TOP 10 Best Headlamps – 2021 Rating

Headlamp rating

When selecting candidates for the “best” list, we looked at the most popular flashlights of Russian and foreign production, got acquainted with the opinions of experts, and truthful customer reviews. Our VyborExperta.ru team tried to identify the merits of each of the nominees, divided into categories, without ignoring minor shortcomings. In doing so, we were guided by the following characteristics:

Brightness - the power of the luminous flux measured at the base of the lighting fixture;
Glow range - the distance that allows you to identify the illuminated object;
Operating time – the period during which the lamp remains operational;
Reliability – protection from dust and moisture, assembly, manufacturer’s warranty;
Comfort – mounting, access to controls, size, weight;
Functionality - focusing, tilt angle of the optical unit, etc.

The best walkie talkies

Lantern rating

Compiling a rating of headlamps is a relatively difficult task, since the functionality of most of these devices is very similar, and existing models with various features or “zest” in the form of an additional backlight source or adjustable brightness level can significantly increase the cost of such devices.

For fishermen, the question of which lantern to choose is often not as pressing as, for example, for a tourist traveling in a deep forest. During fishing, operating conditions for lighting devices are less extreme.

The best rechargeable headlamps under 1000 rubles

The concept of inexpensive does not mean not worthy of attention, which is confirmed by lighting fixtures classified in the budget category. The relative low price of headlamps is due to the use of cheaper materials, a minimal set of functions, and low-power batteries. Easy to operate and maintain, the devices are often not inferior to premium-class lamps in terms of reliability and durability.

Era Praktik GA-802

The Era Praktik GA-802 lantern is based on the traditional design of mine lamps. The light source of the model, which can be purchased for up to 850 rubles, uses a single LED. The beam formed by optics allows you to distinguish objects distant 250 meters from the user.

The capacity of the built-in battery, charged via a USB adapter, is enough to maintain the glow for 5–6 hours. Adjustable straps made of soft, wear-resistant material guarantee reliable fixation and a comfortable position of the device on the head. A characteristic feature of the line is the yellow edging of the optical system.

Advantages:

Illumination range typical of models with a powerful luminous flux;
Adjustment of the beam direction vertically;
Charging from devices equipped with a USB port;
Lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 1500 mAh;
Economy mode.

Flaws:

Lack of focus.

In reviews of the Era Praktik GA-802 headlamp, users note the high build quality, as well as the durability of the flashlight, which is resistant to negative environmental factors and does not lose functionality when dropped from a small height. Some dissatisfaction is caused by the bright spot created by the beam in the center of the working area, which, as you get used to it, loses its status as a disadvantage.

Space H5W-LED

The Cosmos H5W-LED lamp, securely fixed to the head, is not afraid of heavy rain, dust flying out from under the instrument, vibration and falling from a small height. The model represents the cheapest rechargeable LED headlamps, which, along with household purposes, are successfully used in professional activities, converted into headlights for bicycles, etc.

The power source for the single LED, which produces a luminous flux of 220 lm, is a nickel-cadmium battery, which can be charged from devices equipped with a USB port. In economy mode, the duration of continuous glow is 2–3 times longer than stated.

Advantages:

High power – 5 W;
Illumination range over 200 m;
IP44 protection against moisture and dust;

Flaws:

Inconvenient power button;
Ni-Cd battery.

Due to its size and weight, the Cosmos H5W-LED is nicknamed a floodlight. Commenting on the benefits, users note that with a full charge and economy mode, the flashlight's operating time exceeds 12–15 hours.

Tesla HL2

A Czech development that has earned recognition among cyclists, as well as fans of extreme recreation. The stylish model is distinguished by its lightness - 180 g (with batteries), as well as its reliable fastening, eliminating discomfort during prolonged wearing. A luminous flux of 120 lm is sufficient to illuminate objects located at a distance of 100 m.

In addition to the main and economy modes, the flashlight provides warning signals, which is achieved by introducing a constant or flashing red light. Three AAA batteries ensure continuous operation of the LED flashlight for 5–6 hours.

Advantages:

Lightweight, compact;
Advanced functionality – 4 modes;
Autonomy, independence from the power grid.

Flaws:

Not detected.

The model produced in China does not cause any complaints about the build quality. Rare negative reviews about the Tesla HL2 regarding the battery compartment contacts are considered exceptions.

Popular models

To facilitate the selection process, below we will consider some popular models of headlamps for fishing, which have managed to prove themselves on the positive side:

LH-170 “Bright Beam” with a power of 170 lumens is well suited for situations where you do not plan to fish in the dark, but a flashlight is needed for safety. This is due to the short operating time even in saving mode, but according to other characteristics, this model is excellent for fishing and other types of outdoor activities. Tests have shown that the device is resistant to mechanical damage and can even withstand falls from a height of four meters. It also has impressive tightness: the flashlight is not only resistant to splashes, but also continues to work when immersed in water up to one meter.

The approximate cost is only about 700 rubles.

The ZebraLight H520W works no longer than one hour at maximum beam output, but such output is not required for fishing, since its power is 260 lumens. The flashlight has several operating modes, so the power from 260 to 2.7 lumens is user adjustable; The maximum duration of work is from 1 hour to 4 days. There is also a beacon operating mode, in which the device functions even in the absence of a charge. Its main advantage is its water resistance: this model can be immersed in water several meters and remain there for half an hour, which will not affect its operation or cause any damage.

The approximate cost is 4000-4500 rubles.

The LH-190 Cobra has three operating modes that provide varying degrees of illumination; The maximum duration of operation is 55 hours. The basic package includes a battery that can be recharged via a USB port. The material used was a modern type of plastic, characterized by an increased degree of strength.

The cost is 1500 rubles.

Fenix HL25 is a multifunctional modern headlamp, the lighting power is manually adjusted by the user and can range from 3 to 280 lumens; The maximum operating time varies from 4 to 140 hours. Sputtering on glass provides high quality light; The beam does not blink even when the battery level is low. The case is made of high-quality aluminum, which ensures reliability and protection from mechanical damage. A convenient mechanism has been added to the design, which allows you to change the position of the flashlight and tilt it by 60°.

The approximate cost is 3000-3500 rubles.

The LED Lenser H2 is a headlamp that is ideal for fishing in any conditions thanks to its impressive performance. The lighting power is adjustable by the user and can range from 60 to 350 lumens, depending on it, the beam range varies from 100 to 260 meters. The duration of operation depends on the selected operating mode, on average it is 40-60 hours.

The cost is about 5000-5500 rubles.

The best rechargeable headlamps from 1000 rubles

When choosing a powerful LED headlamp with an above-average price, the buyer is confident in the purpose of its use. In addition to build quality, materials, wearing comfort, the user is interested in functionality, adjustability, charging time and continuous operation time. Not least important is compactness, lightness, impact resistance, dust and moisture resistance.

Nitecore NU32

Chinese origin does not in any way detract from the advantages of Nitecore as the leader in the global market of compact lighting devices. The weight of the new NU32 model when fully equipped does not exceed 77 g. The miniature bright headlamp creates a luminous flux of 550 lm, which allows you to view darkened objects from a distance of 125 m.

In addition to the four main modes, the device provides red light and CRI, serves to generate alarms, and performs the functions of a beacon. The micro USB port makes it easy to charge the integrated 1800 mAh Li-Ion battery. At minimum load, the power supply, designed for 500 charging cycles, ensures continuous operation of the lamp for 330 hours.

Advantages:

Lightweight and compact;
Nine glow modes;
Wide lighting angle – 100 degrees;
CRI backlight with sunlight characteristics;
Polycarbonate body;
PDOT technology to reduce the risk of glare;
Remaining charge indicator
Protection class – IP67.

Flaws:

Not detected.

The absence of a charger in the kit is compensated for by an adapter corresponding to the parameters, a charging bank, the vehicle’s on-board network and other devices equipped with USB ports.

Bright Beam LH-190A “Cobra”

Inferior to its analogues in concentrated illumination, the headlamp Bright Beam LH-190A “Cobra”, equipped with a matrix LED SOV, provides soft, close to natural, wide-angle illumination with discrete and smooth brightness adjustment. In economy mode, the model operates for up to 55 hours, which is provided by a 2200 mAh lithium-ion battery.

The battery is charged via the built-in USB port, which is adapted for external power sources. Bright luminescent shades in the design make it easy to find a flashlight in thick grass and among camping equipment.

Advantages:

LED COB, emitting light similar to sunlight;
Powerful battery;
Smooth brightness adjustment;
Convenient vertical tilt angle adjustment.

Flaws:

Difficulty turning on/off when working with gloves.

Providing illumination at a campsite, comfort in a tent, long-term work indoors without straining the eyes, the Bright Beam headlamp LH-190A “Cobra” is not well suited for large spaces.

Bison Professional PX-650 56430

A transformable flashlight that, in addition to the headlight, can be used as a belt or portable one. The optical system, including a Cree XM-L T6 LED and focusable lens, is housed in a removable aluminum housing. The battery compartment, fixed in the back of the headband and connected to the optics with a flexible cable, also allows for quick dismantling.

Bison Professional PX-650 56430 confidently illuminates distant objects from a distance of 200 m and provides comfortable lighting at minimal distances. With external massiveness, the weight of the structure does not exceed 240 g. One set of batteries, consisting of four AA elements, is enough for 4 hours of intense glow. In Eco mode, the operating time is doubled. An elastic headband, balanced by optics and a battery compartment, provides a secure fit and eliminates discomfort from prolonged wearing.

Advantages:

Beam focusing, work in 3 modes;
Universal application;
Aircraft aluminum body;
Balanced headband;
Independence from external power sources.

Flaws:

Poor attachment of the optical module to the headband.

The design of the PX-650 56430 model is similar to military optical systems, however, the protruding lens requires caution when working in confined spaces. Some users claim that the actual luminous flux of the “Bison” is lower than that declared by the manufacturer, which has little effect on the popularity of the universal lighting device.

Petzl Tikkina (150 lm)

A good headlamp for fishing, cycling, housework. Weighing 87 g, the model is placed on an elastic strap, is practically not noticeable on the head, and eliminates discomfort during prolonged wearing. With a compact size, the lighting device creates a luminous flux of 150 lm.

To adjust the intensity of the glow, 3 modes are provided, in the minimum of which the device remains operational for 220 hours. Powered by three AA batteries, there is no dependence on the mains.

Advantages:

Lightweight, compact;
Application regardless of weather conditions - IPX4 protection;
High-quality assembly;
Shockproof housing;
Convenient controls.

Flaws:

Overcharge.

The limited range of action pays off with comfortable, close-to-natural illumination of small spaces, which is sufficient for monitoring a float, illuminating the road in front of a bicycle, and repair work in poor visibility conditions. The relatively high cost is due to Dutch assembly, which guarantees the reliability and durability of the products.

The best headlamps

All of the flashlights listed below, according to our experts, are more than worthy of attention and that’s why we included them in our TOP 10 rating.

Their capabilities, mounting methods, lighting quality and, of course, price - all this was taken into account and due to this it was decided which of the models under consideration was considered the best of all.

No. 10. Ultraflash LED5351

Ultraflash LED5351
Flashlight from Ultraflash has a fairly simple design and a minimum of functions. This is explained by savings on everything, since it was necessary to achieve an extremely low price for the product. Experts on our site can confidently say that the performance is relatively normal for the cheapest flashlight in the rating, although we would like to see better results.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: three AAA batteries;
operating time: 70 h;
lighting range: 20 m;
luminous flux: 15 lm.

pros

small sizes;
low weight indicators;
extremely affordable price;
long battery life.

Minuses

very small radius of illumination;
small luminous flux indicators;
use of AAA batteries.

Reviews and prices for Ultraflash LED5351 headlamp

No. 9. ERA Practitioner GA-801

ERA Praktik GA-801
This headlamp is another “representative” of a domestic manufacturer, albeit from a different one. The presence of a built-in battery is the first plus that sets this device apart from all others. It is also worth noting the small dimensions and weight, which affect the comfort of wearing. Interestingly, this model can shine not only in white, but also in red light.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: 300 mAh battery;
operating time: 6 hours;
lighting range: 14 m;
luminous flux: 150 lm.

pros

low price;
built-in battery;
two types of light;
small dimensions and weight.

Minuses

does not always hold as much as it should;
weak light.

ERA Practitioner GA-801

No. 8. TROPHY TG9

TROPHY TG9
This flashlight from the domestic company Trophy is quite an interesting model. Its strict design and strong clamps make using this flashlight quite pleasant. There are no difficulties in using it - just turn it on and go.

A capacious and compact battery is the main feature that characterizes this device as a high-quality device.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: two rechargeable batteries of standard size ICR18650;
working time: 9 hours;
lighting range: 45 m;
luminous flux: 50 lm.

Overall, it's bright enough for night fishing or cycling, and has enough capacity to last long enough.

pros

low price;
presence of a built-in battery;
long working life.

Minuses

plastic case.

TROPHY TG9

No. 7. Bright Beam PANDA 2R

Bright Beam PANDA 2R
Bright orange design, domestic build quality, ease of use - all this is offered by the Bright Beam PANDA 2R model. Its main feature was the presence of Boost mode. The essence of this mode is a sharp increase in the luminous flux up to 800 Lm. It has three lighting modes: warm white, cool white and ultraviolet. The model's body is waterproof, some parts are made of aluminum alloy. The headband is elastic and easy to adjust to different sizes. The light bulbs rotate 90°, this allows you to direct the beam in the desired direction. Reviews note good build quality and complete equipment.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: 2600 mAh rechargeable battery;
operating time: 3 hours;
lighting range: 45 m;
luminous flux: 800 lm.

pros

intuitive indicators;
remembers the last operating mode;
high quality case;
Boost mode.

Minuses

may become very hot;
It is difficult to make a narrow beam.

Bright Beam PANDA 2R

No. 6. ECOS FLHC6012

ECOS FLHC6012
This headlamp model has an interesting design. It consists of combining five compartments into one solid lantern. The interesting thing is that everything in this flashlight is made of impact-resistant plastic - that's why it's quite light in weight. The design of the model is quite unusual, but at the same time comfortable to wear. Has IPX6 moisture protection.

Let's now consider the technical characteristics:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: two rechargeable batteries of standard size ICR18650;
operating time: 100 hours;
lighting range: 120 m;
luminous flux: 310 lm.

The only drawback of this model is that the device heats up quite quickly, which interferes with comfortable wearing.

pros

high range;
autonomy;
comfort of wearing;
interesting design.

Minuses

high price;
It heats up during operation, and quite strongly.

ECOS FLHC6012

No. 5. Petzl Tikkina

Petzl Tikkina
Thanks to its small size and weight, as well as interesting design, the French model is included in our rating. A tight and comfortable strap allows you to easily hold the device on your head without getting stuck. Two brightness modes are the most necessary thing this model has.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: three AAA batteries;
operating time: 220 h;
lighting range: 55 m;
luminous flux: 150 lm.

pros

long service life;
interesting design;
comfort of wearing;
high-quality assembly;
good belts.

Minuses

short illumination range;
lowest degree of protection;
high price;
using batteries rather than rechargeable batteries.

Petzl Tikkina

No. 4. SPACE H3WCOBLED

COSMOS H3WCOBLED
The next model on our list is COSMOS H3WCOBLED. It stands out for its bright green design, small dimensions and weight, as well as build quality. The light shines quite well and with high quality for the budget segment. It has quality certificates, which adds advantages to this option when purchasing.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
Power supply: three AA batteries;
operating time: 20 h;
lighting range: 10 m;
luminous flux: 210 lm.

pros

low price;
small dimensions and weight;
high battery life for a cheap flashlight;
availability of water protection.

Minuses

use of AA batteries.

SPACE H3WCOBLED

No. 3. Bailong BL-2188B-T6

Bailong BL-2188B-T6
This model from Bailong has its advantages. Firstly, strobe is a mode that is quite rare in headlamps. Secondly, there is an adjustable lens that helps in focusing the light. And thirdly, a high-quality heat dissipation system, which prevents the device from overheating.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: two rechargeable batteries of standard size ICR18650;
working time: 12 hours;
lighting range: 320 m;
luminous flux: 860 lm.

This headlamp meets all quality criteria. In addition, there is dust protection. Moisture protection class – IPX6.

pros

autonomy;
ease of use;
the light shines far;
good luminous flux indicators;
high class of water protection.

Minuses

gets very hot;
the price is somewhat high;
The batteries included are of extremely poor quality.

Reviews and prices for headlamp Bailong BL-2188B-T6

No. 2. BORUiT HL-720

BORUiT HL-720
The main feature of the BORUiT HL-720 is the strobe mode, which is not often found in headlamps. In addition, it has fairly reliable moisture protection for an inexpensive device.

Otherwise, this model is a typical representative of headlamps. It has high performance in many parameters, which makes its purchase quite profitable. The manufacturer promises up to 40 minutes of active operation of this headlamp without recharging.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: two rechargeable batteries of standard size ICR18650;
operating time: 14.5 hours;
lighting range: 1000 m;
luminous flux: 3000 lm.

When purchasing this headlamp, the kit includes two chargers - for home and car, as well as two rechargeable batteries for operating the device.

pros

long illumination range;
high luminous flux;
autonomy;
the presence of a strobe;
comfortable to wear.

Minuses

gets very hot during operation;
The batteries included are of extremely poor quality.

BORUiT HL-720

No. 1. UltraFire W616

UltraFire W616
Thanks to its small body size and large light source, this model deserves a lot of attention. UltraFire W616 is a device that will allow you to shine far and long, and the luminous flux will not leave anything unnoticed. The convenience of wearing this flashlight is another advantage of this model. Overall, this model is more than suitable for a wide variety of tasks.

Let's look at the technical specifications:

light source type: LEDs;
power source: three rechargeable batteries size ICR18650;
opening hours: 17 hours;
lighting range: 1000 m;
luminous flux: 6000 lm.

pros

long illumination range;
high luminous flux;
build quality;
comfortable to wear.

Minuses

high price.

UltraFire W616

The best headlamps from AliExpress

In terms of the number of goods sold and purchased in Russia, Aliexpress is twice as ahead of its closest competitors. Along with a comfortable, safe service, the online store is famous for its wide assortment, offering customers products that previously could only be purchased in narrow-profile retail outlets. To complete our rating, we have compiled the top headlamps from AliExpress that are most often of interest to potential buyers.

Trilife BL090/BL254/BL407

In terms of brightness, the Trilife BL090/BL254/BL407 headlamp is not inferior to car headlights and is one of the most powerful in its class. It is equipped with three or five LED spotlights, activated and changing the intensity of the glow using a regular or touch switch. In the latter version, a wave of your hand is enough to control the lamp. A focused beam allows you to identify objects at a distance of several hundred meters.

The functionality of the LED flashlight has been expanded to include strobe modes and an alarm/warning signal. To charge a pair of 18650 batteries, you can use a network adapter, the vehicle's on-board network, or devices equipped with USB ports.

Advantages:

Possibility of configuration at the user's discretion;
Extended range of brightness adjustments;
Adjustable beam focusing;
Comfortable plastic headband;
Mechanically resistant housing made of durable aluminum alloy;
Protection from negative environmental factors;
Versatility of battery charging.

Flaws:

Not detected.

According to our analysis, the Trilife BL090/BL254/BL407 headlamp has no shortcomings. The model copes well with household and professional tasks and does not raise any complaints regarding build quality, reliability and durability. Rare negative reviews concern the insufficient strength of the plastic suitcase, which sometimes does not withstand the rigors of long-distance shipment, which does not in any way affect the functionality of the flashlight.

Sofirn SP40

A model that evokes delight with a simple, at the same time ingenious solution - installing an ordinary flashlight on the headboard with a holder. A bright headlamp with a battery is not limited in scope, it is equally effective at home, at work and outdoors. Reliably protected from mechanical stress, dust, moisture, and temperature changes.

When fully equipped, the weight of the structure does not exceed 120 g, which, along with a comfortable plastic headboard, ensures the comfort of long-term wearing. The Cree XPL 1200 lm LED is powered by a 18650 lithium-ion battery, charged from a household outlet or via USB. The device provides 5 operating modes with the last one memorized.

Advantages:

Universal application;
Built-in magnet for fixing on metal surfaces;
Durable 6061 grade aerospace aluminum alloy body;
High water resistance – IPX7;
Battery overheating protection – ATR technology;
Battery charge level indicator;
Single button control.

Flaws:

Not detected.

Despite its outward primitiveness, the Chinese flashlight is superior in reliability and practicality to many expensive models from well-known manufacturers. High reliability, build quality, protection from shock and moisture classify the device as “indestructible”, which increases its attractiveness as a fishing, hunting and tourist device.

Shustar T-045

A powerful headlamp model available in four configurations. Equipped with 5–8 LED spotlights, with a total power of three to five thousand lumens. The battery compartment located in the back of the head balances the plastic headband and makes it comfortable to wear for a long time.

Lithium batteries are used as power sources, charged via an AC adapter, from a car cigarette lighter or devices equipped with a USB port. When fully charged, it stays lit for 7-9 hours. The impact-resistant housing prevents the penetration of moisture and dirt, allowing the device to be used in any weather conditions.

Advantages:

High intensity adjustable luminous flux;
Illumination range up to 500 m;
Universal battery charging;
Upgraded 2nd generation LEDs – T6;
Lightness – from 118 to 150 g;
Brake light on the back of the battery compartment;
Plastic storage case.

Flaws:

Not detected.

In its maximum configuration, the model looks somewhat massive, but does not restrict movements or cause discomfort. The functionality of the lighting device can be judged by the fact that Shustar T-045 is popular with miners and speleologists.

Tourist and hunting options

Phoenix HL26R

One of the main distinguishing features of this headlamp is the built-in battery pack and very compact overall dimensions. At the same time, the products are lightweight - they weigh about 85-90 grams. You can hardly feel this flashlight on your head. At first glance it may seem that the mount is quite simple, but it reliably holds this lighting fixture in place. On the inside there is a strip made of high-quality elastic rubber, which does not lose its flexibility even in very low temperatures. It is equipped with a silicone gasket that prevents the device from slipping off the user's head.

More: Top 10 best winter boots, choosing winter shoes for hunting and fishing

Naturally, it is far from achieving the qualities of a spotlight, but the device is very effective - it is capable of illuminating a distance of up to one hundred meters, easily withstands even serious physical impacts, and the body itself is carefully protected from moisture. There are several operating modes here - short-range, long-range, turbo and emergency, when the flashlight automatically starts giving an SOS light signal

Advantages:

Fairly light products;
Illuminates a hundred meters ahead;
Quite a dense luminous flux;
Built-in battery, which is enough for 100 hours of device operation in economy mode.

Flaws:

Poor beam stabilization.

Phoenix HL26R

Bright Beam PANDA 3R

This flashlight has the highest class of protection against moisture - it complies with the IPX-8 standard, the body is shockproof, and is made of high-quality aircraft-grade aluminum of increased reliability. It contains two LED lamps, each of which has its own optical system; they are capable of generating a luminous flux of up to 1100 lm. The flashlight has 4 operating modes at once, so it can be adjusted strictly to specific conditions of use. In its brightest mode, it is capable of illuminating a space 115 m ahead.

It is equipped with a built-in battery with a capacity of 260 mAh, so in medium intensity mode the device can work for 18 hours. The device can be charged via an external battery, by connecting to a laptop, or using a standard smartphone charger.

Advantages:

Occurs quite often;
Reliable housing with excellent protection from moisture and dust;
Attractive appearance;
Built-in battery of decent capacity;
Quite convenient to manage.

Flaws:

The mount is not very comfortable.

Bright Beam PANDA 3R

LED LENSER H7R.2

A very original product, largely due to the fact that this device is equipped with a separate housing, since its battery pack is located in the back of the device. This allows you to make the weight distribution of the device more uniform, which, in turn, does not create additional stress on the neck muscles - this point is very important, since the device is characterized by a decent weight, which is about 170 g.

LED elements are capable of producing a very dense luminous flux - a maximum of 300 lm; if you use focusing, the maximum beam range will be 160 m. The flashlight is equipped with a brightness control, which is located on the battery compartment. The minimum luminous flux power will be 20 Lm. You can charge the device not only from the network, but also from USB. A full battery charge will be enough for 60 hours of continuous operation.

Advantages:

Compact overall dimensions;
Sufficiently powerful adjustable luminous flux;
High reliability;
Ease of use;
Even distribution of mass prevents neck muscles from getting tired.

Flaws:

Quite expensive.

LED LENSER H7R.2

Olight H2R Nova NW

It is distinguished by a large number of unusual design solutions that are usually uncharacteristic of a headlamp, but this approach has helped make this design one of the best for use in hunting or hiking trips. The body is universal, so if necessary, the flashlight can be used as an ordinary hand-held one. The design is very compact - the body length is only 11 cm, magnetic charging is used here, which is also very convenient. The degree of protection against moisture and dust complies with the international standard IPX-8, so the model can easily withstand immersion in water to a depth of up to a meter.

MORE: Top 10 Best Portable Tent Heaters

The maximum brightness of the device is 2300 lm - the same figure as a car headlight. The beam range reaches 150 m, which is quite enough for hunting. The battery can operate without recharging for up to 1080 hours.

Advantages:

Original mount;
Can also be used as a hand-held flashlight;
The brightness is in no way inferior to a car headlight;
Magnetic charging.

Flaws:

The only one is its cost.

Olight H2R Nova NW

How to choose a headlamp

Having lost the status of a curiosity, headlamps are actively displacing portable analogues, both from the professional and household sectors. If previously, to choose a mobile lighting device, there was enough information about the beam range and the type of batteries, the range of modern criteria takes up an entire page. The variety of models, as well as constantly expanding functionality, baffles even specialists who are confident in their requirements when choosing.

Power

By power we mean the luminous flux measured at the base of the light source when the batteries are fully charged. The characteristic measured in Lumens depends on the type of LED and power source. The last point is especially important, since intense glow leads to increased discharge of the battery or batteries, which negatively affects the life of the flashlight.

Light beam range

A parameter that, like luminous flux, is assessed with a new power source. It is related to the brightness of the light source and the capabilities of the optical system, which provides for reducing the beam to a minimum size. The characteristic measured in meters informs about the maximum range at which illuminated objects can be identified.

Level of protection against dust and water

The level of protection of a headlamp from negative environmental factors is characterized by the IPXX index, where the first digit indicates the degree of protection from dust, and the next – from moisture. Replacing the number with an X means that there are no tests for the corresponding characteristic. For home use of a mobile lamp in indoor conditions, protection with the IP20 index is sufficient. Frequent outdoor exposure necessitates increased protection to IP44.

Higher demands are placed on headlamps intended for use for professional purposes and under extreme conditions. Lamps that meet the IP68 protection class remain operational even after short-term immersion in water and are completely isolated from dust.

Modes

Almost every headlamp presented on the modern market provides 2 types of illumination: basic and economical. In the first case, the flashlight operates at full power, the second provides illumination of a limited space for a long time. Increasing the number of glow intensity modes suggests an optimal ratio of efficiency and energy consumption. The best option in this regard is smooth brightness adjustment.

Additional modes are widely used in mobile lamps, such as flashing, strobe, alarm, red light, CRI, etc.

Functionality

The main task of a headlamp is to illuminate an object without using your hands. The functionality of the mobile lamp can be expanded by:

Beam focusing, expressed in a change in the illumination sector;
Additional spotlights with various types of light sources;
Vertical deviation of the optical system, allowing the beam to be fixed in a specific area without changing the position of the head;
Moving the battery compartment to the back of the head, which improves the balancing of the headband and increases user comfort,
Removable optics and power supply, which allows the headlamp to be converted into a belt-mounted, portable or stationary one;
Touch control, which provides control of the lighting fixture without direct contact with it
A micro USB port allows you to charge batteries from various external sources.

When choosing a headlamp, you need to pay attention to the batteries. The batteries require multiple charging, but when discharged they need to be replenished with energy from external sources, which is problematic during long-term exposure to field conditions. Batteries are inferior to accumulators in capacity, but their relatively low cost allows you to keep a reserve that will serve as a replacement for discharged batteries.

Which flashlight to choose for fishing

In order not to choose a headlamp for fishing by trial and error and not ruin your vacation, you need to understand in advance what criteria to evaluate.

We recommend watching the video on the topic “The best flashlight for fishing and hunting.”

Battery or batteries

A headlamp for night fishing should provide light for at least two days in periodic lighting mode. A universal option would be a device that can combine two types of charging: both a battery and batteries.

Batteries are more affordable to purchase, even if you are out of town. But their energy consumption resource is much lower compared to a battery. The battery capacity is indicated on the packaging and if it is enough for one fishing trip, or if it is possible to charge a flashlight, then the battery is more preferable.

Moisture protection and durability

In the standard version, the headlamp for outdoor activities is protected from moisture in the form of water droplets of varying intensity. But if the device is completely submerged in water, then such protection will not help. And, most likely, the lamp cannot be saved.

If you expect extreme fishing conditions and the possibility of falling into the water, then you need to look for a device with a sealed case. Headlamps with sealed protection cost 30% more, but will not break if they drown.

Sealed fishing lights are 1m immersion resistant. They are not suitable for spearfishing or diving.

The usual strength of the body and lens must withstand average mechanical impact (mild blows, jolts), gusts of wind, and temperatures from -10 to +40˚С. At the same time, there are models that can withstand increased shock loads and extreme temperature changes.

Compactness of flashlights

In order not to restrict movement and not interfere with visibility, a night headlamp for fishing should weigh no more than 160 grams. and have dimensions of no more than 5–10 cm. There is a direct relationship here: the greater the power of the emitters and the energy capacity of the battery, the larger the dimensions of the device.

When buying, you need to choose a middle ground. Try on the chosen model in the store and make several active movements with your arms and head. The flashlight should not interfere with movement.

Lighting brightness modes

Standard flashlights for night fishing have one lighting mode. This is a wide beam of diffused light. Its power is at least 160 lumens. This brightness is enough to illuminate an area of 5–7 meters at night with average fog density or in light rain.

We recommend watching the video on the topic “Proven headlamp for fishing”

More advanced types of headlamps for night fishing have 2 or 3 types of light output. In addition to diffuse illumination, there is a focused beam mode. Its dispersion angle is no more than 10–15˚. But the range and brightness of the light is 2 times greater.

There is a night light mode - this is a dim light, usually red. It can be used in a tent as the main source of lighting.

Which headlamp is better?

To determine the best headlamp, it is necessary to specify the scope of its application, and also take into account the possibility of use in another area. The identification of “the very, the most” is hampered by ambiguous, sometimes opposing opinions of users. To reduce the risk of disagreement with our audience, we have selected a winner in each category:

Cosmos H5W-LED – quality above price;
Nitecore NU32 – advanced functionality + technologies;
Sofirn SP40 – originality, versatility.

The rating compiled by the VyborExperta.ru project team should not be considered absolute. However, we hope that our research will help you navigate the variety of headlamps, choose a truly useful item and avoid unnecessary costs.

Flashlight	Rating
Petzl Tikkina	4.9
Phoenix HP25	4.8
Navigator NTP-H09-3A	4.5
Petzl Tikka XP2	4.5
Energizer 3 LED	4.4
Navigator NTP-H01	4.2
Surefire Minimus	4.0
Phoenix HL10	3.9
Varta LED x4 Head Light	3.7