The best headlamps, top 10 rating of good headlamps

If you've ever tried to repair something while holding a regular flashlight, then you understand perfectly well how much more convenient it is when both hands are free. And jogging in the park in the evening with a head-mounted device will be much more comfortable. Headbands are extremely convenient and will certainly come in handy on a regular hike or even at home. They say that demand creates supply, and today we have a huge selection of devices, which are not at all easy to understand. We will simplify your task and help you choose a headlamp.

TOP 7 best headlamps

Having studied the market offers today, we have selected the 7 best models of headbands:

Petzl Tikka;
Black Diamond Spot 325;
Bright Beam PANDA 2R;
Bailong BL-2188B-T6;
UltraFire W616;
FENIX HP30R;
BORUIT HL-720.

We will tell you about each model in more detail: we will describe it, indicate the characteristics, and also name the advantages and disadvantages.

Petzl Tikka

The simplest Tikka headlamp is ideal for tourists, climbers, other outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, fishermen, summer residents, lovers of outdoor trips and just at home. Now you won’t lose it in the dark; the manufacturer took care of this and installed a luminescent reflector. And the red LED will not blind the eyes of others. By the way, the flashlight can be powered either by batteries or by a Core battery (purchased separately).

Basic modes	high beam, low beam, red light, strobe
Maximum illumination range	60 m
Light source	Light-emitting diode
Minimum operating time	60 hours
Waterproof	IPX-4

Price: 1,935-3,190 rub.

pros

ease of use;
Compatible with Core battery;
Suitable in all weather conditions.

Minuses

The rubber wears out quite quickly.

It’s a very light item, doesn’t weigh on you when worn for a long time, and is made with high quality. The lantern is waterproof and reliable. The phosphorescent reflector will not allow the device to get lost in the dark and will help you quickly find it. However, I didn’t even know about such a function until I saw with my own eyes that my flashlight was glowing green. I recommend!

headlamp Petzl Tikka

Black Diamond Spot 325

This universal flashlight will perfectly cope with its task on a hiking trip and will be useful in everyday conditions. Seven different modes will allow you to regulate power and save energy. Powerful light output (325 lumens) and completely waterproof design. The flashlight will turn on in the same mode in which it was turned off, and the button lock will help out if it is accidentally pressed. Power Tap function – the touch panel on the side allows you to turn on maximum brightness from any mode with one touch. A 6-stage charge indicator shows the status of the flashlight battery.

Nutrition	batteries 3 AAA/LR03
Working hours	4-200 hours
Beam type	focused, wide, mixed
Range	8-80 m
Operating temperature	from -17C to +43C

Cost: 4,190-4,390 rubles.

pros

charge indicator;
complete dust and water resistance;
brightness adjustment;
button lock.

Minuses

not found.

So I had to buy a headlamp again, because the old flashlight, you won’t believe it, didn’t break, but disappeared without a trace during the hike. I chose Black Diamond again. I like the way they work, and I’m probably used to them. They never let me down, and yet I never got into any troubles.

headlamp Black Diamond Spot 325

Bright Beam PANDA 2R

Bright orange design, domestic build quality, ease of use – this model offers all this. Its main feature is the presence of Boost mode. Its essence lies in a sharp increase in light intensity up to 800 Lm. The flashlight is reliable and waterproof. The bulbs rotate 90° - this allows you to direct the beam in the desired direction.

Brightness Modes	3, 35, 120, 450 and 800 lm
dimensions	81 x 31.3 x 35 mm
Nutrition	Li-Ion battery 18650
Lighting Modes	high beam, low beam, red light, Boost
Light source	two XP-G3 NW LEDs

Price tag: 2,169-2,685 rub.

pros

excellent build quality;
USB charging;
aluminium case.

Minuses

It is impossible to form a narrow beam into the distance.

The flashlight is a fire, I took it for work, because before this I had ordinary ones, and you can go broke on batteries. It’s much easier with the Bright Beam - I came home, plugged it in for charging and that’s it. Several modes, the light shines diffusely, which is convenient when working with your hands; I do electrical installation. Take it, you won't regret it!

headlamp Bright Beam PANDA 2R

Bailong BL-2188B-T6

The Bailong BL-2188B-T6 headlamp with a light intensity of 860 lumens “hits” at 320 meters. The model operates in three modes, and in any weather conditions, since it is water and dustproof. The manufacturer has provided the ability to focus the beam, as well as charge the device not only from the network, but also from the car cigarette lighter. The device will appeal to travelers, fishermen, and hunters.

Moisture protection	IPX-6
Dimensions (L x W x H)	50 x 44 x 44 mm
Range	up to 320 m
Light	LED with reflector Cree XM-L T6
Weight	174 g

Price: from 999 rub.

pros

waterproof;
high range (800 m);
beam focusing.

Minuses

Not the best batteries included.

I really love fishing! You understand that you can’t go fishing without a flashlight in the evening, so my friends recommended the Bailong BL-2188B-T6. They just immediately told me to buy other batteries. The ones that come with the kit are no good. And the flashlight is really cool, I like it.

headlamp Bailong BL-2188B-T6

UltraFire W616

Representatives of professions where they constantly have to deal with poor lighting will be especially pleased with this model of flashlight, for example, electricians, plumbers, etc. The device has a bright diffused light that does not irritate the eyes, and has 3 lighting modes. Waterproof. The rectangular plastic case is equipped with a mechanism for smoothly adjusting the lighting angle and rigidly locking the selected position.

Number of modes	3
LEDs	XM-L T6 (4 pcs.)
Beam range	1000 m
Dimensions	128 x 58 x 24 mm
Power supply	18650 batteries (3 pcs.)

Cost: from 1,970 rub.

pros

signal mode;
comfort of wearing;
powerful.

Minuses

I liked the model for its functionality and build quality. I have been looking for a normal headlamp for a long time, and the UltraFire W616 fully meets my requirements for a device. Many thanks to the manufacturer!

headlamp UltraFire W616

FENIX HP30R

A bright and easy-to-use device made with an external power supply. Moreover, you can charge it via USB, and what’s more, the flashlight itself has the ability to recharge other devices. Stabilization of light brightness is provided, as well as protection against polarity reversal. The body is made of aluminum alloy, which indicates its durability. Suitable for use in all weather conditions.

Light modes	high beam, low beam, SOS, Boost
Frame	aluminum alloy
Moisture and dust resistance class	IP-66
Nutrition	2x Fenix 18650 batteries
Light source	Cree XM-L2 and XP-G2 LEDs

Price tag: 8,900-12,308 rub.

pros

power bank;
waterproof.

Minuses

not found.

I immediately liked the flashlight, it was bright and convenient. I used to have flashlights of different brands, but this one, unlike others, holds a charge for a long time, even though I use it all the time. Very good, I recommend it!

headlamp FENIX HP30R

BORUIT HL-720

The design of the headlamp uses high-quality CREE Q5 LEDs, which makes it possible to obtain a super-bright light effect! There are different lighting modes of varying brightness - you can turn on one lamp or two smaller ones, or all at once. It is possible to adjust the tilt of the spotlight relative to the head. The flashlight body is made of durable aluminum alloy. By the way, the device is equipped with a special red beacon on the back of the headlamp, so you will be visible on the road and from behind.

Housing material	Aluminium alloy
Moisture protection	IPX-6
Glow modes	central LED, side LEDs, all at once, strobe
Batteries	2 Li-ion 18650 5000 mAh
Range	1000 m

Price: 888-1,090 rub.

pros

powerful;
reliable;
high build quality.

Minuses

cannot be immersed in water.

I use my headlamp at work every day, so it is important for me that the light is neutral. The BORUIT HL-720 has just the right amount of light, so your eyes don’t get tired. The device is on my head all day, but the elastic band does not press, which suits me. The headlight itself can be tilted to the desired angle. I'm very pleased with the purchase.

headlamp BORUIT HL-720

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.

Comparison of models

For ease of choice, we suggest you look at the comparative table of characteristics of the above models.

Model	Lighting range, max., m	Luminous flux, min./max., lm	Operating time, max., hours.	Number of operating modes	Weight, g
Petzl Tikka	60	5/200	240	5	86
Black Diamond Spot 325	80	6/325	200	6	86
Bright Beam PANDA 2R	45	3/800	450	5	60 (without battery)
Bailong BL-2188B-T6	320	up to 860	12	3	174
UltraFire W616	1000	up to 6000	17	3	162
FENIX HP30R	202	before 1750	400	9	285
BORUIT HL-720	1000	up to 3000	14.5	4	205

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.

Best lists

Let's highlight the best headlamp models in the following categories:

budget;
LED;
with battery.

Budget

SPACE H3WCOBLED

The device rightfully takes the place of the best budget flashlight. But despite the low price, the design of the device uses a modern linear COB 3 W LED with soft, pleasant light and an increased illumination angle. The flashlight runs on 3 R6 (AAA) batteries in three modes: bright, economical, flashing. The device 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, the range is up to 10 m.

Price: 166-420 rub.

headlamp COSMOS H3WCOBLED

LED

Black Diamond Storm 375

The most powerful headlamp in the Black Diamond family will be the best assistant for climbers, mountaineers, lovers of alpine skiing and other active sports where reliability, bright light and compactness are essential. The main advantages of the headlamp are the light output of 375 lumens, water resistance (even with salt water) and dust resistance. The weight of the flashlight is 120 grams. The device is specially designed for use in cold weather. Another difference from other flashlights is the presence of three colored LEDs: blue, red and green.

Cost: 5,040-5,790 rub.

headlamp Black Diamond Storm 375

With battery

FENIX HL60R CREE XM-L2 U2

The device, with a light intensity of up to 950 lumens, can shine up to 116 meters for 100 hours without recharging. The device is not afraid of water, so it is suitable for fishermen whose everything always falls into the pond. The flashlight is equipped with a Cree XM-L2 U2 series main diode with a white beam and two red LEDs. In total, the device operates in 6 modes. Whatever mode you turn off the flashlight in, it will remain in the same mode the next time you turn it on.

Price tag: 5,532-7,380 rub.

headlamp FENIX HL60R CREE XM-L2 U2

Blitz tips

To summarize, we can give the following recommendations that will be useful in the process of choosing and using headlamps for fishing:

You should not try to save on the cost of a headlamp, since this device is of great importance when fishing in the evening, night or morning. Cheap devices can fail at the most inopportune moment, ruining your entire vacation.
You should not rely only on the advice of a seller in a fishing store ; it is better to first consult with professional or experienced fishermen who will suggest the best quality and reliable options.
It is not recommended to use flashlights with alkaline power sources, especially when fishing in low temperatures. At sub-zero temperatures, lithium batteries are best because they are unpretentious to the conditions. However, you must first read the instructions, which should list acceptable power sources.

Tips for choosing

Listen to our advice on choosing, and then you will certainly choose a high-quality, and most importantly, a headlamp that will not let you down in any situation. So, let's begin:

Decide for what purpose you need a forehead protector. For example, if for evening training, then pay attention to the presence of adjustment of the beam strength and lighting area, protection from water and dust.
Please know that the maximum operating time of the device is always calculated for the most economical mode (weak).
Light intensity is not as important a parameter as range. Experience shows that the quality of the flashlight lens is of great importance.
It’s great if your flashlight is equipped with a red LED - a useful thing. If you feel your batteries running low, switch to a red light and you’ll be able to light your way for much longer. And red light does not interfere with night vision.
Of course, pay attention to the weight, dimensions of the device and ease of mounting on your head.
It is impossible to give a definite answer regarding the type of food. Some people prefer batteries, while others prefer rechargeable batteries.

And lastly, ask yourself the question again: “Why do I need a headlamp?” I'm not kidding. The choice of forehead protector greatly depends on whether you run in the evenings or climb into a cave. Think carefully! Good luck!

How to choose the right headlamp?

Initially, you should pay attention to what material the body of this product is made from. It can be made of aluminum or plastic. Models with a plastic shell will cost much less and will weigh less, but are not able to provide high-quality heat removal from the LED elements. Such devices are not able to create a light beam of sufficient power to illuminate the space in front of them at least 10-15 meters. Models with an aluminum body are characterized by durability and reliability. They can be manufactured in the form of a monoblock or a remote block, and the latter type is much more compact.

You shouldn’t give preference to overly bright products, as they will get quite hot, which will ultimately trigger the thermal protection system, causing the flashlight to simply turn off. Therefore, instead of chasing maximum brightness, it is better to choose models with increased luminous flux density. This will allow you to qualitatively illuminate the space and make even minor details visible.

You should first ask about the power source of the flashlight. The cheapest options run on a set of standard AA batteries. Their working resource is clearly not enough to obtain a bright and dense light flux, but the capabilities will be quite sufficient for use in domestic conditions. It is better to give preference to models equipped with a built-in lithium-ion battery. Such devices are distinguished by increased quality of light, but will cost much more.

When we selected products to include in our ranking of the best headlamps, we took all of the recommendations listed into account. However, some other important points were also taken into account - price-quality ratio, as well as user reviews. We tried to include in this review only reliable products that are sold at the best price, so that each of our readers can choose something to their taste.

Features of the headlamp

Now you can find a large number of different headlamps, among which LED models are considered the most popular. They can boast of the largest resource and relatively low cost. Moreover, they often have a built-in strobe mode, which makes it easy to mark your position in the dark.

Diode devices guarantee a bright, directional beam that is visible over a long distance. Almost all LED flashlights can last for 50,000 hours.

Appearance of the headlamp.

Several diodes are installed in such models at once. The brightness and efficiency of the backlight will depend on the specific quantity. Often diodes are combined to obtain the required shade of glow.

Incandescent or halogen sources are virtually no longer used in headlamps. This is due to their high power consumption compared to LEDs and significant heating during operation. However, you can find hybrid models that combine xenon and LED emitters.

Rating of headlamps for extreme work

For some services, it is important to have a high-quality headlamp that not only provides good illumination of the area, but is also resistant to water, dust and does not break on the first impact. In addition, such models should have wide functionality that will help during rescue operations.

Phoenix HM65R

One of the best flashlights for complex operations. The illumination range is 163 meters, the luminous flux is 1400 lm, which will allow you to see all objects in low light conditions. There are 7 useful modes.

Charging is carried out from USB, the battery used is ICR18650, with a capacity of 1500 mAh. This is enough for continuous operation for 300 hours. The weight of the device is 70 grams. The kit includes a spare O-ring.

Sold at a price of 6,700 rubles.

Phoenix HM65R

Advantages:

7 operating modes;
Fixes without problems;
Bright luminous flux;
Range – 163 meters;
Protection class – IP68;
There is a locking function;
The battery capacity is enough for continuous operation for 12 days.

Flaws:

Not found.

Olight H2R Nova NW

Professional device for extreme conditions. The illumination range is 153 m. The luminous flux is 2300 lm, which is an excellent result and will allow maximum illumination of the area. Operates for 1080 hours on a single charge. The body is made of aluminum, which allows it to withstand almost any load. 6 light modes, including high beam, low beam and SOS signal. Water protection class – IPX-8. Charging is carried out from USB. The weight of the device is 100 grams.

The average cost is 6,000 rubles.

Olight H2R Nova NW

Advantages: