My Ritter e-Pico lights still work great (on keychain and lanyard). And I got them for just $5 more than that crummy Energizer.

Flashlights/headlamps just aren't something I cheap out on. Amortized over years (I'm still using some lights I bought a decade ago) and emergencies and they are all a bargain.

Latest splurge was a new Petzl Zipka, using an REI 20% off coupon. That light will go with me on every evening dog walk and everywhere else I go - it fits so easily in a purse, pocket, on my wrist. Bright, versatile, long-lasting. I still have Zipkas from when they first came out a decade ago, but decided the new improved was worthwhile.

Cheap is so often not a bargain.