Etekcity’s LED camping lanterns, sold as a four-pack with batteries included, are a common sight in car camping setups and emergency kits. They’re not designed to be the brightest or most rugged option, but they offer a straightforward way to add ambient light to a campsite, tent, or home during a power outage without spending much. This review covers what you get, how they perform in practice, and where they fall short compared to other lighting choices.
Each lantern in the four-pack runs on three AA batteries, which are included. The light source is a set of 30 LEDs arranged in a collapsible housing. When collapsed, the lantern is about the size of a soda can; when expanded, the LEDs are exposed and the light spreads out more. There’s a single button on the top that cycles through three modes: high, low, and flashing (or strobe). The build is mostly plastic, with a metal handle that folds down for storage. The lanterns are not waterproof, though they can handle light rain or splashes. They’re also not designed to be dropped from height or crushed in a pack.
In real-world use, these lanterns are best for situations where you need to light a small area for a group. For example, hanging one from a tent loop provides enough light to play cards or eat dinner. Placing one on a picnic table illuminates the immediate area, though it won’t light up a whole campsite. The high mode is noticeably brighter than the low mode, but neither is blinding. The strobe mode is mostly a novelty, though it could be used as a distress signal in an emergency. Because the light is omni-directional when expanded, it doesn’t create harsh shadows. The collapsible design means you can also use it as a focused flashlight by keeping it collapsed and pointing it forward, though the beam is not tight.
Battery life is a key consideration. On high, the lanterns run for about 8-10 hours on fresh alkalines; on low, that extends to around 20-30 hours. That’s decent for a weekend trip, but if you’re camping for a week or using them heavily, you’ll need spare batteries. The included batteries are generic and may not last as long as name-brand ones. Also, because each lantern takes three AAs, replacing batteries for all four means 12 batteries total, which adds up in cost and weight if you’re backpacking. These lanterns are not a good fit for ultralight backpacking; they’re too bulky and heavy for that. They’re better suited for car camping, backyard use, or emergency preparedness.
Compared to a dedicated backpacking headlamp or a high-end lantern like a Black Diamond Moji, the Etekcity lanterns are less efficient and less durable. A headlamp focuses light where you need it and uses fewer batteries, but it doesn’t provide room-filling light. A higher-end lantern might be brighter and more weather-resistant, but it costs significantly more. The Etekcity four-pack makes sense if you want multiple lights for a group or to stash in different places. For a solo camper, one good lantern might be enough, but the four-pack is handy for families or group trips.
Who is this for? It’s suitable for car campers, families, and anyone who wants a set of inexpensive lanterns for emergencies. It’s also fine for kids to use around the yard or in a fort. It’s not suitable for serious backpackers, climbers, or anyone who needs a rugged, waterproof light for extreme conditions. If you need a reliable light for frequent outdoor use in harsh weather, you’ll want to look at more expensive options. But for occasional use, these get the job done.
One limitation is the lack of water resistance. The lanterns have an IPX4 rating at best, meaning they can handle splashes but not submersion. If you’re camping in heavy rain, you’ll need to keep them sheltered. Another trade-off is the plastic construction. The handle feels a bit flimsy, and the collapsing mechanism can be sticky after repeated use. Also, the light quality is cool white, which some people find harsh; it’s not a warm, cozy glow. The strobe mode is annoying and not very useful for most situations.
In terms of value, the four-pack is often priced around $20-$25, which is about $5-$6 per lantern. That’s cheap, but you’re getting what you pay for. If you only need one lantern, you might be better off buying a single, slightly better model. But if you need multiple, this set is convenient. The included batteries are a nice touch, but they’re not high-quality. You’ll likely want to replace them with lithium or rechargeable AAs for better performance in cold weather.
Overall, the Etekcity LED camping lanterns are a practical, budget-friendly option for casual use. They’re not without flaws, but they serve a purpose. If you manage your expectations, they can be a useful addition to your gear.
