Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Up for review today is another essential part of a prepared person’s kit – the best EDC Flashlight. Whether looking under your car for a dropped item or going into a dark closet to fetch something – it doesn’t have to be dark outside to want a “torch” by your side.
The problem I find is that far too many flashlights are cumbersome and don’t make a good pocket carry item – until now.
I came across the Streamlight Microstream USB flashlight about a year ago. I’ve carried it all over the country from New York to Portland and down to Los Angeles. With a year of banging this flashlight around, dropping it, and putting it to good use . . . this is the Best EDC Flashlight to date.
Let’s talk about why that is:
THE PRODUCT
As already stated, the Microstream USB is made by Streamlight, which is one of the front runners in handheld illumination for US consumers. Streamlight’s HQ is in PA, but most of their products are assembled overseas.
You can purchase Streamlight products at Cabelas, REI, many other sporting goods stores. They offer everything from key chain flashlights to police and military grade weapon flashlights.
The Microstream USB however, is made for the prepared individual – you and me 😊
COST
Under $35 – that’s right . . .
For under $35, I’ve been able to have a compact, durable, very bright, (given it’s compact size), EDC flashlight.
The ultra-compact MicroStream USB features a tail cap switch, momentary or constant on operation, high and low beams, a combination pocket/hat clip for convenience, and amazing brightness and run time for a light of its size.
SPECIFICATIONS – Best EDC Flashlight:
There are two, yep – two versions of the Microstream USB . . . one in coyote tan, and one in black. The difference? The microstream has two output settings – high and low. On the coyote version, the first click is high output, the rapid double click of the end cap switches to low output. The black color is reversed – low output first, followed by high output on a rapid double click.
For me – I prefer the high output first, so I purchased the coyote version, and that’s the one we’re technically reviewing today.
Ultra-compact, this personal light, which fits in the palm of your hand or comfortably in your pocket, provides unparalleled performance for its size. Here’s a detailed list of features that make this little guy the best EDC flashlight:
- High and low modes (double bump the tail switch to change modes):
- High: 250 lumens; 68m beam; runs 1.5 hours
- Low: 50 lumens; 31m beam; runs 3.5 hours
- Lithium-ion battery charges in-product in 4 hours
- Multi-function push-button tail switch with charge indicator:
- Red – charging / Green – fully charged
- Durable, anodized machined aluminum construction; scratch-resistant polycarbonate lens
- Metal sleeve protects charge port; slide sleeve forward to reveal charge port
- Removable pocket clip also clips onto brim of hat for hands free use
- IPX4 water-resistant; 1m impact resistance tested
- Includes USB cord and high-strength lanyard
- Ultra-compact design fits in the palm of your hand, comfortably fits in your pocket
- 3.87″ (98.2 mm); 1.2 oz (34.1g)
- Charges with Streamlight’s EPU-5200™ portable USB charger #22600 (sold separately)
- Limited lifetime warranty
Impressions & Performance – Best EDC Flashlight
As is standard for most flashlights of this size, the Microstream USB comes in bubble packaging. I noticed right away, it feels so light weight! Honestly, given it’s compact size and lack of any weight, I forget it’s in my pocket sometimes, and it takes a trip through the laundry cycle.
No worries though – even with an IPX4 rating, and through high heat dryer cycles, I’ve never had a problem with this light failing to ignite.
I was surprised by how bright the 250 lumens is at reasonable distances in the dark, (30 yards or so).
What I really like besides the fact that I have such a functional, durable light for under $35.00, is that Streamlight offers replacement lithium-ion batteries for back up. They’re cheap too.
Areas of Improvement
I’ve tried to come up with improvements to this flashlight. The only thing I might add in the package a couple more rubber end cap button covers. After 11 months of rigorous use, the rubber button cover cracked. Luckily, I had ordered a backup, and changed it out in seconds.
Honestly though, to win the best EDC flashlight title, the microstream USB is pretty tough, and I want to make sure that’s understood.
Streamlight’s customer service is awesome by the way.
Wrapping Up
Who should have one of these lights? Everyone in your household that’s old enough to properly use a flashlight. Honestly, I have kids and am trying to get them used to carrying essential items with them all the time. Again, everyone in your household should have one of these. The Streamlight Microstream USB is one of the most all around awesome and best EDC flashlights.
Tap the link below to get yours, and have it on your doorstep in as little as 2 days.
The ultra-compact MicroStream USB features a tail cap switch, momentary or constant on operation, high and low beams, a combination pocket/hat clip for convenience, and amazing brightness and run time for a light of its size.
As always, let us know if you’ve had experience with this light, what it’s done for you – or if you have a different and best EDC flashlight of your own.
We love to hear from the readers,
Stay Safe – Stay Positive,
- Chris
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Streamlight Microstream USB
Under $35
Pros
- Rugged
- Compact
- High Lumen Output vs. Size
- Awesome price point
Cons
- Not at this point
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