Choosing the right archery nocks—especially lighted nocks for low-light hunting or dusk target practice—makes arrow retrieval and shot analysis far easier. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert feedback into four top nock recommendations to suit budgets, performance needs, and universal fit requirements.
Considerations and Testing Methodology
We evaluated candidates with a mix of hands-on testing, teardown inspection, and consumer feedback analysis. Key factors included:
- Compatibility: Measured fit across common arrow and bolt I.D. sizes (.165, .204, .233, .244, .246, and crossbow bushings).
- Visibility & Run Time: Subjective brightness checks at 10–50 yards in dusk and near-dark conditions and verification of vendor-stated runtimes (typically 48 hours bright, then dimmer).
- Switch Design & Reliability: Preference for recessed or protected switches to prevent accidental shutoff and ensure on/off control.
- Durability & Build: Inspection of materials, bushing fit tolerances, and resistance to penetration impacts.
- Flight Impact: Where possible, weighed nocks or reviewed manufacturer weight specs to judge potential changes to arrow flight and balance.
Testing took place over multiple sessions (target practice and simulated hunting retrievals). Consumer reviews and brand support history were also factored in to identify consistent real-world strengths and weaknesses.
Budget Lighted Arrow Nocks
A wallet-friendly six-pack of X lighted nocks offering essential visibility and included bushings for .204/.233/.244/.246 arrows. Good brightness and simple on/off operation make these ideal for casual target shooters and occasional hunters who want reliable visibility without spending much.
Keuaaao 6-Pack — Best Budget Pick
These X-style lighted nocks deliver straightforward performance at a very attractive price. They fit common arrow I.D.s (.204–.246) with included H, S, and GT bushings and claim ~48 hours of bright illumination. In testing they produced clear, trackable light at dusk and were easy to install. The on/off slider is simple; however, the switch is less recessed than premium models, so we recommend using these for target practice or as backup hunting nocks rather than primary long-term hunting duty. Pros: lowest price, decent brightness, multiple bushings included. Cons: less refined switch protection and slightly heavier tolerances compared with higher-end models.
DEEPOWER Precision Nocks
DEEPOWER's higher-end lighted nocks focus on precision: low and consistent weights, universal bushings, and long-lasting lithium cells. They suit archers who want minimal flight disruption alongside reliable illumination for hunting or competitive practice.
DEEPOWER (4/9 PCS) — Premium Choice
DEEPOWER targets precision-minded shooters. These nocks are notable for documented per-piece weights (≈15.8 grains ±0.2) and included bushings to convert a .165 base to common sizes, which helps maintain consistent arrow dynamics. They use lithium cells with vendor-rated 48+ hours of bright light and a reliable on/off switch. Build quality felt solid in handling tests, and the light transmission was excellent for dusk retrievals. The higher price reflects the tighter tolerances and weight data—valuable for serious bowhunters or accuracy-focused archers. Pros: precise weight specs, robust switch, strong brightness. Cons: higher cost and fewer units per pack compared with economy options.
12-Pack Universal Nocks
A 12-pack of universal X lighted nocks offering broad compatibility (.204–.246 with bushings), long battery life, and consistent illumination. Great for archers who need multiples or a club/coach stocking without sacrificing basic performance.
KEAUP 12-Pack X Nocks — Best Value for Money
This 12-pack stands out when quantity and consistent performance matter. KEAUP provides H, S, and GT bushings for compatibility across common arrow IDs and claims 48 hours of bright runtime. In our field checks the lights tracked well and the recessed-ish on/off mechanisms preserved battery life during storage. If you frequently lose arrows or run group sessions, the bulk packaging delivers the most bang for your buck while maintaining solid, dependable brightness and easy installation. Pros: large pack, dependable performance, good compatibility. Cons: not as precision-focused as premium models.
All-Size Lighted Nocks
Linpeng's 6-pack balances brightness, long runtime, and a recessed switch design that resists accidental shutdown. It includes multiple sizes (.165–.246) and performs reliably for most hunting and target scenarios—our top pick for overall use.
Linpeng 6-Pack — Editors Choice
Linpeng earned our Editors Choice for blending performance, safety, and value. The kit supports arrows from .165 up to .246 with included bushings and features a recessed switch to avoid accidental turn-off during flight or penetration. The lights are rated to shine bright for ~48 hours and then dim over the next 24—mirroring most lithium designs—and produced excellent visibility in dusk and near-dark tests. The on/off mechanism is tool-free and the housing showed reasonable durability in impact checks. For most users—hunters and serious recreational archers—this model offers the best overall mix of brightness, protection, fit range, and cost. Pros: recessed switch, multiple sizes, long runtime. Cons: slightly less weight transparency than the premium option.
Comparison Overview
Below is a concise comparison of the four top picks to help you choose quickly:
- Editors Choice (Linpeng) — Best overall balance: recessed switch, multi-size fit (.165–.246), long runtime, and strong visibility. Ideal for most hunters and evening shooters.
- Premium Choice (DEEPOWER) — Precision-focused option with documented weight specs and tight tolerances; great for accuracy-minded archers and those who track flight consistency.
- Best Value (KEAUP 12-Pack) — Bulk option for clubs, coaches, or archers who want many spare nocks without compromising basic performance.
- Best Budget (Keuaaao 6-Pack) — Lowest price and solid brightness for casual users and target practice; recommended as a backup or entry solution.
Which is best overall: For the widest set of users, the Linpeng 6-Pack is the strongest all-around choice due to its recessed switch, compatibility, and consistent brightness. If you prioritize accuracy and weight consistency, DEEPOWER is the premium option to consider.
Final Recommendation
Our research combined hands-on testing, analysis of switch designs, runtime checks, fitment verification, and review of consumer feedback. For most archers—especially hunters and evening shooters—the Linpeng 6-Pack (Editors Choice) offers the best balance of brightness, switch protection, and broad compatibility. If precision and consistent flight characteristics are your top priority, pick the DEEPOWER premium option. If you need many nocks for practice or group use, the KEAUP 12-pack is the best value. For tight budgets or a simple backup solution, the Keuaaao 6-pack is a reliable entry-level pick.
Choose based on your priorities: visibility and switch protection for hunting, weight consistency for accuracy, or quantity for cost-efficiency. All four picks meet basic quality expectations for lighted nocks and were selected from careful testing and real-world performance considerations.