When it comes to tactical lights, especially for firearms, choosing the right light can make all the difference in performance, ease of use, and safety. Whether you’re navigating a dark corner, or need a reliable beam in the heat of the moment, the right tactical light can provide the illumination you need. In 2024, a few brands continue to dominate the market, and there are some standout models that I’ve had the chance to test and review.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you through the top tactical lights available this year. I’ll go over their features, pros and cons, and share some personal insights into why they might (or might not) be the perfect fit for your firearm setup.
My favorite:
Before diving deep into the individual reviews, here’s a quick look at some of the best tactical lights of 2024. These lights not only provide excellent brightness and reliability but also offer a range of features tailored to various use cases. If you’re looking for a top-tier recommendation, this list will give you a great starting point.
- Best Overall: SureFire X300U-A Ultra
- Best for Compact Firearms: Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie
- Best Value: Streamlight TLR-1 HL
- Best for Low Profile: Crimson Trace CMR-208
- Best for Handguns with Lasers: Streamlight TLR-6
Top-Rated 24 Best Tactical Lights in 2024
1. Crimson Trace CMR-207
Crimson Trace’s CMR-207 is a solid entry into the tactical light arena. Built with durable anodized aluminum, it offers a blend of lightness and robustness. With a 400-lumen output, this light isn’t the brightest on the market but provides sufficient illumination for most applications.
Best Features:
- 400 lumens of white light
- Ambidextrous on/off buttons
- Instant activation with the remote switch option
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Ambidextrous controls are easy to operate
- Long-lasting battery life
Cons:
- Not the brightest option for outdoor applications
- Limited beam reach
Personal Experience:
I mounted this light on my Glock 19, and while it’s compact and easy to operate, I found that the 400-lumen output fell a little short when trying to illuminate large outdoor areas. However, for indoor scenarios, it’s more than enough.
Customer Feedback:
Many users online have praised the CMR-207 for its ease of use, though some did mention it wasn’t as bright as they expected. A common recommendation is pairing it with an optic for enhanced visibility.
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2. Crimson Trace CMR-208
The CMR-208 is an upgrade from the 207, boasting 420 lumens of output. It’s designed for pistols and long guns and features a durable aluminum housing.
Best Features:
- Enhanced 420-lumen output
- Fits both pistols and long guns
- IPX7 waterproof rating
Pros:
- Bright enough for both indoor and outdoor use
- Waterproof and durable
- Lightweight and versatile
Cons:
- Battery life can be short at higher brightness settings
Personal Experience:
The CMR-208 stood out for me in terms of versatility. I tested it on both my AR-15 and a Glock 19, and the light provided clear, focused illumination in a variety of environments. I did, however, notice that the battery drained faster than I expected, especially when using it in high-output mode.
Customer Feedback:
A common compliment for the CMR-208 is its brightness and versatility, though some users noted that the mounting system could be more intuitive.
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3. INFORCE WILD2
The INFORCE WILD2 is a heavy-duty tactical light with 1000 lumens of output, making it one of the brightest options on this list. Designed primarily for handguns, the WILD2 is built to withstand heavy use.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens of high-intensity light
- Ambidextrous controls
- IPX7 rated for waterproofing
Pros:
- Extremely bright
- Easy to use controls
- High durability and waterproof
Cons:
- Bulky compared to other lights
- Higher price point
Personal Experience:
The WILD2’s 1000 lumens impressed me during outdoor testing. I took it on a night shooting range session, and it provided excellent visibility. However, it’s slightly bulkier, which might not be ideal for compact firearms.
Customer Feedback:
Users rave about the brightness, but some have pointed out that its size can make it cumbersome for smaller handguns.
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4. INFORCE WILD1
The INFORCE WILD1, with 500 lumens, is the more compact version of the WILD2. While it’s not as bright, it’s better suited for everyday carry and smaller firearms.
Best Features:
- 500 lumens of white light
- Compact design for handguns
- Easy-to-use switching system
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Bright enough for most indoor use
- Easy to operate
Cons:
- Beam isn’t as powerful as the WILD2
- Lacks some advanced features
Personal Experience:
I mounted the WILD1 on my Sig P365 and was impressed by its compactness. It didn’t interfere with holstering, and the 500 lumens were sufficient for most indoor scenarios.
Customer Feedback:
Users appreciate the balance of brightness and size, with many saying it’s a great fit for EDC handguns.
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5. Sig Sauer LIMA365
Designed for the P365, the Sig Sauer LIMA365 is more of a laser sight than a tactical light. However, its integration with the pistol makes it a noteworthy mention for anyone with a P365.
Best Features:
- Integrated laser sight
- Easy mounting without modification
- Long-lasting battery
Pros:
- Perfect fit for the P365
- Laser is bright and easy to activate
- Lightweight and minimalistic
Cons:
- No tactical light feature
- Limited to Sig P365
Personal Experience:
Mounting the LIMA365 was effortless, and the laser was precise. While I missed the illumination of a tactical light, the laser sight is excellent for quick target acquisition.
Customer Feedback:
P365 owners love how seamlessly it fits their pistol. Many suggest pairing it with a separate flashlight for added versatility.
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6. Sig Sauer FOXTROT365
If you’re looking for an actual light for the Sig P365, the FOXTROT365 offers a 100-lumen output, designed specifically for this pistol.
Best Features:
- 100 lumens of output
- Custom fit for Sig P365
- Easy to install
Pros:
- Low profile
- Provides ample light for close encounters
- Seamless integration with P365
Cons:
- 100 lumens is on the lower side
- Limited beam distance
Personal Experience:
The FOXTROT365 is a low-profile light that’s easy to operate. I found the light adequate for indoor use, but it may not be powerful enough for outdoor or tactical scenarios.
Customer Feedback:
Users love the compact fit, though many have mentioned that 100 lumens might not be enough for every scenario.
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7. Streamlight TLR-3
The TLR-3 is one of Streamlight’s most compact offerings, delivering 125 lumens of output. It’s a great option for sub-compact pistols.
Best Features:
- 125 lumens
- Compact and lightweight
- Ambidextrous controls
Pros:
- Very compact
- Easy to install
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not very bright
- Limited to indoor or close-quarters use
Personal Experience:
I mounted the TLR-3 on my Glock 43 and appreciated how little it added to the overall size of the firearm. However, the 125 lumens felt insufficient in outdoor environments.
Customer Feedback:
Many users highlight the TLR-3’s affordability and compactness, though several note that it’s best suited for indoor or self-defense scenarios.
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8. Streamlight TLR-4
The TLR-4 adds a red laser to the TLR-3’s functionality, making it an attractive option for those who want a light and laser combo in a compact package.
Best Features:
- 125 lumens
- Integrated red laser
- Compact design
Pros:
- Light and laser in one unit
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Laser isn’t very visible in daylight
- 125 lumens might not be enough for outdoor use
Personal Experience:
I found the TLR-4 to be a great addition to my carry pistol. The laser is easy to zero, but in bright conditions, it can be hard to see.
Customer Feedback:
Users appreciate the combo functionality but mention the laser’s limited daytime visibility as a drawback.
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9. Streamlight TLR-1 HL
The TLR-1 HL is one of the most popular tactical lights on the market. With a 1000-lumen output, it’s bright enough for any situation.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens of white light
- Strobe function
- Robust and durable construction
Pros:
- Extremely bright
- Durable and reliable
- Easy to mount
Cons:
- Slightly bulky
- Higher price compared to smaller models
Personal Experience:
I’ve used the TLR-1 HL extensively, and it’s my go-to recommendation for anyone who wants a reliable and bright tactical light. The strobe function is a nice touch for disorienting threats, and the beam is incredibly focused.
Customer Feedback:
The TLR-1 HL consistently receives high praise for its brightness and durability. Many law enforcement and military users swear by it for their daily operations.
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10. Streamlight TLR-2
The TLR-2 adds a red laser to the TLR-1 HL’s setup, making it a great option for those who want a light and laser combo with high output.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens
- Integrated red laser
- Strobe function
Pros:
- Laser and light combo
- Bright and reliable
- Durable
Cons:
- Larger size might not fit smaller pistols
- Price is on the higher side
Personal Experience:
I’ve found the TLR-2 to be an excellent tool for tactical scenarios. The laser is precise, and the 1000 lumens provide ample illumination for large areas.
Customer Feedback:
The TLR-2 is highly regarded for its versatility, though some users have noted that its size may not be ideal for compact firearms.
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11. Streamlight TLR-6
The Streamlight TLR-6 is designed specifically for subcompact handguns, making it ideal for concealed carry. It offers both a tactical light and a laser in one compact unit, which can be a game changer for those looking to maximize functionality in a small package.
Best Features:
- 100 lumens of output
- Integrated red laser
- Available for multiple handgun models like the Glock 42/43, M&P Shield, and more
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Laser provides quick target acquisition
- Multiple models for different handguns
Cons:
- 100 lumens might not be enough for some situations
- Limited battery life in high-output mode
Personal Experience:
I tested the TLR-6 on a Glock 43, and it fit perfectly without adding bulk. The laser was precise, though the 100 lumens felt a bit underwhelming when used outdoors at night. For self-defense and close-quarters engagements, it works well.
Customer Feedback:
Many users love the TLR-6 for its perfect fit on subcompact handguns. Some, however, wish it had more lumens for better outdoor visibility.
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12. Streamlight TLR-7A
The Streamlight TLR-7A is a popular compact tactical light with 500 lumens of output, making it one of the better choices for those who want high performance in a small package. The TLR-7A features ambidextrous switches for easy operation.
Best Features:
- 500 lumens of high-intensity light
- Ambidextrous rear switches for easy operation
- Compact and rugged construction
Pros:
- Very bright for its size
- Easy to mount and operate
- Durable and water-resistant
Cons:
- Battery life is shorter at full brightness
- Slightly bulky for smaller pistols
Personal Experience:
Mounting the TLR-7A on my Glock 19 was a breeze, and the 500-lumen output is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. The controls are intuitive, and the overall feel is solid and dependable.
Customer Feedback:
Users generally rave about the TLR-7A, citing its brightness and durability. However, some noted that it can be a bit too large for compact pistols.
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13. Streamlight TLR-8A
The TLR-8A is essentially the TLR-7A with the addition of a red laser, providing a compact tactical light and laser combo that’s great for quick target acquisition.
Best Features:
- 500 lumens of light output
- Integrated red laser
- Easy-to-use ambidextrous controls
Pros:
- Bright light and precise laser
- Compact and easy to mount
- Sturdy and water-resistant
Cons:
- Higher cost due to laser integration
- Slightly bulky for some subcompact firearms
Personal Experience:
I mounted the TLR-8A on a Sig P320, and it performed beautifully. The laser was precise, and the light was bright enough for a wide range of conditions. It’s a great combination for someone who wants both light and laser in a compact form.
Customer Feedback:
The TLR-8A is highly rated for its versatility. Many users, especially those in law enforcement, appreciate the dual functionality of the light and laser.
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14. Streamlight TLR-9
The Streamlight TLR-9 provides 1000 lumens of bright light in a slightly larger package compared to the TLR-7A. It’s ideal for full-size handguns and long guns, giving you ample illumination for any situation.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens of light
- Slim, low-profile design
- Long beam distance for outdoor use
Pros:
- Extremely bright
- Durable and waterproof
- Easy to use and mount
Cons:
- Bulky for smaller firearms
- Battery life can be short at full brightness
Personal Experience:
The TLR-9 was a fantastic fit on my Glock 17. The 1000-lumen output made it one of the brightest lights I’ve tested, and the slim design kept it from feeling too bulky. I would recommend it for outdoor use or home defense scenarios.
Customer Feedback:
Many users love the TLR-9 for its incredible brightness and long-range capabilities. Some mentioned that it’s too large for compact firearms but perfect for full-size handguns and long guns.
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15. Streamlight TL-Racker Forend
The TL-Racker Forend is designed specifically for shotguns, providing a 1000-lumen light integrated into the shotgun’s forend, eliminating the need for separate mounts or rails.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens
- Easy-to-use integrated design
- Built for Mossberg 500/590 and Remington 870 shotguns
Pros:
- Bright and rugged
- No need for extra mounts
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- Limited to specific shotgun models
- Higher cost for a specialized light
Personal Experience:
I tested the TL-Racker on a Mossberg 590, and it worked flawlessly. The integration into the forend is smart, and the 1000 lumens provide incredible illumination. It’s perfect for home defense shotguns.
Customer Feedback:
Shotgun owners love the TL-Racker for its seamless integration and powerful light. The only downside mentioned is the limited compatibility with specific models.
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16. SureFire X300T
SureFire’s X300T provides both a white light and a strobe feature, making it ideal for disorienting threats. Its 1000-lumen output ensures bright and focused illumination.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens of light
- Strobe feature for tactical use
- Robust aluminum construction
Pros:
- Extremely bright and reliable
- Strobe function adds versatility
- Built to last
Cons:
- Bulky and heavy for compact pistols
- Expensive
Personal Experience:
The X300T’s strobe function is one of the best tactical features I’ve seen. It works incredibly well for disorienting a target. However, it’s a bit on the heavier side, making it more suited for full-size pistols or rifles.
Customer Feedback:
Users appreciate the X300T’s brightness and reliability. The strobe function receives high praise, although the weight can be a dealbreaker for smaller firearm owners.
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17. SureFire X400UH
The X400UH combines a 1000-lumen tactical light with a high-visibility green laser, providing a powerful combo for tactical operations. It’s built for professional use, with a rugged design to match.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens
- High-visibility green laser
- Strobe function for tactical use
Pros:
- Bright, focused light
- Green laser is visible in daylight
- Durable and waterproof
Cons:
- Expensive
- Bulky for smaller firearms
Personal Experience:
This light/laser combo was excellent on my AR-15. The green laser was visible even in daylight, which is a significant upgrade from the red laser options. It’s definitely built for tactical or law enforcement use.
Customer Feedback:
Many professionals in law enforcement or the military use the X400UH, and they appreciate its ruggedness and performance. However, the price point makes it less accessible for casual users.
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18. SureFire XC1-B
The SureFire XC1-B is an ultra-compact light, perfect for concealed carry firearms. It offers a 300-lumen output in a very small form factor.
Best Features:
- 300 lumens
- Ultra-compact design
- Ambidextrous switches
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Bright enough for indoor use
- Perfect for EDC pistols
Cons:
- Not bright enough for outdoor use
- Short battery life
Personal Experience:
I mounted the XC1-B on my Glock 43, and it was an ideal fit. It didn’t add much weight or bulk, and the 300 lumens were perfect for close-quarters engagements.
Customer Feedback:
Users love the XC1-B for its size, making it a top choice for concealed carry. However, some wish it had more lumens for outdoor use.
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19. SureFire X300U-A Ultra
The SureFire X300U-A is a fan favorite, known for its incredible brightness and durability. With 1000 lumens of focused light, it’s perfect for tactical operations and self-defense.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens
- T-slot mounting for secure attachment
- Waterproof and durable
Pros:
- Bright and powerful
- Rugged and reliable
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Bulky for compact handguns
- Pricey
Personal Experience:
I’ve used the X300U-A for a while, and it’s one of my top recommendations for anyone who needs serious brightness. It mounts securely and provides consistent performance, even in harsh conditions.
Customer Feedback:
The X300U-A is highly praised for its brightness and durability. However, some users mention that it’s a bit too large for smaller pistols.
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20. SureFire X300U-B
The X300U-B is essentially the same as the X300U-A but with a screw mount system instead of a T-slot. It offers the same 1000-lumen output and rugged design.
Best Features:
- 1000 lumens
- Screw mount for added security
- Durable construction
Pros:
- Bright and reliable
- Mounts securely with a screw system
- Built to last
Cons:
- Same size issue for smaller pistols
- Expensive
Personal Experience:
I didn’t notice a significant difference between the X300U-A and X300U-B, except for the mounting system. The screw mount feels more secure, but it also takes a bit longer to install.
Customer Feedback:
Users who prefer a more secure mounting system appreciate the X300U-B. It’s perfect for those who want a set-it-and-forget-it tactical light.
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21. SureFire XSC
The SureFire XSC is a micro-compact tactical light designed for concealed carry pistols. With 350 lumens of output, it provides ample brightness in a very small package.
Best Features:
- 350 lumens
- Built for micro-compact pistols
- Rechargeable battery
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Bright enough for self-defense
- Rechargeable battery is convenient
Cons:
- Not as bright as larger lights
- Battery life is limited
Personal Experience:
I tested the XSC on my Sig P365, and it fit perfectly without adding much bulk. The 350 lumens are great for close-range use, and the rechargeable battery is a nice touch.
Customer Feedback:
Users love the XSC for its size and convenience. Many note that it’s the best option for micro-compact handguns, though some wish it had more lumens.
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22. Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie
The Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie is a compact, rechargeable tactical light that delivers 600 lumens in a small package. Its adjustable rail system allows it to fit a wide variety of firearms.
Best Features:
- 600 lumens
- Rechargeable battery
- Adjustable rail mount for various pistols
Pros:
- Compact and bright
- Rechargeable and easy to install
- Adjustable rail system
Cons:
- Battery life could be better
- Slightly bulkier than some other micro lights
Personal Experience:
The PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie was easy to mount on my Glock 19, and the 600 lumens provided ample illumination. I love the fact that it’s rechargeable, though the battery doesn’t last long in high-output mode.
Customer Feedback:
Users are big fans of the adjustable rail system, making this light compatible with a wide range of firearms. However, some mentioned that the battery life could be longer.
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23. OLIGHT Baldr Mini
The Olight Baldr Mini is a tactical light and green laser combo in a small package. With 600 lumens and an integrated laser, it’s perfect for compact pistols.
Best Features:
- 600 lumens of light
- Green laser for quick target acquisition
- Adjustable rail system
Pros:
- Compact and bright
- Green laser is visible in daylight
- Rechargeable battery
Cons:
- Short battery life at full brightness
- Slightly bulkier due to the laser
Personal Experience:
The Baldr Mini was an excellent fit on my Glock 19. The green laser was a game changer for quick target acquisition, and the 600 lumens provided great visibility.
Customer Feedback:
Many users rave about the Baldr Mini’s versatility and brightness. The green laser is especially praised for its daytime visibility.
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24. OLIGHT Baldr Pro
The Olight Baldr Pro is a full-size tactical light with a green laser, offering 1350 lumens of bright light. It’s designed for full-size handguns and rifles.
Best Features:
- 1350 lumens of intense light
- Green laser for precise targeting
- Dual switches for easy operation
Pros:
- Extremely bright
- Green laser is effective in daylight
- Durable and reliable
Cons:
- Bulky for smaller firearms
- Expensive compared to other options
Personal Experience:
I mounted the Baldr Pro on my AR-15, and it was impressive. The 1350 lumens illuminated everything in sight, and the green laser was visible even in bright daylight.
Customer Feedback:
Users love the Baldr Pro’s brightness and durability. It’s highly rated for tactical and outdoor use, though some note that it’s too bulky for everyday carry firearms.
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Conclusion
The tactical light market in 2024 is filled with excellent choices, whether you’re looking for something compact for concealed carry or a full-size option for tactical operations. Each light has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s crucial to match the light to your specific firearm and use case.
For those seeking maximum brightness and durability, models like the SureFire X300U-A Ultra and Olight Baldr Pro stand out. If you’re looking for something more compact and versatile, the Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie or Streamlight TLR-7A are excellent options. Whatever your needs, there’s a tactical light on this list that will fit your setup perfectly.