---
title: "Survival Gear Review: The Streamlight Microstream Flashlight"
description: "LED flashlights have come a long way over the past few years, and shrunk in both size and price. I recently received the Streamlight Microstream as a gift (thanks, Wes!) and here's what I thought of it. Spoiler alert: great stocking stuffer, if you're planning that far ahead already. From the size of the light and the AAA battery enclosed in the package, I was expecting the Microstream to perform like a typical keychain light: Handy, but for short-range use only. But when I installed the battery and clicked it on, I realized that this little sucker is bright."
date: "2013-11-21"
modified: "2013-11-21"
authors:
  - name: "Tim MacWelch"
    link: "https://www.outdoorlife.com/authors/tim-macwelch/"
url: "https://www.outdoorlife.com/blogs/survivalist/2013/11/survival-gear-review-streamlight-microstream-flashlight/"
categories:
  - "Camping Gear"
  - "Gear"
  - "Survival Gear"
---

# Survival Gear Review: The Streamlight Microstream Flashlight

![](<https://www.outdoorlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/23/B3RSAQDMOQTRFPVIIWPDM45WFM.JPG>)

LED flashlights have come a long way over the past few years, and shrunk in both size and price. I recently received the [Streamlight Microstream](<https://www.streamlight.com/product/product.aspx?pid=144/>) as a gift (thanks, Wes!) and here's what I thought of it. Spoiler alert: great stocking stuffer, if you're planning that far ahead already.

From the size of the light and the AAA battery enclosed in the package, I was expecting the Microstream to perform like a typical keychain light: Handy, but for short-range use only. But when I installed the battery and clicked it on, I realized that this little sucker is bright. The packaging even warns you of eye damage if you stare into the beam! This potent C4 LED bulb is rated for a lengthy 50,000-hour lifespan. The matte black aluminum body is a nice touch, but a little slippery, especially with gloves on. The two-way clip is my favorite feature, as it will clip into a pocket for safe keeping or onto a hat brim for an instant headlamp effect. It also comes with a small keyring attachment and a necklace-style lanyard. All this for the MSRP of $19.95.

Here are all the Microstream details:
Length: 3.5 in.
Weight: 1 oz.
Body: Aluminum
Run Time: 135 minutes
Max Output: 28 Lumens
Battery: 1 AAA
Bulb: C4 LED

I wish it didn't gobble up the battery so fast, or it possessed a little checkering for grip, but it's still a great light at a very thrifty price.