Maglite XL50 VS XL200: Which Flashlight Has Better Runtime?

Last Updated on February 6, 2025

The Maglite XL series has provided some of the best flashlight models, with the XL50 being one of the best-selling lights in the series, while the XL200 is the latest flashlight model in the series. Read this Maglite XL50 VS XL200 Review to know their differences.

If you are here to find out which flashlight to buy between the popular Maglite XL50 LED flashlight and the latest Maglite XL200 172 Lumens light, then you have come to the right place. These two flashlights share a lot of features, but they are also different.

Maglite XL50 VS XL200 Comparison table 2025:

Features	XL50	XL200
Maximum Brightness:	200 lumens	172 lumens
Luminous Intensity:	12533cd	6663cd
Beam Distance:	224 Meters	138 Meters
Maximum Runtime:	25 hours	218 hours
Minimum Runtime:	6 hours 45 minutes	1 hour and 30 minutes
Light source type:	LED	CREE XP-G LED
Switch:	Tail	QuickClik
Modes:	3	6
Battery Include:	Yes (3 AAA batteries)	Yes, 3x AAA alkaline batteries
Water Resistance:	IPX4	IPX4
Body Material:	Anodized Aluminum	Anodized Aluminum
Length:	4.8 inches	4.8 in.
Weight:	2.4 ounces	3.7 ounces
Price:	Check Price	Check Price

Read our review to the end in order to make a good judgment about which flashlight you should settle for.

Maglite XL50 VS XL200 Reviews 2025

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Maglite XL50

The Maglite XL50 LED flashlight is more compact and lightweight than the XL200. It is durably made of black anodized aluminum construction that makes it be strong, water-resistant, and impact-resistant. Like the Surefire 600LM G2X Pro, the XL50 also comes with 3 light modes that allow the user to change the level of light according to use. It is powered by 3-cell AAA alkaline batteries that offer 33 hours runtime on low mode and 6 hours 30 minutes on high mode. The flashlight is very bright as it produces a brilliant 200 lumens, which is enough to blind an enemy or light a dark backyard.

Pros:

Well-constructed for longevity
Small and lightweight
3 light modes for versatility
Easy to use with the pushbutton tail cap switch
Extremely bright for its size
It has a wonderful runtime of 25 hours
It is anodized both inside and outside for better corrosion resistance
Lifetime limited warranty

Cons:

Many users have complained about the switch of the flashlight failing to work properly after a few months of use. Fenix flashlight brand features a more comfortable on/off switch.
Some buyers are complaining that they are sold the older version with 139 Lumens instead of on with 200 Lumens.

Maglite XL200

Being the latest member of the XL series, the Maglite XL200 comes with some exceptional features like the 5 light modes that make it be very versatile. It is also impacts and water-resistant, with an IPX4 rating. The XL200 LED light is also compactly designed for easy handling and runs on 3x AAA alkaline flashlight batteries. When it comes to usage, the flashlight has a clickable pushbutton switch in the tail cap that makes switching on/off the light and accessing the modes to be simple and fast. With an outstanding runtime of 218 hours on low light mode, this is a wonderful flashlight for hunting, camping, or even hiking.

Pros:

Sleek and compact
Comfortable and firm grip for easy handling of the light
Durable construction for long-lastingness
5 light modes
Uses CREE LED bulb
It can be used for 218 hours
Easy to use with the clickable pushbutton switch
Impact-resistant and waterproof
Lifetime limited warranty

Cons:

Battery leakage is one of the major issues of this flashlight. For better runtime, you have to buy a rechargeable Fenix UC35 flashlight that delivers extended battery life.
In case of a defect or repair, you will have to pay the shipping fees

Differences between the Maglite XL50 and the XL200

Light Modes

If you want a versatile flashlight that you can use for different activities, then the Maglite XL200 is the better light to go with. This is because it comes with 5 light modes, while the Maglite XL50 comes with only three modes. The 5 light modes for XL200 are high power, strobe, nite-lite, signal, and SOS, while the 3 light modes for XL50 are high power, 25% power, and emergency safety strobe.

Runtime

If you intend to use the flashlight for longer hours, then it is a good idea to select a flashlight that will last longer. The Maglite XL200 has an excellent runtime of 218 hours, while the XL50 LED light has a runtime of 25 hours. Therefore, the XL200 is the better light if you intend to use the light for longer hours.

Number of lumens

Brightness is one of the most important features of any flashlight. The Maglite XL50 produces maximum Lumens of 200, while the Maglite XL200 produces a maximum of 172 Lumens. Thus, the XL50 is slightly brighter than the XL200 light.

Size and weight

For those looking for a compact and lightweight flashlight, I recommend the XL50 flashlight as it is more compact and lightweight. It weighs 2.4 ounces and measures 4.8 x 0.98 x 0.98 inches. On the other hand, the XL200 tactical light weighs 3.7 ounces and measures 7.99 x 2.99 x 2.99 inches. Comparing these two, it is clear that the XL50 is smaller and lightweight, thus very portable.

Summary

Depending on what you intend to use the flashlight for, you will find that both of these tactical lights are well built and very reliable in performance. The Maglite XL50 is ideal for people looking for a quality but cheaper flashlight for everyday use, while the XL200 is great for individuals looking for a powerful and compact light without minding paying some extra dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main differences between the Maglite XL50 and XL200?

The primary differences between the Maglite XL50 and XL200 include brightness, user modes, and control features. The XL200 offers higher lumens output, more advanced lighting modes, and an adjustable brightness control via a motion-based interface, while the XL50 is simpler with fewer modes and a lower lumen output.

2. Which flashlight is better for tactical use, the XL50 or XL200?

For tactical use, the Maglite XL200 is the better choice due to its higher lumen output, strobe function, and enhanced user control. However, the XL50 is more straightforward and reliable for basic tactical applications, making it a great option for those who prefer simplicity.

3. How long do the batteries last in the Maglite XL50 and XL200?

Battery life depends on the mode used. The Maglite XL50 can run for approximately 6 hours 45 minutes on high mode, whereas the XL200 lasts around 2.5 hours on high mode but can extend up to 218 hours in low-power mode.

4. Is the Maglite XL200 worth the extra cost compared to the XL50?

The Maglite XL200 is worth the extra cost if you need higher brightness, additional lighting modes, and more control over output. However, if you prefer a budget-friendly, simpler flashlight with reliable performance, the XL50 is still a great option.

5. Are the Maglite XL50 and XL200 water-resistant?

Yes, both the Maglite XL50 and XL200 are water-resistant, designed with an IPX4 rating, meaning they can withstand splashes of water but are not fully submersible. They are also built with durable aluminum housing for added toughness.

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