In this side by side comparison guide, let's check out Streamlight TLR 1 HL VS Olight PL PRO.
Both lights are for compact & full size handguns, and the TLR 1 HL is far better for duty use, and Olight PL Pro is better for high volume training at a lower cost with that USB rechargeable battery feature
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Specs Comparison - Streamlight TLR 1 HL Sub VS PL PRO
Streamlight TLR 1 HL
| Max Output | 1000 Lumens / 15000 Candela |
|---|---|
| Runtime | ~105 Mins |
| Length | 3.39" |
| Weight w/Batteries | 4.18 oz |
| Batteries | 2 CR123A |
Olight PL PRO Valkyrie
| Max Output | 300 - 1500 Lumens / 19600 Candela |
|---|---|
| Runtime | 1500 lumen - 1.5 Mins/ 600 lm - 45 mins / 300 lm - 90 mins |
| Length | 3.27" |
| Weight w/Batteries | 3.25 oz |
| Batteries | USB Rechargeable |
Biggest Buying Decisions:
- Want maximum lumen output performance over size profile
- For full size & compact guns duty use
- For long gun & sub gun use
- Simple to activate strobe mode
Get Olight PL PRO for:
- High volume training with rechargeable battery
- Low cost
- Surefire X300U alike
Same length, similar weight.
Lumen & Candela Comparison
We stress a lot on our website - Lumen intensity is important, but Candela is king for throwing the beam far to identify targets.
Intense candela can punch through fog and overcome photonic barriers
TLR 1 HL Top Down ( 5- 10 yards) - Much Brighter
Even through Olight PL PRO has a higher lumen intensity, but the beam isn't focused enough to throw it far.
In another word, the reflector isn't fully optimized to really benefit from PL PRO's 19600 candela output.
TLR 7A Top Down ( 5- 10 yards)
TLR 1 HL VS PL PRO Side By Side
The TLR 1 HL can illuminate up to 1000 lumens with 15000 candela. In low light, this thing absolutely beats the Olight PL Pro even though it has more lumen output.
In addition, TLR 1 HL features instant strobe mode that is much easier to activate than the PL Pro (Simply double tap with one finger)
On the PL PRO, two toggle switches must be pressed at the same time to activate strobe.
Flood Beam
The TLR 1 HL is much tighter than PL PRO. Tighter beam helps for better threat control control. The PL Pro just appear much brighter.
The new BALDR PRO R is like combining beam patterns of Surefire X300U and TLR 1 HL together.
Top Down Aerial
The Olight PL Pro Valkyrie can output up to 1500 lumens at max for about 1.5 mins, then it drops down to 600 lms due to the heat sensor built into the system.
The PL Pro is brighter than Viridian C5L, Olight Baldr S, Surefire XH30, and it has a slightly warmer beam tint compared to the TLR 1 HL.
For personal defense engagement distance, the TLR 1 HL and PL Pro can lit up a low light to ID the target, and ID what the person is holding in their hands in a defensive situation.
Both lights have a balanced focused hot spot & flood beam optimized for close-range applications up to 20 - 40 yards before the beam intensity fades off.
Go for TLR 1 HL for the neutral beam tint for accurate rendition in low light.
Top Down - 5 - 7 Yards
The light head can be replaced via Streamlight's Limited lifetime warranty. Great for airsoft & simunition training. When something breaks, just replace the head.
However, if the PL PRO lens is damaged, then a new replacement is required.
Modes Of Operation
These lights have very different activation methods, and they are both good, and you need to train to get used to them.
TLR 1 HL's toggle switch can perform:
- Single click - Constant on
- Double tap - Strobe
- Light press - Momentary
TLR 1 HL's toggle switch is very easy to press to activate without much finger strength.
It also accepts Streamlight proprietary remote pressure switch module for long gun & sub gun applications.
It works for TLR 1, TLR 2, TLR HL, TLR 1 HP.
Also accepts remote pressure switch module for long gun & sub gun applications.
It works for TLR 1, TLR 2, TLR HL, TLR 1 HP.
PL PRO features the same ambi toggle switches as the TLR 7A, and it's reachable for shooters with different hand sizes, and it gives very positive click feedback even when wearing gloves.
- Single click - Constant on
- Press & Hold, Then Release - Momentary
Press hold & release takes some practice to build muscle memory. In our opinion, this feature doesn't work well if the user has poor gross motor skill under stress.
Battery
The PL Pro Is USB rechargable. We love this because the user can train and play with the light unlimited times without worry of battery cost.
However, the port isn't fully protected against rust, moisture and dirt. This is the part where the PL Pro may fall short on being a duty grade pistol light.
- 1500 Lumens - Constant on for 1.5 mins
- 600 Lumens - Drops to 600 lumens for 45 mins
- 300 Lumens - Lasts about 90 mins
The Streamlight TLR 1 HL still uses 2 CR123A batteries, and last about 90 mins. They work but it costs more to run it frequently.
Any CR123A battery will work, and it doesn't have to be Streamlight CR123A.
Mount & Rail Keys
The TLR 1 HL both come with various rail keys:
- M1913
- GL
- Universal
TLR 1 HL's screw mount is also self retained so you can't lose it in the field, and the user can twist it using a shell casing, penny or a flat head screw driver.
If you lose the mount keys, you can buy them separately here
Olight PL PRO features an adjustable QD lever that can go on to any M1913 rail, and a small Glock rail key is also included in the package.
PL PRO's mount key is slightly more annoying to install than the TLR 1 because it requires small allen wrench that most people just don't always have in their tool box.
Be sure to store these mount keys in a place you can find them later.
If you want the none QD lever model, please check out the new Olight PL 3 Valkyrie.
Durability
TLR 1 HL and PL PRO are made out of 6061 T6 aerospace aluminum. Under normal use the light will last you a long time.
There's a misconception that TLR 1 HL is indestructible. While it's designed to be robust and durable, like any electronic device, it can be damaged if subjected to extreme conditions or intentional misuse.
Final Verdict
Streamlight TLR 1 HL is by far the best duty grade full size pistol weapon light on the market for under $150. Many civilians and LE professionals use this light for its neutral beam pattern, and its tight focus spot for threat control.
PL Pro is more for the budget consumers, and you don't see many of them in professional use. The part we love about this light is its rechargeable battery for high volume training without buying batteries.
What can be improved ? - We are looking forward to seeing the Streamlight introduce higher output rechargeable battery for higher lumen & candela output
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