Everything You Need to Know About Rechargeable Headlamps | Our 5 Top Picks

You’ll struggle to find a piece of gear that is as handy as a headlamp. Whether it’s for hiking at night, setting up camp, or simply finding the toilet when nature calls in the wee hours, this invaluable piece of kit will come in handy when you least expect it. If you’re looking to buy a headlamp, you’ve likely realised that there are many options available. So, to help shed some light on the topic, we’ve pulled together a simple yet comprehensive guide to rechargeable headlamps.

Types of Rechargeable Headlamps

When it comes to rechargeable headlamps, there are a LOT of options out there, for a range of different activities and budgets. From basic battery-powered lights you can find in your local supermarket, right up to head-mounted light canons that are brighter than a road train! For most activities though, you’ll probably be looking at a quality, compact torch that sits somewhere in the middle.

Rechargeable Headlamp Features

You might be browsing different headlamps and wondering what on earth all of the numbers and technical terms mean. Let’s take a quick look at some of the most common terms.

Lumens/Output

Lumens is a unit of measure that gauges the total quantity of light emitted in all directions by a light source. So in general, the higher the rating, the brighter the output of the headlamp. Most headlamps sit somewhere between 250-1000 lumens, and this indicates the output on the highest setting.

Burn Time

Burn time is how long the light stays on for and will depend largely on the brightness mode used. Typically this data will be given as a range, with the lower number indicating the burn time when maximum output is used, and the higher number indicating when a low (or power-saving mode) is in use. It’s important to note that burn time indicates the time it takes for the output (or lumens) to reach 10% of the initial measurement. You can read more about PLATO Standard measurements for lighting here.

Distance/Reach

Exactly as it sounds, this term denotes how far the lamp will throw a useful beam ahead of you. Again, any range indicates the lowest to highest setting available.

IP Rating

The IP rating refers to the weather sealing of the device. Usually, the IP will be followed by a combination of letters and numbers, with the first indicating how protected the unit is against solids (i.e. dust) and the second indicating how protected it is against water. Typically, the higher the number, the more resistance. 

Many headlamps have not been tested for dust resistance, and thus will start with IPX followed by the water resistance rating. Practically speaking, anything with an IPX rating of 4 or higher will be fine to withstand the usual rain, creek crossings and dusty adventures. An IPX rating of 8 means that the device can still function when immersed in water that is deeper than 1 metre for at least 30 minutes.

Rechargeable headlamp models at a glance

Below is a summary of the 5 top headlamps we’ve compared in this article. All are available to shop online or in-store at Paddy Pallin.

Top 5 Rechargeable Headlamps

Biolite 325

This Biolite 325 is the smallest, lightest and least bright model in this selection, but by no means does it skimp on quality. This small yet mighty headlamp puts out an impressive 325 lumens for just 50 grams of weight. It operates via USB charging only with no option for disposable batteries. It doesn’t have the longest battery life, nor is it super bright. But it’s great value for money, and it’s small enough that you can always throw it in your pack, just in case.

Shop Biolite 325

Black Diamond Spot 400

The Spot is a reliable bestselling headlamp in Black Diamond’s extensive lighting range. With a bright 400 lumen output, it has excellent battery life with up to 34.5 hours on the lowest setting (with Alkaline batteries). Using Black Diamond’s Dual-Fuel technology, you can choose between Alkaline 3xAAA batteries or a rechargeable Lithium Ion (sold separately), depending on the needs of your adventure. An IPX8 rating means that it is fully waterproof, and will be completely operable in wet conditions. If you’re looking for a rechargeable-only option, opt for the Black Diamond Spot-R.

Shop Black Diamond Spot

Petzl Actik Core 600

Petzl have always been synonymous with quality, and their headlamps are well respected in the outdoor space. The Actik Core 600 is a great all-rounder torch, with an illuminating 600 lumen output for only 88 grams of weight. The Core removable Lithium battery will fully charge in as little as 3 hours, and, although it isn’t the longest lasting battery around, you can easily buy extras and carry a spare. You can use 3xAAA batteries if needed, or otherwise opt for the non-rechargeable Actik 450.

Shop Petzl Actik Core 600

Petzl Swift RL

The Swift RL uses Petzl’s innovative reactive lighting technology – a light sensor that detects variations in terrain, changing the light output accordingly. This makes this torch ideal for fast-paced activities like trail running, where you might be moving quickly across ever-changing terrain and conditions. When the high-tech mode isn’t necessary, simply switch it to the standard lighting mode. Because it has such a high output, this headlamp doesn’t have a disposable battery option, with an included rechargeable 2350 mAh Lithium-ion battery that takes just 5 hours to charge. Offering up an impressive 1100 lumens in a 100 gram package, this is an investment torch for those who demand the best from their gear.

Shop Petzl Swift RL

Ledlenser HF6R Core

Ledllenser do one thing, and they do it well: high-quality LED lights. The new HF series is designed with their patent-pending Digital Advanced Focus System that enables a seamless transition between flood and spot light, to create optimum lighting for your activity and environment. Equipped with a powerful lithium battery unit, disposable batteries are not an option with this headtorch due to its power output and Ledlens. It’s a solid performer with 800 lumens of light, but the charge won’t last as long as some other models. The IPX8 rating means it’s also on paper the toughest and most weather resistant unit in this review. If you’re looking for something with even more power (1600 lumens to be exact), opt for the Ledlenser HF8R Core.

Shop Ledlenser HF6R Core

FAQs About Rechargeable Headlamps

Can you use regular batteries in a rechargeable headlamp?

In some models, like the Black Diamond Spot and Petzl Actik Core, you can indeed use regular batteries! This is handy for when you may not be close to a source of electricity for charging. 

What is the best rechargeable headlamp?

The best lamp really depends on your particular needs. If you require a headlamp for adventurous pursuits like hiking, running, or cycling, you’ll need something more powerful. If you only need some light for reading in your tent or walking to the toilet at night, you can get away with a less powerful headlamp.

How many lumens for a good headlamp?

A good all round headlamp should emit at least 250-300 lumens. This will ensure that you can use the light for a range of different purposes when hiking, camping, or even at home. 

How long do rechargeable headlamps last for?

Most rechargeable headlamps will last for at least two hours on the highest setting. Depending on the model, some can have a burn time of up to 120 hours (on lower settings). Burn time is therefore an important consideration when choosing the best rechargeable hiking headlamp for you.

Shop Rechargeable Headlamps at Paddy Pallin

This article is not a battle of the best headlamp – each of the 5 models we’ve highlighted is an excellent option for a different reason. Whichever you choose will depend on how you intend to use it and which features are most important for your activity. Generally speaking, if you are a hardcore adventurer who spends a lot of time hiking, navigating, running, cycling and climbing at night – the brighter the better! But for general use – around camp, walking and just having it handy – then something dimmer with a longer battery life might be more suitable.

Shop our full range of lighting online.