A rechargeable flashlight is a smart choice for hiking or camping due to its sustainability and convenience. However, taking it a step further with a rechargeable headlamp can offer even more advantages. By strapping a headlamp to your forehead or helmet, you keep both hands free for tasks like resetting a circuit breaker, replacing a spark plug, or setting up a tent after dark.
When selecting a headlamp, consider brightness, comfort, and battery life. To help you choose the best one for your needs, here are six top-rated rechargeable headlamps of 2024, based on thorough reviews and testing. Details on the selection process are provided at the end of this list.
1. Black Diamond Storm 500-R
Black Diamond, renowned for its climbing gear, offers the Storm 500-R, a headlamp that provides 500 lumens of light. It features adjustable brightness, strobe functions, and color options (red, green, blue). It includes proximity and distance settings and a lock mode to prevent accidental activation. The 2,400 mAh Li-ion battery charges via micro-USB and lasts up to seven hours on the highest setting, with a range of 120 meters. It’s IPX67 rated, meaning it’s waterproof up to one meter for 30 minutes. Note that it does not support traditional batteries as a backup. Prices range from $67.88 to $74.95 on Amazon, depending on the color.
2. Energizer Rechargeable Pro400
The Energizer Rechargeable Pro400 is a solid choice for a budget-friendly and straightforward option. It offers 380 lumens and a beam distance of 80 meters. The headlamp is lightweight, features a shatterproof lens, and is IPX4 water-resistant. It has seven modes and a micro-USB charge time of four hours. It does not include a lock mode, so handle with care to avoid accidental activation. Priced at $22.38 on Amazon, it’s a great value.
3. Nitecore NU25 UL
The Nitecore NU25 UL is a lightweight (45 grams) headlamp ideal for outdoor activities. It delivers 400 lumens with a maximum beam distance of 64 meters and can run up to 45 hours on its lowest setting. Constructed from polycarbonate thermoplastic, it’s impact-resistant and has an IP66 waterproof rating. It offers red light illumination and features a lock mode to prevent accidental use. It charges via USB-C and is priced at $36.95 on Amazon.
4. BioLite 325 HeadLamp
The BioLite 325 HeadLamp stands out for its comfort and compact design, weighing only 50 grams. It features a moisture-wicking strap and is praised for its comfort by GearJunkie. It provides 325 lumens, with a maximum run time of three hours on high and up to 40 hours on low. Available in multiple colors, it costs $49.95 on Amazon.
5. Black Diamond Astro 300
If you’re looking for a cost-effective Black Diamond headlamp, the Astro 300 is a great option. It offers 300 lumens and a beam distance of 55 meters. It has a rechargeable 1,500 mAh Li-ion battery and can also use AAA batteries as a backup. It includes a strobe setting and a memory feature for brightness levels. It’s rated IPX4 for water resistance and is priced around $19.95 on Amazon.
6. Petzl Tikka
The Petzl Tikka is highlighted as the easiest to use by Popular Mechanics. It offers 350 lumens and features red light and strobe settings. It’s compatible with bike and helmet mounts, and its headband is detachable and washable. It runs for over 24 hours on its highest setting and includes a phosphorescent reflector for easy location in the dark. It uses a rechargeable battery made by Petzl, which is an additional cost. The Petzl Tikka is available for $34.95 and comes in various colors.
Selection Criteria
The headlamps listed have been chosen based on rigorous testing and positive reviews from reputable sources such as Wirecutter, Popular Mechanics, Men’s Journal, Clever Hiker, and GearJunkie. Factors considered include lumen count, beam range, battery life, light settings, features, durability, comfort, style, and price. The Energizer Rechargeable Pro400, for example, has been personally tested and used over two years, ensuring its reliability and performance.
