Modern headlamps make many tasks easier for craftsmen, outdoor enthusiasts, athletes and explorers. They are characterized by convenience, reliability and the ability to free your hands when illuminating an object. Devices have a number of features that it is advisable to consider even before purchase.

Features of a headlamp

Now you can find a large number of the most different headlamps, among which the most popular are considered LED models. They boast the greatest resource and relatively low cost. Often they are built in strobe light mode, allowing you to easily mark your position in the dark.

Diode devices guarantee a bright, directional beam that can be seen at a great distance. Almost all LED flashlights can last for 50,000 hours.

The appearance of the headlamp.

In such models, several diodes are installed at once. The specific number will determine the brightness and efficiency of the illumination. Often the diodes are combined to produce the desired shade of light.

Incandescent or halogen sources are practically no longer used in headlamps. This is due to their high power consumption compared to LEDs and significant heating during operation. However, it is possible to find hybrid models that combine xenon and LED emitters.

How to choose the right one

Varieties of headlamps.

To choose the right headlamp, it is recommended to study the characteristics:

Power. The indicator is indicated on the package in lumens and affects the brightness of the lantern.
Beam range. According to this parameter, there are flashlights of the near, far and mixed types. Short-range light is suitable for carrying out uncomplicated tasks of setting up camp, cooking or viewing some object. Bicyclists and joggers are better off looking for flashlights with a high beam. The mixed type, on the other hand, is considered universal and allows you to see well at any distance.
Weight. Since the devices are worn on the head, weight seems to be a crucial factor that affects comfort. Flashlights usually weigh around 50-150g, but there are heavier models. The weight will be influenced by the power, functionality and additional design attachments.
Protection level. Defined by a special index IPXX and shows the degree of protection of internal components against moisture and dust. If there is one digit after "IP" it means that the model is only protected against moisture.
Material. To facilitate the construction, the main component is made of polymers. The headband is usually a resilient rubber band that securely fixes the flashlight on the user's head.
Autonomy. For headlamps the possibility of long battery life is extremely important. There is usually a direct correlation between luminance and power consumption. Some devices specifically provide for a mode setting.
Number of modes. The most budgetary devices can operate in only one mode, which is activated after starting. In the more advanced, four modes are provided: economic power consumption, standard, maximum brightness and strobe light. If the model has a red LED, in addition there may be a mode of its separate inclusion.
Power. Headlamp flashlights are usually powered by a rechargeable battery or a battery. In any case, it is not superfluous to have a spare battery.

Attention should be paid to additional functionality. The presence of an emergency beacon, escape signal, strobe light, charge indicator or other useful options can greatly increase the usability of the device.

Choose a headlamp according to the tasks it is used for. A runner or cyclist will be fine with small models with limited functionality, which are not designed to work in extreme conditions. But fans of fishing, hunting or tourism are better to pay attention to waterproof models.

See video: TOP-7. The best headlamps 2020. Final ranking

Top of the best headlamps

In the market you can find a lot of proposals of headlamps for a variety of purposes. The following top will help to get an idea of the devices and choose the best headlamp for specific conditions.

For hunting and fishing

Petzl Pixa 3R

Petzl Pixa 3R.

Price: from 11 300 rubles.

Pros:

Not a bad level of water protection;
3 built-in modes;
Indicator of battery charge;
Plate for attaching to the helmet in the kit.

Cons:

Cost.

LED headlamp, providing illumination at a distance of 90 m with a luminous flux of 900 Lm. The model has quality protection against moisture and is perfect for use while fishing or hunting. A full battery charge lasts for approximately 3.5 hours of continuous operation. The weight of 145g can be felt on the head, but does not create any problems during use.

Nitecore HC33

Nitecore HC33/.

Price: from 5200 rubles.

Pros:

High-performance flashlight;
Convenient one-button control;
Strap of elastic nylon;
Ability to dive underwater to a depth of 2 meters.

Cons:

No beam focusing.

Reliable flashlight made of aerospace aluminum alloy, which provides quality protection from any mechanical effects. The device easily withstands drops onto a hard surface from a height of about 1.5 meters. Ultra-thin mineral glass with anti-reflective coating guarantees the transmission of light from the diodes without any distortion.

Fenix HL55 XM-L2 U2

Fenix HL55 XM-L2 U2/

Price: from 4900 rubles.

Pros:

Bright LEDs;
Easy switching modes;
Long battery life;
Compactness;
Moisture protection.

Cons:

Tangible weight.

A good device with IPX-8 protection class, which allows you to use it in places with high humidity. The body is made of aluminum, resistant to mechanical damage. Specific autonomy will depend on the battery purchased, but the model is considered one of the most economical in terms of power consumption.

To work indoors

Fenix HL12R

Fenix HL12R/.

Price: from 3000 rubles.

Pros:

Low weight;
Many preset modes;
Autonomy;
Shockproof housing;
Availability.

Cons:

Unreliable USB port.

The headlamp weighs only 73g and is easily held on your head with a strap. The housing is made of aluminum and plastic, which provide reliable protection against shock and moisture. The luminous flux of 400 Lm allows you to illuminate 64 meters in front. This may not be enough for the street, but it is enough for indoor use.

Petzl Tikka

Petzl Tikka.

Price: from 2800 rubles.

Pros:

Comfortable strap, not pressing on the head, even when worn for long periods of time;
The quality of construction;
Lightness;
Versatility of use.

Cons:

Battery operated.

Flashlight with three light modes: low beam, driving light and high beam. The special red LED allows you to illuminate everything you need without blinding people's eyes. Even if the flashlight is off, it is easy to find in the dark thanks to the built-in reflector.

With maximum power

Police 6633-T6+2XPE/RJ-3000

Police 6633-T6 + 2XPE/RJ-3000.

Price: from 800 rubles.

Pros:

Rugged housing;
4 modes of operation;
Adjustable angle of inclination;
Convenient attachment.

Cons:

Low lifespan.

Powerful device including 4 LEDs, among which there are white and yellow crystals. By combining, the emission of the diodes provides comfortable illumination. It comes with two rechargeable 18650 batteries.

Black Diamond Storm 375

Black Diamond Storm 375.

Price: from 5500 rubles.

Pros:

3 levels of power;
Setting the shade of light;
High-quality protection from moisture and dust.

Cons:

Significant weight;
Battery Power.

Rating of powerful headlamps closes the ergonomic device with a handy mode switch and clever protection from moisture and dust IPX-67. It can operate in three power modes, one of which allows you to see objects up to 100m away without problems. In this case, the battery life will be about 5 hours, while in the minimum power mode the device can work almost 150 hours.

A headlamp can be useful for many people, from professional athletes to outdoor enthusiasts. A thoughtful choice of device will ensure its quality and effective work for a long time.

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