I’ve been using Streamlight flashlights since 1986, when I was with the Reynoldsburg, Ohio, Police Department. My first was a friend’s rechargeable Streamlight SL-20 halogen flashlight that completely changed my third-shift patrol duties. The difference was like night and day. There’s no question that Streamlight is my favorite manufacturer of flashlights from weapon lights to utility lights.
In the nearly four decades since, Streamlight continues to lead the industry in durability and brightness, offering models suited for duty, defense or everyday carry. Over the years, I’ve reviewed many models, from compact pocket lights to rugged duty gear. Their quality, innovation and reliability remain second to none.
Below are ten of the best Streamlight flashlights available today, based on my real-world testing and decades of experience.
(1) SL-20L
The SL-20L is a modern upgrade of the original SL-20 I carried in the 1980s. With a full-sized body made of aircraft-grade aluminum and three light settings, including strobe, the Streamlight SL-20L can do a little bit of everything.
Best for: Duty carry or general utility
Length: 13.1 inches | Weight: 1 pound, 11.2 ounces
Max output: 425 lumens | Max beam: 529 meters | Run time on low: 20 hours
Approx. price: $168
(2) Stinger 2020 and Stinger 2020 S
Introduced in 1994, the Stinger series of Streamlight flashlights has grown to include 15 variations. My preferred lights from that line are the Stinger 2020 and, new for 2025, the Stinger 2020S. The 2020S offers a new lithium-ion battery back and piggyback charging while eliminating the secondary tailcap switch.
The biggest advantage to the 2020 and 2020S is their anti-roll body design. With their rectangular grips and intuitive mode low-medium-high selector, these flashlights offer the operator ultimate lighting control.
Best for: Vehicle or general utility
Length: 7.67 inches | Weight: 12.3 ounces
Max output: 2,000 lumens | Max beam: 315 meters | Run time on low: 24 hours
Approx. price: $148
(3) ProTac 2.0 HP
The ProTac 2.0 HP is new for 2025, with the size and functionality ideal for a handheld tactical light. The ProTac 2.0 HP uses Streamlight’s “Ten Tap” programmable switching system to control the light settings via the tailcap switch.
It delivers a staggering 2,000 lumens on high. The sliding collar at the head of the light simplifies charging without the need to remove the battery. Streamlight offers weapon-mounting kits for the ProTac line.
Best for: Pocket carry, tactical use, large property owners
Length: 6.1 inches | Weight: 8.25 ounces
Max output: 2,000 lumens | Max beam distance: 583 meters | Run time on low: 31 hours
Approx. price: $127
(4) Strion 2020
The Streamlight Strion 2020 has a spot on my nightstand as my go-to during the night. This compact and conventionally designed flashlight utilizes the same switch setup as the Stinger with a primary on/off switch at the head and a separate mode selection switch.
The Strion 2020 is one of seven in the Strion lineup, offering just the right balance of power for indoor or outdoor use, plus it has a strobe mode. If I were looking for an all-purpose rechargeable flashlight, this would be my first look.
Best for: All-purpose indoor or outdoor use
Length: 6.33 inches | Weight: 5.7 ounces
Max output: 1,200 lumens | Max beam distance: 335 meters | Run time on low: 12 hours
Approx. price: $195
(5) Sidewinder X
The Sidewinder X isn’t what one would consider a traditional handheld flashlight, but this high-output, right-angle light is extremely practical for both work and emergency situations. With a 185-degree tilting head, flat base and the ability to utilize either AA alkaline or CR123 batteries, this flashlight is exceptionally versatile. Though designed for the military, the Sidewinder adapts easily for civilian use and offers various colored LED lamps.
Best for: Hands-free work lighting
Length: 6.33 inches | Weight: 3.3 to 4.4 ounces depending on battery type
Max output: 275 lumens | Max beam distance: 113 meters | Run time on low: 150+ hours (AA)/100+ hours (CR123)
Approx. price: $198
(6) ProTac HL 5-X
The ProTac HL 5-X is one of Streamlight’s most powerful lights at 3,500 lumens, but this one is heavy. Ideal for large rural areas, this ProTac features the “Ten-Tap” programmable control switch.
The head is anti-roll, and the rubberized grip features a textured pattern. The ProTac HL 5-X is dual-fuel capable, with the ability to switch out the two rechargeable battery packs for for CR123A batteries.
Best for: Outdoor search, rescue or patrol work
Length: 9.53 inches | Weight: 1 pound, 2.4 ounces
Max output: 3,500 lumens | Max beam distance: 452 meters | Run time on low: 11.5 hours
Approx. price: $182
7) Wedge XT Everyday Carry
The Streamlight Wedge XT Everyday Carry light has become my primary EDC flashlight now that I’m retired from law enforcement. Its sleek shape and compact size make it ideal for pocket carry. The main power switch is located on the end of the anodized aluminum body, convenient for one-handed operation.
With two light modes and three color options, this is one of the best compact lights on the market.
Best for: Everyday carry
Length: 4.25 inches | Weight: 2.62 ounces ounces
Max output: 500 lumens | Max beam distance: 87 meters | Run time on low: 11 hours
Approx. price: $84
(8) Microstream Rechargeable Pocket Light
If you are looking for a compact, rechargeable light that mimics a tactical flashlight, the Microstream ist it. It is solidly built, USB rechargeable and easily fits in a pocket or EDC pack, perfect for a wide variety of tasks and easy to keep with you during the day.
Best for: Everyday carry
Length: 3.6 inches | Weight: 1.1 ounces
Max output: 250 lumens | Max beam distance: 68 meters | Run time on low: 3.5 hours
Approx. price: $48
(9) ProTac 90X Right Angle Multi-Fuel Flashlight
The ProTac 90X revives the classic 90-degree flashlight with modern dual-fuel performance and tactical brightness. This compact, high-power flashlight can be affixed to a vest of MOLLE gear, and the angled head makes it handy to grab. Its ability to stand upright also makes it ideal as a utility light, and the shorter length keeps it convenient for pocket carry.
Best for: Tactical use or utility light
Length: 4.39 inches | Weight: 4.4 ounces
Max output: 1,000 lumens | Max beam distance: 171 meters | Run time on low: 21 hours
Approx. price: $70
(10) Megastream HP USP
New for 2025, the Megastream HP is a high-powered flashlight in a compact package. . It features an aircraft grade aluminum body that easily fits in a bag or clipped to your gear. The SL-B34 battery packs can be charged inside or outside of the light.
Best for: Travel or those who need high power in a portable size
Length: 6.61 inches | Weight: 9 ounces
Max output: 1,350 lumens | Max beam distance: 1,114 meters | Run time on low: 15 hours
Approx. price: $231
