The test procedure

 We considered using a points scoring system to assess our range of lamps, awarding marks for battery life on minimum and maximum settings and maximum lumens output. We also deducted points for recharge time and price (i.e. the lower these amounts, the fewer points were taken off). And we awarded points for having more light settings, a greater reach, a quick method of switching off, a battery indicator and a universal charge lead (micro USB). However, we discovered some categories were subjective and helped to unfairly boost the total points for certain products.

For instance, we found the recommended prices varied too much, with some manufacturers sticking to their recommended retail values, whereas others relied on the cheapest offer on Amazon, so we decided to remove this category from the points table. When it came to awarding the Best Budget Buy, this was an equally tough decision, which was based on features, performance and average price.

Although our points scoring method helped to rank the lamps on test, it couldn’t cater for opinions on how easy each lamp was to use – such as whether it could be easily positioned inside an engine bay or over a brake caliper. So we spent several months using these lamps in various workshops to discover their uses, plus points and niggling faults.

We also cannot cater for the needs of individuals. For instance, we spoke to several mechanics, many of whom seem to prefer a sturdy and reasonably compact lamp with a strong magnetic base. The smallest and lightest lamps we tested didn’t appeal to them, possibly because they feared they would be too fragile and too easy to lose. Such opinions were the opposite to those of most of our editorial team, who prefer a lightweight, compact and slim lamp for transporting and positioning in tight spots.