Flashlight vs. Torch — What's the Difference?

Flashlights are commonly used in the United States to describe handheld, battery-operated lighting devices that are essential for emergency kits or outdoor activities, utilizing LEDs or incandescent bulbs to produce light. On the other hand, the term "torch" in British English refers to the same device, highlighting a difference primarily in regional terminology. In other regions, particularly in historical or traditional contexts, a torch signifies a stick with a combustible end, which is lit on fire to provide light.

Flashlights are known for their portability, durability, and variety of sizes, ranging from tiny keychain attachments to large, high-intensity models used in security and search operations. Whereas traditional fire torches are not commonly used for everyday tasks in modern times, they remain symbolic in ceremonies and are sometimes still employed for lighting in outdoor settings like campsites.

The technology behind flashlights allows for features like adjustable brightness, strobe lights, and SOS signals, enhancing their utility in various situations from camping to power outages. Conversely, traditional torches offer a more natural and historical ambiance but lack the safety and control provided by modern flashlights, as they can be a fire hazard.

Flashlights often include additional functionalities such as waterproofing, impact resistance, and the ability to recharge via USB. In contrast, a traditional torch is simple in design, requiring just a stick and a combustible material, and does not have adjustable features or durability guarantees.

While flashlights are an essential tool in modern emergency preparedness kits, traditional torches evoke a sense of timelessness and have cultural significance in various festivals and rituals around the world, illustrating how both forms of lighting serve different cultural and practical purposes.