WHICH HEADLAMPS ARE BEST?
Whether you’re jogging at night or setting up a tent at dusk or reading a book in bed, there are times when it just isn’t practical to be holding a flashlight. For those situations, you’ll want a headlamp. A headlamp can illuminate an area while keeping your hands free so you can do what needs to be done.
You’ll want to look for a headlamp that fits comfortably and offers sufficient light. Our top pick, the , is a powerful, rechargeable headlamp. To learn more about this model and what to look for in other quality headlamps, keep reading.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY A HEADLAMP
The three most important factors to consider before purchasing a headlamp are its brightness, focus and operating modes.
Brightness
Typically, a headlamp with a brightness of around 300 lumens is sufficient. Brighter may be useful in certain situations, but the brighter your headlamp is, the faster it will deplete the battery. Also, your eyes may have trouble adjusting to a light that is too bright, and you may develop tunnel vision — not being able to see anything outside of the beam — which could be dangerous if you are using the headlamp for an activity such as running.
Focus
Depending on your activity, sometimes you may want a beam that is more tightly focused while other times you will want to have the broadest swath of light possible. It is best to get a headlamp that offers both of these options so it can serve you in a larger capacity.
Operating modes
The two main operating modes on most headlamps are low and high. Some models may offer a wider range of settings or a dimming function. A strobe mode is important because it can be used to signal others that you need help. A red-light mode is useful because it allows you to see while preserving your natural night vision.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A QUALITY HEADLAMP
Following are a few other important elements to consider.
Adjustability
Straight ahead is not always where you need to see. It will come in handy to be able to angle and tilt the focus of your headlamp in whichever direction you desire.
Weather-resistant
If you will be using your headlamp outdoors, it needs to be weather-resistant, so it will last you a long time.
Impact-resistant
Even if you are not using your headlamp while engaged in vigorous physical activity, you will still appreciate a model that is durable and impact-resistant so it can last.
Comfort
You will likely be wearing your headlamp for extended periods of time. In order to have the best user experience, you will want a model that is lightweight, evenly balanced, and comfortable.
HOW MUCH YOU CAN EXPECT TO SPEND ON A HEADLAMP
Headlamps start at a little over $10 for a generic model that is designed for occasional use and simple tasks. In the $30-$60 range, you will find headlamps that are more adaptable to your specific situation. If you need a heavy-duty headlamp for use in harsher environments, you can easily spend over $100.
HEADLAMPS FAQ
Q. What is the difference between watts and lumens?
A. Essentially, watts is a measure of energy, and lumens is a measure of brightness. For example, an old-fashioned 100-watt incandescent light bulb produces 1,600 lumens, but it only takes 22 watts for an LED to produce the same 1,600 lumens.
Q. How bright is a lumen?
A. Following are a few examples to help you better understand lumens: one candle is 12.57 lumens, a 40-watt light bulb is 450 lumens, a 640-watt light bulb is 800 lumens, a 75-watt light bulb is 1,100 lumens, and, as noted above, a 100-watt light bulb is 1,600 lumens.
WHAT ARE THE BEST HEADLAMPS TO BUY?
Top headlamp
What you need to know: A powerful USB rechargeable headlamp with a number of features that give the unit impressive flexibility.
What you’ll love: This water-resistant headlamp is 15 times brighter than an LED light and comes with Smart Dimming technology.
What you should consider: There is no low battery warning; when it goes out, it goes out.
Worth checking out
What you need to know: Lightweight, powerful headlamp designed for individuals with an active lifestyle.
What you’ll love: This rechargeable headlamp offers 350 lumens at its highest setting and features two light patterns to increase versatility. The red lighting can help preserve the user’s night vision, and the unit features a reflective headband for added safety.
What you should consider: For some users, this model might not offer enough bells and whistles to justify the higher price.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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