte finish and a more aggressive knurled grip, which is easier to hold with wet or gloved hands. Both offer the same modes and function sets.
Function sets
The ML300 torches have four activity-based function sets, so you can choose the combination of modes that suits how you use the torch. Eco mode is the one to remember for blackouts, since it stretches a set of batteries over many nights.
The 5 best MagLite torches
1. MagLite ML300LX 2D-Cell LED Torch
The best balance of size and performance in the range. It is 232 mm long, so it stores easily, and the matte, knurled body gives a secure grip. The beam adjusts from spot to flood with less than a quarter turn of the head.
- 487 lumens, 323 metre beam
- Runs on 2 x D-cell batteries (not included)
- Eco mode for up to 260 hours of light
- Matte finish with knurled grip, 232 mm long, IPX4 water resistance
2. MagLite ML300L 3D-Cell LED Torch
The classic full-size MagLite, with the longest beam here and the longest runtime. It is the one to keep in the shed, the ute or the emergency kit, where size does not matter and endurance does.
- 746 lumens, 403 metre beam
- Runs on 3 x D-cell batteries (not included)
- Eco mode for up to 298 hours of light
- Spot to flood with less than a quarter turn, IPX4 water resistance
3. Mini MagLite 2AA Pro LED Torch
The Mini MagLite with a modern LED light engine. It comes with batteries and a nylon pouch, and it is small enough for a glove box, a tackle box or a camping kit.
- 332 lumens, 172 metre beam
- 2 x AA batteries and nylon pouch included
- Twist the head to switch on and focus
- About 168 mm long and 118 g with batteries
4. Mini MagLite 2AAA LED Torch
A penlight-sized torch for a shirt pocket or toolbox. It is light, simple and comes in a hardshell gift box, which makes it an easy present.
- 84 lumens, 116 metre beam
- 2 x AAA batteries included, up to 5 hours 45 minutes
- Removable stainless steel pocket clip
- 127 mm long, 49 g with batteries
5. MagLite Solitaire LED Keychain Torch
The keychain MagLite. It is no searchlight, but it is always with you, and it is enough to find a keyhole, read a label or light the path to the door.
- 37 lumens, 55 metre beam
- 1 x AAA battery included, up to 1 hour 45 minutes
- Twist focus from spot to flood
- 81 mm long, 24 g with battery
Accessories worth adding
- MagLite traffic wand: turns a D-cell MagLite into a red signalling baton.
- LED upgrade lamps: bring an older incandescent MagLite up to 320 lumens. See the full list by cell size in our MagLite brand guide.
More from MagLite
- All MagLite torches and accessories
- Security torches
- AA and AAA torches
- Pocket torches
- Keyring lights
- Traffic wands
Related reading: Discover MagLite: The Classic American Torch and Its LED Upgrades and how to choose a tactical torch.
FAQ
Which MagLite is the brightest?
Of the five here, the ML300L 3D at 746 lumens. It also has the longest beam at 403 metres.
What batteries does a MagLite take?
The ML300 torches take D cells, the Mini MagLite takes AA or AAA depending on the model, and the Solitaire takes one AAA. None of them needs a charger.
How long does a MagLite last on one set of batteries?
It depends on the mode. In Eco mode the ML300LX 2D runs for up to 260 hours and the ML300L 3D for up to 298 hours. The Mini MagLite 2AAA runs for up to 5 hours 45 minutes and the Solitaire for up to 1 hour 45 minutes.
What warranty does MagLite offer?
Mag Instrument give a ten year limited warranty on their torches. It does not cover flat or leaking batteries, so remove the batteries from a torch you will not use for a long time. Details are on the MagLite official website.
The short version
Buy the ML300LX 2D for the house or car, the ML300L 3D for maximum reach and runtime, the Mini MagLite 2AA Pro for the glove box, the 2AAA for a pocket and the Solitaire for your keys.
