Can Solar Flashlights Be Used Indoors?

20 minutes read

Solar flashlights are designed to harness energy from the sun to power their lights. While they are primarily intended for outdoor use, particularly in areas where access to electricity is limited, they can indirectly be used indoors. After being charged in sunlight during the day, solar flashlights can provide illumination inside a home or structure at night or during times when electric lighting is unavailable. However, they need access to sunlight to recharge, so their indoor use is contingent upon having been charged outdoors or in an area where sunlight is accessible. Once charged, they function like any other flashlight, making them a versatile tool for both outdoor and indoor situations.

Best Solar Flashlights of 2025

1
Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern XTAUTO Lightweight Waterproof Solar USB Rechargeable LED Flashlight Survival Kits for Indoor Outdoor Home Emergency Light Power Outages Hiking Hurricane 4-Pack

Rating is 5 out of 5

Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern XTAUTO Lightweight Waterproof Solar USB Rechargeable LED Flashlight Survival Kits for Indoor Outdoor Home Emergency Light Power Outages Hiking Hurricane 4-Pack

  • 【360° Lighting Coverage】Adopts 6+1 high-intensity LED chips, energy efficient/with wide range of visibility. Doubles as both a lantern & as a flashlight, adjust the brightness by how high up you pull up the lantern, providing tons of light at full open, easily light up an entire room.
  • 【Lightweight & Portable】Collapsible design, as small as a phone when collapsed, easy to carry. With folding handle, can be hang it on tents or tree, free your hands. The extremely lightweight design also fit for young child, everyone can have a reliable light to access when needed.
  • 【Durable & Waterproof】Made of high quality ABS material, ensures a long-time durability and water resistant, heat-resistant, freeze resistant, trouble-free in tough environment. More than 25 hours Long Last Lighting when fully charged, perfect for indoor or outdoor activities.
2
VOETIR Led Solar Flashlight, 1500 Lumens Led Solar Handheld Rechargeable Flashlights with IP65 Waterproof, 2000mAh Battery for Survival Emergencies Camping (2 Packs)

Rating is 4.9 out of 5

VOETIR Led Solar Flashlight, 1500 Lumens Led Solar Handheld Rechargeable Flashlights with IP65 Waterproof, 2000mAh Battery for Survival Emergencies Camping (2 Packs)

  • 1500lm Bright Solar Flashlight-This portable handheld flash light build in high quality led chip, providing up to 1500lm of bright illumination. It also has four modes to adjust, including high, low, sos and side light.
  • Solar charging/fast charging-This solar flashlights can be charged via solar and usb cable (usb cable included), with a 2.56in*1in solar panel, it can charge fast under sunshine, it is good for your outdoor use, there is sunshine, there is a power for the flashlight
  • Durable and waterproof-Made of sturdy ABS+PC material, this flashlight has an IP65 waterproof rating, featureing durability and reliability under various harsh conditions. It can withstand the test of nature and provide reliable performance when you need it most.
3
Emergency Hand Crank Radio with LED Flashlight for Emergency, AM/FM NOAA Portable Weather Radio with 2000mAh Power Bank Phone Charger, USB Charged & Solar Power for Camping, Emergency

Rating is 4.8 out of 5

Emergency Hand Crank Radio with LED Flashlight for Emergency, AM/FM NOAA Portable Weather Radio with 2000mAh Power Bank Phone Charger, USB Charged & Solar Power for Camping, Emergency

  • 【HOME & OUTDOOR NECESSARY】As reported, we used to experience several times natural disasters per year like hurricanes"Harvey", Wildfire, and so on. The emergency weather Radio will keep your family safe through it all. This Weather Radio can timely report emergency weather alerts in your areas to be well prepared; A 2000mAh Built-in Li-ion battery to charge most of the device until power back; A LED flashlight with rugged cover design could light up your darkness.
  • 【2000mAh PHONE CHARGER】When we are trapped in an emergency,This emergency radio with a 2000mAh emergency power bank may be our life-saving tool. The emergency portable radio works with most USB powered devices, which could provide enough emergency power for important calls to your family, the emergency services, or for contacting assistance in emergency situations.
  • 【3-WAY POWER SOURCES】The solar crank radios with multiple power backup options are the best choice in the emergency package. 3 Power Source including Hand Crank, Solar Panel, Built-in Li-ion Rechargeable Battery, to make it easier to keep the emergency radio running during a prolonged situation where power is off and batteries have been used up. Never Power outage!
4
Emergency Crank Weather Radio, 4000mAh Solar Hand Crank Portable AM/FM/NOAA, with 1W 3 Mode Flashlight & Motion Sensor Reading Lamp, Cell Phone Charger, SOS for Home and Emergency Green

Rating is 4.7 out of 5

Emergency Crank Weather Radio, 4000mAh Solar Hand Crank Portable AM/FM/NOAA, with 1W 3 Mode Flashlight & Motion Sensor Reading Lamp, Cell Phone Charger, SOS for Home and Emergency Green

  • ★【 Newest Design MD-090P】Based on MD-090 emergency flashlight radio, we've optimized and upgraded a lot of features. A biggest 4000mAh rechargeable battery can charge more than one smartphone, the most powerful lighting functions include super-bright 3 mode flashlight and motion sensor reading lamp. Also, external antenna, electricity label, comfortable hand crank, tap switch fit all your needs. The MD-090P is the best value for emergency radio in this market.
  • ★【The Most Powerful Life Saver Radio】Nature is unpredictable, but you can be prepared and ready in the face of her fury. The emergency crank radio with weather band and phone charge professionally get weather broadcasts the latest weather and all hazard information for your areas like hurricanes, tornadoes and so on from 7 NOAA stations at a crystal-clear sound. Earns a critical time for you to get full preparation advance, keeping you and your family safe with this emergency weather radio.
  • ★【4 CHARGING MODES】Compared with 2000mah or 1000mah emergency radio on the market, the solar radio has upgraded to 4000mAh rechargeable battery, found in every household and easy to buy in the local market or amazon store. Also, Micro USB charge, Solar charge, Hand-crank could also supply the flashlight radio last for days after the storm had passed until the power back on. No matter what emergency situation you find yourself in, this hand crank light never run out of electricity!
5
E-SHIDAI 2pcs Solar/Rechargeable Multi Function 1000 Lumens LED Flashlight, with Emergency Strobe Light and 1200 Mah Battery, Emergency Power Supply and USB Charging Cable, Fast Charging (2PC)

Rating is 4.6 out of 5

E-SHIDAI 2pcs Solar/Rechargeable Multi Function 1000 Lumens LED Flashlight, with Emergency Strobe Light and 1200 Mah Battery, Emergency Power Supply and USB Charging Cable, Fast Charging (2PC)

  • 【MOST PRACTICAL MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SPOTLIGHT】: Our spotlight is divided into main light and sidelights, with 4 modes respectively. The main light can irradiate 2600ft / 800 meters in high mode for around 10 hours. which can be used as working lights in high or low modes, flashing modes can be used as emergency lights (SOS function).
  • 【LARGE BATTERY CAPACITY & USB OUTPUT FUNCTION】: Durable, up to 1200mah of ultra-high battery capacity, to guarantee long time lighting for you. And with usb output function, which can be used as power bank to provide emergency power for yoursmartphone. In the case of full charge, 8-15 hours of lighting can be provided from time to time depending on the mode of use.
  • 【DIRECT CHARGING】: It supports usb cable (included) and 5v dc charger adapter (not included). It is not compatible with adapters with a voltage higher than 5v. After fully charged, it will automatically turn off the power. The lantern-type flashlight has a built-in protection circuit board.
6
DIBMS 4-Pack Solar Camping Lantern, Collapsible LED Solar USB Rechargeable Lantern Flashlight Emergency Hanging Lights for Camping Hurricanes Power Outages Indoor Outdoor

Rating is 4.5 out of 5

DIBMS 4-Pack Solar Camping Lantern, Collapsible LED Solar USB Rechargeable Lantern Flashlight Emergency Hanging Lights for Camping Hurricanes Power Outages Indoor Outdoor

  • 2 IN 1 Lantern/Flashlight: Collapsible lantern design, adopts 6pcs premium LED chips with 300LM Ultra Bright, adjusting brightness by pull up the lantern, provides 360 degree illumination when unfolded. 1pcs super bright LED for flashlight, bring you brightness in the dark, be safe always.
  • Well-Designed: Constructed by High-quality ABS & PC material—IPX4 waterproof, it can withstand harsh climatic conditions, the lifespan is over 50,000 hours. A must-have LED lantern for emergency purposes, best gift for your loved ones.
  • Compact & Lightweight: Unique stretchable design, 8.02oz lightweight, easily portable in your backpack or emergency kit. It can be used as a table lamp, or hanging it on anyplace with the folding hook. Perfect choice for camping, hurricanes, or daily use.
7
LETMY 4 Pack Camping Lantern, Rechargeable LED Lanterns, Solar Lantern Battery Powered Hurricane Lantern Flashlights with 3 Powered Ways & USB Cable for Emergency, Power Outage, Hurricane Supplies

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

LETMY 4 Pack Camping Lantern, Rechargeable LED Lanterns, Solar Lantern Battery Powered Hurricane Lantern Flashlights with 3 Powered Ways & USB Cable for Emergency, Power Outage, Hurricane Supplies

  • 【Patented 3 Power Sources Design】Solar/USB Rechargeable/AA Battery Powered Lantern. Our camping lantern have 3 ways power supply. With a built-in 18650 battery, you can use the included USB cable or the solar panel or 3x AA battery(AA batteries not included) to power the solar lantern. Never need worry about running out of batteries for your lanterns for power outages.This versatile and durable solar lanterns outdoor waterproof are perfect for all your outdoor adventures
  • 【Ultra Bright & Long Lasting】The powerful upgraded COB LED design of the rechargeable lantern offers 360-degree blazing illumination that far outshines the standard 30 LED camping lanterns. This solar camping lanterns emits 600lumens illumination, which can light up an entire room. Our rechargeable camping lights can deliver up to 12+ hours. Never leave you in sudden darkness.Perfect for any adventure, this camping lantern rechargeable is a must-have for your outdoor gear
  • 【Tough & Water-resistant Lantern Flashlight】Our rechargeable camping lantern is built to withstand outdoor leisure use in all weather; The lanterns for power outages are made of long-lasting military grade ABS body, no glass, shock resistant, heatproof, crashproof and water resistant. Most reliable camping lights for indoor&outdoor activities. CE/FCC/ROHs certified. This LED lantern rechargeable is an essential companion for your outdoor adventures
8
Rumiom Solar/Rechargeable LED Flashlight 2 Pack, 4 Modes Multi Function Flashlights High Lumens with 2000 mAh Battery, Emergency Strobe Light, Waterproof, USB Charging for Home, Emergencies, Camping

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Rumiom Solar/Rechargeable LED Flashlight 2 Pack, 4 Modes Multi Function Flashlights High Lumens with 2000 mAh Battery, Emergency Strobe Light, Waterproof, USB Charging for Home, Emergencies, Camping

  • Flashlight
  • 【Dual Charging Modes】This solar flashlight can be charged via solar power or a USB cable (included). It comes with an upgraded high-efficiency solar panel that allows for fast charging as long as there’s sunlight, giving you flexible power options on the go.
  • 【Waterproof & Durable】With an IP65 waterproof rating, this flashlight is built to withstand rain, snow, and strong winds, making it ideal for outdoor use. The improved impact-resistant, sturdy ABS and plastic materials ensure durability and reliable performance in harsh conditions.
9
Otdair Solar/Rechargeable LED Flashlight, Multi Function Ultra Bright Flashlight, Emergency Strobe Light, USB-C Rechargeable, 5 Modes for Outdoor, Camping, Hiking

Rating is 4.2 out of 5

Otdair Solar/Rechargeable LED Flashlight, Multi Function Ultra Bright Flashlight, Emergency Strobe Light, USB-C Rechargeable, 5 Modes for Outdoor, Camping, Hiking

  • [Multipurpose Flashlight] 500 Lumens (max) ultra bright flashlight can be adjusted bright light to the length of 700 feets. Flashlight is equipped with warning function and a rechargeable battery.
  • [Multi-Mode] Flashlight offers 5 Light Modes,can be also adjustable intensity from high, and low to strobe or S.O.S. Bottom of LED Flashlight have 120DB alarm, 5 vioces protect your safety.Sidelight offers high white lights,low white lights and Red/blue strobe.
  • [Widely Usable] Elaborate design make road side hero flashlight is widely used in many situations.As a flashlight when you camping and hiking. As a light source when you need help.


How to charge a solar flashlight indoors?

Charging a solar flashlight indoors can be a bit challenging, as these devices are designed to be charged using sunlight. However, there are a few methods you can try:

  1. Place Near a Window: Position the solar flashlight near a window that receives a good amount of sunlight during the day. This is one of the simplest methods, though it might take longer to fully charge than being outside.
  2. Use Artificial Lighting: Although less efficient than natural sunlight, some artificial lights, such as LED or incandescent lamps, can be used to charge solar flashlights. Place the flashlight under a strong lamp, ideally one with a spectrum similar to sunlight. This might require extended exposure.
  3. Portable Solar Charger: If the flashlight has a detachable panel or can connect to an external power source, consider using a portable solar charger designed for gadgets. Place this charger under strong indoor light to charge the flashlight indirectly.
  4. LED Grow Lights: Designed to mimic natural sunlight, LED grow lights can provide a suitable spectrum for charging solar devices. Position the flashlight under the grow light for an extended period.
  5. Rechargeable Batteries: Some solar flashlights come with rechargeable batteries that can be removed and charged using a separate battery charger. Check if your flashlight offers this feature and charge the batteries using a plug-in battery charger.


Remember that these methods may not be as effective or fast as charging under direct sunlight, and charging times will vary based on the intensity and spectrum of the light source used.


How to determine if a solar flashlight is fully charged?

Determining if a solar flashlight is fully charged can depend on the model and design of the flashlight, but here are some common methods you can use:

  1. Indicator Light: Many solar flashlights come with an LED indicator. When the flashlight is charging, this light may be red or blinking. It will typically turn green or stop blinking once fully charged.
  2. Charging Instructions: Check the user manual that comes with the flashlight. It often provides specific details about the charging process, including any signals for when the battery is full.
  3. Charge Time: If your flashlight does not have an indicator, refer to the manufacturer's suggested charging time. For example, if it states that a full charge takes 8 hours of direct sunlight, you can estimate it being fully charged after this duration under ideal conditions.
  4. Performance Test: Once you believe the flashlight is fully charged, turn it on. If it functions at full brightness and maintains its output over expected time durations, it's likely fully charged.
  5. Battery Voltage: If you're comfortable with using a multimeter, you could measure the battery's voltage to see if it matches the fully charged voltage specified by the manufacturer in the manual.


These methods can help assess whether your solar flashlight is fully charged, but always consult your specific flashlight's manual for the best guidance.


What is the best way to maintain a solar flashlight?

Maintaining a solar flashlight is crucial for ensuring its long lifespan and efficiency. Here are some tips to help you maintain it properly:

  1. Regular Cleaning: Dust and debris can accumulate on the solar panels, reducing their efficiency. Clean the solar panel with a soft, damp cloth regularly to ensure it can absorb maximum sunlight.
  2. Proper Storage: When not in use, store the solar flashlight in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it in extremely hot areas or in direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as excessive heat can damage the battery and internal components.
  3. Full Charge-Discharge Cycle: Occasionally allow the battery to discharge completely and then fully recharge it. This practice helps in prolonging the life of the rechargeable battery and ensures it maintains its capacity.
  4. Avoid Water Exposure: Most solar flashlights are water-resistant but not waterproof. Avoid submerging the flashlight in water or exposing it to heavy rain to prevent damage to electrical components.
  5. Replace Batteries if Necessary: Over time, rechargeable batteries can lose their ability to hold a charge. If you notice that the flashlight is not lasting as long as it used to, it may be time to replace the batteries.
  6. Inspect for Damage: Regularly check the flashlight for any signs of physical damage. Cracks in the casing or solar panel can impact performance and should be addressed quickly.
  7. Optimal Sun Exposure: Ensure the solar panel gets adequate exposure to direct sunlight. Optimal sunlight exposure is crucial for maintaining a good charge, especially if the flashlight is used frequently.


By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your solar flashlight remains reliable and efficient for years to come.


What are the components of a solar flashlight?

A solar flashlight typically consists of several key components that work together to harness solar energy and produce light. Here are the main components:

  1. Solar Panel: This is a photovoltaic cell that converts solar energy into electrical energy. It is usually located on the exterior of the flashlight and charges the internal battery when exposed to sunlight.
  2. Rechargeable Battery: The battery stores the electrical energy generated by the solar panel. Common types include lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH). The stored energy powers the flashlight when it is turned on.
  3. LED Bulb(s): Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used as the light source. LEDs are highly efficient, consume less power, and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs.
  4. Power Switch: This component allows the user to turn the flashlight on or off.
  5. Circuitry: This includes electronic components that manage the flow of electricity from the solar panel to the battery, and from the battery to the LED. It often involves a charge controller to prevent overcharging the battery.
  6. Housing: The outer casing that encases all of the components to protect them from damage. It is usually made from durable materials like plastic or metal.
  7. Reflector and Lens: The reflector helps focus the light emitted from the LED bulbs, while the lens covers the LED and can influence the light beam's direction and spread.


These components work in tandem to ensure that the flashlight can efficiently convert and store solar energy for use when needed.

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