Streamlight ProTac 635 Lumens HL Headlamp

The Streamlight ProTac HL Headlamp produces 635 lumens from a C4 LED for hands-free work and outdoor use.

Six hundred and thirty-five lumens is a deliberate middle ground rather than a maximum. Higher-output headlamps carry more weight on the head and more heat at the front. This gives enough light for working under a vehicle or setting up in the dark without the bulk that comes with chasing a bigger number.

The headlamp format keeps both hands available, which no handheld light manages. That is the whole argument: holding a flashlight in your teeth is how people work under a car, and it works badly.

A C4 LED gives the output through Streamlight's established emitter platform. It suits work tasks, hiking, camping and emergency use where the light needs to follow where the user is looking. Explore more headlamps and compact lights.

• 635 lumens is a middle ground, not a maximum
• Higher output means more weight and heat on the head
• Both hands stay available
• A flashlight in your teeth works badly