

“turbo mode” only runs for 30 seconds before stepping down to prevent overheating, but the high mode (190 lm.) is still plenty bright for the most common uses on trail and around camp.

PROS: Ultralight, compact, affordable, rechargeable, waterproof (IP66), battery life reader, locking feature, charges quicklyĬONS: Wide beam easily shines in camping partner’s eyes, short burn time, strange head strap connection clipīOTTOM LINE: The incredibly lightweight NITECORE NU 25 has a lot of really useful features in an affordable package. MAX LUMENS/BEAM DISTANCE: 360 lm./ 266 ft. ULTRALIGHT HEADLAMP WITH LONG LASTING RECHARGEABLE BATTERY MORE: If you want something lighter and more compact with a few more features, check out the Petzl Zipka. For its price and functionality, this is a perfectly good choice for backpacking, hiking, emergencies, working around the house, keeping in your car, or pretty much whatever. The Tikkina has the ability to use three AAAs or you can buy a rechargeable CORE battery for about $30. Press the button once for low, twice for medium, or three times for high, and that’s pretty much it. Petzl designed the no-frills Tikkina to be easy to use, with very little learning curve or special features.

If you just need a headlamp to meet basic needs, this is your guy. PROS: Affordable, long burn time, easy to useĬONS: No red mode or strobe, not fully waterproof, max output is dimmer than some others, no locking featureīOTTOM LINE: The Petzl Tikkina is a simple, long-lasting option for an unbeatable price. MAX LUMENS/BEAM DISTANCE: 250 lm./ 196 ft. MORE: If you’re looking for more lumen-power, BioLite’s 330 is a bit brighter and has a slightly longer burn time with a small battery pack at the back of the head. But if you don’t spend much time using a light each night or you carry a power bank, it could still be used for multi-night trips. The burn time of this rechargeable headlamp is relatively short, so it’s best suited for evening walks or shorter outings close to home. The BioLite is our top choice for activities like running, since it’s ultralight and doesn’t bounce or slip on impact. PROS: Ultralight, compact, rechargeable, comfortable, locking featureĬONS: Short burn time, not fully waterproof, small on/off buttonīottom Line: The BioLite HeadLamp 200 is the most comfortable headlamp on the market with it’s smooth headband and ergonomic design that sits flush on the forehead. MAX Lumens/ Beam Distance: 200 lm./ 164 ft.
