Looking for the perfect blend of brightness and fit for your Glock laser light? You may be debating between dual-mode functionality or a more straightforward operation. That choice appears when comparing the Olight Baldr RL vs Streamlight TLR 8A. Let’s start by getting an overview of these two products before reaching out, aiming to simplify your decision-making process.
About Olight Baldr RL
OLIGHT Baldr RL Mini 600 Lumens
Experience enhanced accuracy with the Olight Baldr RL, featuring a class 3R red beam with less than 5mW output for pinpoint precision. This compact powerhouse delivers 600 lumens of bright white light and an apparent red beam for versatile performance. Powered by a single AAA battery, it produces 180 lumens for reliable illumination. Crafted with a stylish double helix body knurling, the aluminium build ensures durability. Designed to withstand heavy rain with an IPX8 rating, its simple ON/OFF tail switch allows easy operation and quick mode shifting.
Pros:
- Class 3R red beam for enhanced accuracy
- Powerful 600 lumens bright white light
- Durable aluminium body with unique knurling
- Water-resistant with IPX8 rating
- Simple ON/OFF tail switch for easy operation
Cons:
- Limited battery life with a single AAA battery, necessitating frequent replacements.
About Streamlight TLR 8A
Streamlight 69434 TLR-8A G Flex 500-Lumen
Experience optimal illumination and precision aiming with the Streamlight TLR-8A. Emitting 500 lumens of light and featuring a 140-meter beam, this low-profile pistol light integrates a 510-520nm green laser for enhanced targeting. Ambidextrous rear switches offer convenient operation, while the durable aluminium construction ensures longevity. The CR123A lithium battery powers 1.5 hours of light or light/laser combo, with an 11-hour runtime for the laser alone. The safe-off feature prevents accidental activation. Product compatibility is crucial, but the customer service response to incompatibility concerns is commendable.
Pros:
- Powerful 500-lumen light with 140-meter beam.
- Integrated 510-520nm green laser for precise aiming.
- Ambidextrous rear switches for versatile operation.
- One-handed snap-on and tightened interface for easy attachment.
Cons:
- Product compatibility varies
- Requires CR123A lithium battery (included).
Size and Construction
In sizing up these pistol lights, the Streamlight TLR 8A stretches out to 3 inches, a smidge longer than the Olight Baldr RL’s 2.75 inches, though they share a similar height of about 1.5 inches.
The materials set them apart; Streamlight opts for aluminium and reinforced polymer plastics, while Olight uses aluminium for the housing, featuring rubberized buttons. The all-metal Baldr RL feels robust and durable, but don’t underestimate the high-impact resistance of the TLR 8A’s plastic components.
Weight-wise, the Olight tips the scales a bit more at 3.5 ounces, owing to its machined aluminium body, compared to the 3 ounces of the TLR 8A with its polymer/aluminium combo. But rest assured, both give off a solid, ready-for-action vibe.
Power Source
The Olight Baldr RL vs Streamlight TLR 8A differ in how they power up. The TLR 8A uses a single replaceable CR123 battery, letting you swap it out if needed. It is perfect for longer outings as you can carry spare batteries for quick changes.
On the other hand, the Baldr RL has a built-in rechargeable battery that can’t be swapped out. Charging is accessible through a magnetic USB port, making charging at home or in the car convenient.
The TLR 8A wins in field reliability with its replaceable battery, allowing quick swaps. Meanwhile, the Baldr RL provides convenience but needs regular charging, as its battery can’t be changed.
In short, the TLR 8A suits those who prefer replaceable batteries for more extended use, while the Baldr RL is more about hassle-free charging between uses.
Controls and Operation
Olight Baldr RL vs Streamlight TLR 8A make it easy for both left- and right-handed shooters with ambidextrous switches to control the light and laser. The TLR 8A gives audible clicks while the Baldr RL switches work silently, but both let you choose between a quick flash or a steady beam.
You’ll need to use slightly different methods to switch between modes – light only, laser only, or both. The TLR 8A uses a rotating collar, while the Baldr RL has a slide switch. Once you’ve peeked at the manuals, it all becomes second nature.
Ultimately, both lights offer a smooth way to access light and laser functions from any grip. Even though their mode-switching styles differ slightly, once you get the hang of it, Streamlight and Olight make it easy to handle, especially in the heat of action.
Mounting
Olight’s Baldr RL opts for a slick, snap-in Glock-style or Picatinny rail mount. It slides effortlessly along the rail, needing no tools for quick adjustments. Picture a hassle-free experience, effortlessly getting your light into the perfect spot.
Meanwhile, Streamlight’s TLR 8A tightens things with a screw-tightened clamp and included keys. It demands more hands-on attention to shift positions or switch mounts.
Olight’s snap-in sliding mount offers most users a swift and seamless swap between handguns. Need to tweak the light’s position? No problem. Streamlight’s setup works well but involves more time and tools.
In user-friendliness, Olight’s tool-less snap-in slider steals the show, making it a smoother experience than Streamlight’s screw-tightened rail keys. Both Olight Baldr RL vs Streamlight TLR 8A do the job, but Olight’s system is simple and easy to use.
Performance
Regarding brightness, the TLR 8A boasts 500 lumens on paper, while the Baldr RL shines with a rating of 600 lumens. However, in practical terms, when tested at a distance of 25 yards, the beams of these two lights appeared quite similar. The laser dots they produced were also alike, with the Streamlight’s dot being a bit larger but the Olight’s dot showing more precision. For everyday activities, the illumination and performance of these lights seemed the same.
Pricing
Now, here’s where things stand out the most. The Streamlight has a price tag of around $200, whereas the Olight Baldr RL frequently goes for less, often under $120. When you weigh the performance and features of the Olight against its price, it stands out as a fantastic deal. The TLR 8A is undoubtedly a robust and reliable light, but comes with a hefty price tag. Considering the impressive performance of the Baldr RL, it becomes a challenge to rationalize spending almost double for Streamlight.
Olight Baldr RL vs Streamlight TLR 8A
| Feature | Olight Baldr RL | Streamlight TLR 8A |
| Size and Construction | 2.75 inches (length), 1.5 inches (height) | 3 inches (length), 1.5 inches (height) |
| Power Source | Built-in rechargeable battery | Single replaceable CR123 battery |
| Mounting | Glock-style or Picatinny rail mount | Screw-tightened clamp with included keys |
| Lumen Output | 600 lumens | 500 lumens |
| Price | Often under $120 | Around $200 |
Now you know the detailed comparison of Olight Baldr RL vs Streamlight TLR 8A. You may also like to read our comprehensive buyer guide for Glock laser light.
End Thought
When choosing between the Olight Baldr RL vs Streamlight TLR 8A, the Baldr RL is the clear winner for most civilian users. With its budget-friendly price tag that still delivers impressive quality and performance, the Baldr RL provides excellent value. The rechargeable battery is also a nice bonus, offering convenient at-home charging. The Streamlight remains a good option for those needing ultimate field serviceability. But for EDC applications, the Olight Baldr RL gives you the most tactical flashlight for your money, making it the top choice for most people.