A Review of the Streamlight MegaStream USB

Prepare to have your expectations of a compact flashlight shattered. The Streamlight MegaStream USB High Output LED Flashlight packs an incredible punch, delivering serious illumination in a handheld size that redefines portable power. This rechargeable light earned a solid 4.5 out of 5 in our gear review, and for good reason. It's designed for those who need maximum brightness in a convenient, go-anywhere package.

Pocket-Sized Powerhouse: Features & Specifications

The defining feature of the Streamlight MegaStream USB is its astonishing output. With a maximum of 1800 lumens on high, this isn't your average pocket light. It's designed to throw a significant amount of light downrange, boasting a peak beam intensity of 26,000 candela and a beam distance of up to 322 meters. Powering this impressive performance is a single Streamlight SL-B34® rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack.

The MegaStream USB isn't just a one-trick pony; it offers three distinct output modes to suit various needs:

• High: 1800 lumens, 322m beam, runs for 2 hours.
• Medium: 500 lumens, 170m beam, runs for 3.5 hours.
• Low: 150 lumens, 92m beam, runs for 13 hours.

Constructed from durable machined aluminum alloy with a Type II MIL-Spec anodized finish, the light is built to withstand tough conditions. It features an unbreakable polycarbonate lens and is IPX7 waterproof rated, submersible up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. It's also tested for 2-meter impact resistance. Measuring just 5.3 inches long and weighing only 5.4 ounces with the battery, it's designed for everyday carry.

First Look & Getting Started

The MegaStream USB arrives in a simple cardboard box and includes a nylon sheath, a USB-C charging cable, and the rechargeable battery. Out of the box, it feels like a practical, sturdy duty flashlight with a nice heft that feels good in the hand. It includes a handy removable pocket clip, allowing for easy attachment to a pocket, belt, or gear. The included sheath is also simple and functional, featuring a hook and loop strap and a belt clip for secure carry.

While you can remove the SL-B34 battery by unscrewing the tail cap for external charging or replacement, one of the best features is the convenient built-in USB-C charging port. Initially, I thought battery removal was necessary for charging, but discovered that a small sleeve near the head of the flashlight slides rearwards to expose the USB-C port on the battery itself, allowing for direct charging without disassembly. The SL-B34 battery has an integrated USB-C port and a charge indicator LED (red for charging, green for charged), making the process incredibly simple. Streamlight recommends fully charging the battery before the first use, which takes approximately 5 hours.

Operating the Light: Simple (Mostly) Controls

The MegaStream USB utilizes a push-button tail switch for operation, offering both momentary (light press) and constant-on (press until click) activation. Accessing the different brightness modes is where a bit of confusion arose, the method wasn't immediately obvious and isn't always clearly detailed in basic instructions.

According to Streamlight's product information, the light often utilizes TEN-TAP® Programming, which allows users to select from different operating modes (High/Medium/Low, High Only, or Low/Medium/High). However, my experience indicated a different method: a quick double-tap of the tail switch, followed by subsequent taps, would cycle through the modes (double tap for low, second tap for medium, third tap for high). A short press generally gives momentary light, while a longer press or click provides constant-on. While the exact timing or programming may require checking the manual or product specifics, the core functionality of accessing different brightness levels is present.

Blinding Performance in the Field

Once the charging was sorted and the light was powered up, the sheer brightness of the MegaStream was immediately apparent. I was genuinely shocked by the output, describing it as like holding a "lightsaber" or "shooting a solar flare". Even in broad daylight, the intensity of the beam was impressive. Indoors, in a 1600 square foot house, the flashlight could illuminate every detail, even at a distance of 60 feet.

In outdoor field testing, the MegaStream performed exceptionally well. It was found to function effectively as an alternative to weapon-mounted lights during property patrol, with the focused beam providing excellent perception of distant objects. The beam has a defined hotspot with a soft taper, offering a good balance of throw and usable peripheral spill. While using a rifle as a handheld light isn't ideal, the brightness of the MegaStream gave me an option to illuminate objects without pointing a gun at them.

The light was tested in various environments, including the beach and the forest, and consistently impressed everyone who used it with its brightness. It helped navigate challenging terrain like rolling hills and sand dunes, and cut through foggy conditions in the underbrush of the forest. It never failed to impress or disappoint.

Beyond its initial impact, the MegaStream held its charge remarkably well throughout the field testing period, delivering consistent performance hour after hour on a single charge. For its small form factor, the magnitude of brightness is truly remarkable, surpassing the output seen in similarly sized lights and only comparable to larger weapon-mounted systems or Streamlight's larger Stinger series.

Pros

• Exceptional brightness (1800 lumens) for its compact size.
• Convenient in-body USB-C rechargeable design.
• Includes a durable SL-B34 rechargeable battery.
• Three useful output modes (High, Medium, Low).
• Solid aluminum construction and durable finish.
• IPX7 waterproof and 2-meter impact resistant.
• Includes a pocket clip and nylon holster for carry options.
• Impressive runtime, especially on the low setting.

Cons

• Lack of compatibility with standard non-rechargeable batteries (like CR123A).
• The method for cycling through brightness modes might not be immediately intuitive or clearly explained in all documentation.
• I found the button operation for different functions (momentary vs. constant, accessing modes) to be somewhat confusing initially.

Final Thoughts

If you're in the market for a handheld flashlight that delivers an almost unbelievable amount of light for its size, the Streamlight MegaStream USB is a serious contender. It lives up to its name, providing "mega" brightness in a "stream"lined package. While the operation of the modes might require a quick glance at the instructions or some experimentation, the core functionality is powerful and reliable. The convenience of USB-C charging and the robust build quality make it an excellent tool for anyone who needs dependable, high-output illumination for tactical applications, outdoor adventures, or simply having the most powerful light on the block.