If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you know I’m a fan of versatility, durability, and function. I particularity like rechargeable lanterns because they’re handy during loadshedding, can be used outside if you need extra light when having a braai or doing some handy work, and are perfect for camping.
Rechargeable lanterns offer you about 6 to 12 hours of lights and can take from 3 to 6 hours to charge. The solar versions are great for camping because their battery can recharge during the day and give you more hours of light.
How do rechargeable lanterns work?
Most lanterns are equipped with lithium batteries which are recharged either through normal outlet power or via the solar panel which is mounted on top of the lantern. The solar panel contains something called a photovoltaic cell that converts sunlight into electricity. This electricity is stored in the battery.
When there’s no more sunlight the photoreceptor will trigger the rechargeable lantern’s LED light and you then have your precious light.
Do you need to replace the LEDs?
You will need to eventually replace the LEDs but, if you purchase a good quality products you’re looking at between 80,000 and 100,000 hours of operation. That’s pretty great, especially for an emergency or camping light.
How many lumens do you need?
Rechargeable lanterns (especially the solar powered ones) offer a decent amount of light with the good quality options like the first one of my list below, offers about 120 lumens. This is enough for most camping and loadshedding needs both for indoor and outdoor use but, if you’re looking for maximum brightness, consider a work light or LED floodlight instead.
Where to buy rechargeable lanterns online
As many of you know, I have quite a few affiliate links from Futurelight on this website, so if you purchase any of the below products, I’ll get a small commission. It helps me keep this site up and running and brining you more safety and security tips and information.
Product #1: The AC & Solar Rechargeable Lantern
This rechargeable lantern offers 190 lumens, twelve hours of light, and has a recharge time of four hours. This is great if you’re looking for a bright light that you can use indoors and outdoors and has a long operating time. It’s durable and versatile and you can hang it just about anywhere with the overhead hook. I also like the fact that the hook is metal.
Buy the AC & Solar Rechargeable Lantern
Product #2: Solsave My Lamp
This rechargeable lanterns offers you up to eight hours of light on a full charge at 120 lumens. It is light (weighing only .75kgs) and has a hook that is made of plastic. It is a good quality product and you can use it both indoors and outdoors. With 100,000 hours bulb life you don’t have to worry about constantly replacing bulbs.
Buy the Solosave My Lamp
Product #3: The Compact Solar Lantern
This is not as powerful as the first option but you can still use it to read and it does double up as a torch. I do not really recommend this light for camping or outdoor use as much simply because it’s made of plastic. On a full charge this rechargeable lantern will offer you up to six hours of light. I also suggest that you purchase two of these to ensure you have enough light (whether you’re using it indoors or outdoors).
Buy the Compact Solar Lantern
Looking for alternatives to rechargeable lanterns?
A great alternative to rechargeable lanterns is solar LED floodlights as these offer anything from 600 to 2400 lumens and 4 to 12 hours of operation. They will have to be installed in a permanent outdoor location so they’re not the most versatile.
Another alternative are rechargeable bulbs which function as regular bulbs but can offer you a couple of hours of light when the power goes out. They are not solar powered so these are ideal for indoor applications only.
You can also make use of regular torches and flashlights which come in a range of sizes, strengths, and qualities. I personally use a portable rechargeable LED torch as I like the handle, power, and brightness. It’s also great for load shedding, emergencies, and camping.
Please let me know if you try any of the above rechargeable lanterns! Also consider leaving a comment or review below so that you can help other choose the best option or their own needs.