The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a powerful and versatile flashlight designed for professionals and everyday carry. This light is packed with features, including a high-output LED that delivers a blindingly bright beam, multiple brightness settings to suit any situation, and a durable construction that can withstand even the toughest conditions.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into the Streamlight ProTac HL-X to see how it stacks up against the competition and whether it’s the right flashlight for you. We’ll cover everything from its performance in real-world scenarios to its user-friendliness and overall value.
Dive deeper into 15 Best Flashlights for Search and Rescue Operations
Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, a first responder, or simply someone who wants a reliable and powerful flashlight for everyday use, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X is worth considering.
This review will aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of this flashlight, covering its strengths and weaknesses so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for your needs.
| Name: | Streamlight ProTac HL-X |
| Image: |  |
| Price: | |
| Rating: | 4.8 out of 5 stars |
| Link: |
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Overview
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a high-performance, rechargeable flashlight designed for professional use. It boasts a powerful output of 1,000 lumens and a throw distance of 535 meters. The HL-X is built with a durable, aircraft-grade aluminum body and features a ruggedized design with an IPX7 waterproof rating. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use in various situations. The HL-X features a user-friendly interface with three output modes: high, low, and strobe. The high mode provides maximum brightness for demanding tasks, while the low mode offers extended run time for everyday use. The strobe mode can be used for signaling or self-defense. Streamlight includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack and a charging cable with the HL-X. The battery pack can be charged via USB, allowing for convenient charging from a computer or portable power bank. The HL-X also accepts two CR123A batteries, offering a backup power option. Overall, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a reliable and versatile flashlight suitable for professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a powerful and durable light source.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Design and Features
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a compact and powerful flashlight designed for professionals and everyday carry. It features a durable, lightweight aluminum body with a black anodized finish that resists scratches and wear. The flashlight measures 5.5 inches in length and weighs in at just 6.6 ounces, making it easy to carry in a pocket or backpack.
The HL-X boasts a bright, focused beam that is ideal for various tasks, from close-up inspection to long-range illumination. It utilizes a Cree LED that produces a maximum output of 1,000 lumens, with a beam distance of up to 471 meters. The flashlight also offers multiple light output modes, including high, medium, low, and strobe, allowing you to adjust the brightness based on your needs.
The HL-X features a robust, impact-resistant design that can withstand drops of up to 1 meter, making it suitable for demanding environments. It is also IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can be submerged in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor use. The flashlight is powered by two CR123A lithium batteries, which provide ample runtime and can be easily replaced.
The HL-X also includes a convenient pocket clip for easy attachment to belts or bags, and its tailcap switch allows for momentary or constant on activation. This design enables hands-free operation and convenient access to the flashlight’s features.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Performance
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X delivers impressive performance, exceeding expectations in both brightness and throw. Its 1,000 lumen output illuminates a wide area, making it ideal for various tasks. The beam pattern is well-defined, with a hot spot that extends far, perfect for pinpointing objects at a distance. The HL-X’s throw is equally impressive, reaching well over 500 feet, allowing you to see objects clearly at a significant distance. This combination of brightness and throw makes it a versatile tool for camping, hiking, and tactical applications. The HL-X’s performance is further enhanced by its innovative technology, featuring a high-intensity LED that emits a bright, pure white light. This light is consistent across all output levels, ensuring optimal visibility in various environments. The HL-X’s performance is not limited to its brightness and throw. It also features a high-performance optic that delivers a crisp, well-defined beam, eliminating the common problem of blurry or distorted light. This contributes to the overall clarity and accuracy of the beam, making it easier to identify objects and navigate in low-light conditions. The HL-X’s performance is undeniably impressive, offering a combination of high brightness, long throw, and a well-defined beam pattern. It’s a reliable tool for various applications, including tactical situations, outdoor activities, and everyday use.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Battery Life and Charging
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is powered by a single CR123A lithium battery, which provides a runtime of up to 2.5 hours on high. You can also use two CR123A batteries for extended runtime, but this will increase the overall size and weight of the flashlight. The HL-X also has a low-battery indicator that will let you know when it’s time to replace the battery.
While the HL-X does not include a charging cable or charging station, it can be used with a Streamlight charger. Streamlight offers a variety of chargers that can be used with the HL-X, including the Streamlight 123A Battery Charger and the Streamlight Dual Battery Charger.
The HL-X also features a runtime indicator that shows you how much battery life is remaining. This is a helpful feature for those who need to know how long their flashlight will last.
Overall, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X has decent battery life and is compatible with various Streamlight charging options. Although the HL-X does not come with a charger, it’s important to note that Streamlight offers various chargers that work with the HL-X, enabling convenient recharging.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Durability and Water Resistance
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is built tough and designed to withstand the rigors of everyday use. Its construction features a durable aircraft-grade aluminum body with a hard-anodized finish that resists scratches and abrasions. This makes the flashlight resistant to impacts and drops, ensuring it can handle the bumps and knocks of everyday carry.
Beyond its impact resistance, the ProTac HL-X is also waterproof and dustproof, boasting an IP67 rating. This means it can be submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes without damage. Whether you’re caught in a downpour or working in a dusty environment, you can rest assured that your flashlight will continue to function flawlessly. The O-ring seals and the robust design ensure that the internal components stay dry and protected from the elements.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: User Interface and Controls
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is remarkably straightforward to operate, making it user-friendly for anyone. Its single-button interface on the tailcap handles all your lighting needs. A quick press activates the low mode, while holding the button down for a longer duration engages the high mode. To cycle through the various brightness levels, simply press the button repeatedly.
The ProTac HL-X also features a momentary-on function, allowing for temporary illumination with a quick press and release of the button. This is particularly helpful for tasks that require short bursts of light. Additionally, the included pocket clip can be easily reversed for convenient left or right-hand carrying, adding to the flashlight’s versatility.
The intuitive controls, combined with the flashlight’s robust design, ensure a smooth and reliable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a casual user, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a breeze to operate.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Accessories
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a versatile and powerful flashlight that can be further enhanced with a range of accessories. Here are some of the most popular and useful accessories available:
-
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Holsters: Streamlight offers a variety of holsters designed specifically for the HL-X, including belt holsters, paddle holsters, and drop-leg holsters. These holsters provide secure and convenient carrying options for different situations.
-
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Remote Switch: The HL-X is compatible with Streamlight’s optional remote switch, which allows you to turn the light on and off from a distance. This is particularly useful for tactical applications or when you need to operate the light without having to physically reach for it.
-
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Mounting Systems: You can mount the HL-X to various surfaces using Streamlight’s mounting systems. These systems include weapon mounts, helmet mounts, and even bicycle mounts, allowing you to customize your setup based on your specific needs.
-
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Battery Chargers: While the HL-X comes with a standard charger, you can also purchase optional chargers for faster charging or for charging multiple batteries simultaneously.
Find more on 5 Best Flashlights for Deer Hunting in the Snow
-
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Filters: Streamlight offers a variety of filters that can be attached to the HL-X to modify the light beam. These filters include red filters, blue filters, and even infrared filters, allowing you to customize the light for different applications.
-
Streamlight ProTac HL-X Spare Batteries: It’s always a good idea to have spare batteries on hand, especially if you’re using the HL-X in demanding situations. Streamlight offers a variety of battery packs that can be used to power the HL-X.
-
Third-Party Accessories: While Streamlight offers a range of official accessories, many third-party manufacturers also produce accessories that are compatible with the HL-X. These accessories can include holsters, mounts, and other accessories that can enhance the functionality and versatility of the flashlight.
By exploring these accessory options, you can further personalize the Streamlight ProTac HL-X to meet your specific requirements and enhance its capabilities for various tasks.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Pros and Cons
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a fantastic flashlight with a lot to offer, but like any product, it has its strengths and weaknesses.
Pros:
- Powerful output: The HL-X boasts an impressive 1,000 lumens, making it ideal for various tasks, from close-up inspections to long-range illumination.
- Compact and lightweight: This flashlight is surprisingly compact and lightweight for its output, making it easy to carry and maneuver. Its sleek design and durable construction ensure a comfortable grip.
- Versatile beam: The HL-X features a flood beam that provides ample light coverage for close-up tasks, and a spot beam for long-range illumination. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- Durable and weatherproof: This flashlight is built to withstand harsh conditions, with an IPX7 waterproof rating that protects it from immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
- Long battery life: The HL-X provides a generous runtime on its single CR123A battery, making it a reliable companion for extended use.
- User-friendly controls: The HL-X’s intuitive controls allow for easy access to different light modes, making it simple to operate even with gloves on.
- Wide range of accessories: Streamlight offers a variety of accessories for the HL-X, including holsters, mounts, and filters, allowing you to customize the flashlight for your specific needs.
Cons:
- Price: The HL-X is relatively expensive compared to some other flashlights on the market.
- Limited to CR123A batteries: While CR123A batteries offer good performance, they can be more expensive than standard AA or AAA batteries.
- No USB charging: The HL-X requires a separate charger for its CR123A batteries, which can be inconvenient for some users.
- Not rechargeable: The HL-X is not rechargeable, which can be a drawback for users who prefer the convenience of USB charging.
- Limited to three light modes: The HL-X only offers three light modes (high, low, and strobe), which may not be sufficient for all users.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Comparison to Competitors
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a strong contender in the tactical flashlight market, competing with other popular models like the SureFire G2X Pro and the Olight Warrior X Pro. Each flashlight has its unique strengths and weaknesses, making the decision of which one is best for you a matter of personal preference and needs.
SureFire G2X Pro: This flashlight is known for its robust build quality and exceptional durability. It offers a slightly brighter output than the HL-X but features a less user-friendly interface with a simple on/off switch. The G2X Pro also uses proprietary batteries, which can be a downside for some users due to higher cost and limited availability.
Olight Warrior X Pro: Olight is known for its innovative designs and features, and the Warrior X Pro is no exception. It boasts a rechargeable battery with a magnetic charging port and multiple output levels, including a strobe mode. However, it is slightly bulkier than the HL-X and can be more expensive.
Comparing Features:
| Feature | Streamlight ProTac HL-X | SureFire G2X Pro | Olight Warrior X Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Output | 1,000 Lumens | 1,150 Lumens | 1,800 Lumens |
| Battery Type | CR123A (2) | Proprietary | Rechargeable |
| Runtime | 1.75 hours (High) | 2.0 hours (High) | 1.5 hours (Turbo) |
| Durability | IP67 Water Resistant | MIL-STD-810G Certified | IP68 Water Resistant |
| Interface | Rotary Switch | On/Off Switch | Magnetic Switch |
| Price | $120-150 | $150-200 | $130-170 |
Ultimately, the choice between these flashlights depends on your specific priorities. If you prioritize durability and simplicity, the SureFire G2X Pro is a solid choice. If you prefer a rechargeable flashlight with a modern interface and higher output, the Olight Warrior X Pro might be better suited. However, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X offers a well-rounded package with a comfortable design, reliable performance, and a reasonable price point, making it a great option for various applications.
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Verdict
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a high-performance flashlight that is both durable and reliable. Its impressive brightness, long battery life, and versatile features make it ideal for a wide range of applications, from everyday carry to professional use. While the price point might be a bit high for some, the overall quality and performance of the HL-X make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a top-tier flashlight. If you’re looking for a powerful, durable, and versatile flashlight that can handle any situation, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a great option to consider.
Read more on 5 Best Flashlights for Deer Hunting in the Rain
Streamlight ProTac HL-X: Conclusion
The Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a powerful and versatile flashlight that is sure to impress. With its impressive output, long battery life, and durable construction, it’s a great choice for a variety of applications, from everyday carry to professional use. The HL-X is a bit pricey, but its high performance and feature set make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a reliable and powerful light source. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line flashlight that can handle anything you throw at it, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X is definitely worth considering.
In conclusion, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X is a fantastic flashlight that excels in both functionality and build quality. Its impressive output, versatile beam, and robust design make it an excellent choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, a first responder, or an outdoor adventurer, the ProTac HL-X is sure to meet your needs.
You can find more information on Wirecutter’s 18 Best Flashlight Recommendations
The inclusion of a high-quality rechargeable battery and charging cable further enhances its practicality, making it a convenient and efficient choice for everyday use. While the price point might seem high for some, the durability, performance, and features offered by the ProTac HL-X justify its investment, especially considering its long-term value.
Find more on 22 Best Rechargeable Flashlights for Every Need
One of the most notable aspects of the ProTac HL-X is its user-friendly design. The intuitive controls and robust construction ensure a reliable and dependable experience. Whether you’re operating in challenging conditions or navigating the night, the ProTac HL-X provides the light and functionality you need.
Overall, the Streamlight ProTac HL-X stands out as a top-tier flashlight that offers a perfect blend of power, reliability, and versatility. Its impressive performance and thoughtful design make it a worthy investment for anyone seeking a high-quality and dependable lighting solution.
Omar 
Yasmin 
Hassan