Cell Choice is important and pretty dependent on the application.

For example if you need to see in the dark then a torch might be required. If you want to see quite a distance in the dark then a high Lumen torch is required with a large high drain cell such as a 26650 Lithium Ion Cell. Flashlights with powers exceeding 10W may allow you to see a few hundred yards and last around 2 hours.

You can take a different approach and use an Image intensifier tube.

An Image intensifier tube may use around 0.2W and a single 26650 Lithium cell would last 100 Hours.

The power requirement is 50 times less. The charging requirement is 50 times less. The size and weight of the flashlight and Intensifier tube may well be similar.

Rechargeable Alkaline Cells could then even be competitive against rechargeable lithium ion cells with their better low self discharge rates of 4% per year compared to 40-60% for the Lithium ion.