May 8th 2025

Green Laser, UV, and Floodlight: What’s the Difference? A Clear Guide to 3 Lighting Modes

When shopping for a tactical flashlight or EDC light, you’ll often come across terms like green laser, UV light, and floodlight. Each lighting mode has its own specific use case. In this guide, we’ll explain how each mode works and when you should use it.

Green Laser – Precision Pointing

Green lasers are much more visible to the human eye than red lasers, especially in daylight. This makes them a popular choice for targeting and aiming devices.

Advantages:

  • Visible in both low-light and daylight environments

  • Ideal for long-distance targeting

  • Common in weapon lights and tactical gear

Best for: Target acquisition, tactical aiming, and signaling.

UV Light – Invisible Utility

Ultraviolet (UV) light emits wavelengths invisible to the naked eye, but useful for revealing hidden materials or markings.

Uses:

  • Detecting counterfeit currency

  • Identifying pet stains, fluid leaks, or biological residues

  • Forensics, mechanical inspections, and cleanliness checks

Best for: Inspection, authentication, and investigation tasks.

Floodlight – Wide Area Illumination

Floodlights project a broad beam that covers a large area evenly. Unlike focused beams, they are meant to maximize visibility across a space rather than distance.

Benefits:

  • Brightens large areas with soft, wide light

  • Great for outdoor activities, workstations, or emergency situations

  • Often included in EDC (everyday carry) tools

Best for: Area lighting, night walks, repairs, and general outdoor use.

Why All Three Matter

Some high-end tactical tools, such as the Olight Arkfeld Ultra, combine all three modes—green laser, UV, and floodlight—in one compact device. This gives users flexibility for multiple tasks without needing multiple tools.

Final Thought:
Whether you're navigating a trail, identifying leaks, or aiming with precision, understanding these lighting modes helps you choose the right gear. Browse multi-mode flashlights and tactical tools today at ShootersGate.com.