The 10 Best Pen Lights

The Lumintop Medical (about $22) is fully waterproof and can be submerged in alcohol to sterilize it before use. On the lowest setting, it has an output of just 1.5 lumens, making it suitable for pupil exams, and it comes with a silicone diffuser that glows in the dark.

Featuring a polycarbonate globe that produces 360-degree illumination, the Streamlight Stylus Pro (around $20) can be used as a small lantern, and a bell-shaped rubber sleeve on the opposite end allows it to stand upright for convenient hands-free use.

The Risemart Nursing (about $14) pair each have a different bulb. One produces a bright white light for checking the nose, ears, and throat, and the other produces a warm, gentle light for eye exams. The black and silver bodies make it easy to tell them apart.

Unlike most other models, the Bolder by Anker (appx. $17) is rechargeable, and its super-strong anodized aluminum body won't scratch or chip easily. It's IPX5-rated water-resistant, so it shines even in heavy rain, and it works in temperatures as cold as 14 degrees F.

In addition to having a bright LED on the end, the TF TakeFlight Tactical Multitool (around $18) can also be used as a writing utensil, and it has a built-in glass breaker for emergencies. Plus, it's made by a veteran-owned business and comes with a 1-year unlimited warranty.

The Primacare Diagnostic (appx. $14) feature sealed concentric beams with pre-focused pinpoint lenses for examining the eyes, ears, nose, and throat, and the pocket clips double as on/off switches. Keep in mind, though, that the batteries cannot be replaced, so these are disposable.

Perfect for reading, after-dark walks, or just to have around the house in case of a power outage, the EverBrite LED (appx. $25) come in a pack of twelve, so you can keep one in your bag, car, toolkit, and bedside table, or share them with your family or coworkers.

Suitable for a plethora of uses, the Infray High Lumen (about $15) boasts an adjustable beam that you can change from wide to narrow with a simple twist. It has three modes: high, low, and a strobe function that's designed for self-defense, but probably won't be needed by most users.

Made from an aluminum alloy, the CAVN Reusable (about $8) are lightweight, but sturdy, and the metal clips make them easy to attach to the pocket of your scrubs or lab coat. Note, though, that despite having pupil gauges, they use LED bulbs that are too bright to use for eye exams.

Versatile and affordably priced, the SyPen 3-in-1 (appx. $17) can write, light, and function as a stylus for your smartphone or tablet. They come in six vibrant colors with brushed metallic accents, and the rubber tips help keep your gadgets free from smudges and fingerprints.