Buying guide · Lighting · 6 min read

How to choose a headlamp

Brighter isn't always better. Here's how to match a headlamp to what you'll actually use it for, without paying for lumens you don't need.

1. Lumens: how bright it is

Lumens measure total light output. For reading in a tent, 100 lumens is plenty. On a trail at night, 300–600 lumens lets you see roots and rocks. Anything above 1,000 lumens is for running or search work, and it drains batteries fast.

2. Beam distance: how far it reaches

Beam distance (ANSI FL1) is how far the light stays useful. A wide flood beam is better close up, and a focused spot beam is better for distance. The best headlamps offer both.

3. Battery: rechargeable or AAA?

USB-C rechargeables are cheaper to run and better for the planet. On multi-day hikes without power, a headlamp that also takes AAA batteries is the safer choice.

4. Water resistance

IPX4 handles rain. IPX6 handles heavy downpours. IP68 survives being dropped in a river.

Quick guide

Use	Brightness	Beam	Battery
Camp chores and reading	100–300 lm	30–60 m	AAA or built-in
Hiking and trail use	300–600 lm	60–120 m	Rechargeable
Trail running and search	800–1,500 lm	120–200 m	18650 / 21700