While a headlamp may seem pretty straightforward, there’s probably a lot that you don’t know about modern headlamps. We’ll tell you more about headlamps in this article, and we’ll even show you a few of our favorite options currently available for sale. By the time we’re finished, you’ll have all of the information you need in order to decide if you’ll purchase one, and if so, which one you want.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of batteries will I need for my headlamp?
Most headlamps use small disposable batteries, like AAA batteries. You might get batteries with your headlamp, depending on which one you purchase, or you may need to buy them separately. Other headlamps include rechargeable batteries, and you’ll be able to charge these headlamps with a USB cord any time they run out of power. Usually, if a headlamp has a rechargeable battery, you’ll get a compatible USB charging cord with your purchase.
How far will these headlamps shine?
When you buy lights, you often see the term “lumens.” This is a term used to measure light, and one lumen equals the amount of light produced by one candle. We have headlamps on this list that shine a light at 1100 lumens. Other lights may provide a measurement based on how far away you’ll be able to see (often measured in meters) when the light is on.
Buying Guide
As you shop for your new headlamp, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Fit: You want a headlamp that is tight enough to fit around your head without moving or sliding around, but not so tight that it will hurt your head. Also, because the lamp itself can be heavy, you want to consider the weight of the lamp and the headband while you’re shopping.
- Strap: How does the strap work? Is it one piece of fabric that wraps all the way around your head, or is there an extra strap that runs across the top of your head? This can help the headlamp stay in place without shaking or moving around while you walk.
- Removable Lamp: Some headlamps allow you to take the lamp off of the strap and use it as a flashlight.
- Light: What type of light does the lamp provide? This question has to do with more than how bright the light will shine. You’ll also want to know how many lighting modes are possible, and what colors of light (typically white or red) your lamp will shine.
- Quantity: Some headlamps are sold individually, while other headlamps will be sold in multiple counts. If you need to, you can buy two or four headlamps at one time with a single purchase.
- Adjustability: Does the headlamp have to sit in one position, or can you point it up or down? Some headlamps can also rotate to the right or left, sometimes as far as 45 degrees in either direction.
Everbeam Headlamp
Most Lightweight
Weighing only 72 grams, you will not even feel this headlamp
This 650-lumen headlamp is perfect for when you camp, hike or run during nighttime. The headlamp features a motion sensor mode that works up to four inches from the sensor. This makes switching it on as easy as waving your hand.
Pros:
- Water-resistant design makes it perfect for outdoor use
- Tested to light up to 413 feet
Cons:
- Battery lasts only about one hour in bright mode
LE LED Headlamp
Best Features
Includes six lighting modes
This powerful headlamp generates up to 1300 lux of bright light. It is made to fit both kids and adults, making it a great option for the whole family. The batteries last up to 22 hours in low light and up to six hours at full brightness.
Pros:
- Lights up to 400 feet
- Features a 45-degree pivoting head
Cons:
- Center battery can pop out with the case closed
GearLight LED Headlamp
Most Durable
Lamp has a shockproof design and is IPX4-waterproof rated
This super-bright headlamp features a runtime of 10+ hours on the low setting. It weighs only three ounces with the batteries included, so it will not have any impact on your performance while running or hiking. The lamp has seven different lighting modes, so you can choose what works best for you.
Pros:
- One pack includes two headlamps
- Works with three x AAA batteries
Cons:
- Batteries not included
EverBrite Headlamp
Best Rotatable Head
Lamp can rotate up to 90 degrees
Each headlamp in this pack of five features eight LEDs with a lifespan of more than 100,000 hours. You can choose between two bulbs, four bulbs or eight bulbs with different brightness levels. The headlamps are lightweight and comfortable enough to work for both adults and kids.
Pros:
- Includes 15 x AAA carbon batteries
- Has a lighting distance of up to 20 meters
Cons:
- Lamp has some sharp plastic edging
Foxelli Headlamp
Best Waterproof Design
Waterproof rated up to IPX5
This 1.5-ounce headlamp is lightweight and comfortable enough to wear while running or cycling at nighttime. The lamp’s head can swivel 45 degrees to light in the direction you need it to. It works with three AAA batteries that are easily replaced when dead.
Pros:
- Batteries will last up to 45 hours
- Features SOS and strobe light modes
Cons:
- At certain angles, the bottom part of the light can shine into your eyes
