Hey Gunners! Welcome to the comparison of Streamlight TLR1 vs TLR7.
This is more predictable than any other product review. Why is that the case? The major difference between the Streamlight TLR 1 Vs TLR 7A goes beyond the similarities.
The distinction between these weapon lights will allow you to easily select the best product at each stage of differentiation. I have done extensive research, even on seemingly unimportant details, to ensure that my choice of the best product purchase is sound.
To prevent you from making the same mistake as me, I’ve compared the Streamlight TLR 1 HL and TLR 7A based on all of my research on weapon lights. Moreover, to obtain the best weapon light on the market.
Now let’s just get into the thorough comparison of the Streamlight TLR 7 vs TLR1 and learn about my research.
Core Specifications
Here are all the Streamlight TLR-1 HL and TLR 7A specifications that make them worthy.
| Streamlight TLR 1 HL | Streamlight TLR 7A | |
| Material | Aluminum | Polymer |
| Length | 3.39 inches | 2.58 inches |
| Width | 1.47 inches | 1.18 inches |
| Height | 1.44 inches | 1.27 inches |
| Weight (with battery) | 4.18 ounces | 2.39 ounces |
| Max Lumen | 1000 lumens | 500 lumens |
| Max Intensity | 15000-candela | 5000-candela |
| Runtime | 105 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Source of power | CR-123A | CR-123A |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty | Limited lifetime warranty |
What Is Inside The Box Of These Streamlight Models?
You will receive only useful items when you purchase one of these Streamlight models. The only difference I see here is that the Streamlight TLR 1 HL comes with two batteries, whereas the TLR 7A comes with only one.
Streamlight TLR 1 HL
- An instruction manual for proper guidance
- Two CR-123A lithium battery
See Full Streamlight TLR-1 HL Review
Streamlight TLR 7A
- An instruction manual for proper guidance
- Low switch
- Hight switch (mounted)
- One CR-123A Lithium battery
- Key kit for setting and adjustments
See Full Streamlight TLR-7A Flex Review
Buy hereWhat’s The Difference – TLR1 vs TLR7?
Even though both weapon lights are manufactured by the same company “Streamlight” they only share two or three characteristics and differ greatly from one another.
1. Appearance
The Streamlight TLR 1 HL seems to have an entirely flat bottom surface. Its overall appearance is that of a square shape box, which is very useful because square shapes are more rugged than round ones.
Although the Streamlight TLR 7A initially seems to be flat from the bottom up, it is not square like the Streamlight TLR 1 HL. It has curved edges that, when combined with the flat bottom, form a rounded box shape.
My testing confirmed what I already said—that the Streamlight TLR 1 HL has a more robust shape. I dropped both weapon lights on a firm surface ground to see if they could withstand the impact. Surprisingly, the TLR 1 HL survives longer than the TLR 7A. Both Streamlight models receive scratches, but the TLR 1 HL receives a little less damage on the sides, while the TLR 7A receives damage to the bottom. It’s okay if they get scratched; after all, they’re just materials.
2. Dimensions
The Streamlight TLR 1 HL measures 3.39 inches in length, 1.47 inches in width, and 1.44 inches in height. The Streamlight TLR 7A, on the other hand, is 2.58 inches long, 1.18 inches wide, and 1.27 inches tall.
You can tell that the Streamlight TLR 1 HL is longer than the Streamlight TLR 7A based on length alone. I like a weapon light that is more compact than one that is lengthy. The TLR 7A is, therefore, in my opinion, a better option than the TLR 1 HL.
3. Weight
The Streamlight TLR 1 HL weighs 4.18 ounces, whereas the TLR 7A weighs 2.39 ounces. These weights are measured after adding the included batteries. However, they are still apparent when holding the weapon lights.
There is a rationale why a shooter desires a weapon light to be particularly lightweight. When a weapon light is attached to a gun, it adds weight to the shooter’s hand. Furthermore, most shooters equip their guns with a red dot sight. In this manner, the decision to purchase a lighter weapon light is up to the shooter. Some individuals do not seem to be bothered by or feel no strain from a weapon’s set of weights. So The Streamlight TLR 1 HL is obviously larger than the TLR 7A. When putting them side by side, they are two different lights.
4. Lumen and candela
The lumen and candela are what drive a shooter’s purchase. Therefore this is the main advantage. Imagine how much brighter the Streamlight TLR 1 HL’s light output will be with its 1000 lumens and 15000 candela light intensity. While the Streamlight TLR 7A has a 500-lumen output and a 5000-candela intensity, it is the opposite in terms of light output.
I evaluated the brightness output of both Streamlight versions, the TLR 1 HL and the TLR 7A. The difference I see during nighttime testing is that the Streamlight TLR 1 HL’s light output is rather bright up to a distance of 200 yards. While the Streamlight TLR 7A’s light output was flawlessly bright for up to 100 yards, working to its best potential. The choice now is between a light that emits conventional light and one that completely obliterates everything in its path.
However, I recommend utilizing a Streamlight TLR 7A in low-light situations and while using a red dot sight on a weapon. The Streamlight TLR 1 HL’s great brightness will wipe off the red dot, which is why.
5. Attachment
As soon as it is attached to the weapon, the Streamlight TLR 1 HL is not completely aligned with the weapon. Its extended length, which gives the impression that it is somewhat out of alignment with the weapon, is the reason for this.
However, the Streamlight TLR 7A complements the weapon flawlessly and provides a perfect appearance whether viewed up close or far away.
Therefore, something that draws you in and ultimately enables you to purchase a few things is appearance. The Streamlight TLR 7A, which goes great with my weapon, has my unqualified support.
6. Power on
You may use the simple power on/off mechanism while shooting, which is a really useful feature. When a weapon light is mounted to the weapon, there are times when it has to have a few adjustments made. First, you need to be able to reach the button to make adjustments to the weapon light.
The Streamlight TLR 7A incorporates an easily accessible toggle switch that enables one-click activation of the weapon light. Being small also plays a big part in how simple it is to manage the adjustments. However, the controls on the Streamlight TLR 1 HL are a little out of reach when you attach the weapon light to the weapon. You probably want to tweak the weapon light while shooting, if nothing else, to turn it on and off. As a result, the Streamlight TLR 7A received another plus point, in my opinion, whereas the Streamlight TLR 1 HL did not due to its large size.
7. Easy to carry
Comparatively speaking, the Streamlight TLR 1 HL is easier to handle than the TLR 7A. What is the cause of this? The Streamlight TLR 1 HL’s hostler makes transporting this lightweight weapon simple. Hostler functions like a pocket on the front that creates the ideal place for carrying weapon lights. The Streamlight TLR 7A fails in this situation because it is missing the hostler. But even though the Streamlight TLR 7A is so small and lightweight, carrying this weapon light became much simpler when combined with the hostler. So, if you want to make carrying the weapon light easier, go with the Streamlight TLR 1 HL with a hostler.
What Features Do They Share – TLR 1 HL Vs TLR 7A
Only a few characteristics of the Streamlight models, the Streamlight TLR 1 HL and Streamlight TLR 7A, are shared.
1. Source of power
Both the Streamlight TLR 1 HL and TLR 7A are powered by CR-123A lithium batteries. This battery has a 90-minute runtime in the Streamlight TLR 7A and a 105-minute runtime in the Streamlight TLR 1 HL.
How is it possible for the same battery to have two different run times? Have you considered this? The amount of strain we apply to the batteries may affect how long they last. The battery life of these weapon lights varies depending on the mode being used. Additionally, the amount of light will determine how well the light functions.
In summary, the Streamlight TLR 1 HL has a marginally longer runtime than the TLR 7A.
2. Durability
The Streamlight TLR 1 HL has an aluminum body, which is one of the stronger materials. At the same time, the Streamlight TLR 7A’s body is made of polymer, which is more durable than aluminum.
I put them through a collapsing experiment to see how sturdy they were, and the results showed that polymer is a stronger material than aluminum. The Streamlight TLR 7A received fewer body scratches than the Streamlight TLR 1 HL. Both weapon lights can withstand dark clouds, moisture droplets, and other similar conditions, but they should never be submerged in water.
As a result, it demonstrates that the Streamlight TLR 1 HL and Streamlight TLR 7A are both waterproof and shockproof.
3. Reliability
The Streamlight TLR 1 HL and Streamlight TLR 7A are both products of the same company, Streamlight, which makes high-quality products. You have two different types of warranties after purchasing the weapon.
The first warranty offered by the Streamlight company is a Streamlight lifetime limited warranty that will last for approximately 5 years. The second kind of warranty is the retailer’s warranty which starts right after the purchase of the weapon light and ends after 30 days. However, the service is different, just as the warranty’s duration varies.
In the event of a technical error, the 30-day retailer warranty will replace or repair your product. The company, however, will only fix the minor flaws in the weapon light and is not liable for the severe damage. The weapon light will be replaced if the company sends a faulty product that does not even turn on. Only if you send the weapon to them within the specified period will the company or seller charge you anything for repair or replacement.
Do They Have Any Shortcomings?
Battery-related drawbacks are the only similarities between the TLR 1 HL and TLR 7A from Streamlight. In both weapon lights, the Streamlight company has used the same old battery. I find the battery’s longevity to be very undesirable. It isn’t even enjoyable for the first 90 minutes of its runtime. By including a good, long-lasting battery in the packaging, the Streamlight company could, in my opinion, raise the caliber of its goods.
Streamlight TLR 1 Vs TLR 7A – Comparison Video
Final Verdict
After conducting extensive research and testing on both Streamlight models, the Streamlight TLR 1 HL emerged as the clear winner. If you’re still unclear about why I’m saying this after reading all the aforementioned research and experiments, let me know. All of the details are contained in the following two paragraphs.
The Streamlight TLR 1 HL is a lightweight, easy-to-carry hostler that places no additional burden on the shooter. The Streamlight TLR 1 HL has a structurally robust exterior, so even if you drop it, it will undoubtedly survive the damage. In addition to the falling objects, water and haze also contributed to the damage. Additionally, the warranty that the Streamlight company offers is supposed to ease your concerns about damage.
The light output of the Streamlight TLR 1 HL is 1000 lumens, with a 15000-candela brightness level. A powerful light source with a 200-yard maximum range. The Streamlight TLR 1 HL is made of durable material as well.
While the Streamlight TLR 1 HL’s battery is identical to that of the Streamlight TLR 7A, the latter has a longer runtime. With its 105-minute battery life, you can easily shoot for a few more minutes. To conclude with the advice to purchase the good. I can guarantee that you’ll find this product to be extremely helpful and never look back. Just be sure to purchase this item for a compatible gun.
Also Read: Streamlight TLR 7 Vs TLR 8
FAQs
What distinguishes the Streamlight TLR-7 from the TLR-7A?
The TLR-7 and TLR 7A from Streamlight are two distinct models, with the TLR 7A being superior to the TLR 7. TLR 7A is more compact than TLR 7, and the TLR 7A looks like a box-shaped weapon light from the bottom, whereas TLR 7 appears like a round-shaped weapon light. Besides that, the TLR 7A has back toggles, whereas the TLR 7 only has side toggles.
Is the TLR-1 HL a reliable light?
The TLR 1 HL is a stable and reliable light that will prove to be one of your best purchases if you purchase it. The Streamlight TLR 1 HL indicates a weapon light with a high light source for optimum illumination. This light also has several other advantageous qualities.
What makes TLR-1 HL different from TLR-1?
The main difference between TLR 1 and TLR 1 HL is that the latter emits light at a significantly higher intensity than the former.
The TLR-7 and TLR-7A share the same size, right?
A carry bag designed for the TLR-7 will complement the TLR-7A. These weapon lights have the same aspects as before; they simply added an enhancement (paddle).
Can a TLR-7 be changed into a TLR-7A?
No, this is not possible because these Streamlight models have different aesthetics and some distinctively different features.
