The present invention provides a compact portable light source capable of providing powerful light as well as effect light and is especially suitable for professional use, i.e. for security, police and military use. The invention relates to a portable torch having a plurality of light emitting diodes and a heat sink, namely a portable torch (1) comprising a case (2) having a first and a second open ends, a first cap (3) covering the first open end and a second cap (4) covering the second open end, said first cap having a transparent area (6), illumination means having a diode area (11) comprising a plurality of light emitting devices (LEDs) arranged to emit light out of the first open end and through the transparent area (6) of the first cap (3), a heat sink (14) arranged to transport heat from the light emitting devices, a power source comprising a battery holder and means (7) for activating said power source operatively associated with said case (2).