Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black Review

The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black Made a Bold First Impression

I’ve seen countless penlights come and go in my decade-plus career, but the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black immediately caught my eye with its innovative design. The promise of a penlight that could transform into a 360-degree lantern was intriguing, especially given Streamlight’s reputation for durable and reliable lighting solutions.

My primary need was a compact and versatile light source for detailed gear inspections, navigating dimly lit storage areas, and providing area lighting during emergency repairs or power outages. I was tired of juggling a penlight in one hand and trying to perform tasks with the other. The Stylus Pro 360 seemed like the perfect solution to free up my hands and provide more comprehensive illumination.

Upon unboxing, the penlight felt surprisingly solid. The black anodized aluminum casing had a reassuring weight, and the rotating sleeve that exposes the lantern portion moved smoothly and securely. Compared to cheaper plastic penlights I’ve used, the Stylus Pro 360 felt significantly more robust and ready for the rigors of daily use.

I considered the Fenix E05, a popular keychain light, and the Olight i3E EOS, known for its simplicity. However, neither offered the hands-free lantern feature that I was specifically looking for. The Stylus Pro 360 offered a unique combination of portability and versatility that those other lights lacked.

My first impression was one of cautious excitement. The build quality was reassuring, but I was eager to see how the 360-degree lantern feature would perform in real-world scenarios. I was hoping it would live up to its promise of hands-free, all-around illumination.

Real-World Testing: Putting Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was during a late-night inspection of a shipment of tactical vests. The warehouse lighting was poor, and I needed a focused beam to examine stitching and hardware. The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 provided ample light, and the penlight clip secured it to my chest pocket, keeping it readily available.

Later that night, a fuse blew in my shed while I was organizing some camping gear. I flipped out the 360-degree lantern and placed it on a shelf. This cast a wide, even light throughout the shed, allowing me to locate my tools and replace the fuse easily. The rubber grip around the lantern portion provided good stability on the shelf.

The Stylus Pro 360 proved easy to use right out of the box. The push-button switch was intuitive, and the rotating lantern sleeve operated smoothly. The only surprise was how effectively the relatively low 65 lumens illuminated a small space in lantern mode.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 has become an indispensable part of my everyday carry. It’s been subjected to the usual bumps and scrapes of tactical gear, but the anodized aluminum finish has held up remarkably well. The rotating lantern sleeve still operates smoothly, and the push-button switch remains responsive.

I’ve noticed only minor scratches on the lens, but these haven’t impacted the light output. I’ve replaced the AAA batteries a few times, and the battery compartment remains secure. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime.

Compared to previous penlights I’ve used, the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 stands out for its durability and versatility. Its hands-free lantern function elevates it from a simple penlight to a valuable tool for various situations. It certainly outperforms any cheaper, plastic penlights I’ve relied on in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black

Specifications

• Light Output: 65 Lumens. This is more than sufficient for close-range tasks and provides usable area lighting in lantern mode.
• Power Source: Two AAA alkaline batteries. Readily available and cost-effective, though runtime is limited compared to rechargeable options.
• Material: Anodized aluminum construction. Offers excellent durability and resistance to corrosion.
• Weight: 1.7 ounces (with batteries). Extremely lightweight and easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt.
• Dimensions: 6.3 inches (length). Compact and easily fits in a pocket or gear bag.
• Beam Distance: 30 meters. Suitable for close-range tasks and navigation in dark environments.
• Runtime: 8.5 hours to 39 hours depending on usage. Provides a decent amount of illumination time with standard alkaline batteries.
• Water Resistance: IPX4 rated. Protected against splashing water, making it suitable for outdoor use in light rain.
• 360-Degree Lantern Feature: Rotating sleeve exposes the LED to create a 360-degree area light. This is the standout feature that sets this penlight apart.
• Push-Button Tail Switch: Provides momentary or constant-on operation. This is an intuitive and easily accessible way to control the light.
• Removable Pocket Clip: Allows for secure attachment to pockets, belts, or gear bags. This helps ensure the light is always within easy reach.

These specifications are significant because they highlight the Stylus Pro 360’s focus on portability, durability, and versatility. The aluminum construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use, while the 360-degree lantern feature provides added functionality beyond a standard penlight.

Performance & Functionality

The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black performs its intended job exceptionally well. The focused beam is bright enough for close-range inspections, and the 360-degree lantern provides useful area lighting. It’s reliable and easy to operate.

The primary strength is its versatility: it’s a penlight and a lantern in one compact package. The only potential weakness is the 65-lumen output, which might be insufficient for some users in larger spaces. However, for its intended use, it’s generally more than adequate.

It meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations, particularly given its price point. The lantern feature is surprisingly effective.

Design & Ergonomics

The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 boasts a robust build quality. The anodized aluminum is both durable and lightweight, and it feels comfortable in hand. The push-button switch is easily accessible, and the rotating lantern sleeve operates smoothly and securely.

The penlight is user-friendly with almost no learning curve. The simple push-button operation and intuitive lantern deployment make it easy for anyone to use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the aluminum construction, the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 should last for years with reasonable care. The anodized finish resists scratches and corrosion, and the overall build quality inspires confidence.

Maintenance is minimal. Periodically wiping it down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 comes with a removable pocket clip and a nylon belt sheath. There are no readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model.

While there are no specific customization options, the standard AAA battery compatibility allows you to choose different battery types (e.g., lithium for extended runtime). It readily accepts any standard AAA battery.

Pros and Cons of Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black

Who Should Buy Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black?

The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 is perfect for technicians, mechanics, inspectors, first responders, and anyone who needs a versatile and reliable light source for close-range tasks and area lighting. It’s also an excellent choice for campers, hikers, and anyone who wants a compact and lightweight emergency light.

Those needing extremely high lumen output or extended runtime might want to skip this product in favor of larger, more powerful lights. However, this comes at the cost of bulk.

A must-have “accessory” is a good supply of AAA batteries. Carrying extra batteries ensures you’re never left in the dark.

Conclusion on Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black

The Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 Penlight/Lantern Combo 65 Lumens AAA (2) Black is a surprisingly versatile and well-built tool. Its 2-in-1 design, durable construction, and ease of use make it an excellent addition to any everyday carry or emergency kit.

At $25.99, the price is definitely justified. It offers exceptional value for its features and performance.

I would definitely recommend the Streamlight Stylus Pro 360 to anyone looking for a compact, durable, and versatile light source. It’s a reliable tool that delivers on its promises. Get yours today, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!