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The Best Black Light

Last updated on May 2, 2023

We looked at the top 11 Black Lights and dug through the reviews from 12 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Black Lights.

Best Black Light

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Few things can start an instant party like turning down the normal lights and flipping on a black light. But there are other uses for these unique lights, as well.

Perhaps most famously, black lights can be used to identify stains that may be hidden from the naked eye. You can use a black light to detect urine, mold and traces of other unpleasant substances. If you’re moving into a new place, checking into a hotel room or renting properties, a black light can come in handy.

On a more positive note, black lights are also useful in theater productions and art galleries, as well as at clubs and roller rinks, where they help create a fun atmosphere. If you’re into unique wall art, it’s tough to beat black light posters, which completely change their look when one of these lights is shined on them.

A black light emits a combination of light types. Primarily, you’ll get ultraviolet light, but a very small amount of violet light is also mixed in. Also known as “Wood’s lamp,” for the inventor of glass UV filters, it’s called a black light because that’s how the human eye perceives it. The violet light is mixed in for safety, to alert you to the fact that the light is on.

Our Picks For The Top Black Lights

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Product Overview
Our Take
  1

Kobra Aluminum Battery Powered Black Light

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Kobra

Aluminum Battery Powered Black Light

There is so much you can do with this handy black light that it's a must-have tool for every home. Use it to quickly identify areas of pet urine, spot scorpions in the dark or uncover a counterfeit bill. The flashlight is made using a durable aluminum alloy and features a non-slip handle for maximum control.

Overall Take

Multiple Colors AvailableYou'll find this black light comes in a choice of colors, including green, light blue, red, silver and black.

  Top Pick

ESCO LITE Aluminum Long-Lasting UV Black Light

ESCO LITE

Aluminum Long-Lasting UV Black Light

This UV black light has a wide variety of uses both in and out of the home. It emits UV light at a 390 to 395 nanometer wavelength. The flashlight required three AA batteries to run.

Overall Take

Detects Dog Urine and Bed BugsThis UV flashlight helps you spot bodily fluid stains, insects and scorpions.

  Runner Up

Gohyo Adjustable Ultraviolet Black Light

Gohyo

Adjustable Ultraviolet Black Light

With nine LEDs, you'll get plenty of light output without worrying about flickering. The black light is 27 watts, with 90-volt to 240-volt wide voltage. This light is adjustable by 360 degrees, and you can use the included brackets to install it on the wall or set it up on the floor.

Overall Take

Flexible InstallationA 360-degree range gives you plenty of options when it comes to where you set up this black light.

  We Also Like

YAYIT Indoor Adjustable Black Light Strip

YAYIT

Indoor Adjustable Black Light Strip

Whether you want to create a party atmosphere in your bar or restaurant or add lighting behind your gaming desk, this black light has you covered. It comes in 20 and 40 foot rolls and is a cinch to install. The LED lights are energy efficient and provide 50,000 hours of light before needing to be replaced.

Overall Take

Illuminate Your SpaceThis black light strip comes with a handy power switch to quickly turn the lights on and off.

  Runner Up

Vansky Ultraviolet Compact Black Light

Vansky

Ultraviolet Compact Black Light

Some stains are hard to see without the proper equipment, which is where this black light comes in. It does an excellent job of illuminating pet urine, food stains and even evidence of bed bugs. The flashlight is waterproof, so you can use it both indoors and outdoors.

Overall Take

Affordable Price TagThanks to this black light's budget-friendly price tag, you'll be able to get one for immediate use and one for your emergency kit.

  Strong Contender

Everbeam Shatterproof Easy Install Black Light

Everbeam

Shatterproof Easy Install Black Light

If you're looking to take your party to the next level, this black light has you covered. It's large in size and sets up easily both indoors and outdoors. In fact, the bracket is adjustable, allowing you to shine the light straight out or at an angle of up to 180 degrees.

Overall Take

Strong Aluminum Alloy ConstructionThis black light can be propped up or mounted to a wall.

  Also Great

uvBeast Alkaline Impact Resistant Black Light

uvBeast

Alkaline Impact Resistant Black Light

The powerful UV lights on this black light puts it above other options on the market. The flashlight has been upgraded to provide results in both darkness and ambient light. It's also shock-resistant and made using an aerospace-grade aluminum, so you can count on it lasting a long time.

Overall Take

Long DistanceThis black light has the ability to shine and illuminate your surroundings at a distance of up to 30 feet.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, Simplemost analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
18

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the black lights available to purchase.
11

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

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12

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources.

75,710

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

The Best Bang For Your Buck

ESCO LITE Aluminum Long-Lasting UV Black Light

Our Total Score

9.7

Our Take

This UV black light has a wide variety of uses both in and out of the home. It emits UV light at a 390 to 395 nanometer wavelength. The flashlight required three AA batteries to run.

What to Look For

  • True black light puts a room in total darkness, which is why trace amounts of violet light is mixed in, alerting you to the fact that the black light is turned on.
  • Black lights use UV-A light, which is safer for prolonged exposure than UV-B or UV-C. However, if you’re concerned, limit your use and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
  • There are many types of black lights, including incandescent, fluorescent, LED, lasers and mercury-vapor lamps.
  • Look for a black light that promises a flicker-free design, as a flickering light can be a major drawback of many black lights.
  • Consider how you’ll set up the black light. Some come with mounting brackets to help you set things up, while others are designed to be used on a table or the floor with an included stand. Still others come with self-adhesive for sticking to walls, which may be best for someone who is trying to display a black light poster.
  • If you plan to use your black light outdoors, look for one that’s built to withstand that type of environment. Some are waterproof, while others are simply made to handle various bumps and scrapes.
  • Overheating can be an issue with any type of light fixture. If you plan to use the black light for prolonged periods of time, make sure it has features that help keep it cool.

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