Streamlight Macrostream: I Like It...But! From EDC to the Trails

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

I'll take Streamlight over O'Light anyday

[@Stoney_AKA_James]

@z z Have you tried buying them via Amazon in the U.K.?

[@Gregg0112]

Stream lights are great. I had an olight that wasn’t cheap for what it was and it was junk.

[@Jihadbearzwithgunz]

Same. I've had a couple olights they are good lights but streamlight is the light for me.

[@CanItAlready]

@@Gregg0112 Junk in what way?

[@coultin]

Same… Olight are cheaply built.

[@rahmanahashem3484]

For tactical use you want the high mode first! If someone is attacking you at night and you need to blind them do you really want to be screwing around with the two-tap? If you want the low mode it is always going to be lower priority. My only complaint is that you cant get the Microstream in black with that mode (only the brown is high-low). They probably realized their mistake which is why this one is reverse.

[@outerlimitless]

I would venture to guess 99.99% of people using this flashlight are not looking to blind an assailant. But I but 99.99% of them need to find their keys under the couch...

[@Bob-I-am]

@@outerlimitless Exactly.

[@redred333]

@@outerlimitless yeah, but that one time you might need it it should be on high as the stakes will also be high. If you're looking for your keys or whatever the other 99% of the time then you can spare the time to switch the modes

[@duvalpenny100]

If I'm going to get assaulted, I'm not going to shine a flashlight in the dude's face lmao. I'd much rather pull my gun out.

[@jklop7841]

I agree. I want the light to be super bright just in case and if I need to look for my keys under the couch I don’t mind taking the extra time to tap it into low mode. I don’t need to hurry and find my keys because I’m not in danger. If I am in danger I sure do need the first thing to come up to be bright. I carry this as my “do everything” light. To each their own though. Great video.

[@anthony1977ist]

I just got one and agree about it should be a type-C connector. But I like the high mode first, in case a defensive situation. For utility use you can usually take your time with the modes. I also think the theads on it are too fine(easier to cross thread) if you have to change the battery. Rechargeable batteries are good, but they don't last forever. "Dual fuel capability" with a AA would be nice too. But overall a good flashlight. Thanks for the review it was very helpful.

[@outerlimitless]

I have somewhat changed my mind on the programming now that I have used it longer. I am more used to the high mode first. It's a great workhorse light for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@Bob-I-am]

Good video. I, too, wish the Macrostream powered on in Low brightness mode first. Thanks for the alert about that. Streamlight should have included their Ten-Tap program feature in both the Macrostream and Microstream USB so users could select their preferred order of mode switching.

[@outerlimitless]

I have looked into it...from what I can tell is is not programmable. That would be sick...simple solution if they make it with selectable modes.

[@tomthomas9910]

My microstream is high first" which I like for a tactical / practical all around edc light" actually like not having to scroll thru a bunch of settings, on bigger lights yeah"

[@markcowan3366]

I agree with the type C micro USB. I had 1 of, if not the first phones with a type C charging port (LG V20). I forgot my charger a few times at work and no way I was charging until I got back to my cable! No one else had one

[@HSTMachine]

LG V20 is the best phone I've ever had. Way ahead of its time.

[@markcowan3366]

@@HSTMachine for sure! It was touted as the flagship killer! I would have been team LG for life if they maintained the V20 line with the same flagship killing hardware/software. Unfortunately the following V-line was lackluster. Galaxy S20 FE is built in a similar vein, inexpensive compared to the flagship but with key flagship level hardware, it's no LG V20, but it's as close as I could find.

[@alphaomegasurvivalsupply6548]

In this same situation I just use a USB c to micro USB adapter and it works great and I jus keep it with my other cords and saves space not having 2 cords

[@outerlimitless]

Not a bad idea...still bums me out but that would be better than an entire cord...I'll probably do that...thanks for the suggestion!

[@onedirection3510]

Good review. The scraping contact while twisting is very easily resolved. Assuming keeping the finish unblemished is worth it, all that needs to be done is to slip a piece of paper or cloth under the clip while you’re doing that and problem solved. Or pinch it up and hold it. 2000 candela is very weak for 500 lumens. I’d say the Streamlight 1L-1AA is far superior in every way. It puts out 350 lumens and 6400 candela. Similar size and weight too. Not rechargeable but the 1L-1AA low mode of 40 lumens lasts 14 hours with a cr123a OR a AA. (Even functional with a AAA!) The difference between 40/50 lumens is negligible. The difference between 8/14 hours on low mode is huge. Finally the Macrostream usb is much more expensive. You could argue it will pay for itself by not using batteries over time but with everything else that’s not enough to win me over. The Macrostream I’ll say does look sleek. However, it could and hopefully will improve a ton next gen. In general Streamlight really needs to step up its game regarding lumens, candelas, technology and runtimes. Other brands are way ahead in these areas.

[@outerlimitless]

Yes, I pointed out the scraping, but I really don't care. If you EDC a flashlight it should expect to get beat up pretty good. I prefer my flashlights to be dragged through hell and back personally!

[@Gregg0112]

The usb c is better in my opinion because you could plug it in either way and it’s more robust but I think it’s harder to fit in very confined areas like a small flashlight

[@outerlimitless]

True, maybe it's a larger interface that requires more interior space...I didn't quite think of that. But YES, USB C all the way!

[@nuclearknight8543]

I’m glad that it’s the old school USB charger I absolutely hate type C

[@oregondork]

Agree with you on the usb c. No idea why they didn’t use it. Disagree with you on the programming though - in high stress situations where you want the high mode, you lose fine motor skills and it would be more difficult to double click the light. In every day tasks, it’s super easy to just double click to go to low mode because your fine motor skills are working fine! Great video overall! This light would have been an easy purchase for me had they put usb c but I just don’t want to keep investing in stuff that uses micro usb. I’m tired of all the different cables!

[@outerlimitless]

My initial impressions was the programming should be reversed. The more I use it, the more I am getting used to the brightest setting first. I do like this light a ton and use it 99% of the time for my EDC option. The USB C is a bummer, but I also find I don't have to recharge this flashlight all too often...great battery life!

[@Grizly213]

Dongles my man

[@HSTMachine]

@@Grizly213 dongles aren't the safest for 18650 batteries (or any Li-ion battery for that matter). 18650s charge best in an external charger

[@PREPFORIT]

Good review. Listing the pros and cons is a good thing.

[@outerlimitless]

Lots of pros...a few cons...but the cons could easily be addressed in my opinion.

[@TheGrenadier97]

I like it but low-high is a better arrangement. Two clicks for low isn't a terrible big deal, however. In any case, i hope they change that in the future and the USB port type.

[@outerlimitless]

I did get used to it after a while...it's a great compact light. I'll be interested to see what comes out in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@LeftySurvival]

Battery size is 18650 (standard for many other flashlights). The "rings" you saw on the end of the battery are both positive and negative terminals. O-Light use a lot of those.

[@outerlimitless]

The macrostream is not an 18650...much smaller than that. But definitely a perfect carry option. Thanks for watching!

[@jseden]

@@outerlimitless pretty sure it’s a 14500, basically aa size.

[@wilekrowan3610]

If it stops working, make sure the battery cap is screwed all the way on.

[@onedirection3510]

Have you tried/compared the Protac 1L-1AA? If so you still prefer the Microstream? You’re right. They should offer a different color option which starts out low to high for the non tactical folks.

[@outerlimitless]

I haven't tried the Protac. I have the AAA penlight. This light is the M A crostream...a size bigger than the microstream. I do very much like it!

[@onedirection3510]

@@outerlimitless Thanks. I made a mistake. I know it’s the Macrostream.

[@omarbueno9834]

great video is this not programmable like some of the other streamlight products?

[@outerlimitless]

From what I can tell it is not...not 100% confirmed yet though.

[@johnmedrano5758]

Will a AA work ?

[@outerlimitless]

I'm not certain...I would need to test it. I'm not that familiar to be honest.

[@johnmedrano5758]

@@outerlimitless I have the micro non usb. And can use AAA or a 10440. Great light with options. Just looking for something for my EDC bags with the same capabilities. The micro doesn’t advertise that capability but it works. Currently running 18650 in both bags.

[@thomasjml82]

Either you own a outdoor type store or yo have an issue. Are those all backpacks hanging behind you?

[@outerlimitless]

Yep... welcome to the life of the gear reviewer...

[@Weo510]

Thanks for the video! Question: do you know if the switch is electronic or mechanical? I don't want an e-switch for my purposes. I'm hoping that the two sided terminal is only for the charging capability.

[@outerlimitless]

I think it's considered mechanical. It has a positive click and does not feel electronic.

[@mydixienourmous4233]

I had problems with my on/off switch button. Not worth $70 if it’s having problems right off the bat.

[@outerlimitless]

Did you contact customer service? I bet they would take care of you. Every manufacturing process has errors... it's the customer service that makes or breaks a company. If they take care of you why would you cast them off? Seems awfully short sighted?

[@pillcosby3949]

The amount of people complaining about the charging port, Ridiculous!

[@outerlimitless]

It does matter...but you might not care...i would suggest it's not ridiulous.

[@barrybueler3356]

I have a streamlight works great but the model I have isn’t USB it comes with its own charging station but that was the only downside besides maybe price can’t remember 100% but I think it was a light pricey like $150 I think but I got it for free I’ve had it for like 8 yrs and it’s still kicking 🦵.

[@outerlimitless]

Some of the streamlights are beefy...I had a couple that had great throw, but were larger with large batteries. Indication of the times I guess...flashlights have advanced faster than computers!

[@nitrorc4life1]

What?! Streamlight using micro usb in 2021......not surprised, they been behind in modern technology for years. Still like them,but it is what it is.

[@outerlimitless]

Haha...yep! But still solid. They are still my most carried lights.

[@nitrorc4life1]

@@outerlimitless I carry a streamlight of some sort daily as my backup usually, main light is almost always another brand. I DO like streamlight, they are just not up to date in modern tech is all. but I will say their simplicity can be their strong point. I always pinch pocket clip and raise a bit while I turn tailcap if take battery out to replace with a full charged one if I do not want to wait for battery to charge, have multiples and not being ten tap programmable is odd.

[@jalee6587]

Stream light made a huge mistake releasing it with micro usb in 2021. Micro USB began phase out in 2016. Androids have been using USB type c since 2016 and now all androids use type c in 2022. iPhone is far behind as well but will be upgraded to USB c in the next couple years maybe 2023 or 2024.

[@ZILNEN]

I have the same knife Buck marksman inferno

[@outerlimitless]

I love the Inferno! Do you like yours? I think I know the answer though...haha.

[@Moefuggenz]

Did you get it from amazon? The black version is supposed to be low-high and the coyote version is high-low

[@outerlimitless]

Not this flashlight. This is the Macrostream, not Microstream

[@chemdog73]

Streamlight forgot to add that tiny clip on my clip, I don’t have one like yours 💩

[@duvalpenny100]

I totally agree with keeping low first. It irks me that everybody thinks everything needs to be tactical. Low light mode first is best for everyday use IMO. I typically use my EDC light for small things like checking brake pads, or looking for keys, not strobing assailants. and lets be real, there are much better options for personal protection than a 500 lumen pocket light. That should not be what you're pulling out of your pocket in a dangerous situation.

[@outerlimitless]

Thank you! Perfectly said.

[@kcherrick2627]

I have a microstream. Its nowhere near 250 lumens. Wtf.

[@outerlimitless]

Hmm...I wonder if it's an older version? I know there were a few.

[@WooSungShim]

Microstream usb is 250 lumens. The original microstream (older non-usb) is less I think it's around 90 lumens?

[@kcherrick2627]

@@WooSungShim what about the longer stylus pro usb? Is it brighter too?

[@WooSungShim]

@@kcherrick2627 yes, all those smaller models that have usb variants are more updating and have more lumens

[@kcherrick2627]

@@WooSungShim wow. My stylus pro doesnt have that higher lumens. Its usb also. Maybe I need to check again.

[@Venom-nk8nd]

🇵🇬🇵🇬

[@thomasjml82]

Looks cheap. Zebra light all the way

[@jmuk3571]

This guy talks weird

[@outerlimitless]

You must be from Texas.

[@jmuk3571]

@@outerlimitless as a matter of fact I am