Your smart phone’s flashlight may work well for finding a cat toy underneath the sofa. But for navigating through the woods on a moonless night, your best bet is a good headlamp. 

As a longtime journalist and outdoorsman, I keep a headlamp in my multiday backpacking bag, the fanny pack I use on short day hikes, and the work backpack that goes with me around the country. You never know when you may need one. 

Of course, not all headlamps are built or designed the same. The best headlamp depends on many factors: Brightness, versatility, durability, and battery. Ultimately, the best headlamp for you depends on your preferences and how you plan to use it. 

To help you narrow down your list, I spent weeks testing multiple headlamps, scouring online reviews, and even asking a few outdoorsy friends for their opinions. With its array of features, including voice activation and super bright light, the Coast RL35R impressed me the most. It’s a great overall headlamp for most travelers. But I also zeroed in on a few other terrific options for different needs, including the best headlamp for runners and one that offers great value for the money.    

So what makes a good headlamp? First and foremost, brightness. Look for headlamps with multiple brightness modes. Cleaning up the campsite before crawling into your sleeping bag requires less light than hiking an unfamiliar trail on a moonless night. When you’re on the trail, you need a headlamp bright enough to illuminate obstacles in your path. 

Those brightness modes impact battery life. The longer the battery life, the better. Keeping a headlamp on high will drain the battery faster than if it’s on low or medium.  

Finally, the best headlamps are durable. After all, a headlamp will likely be part of your travel gear. If you accidentally drop it on a rock, for example, will it still work? We took these factors and more into consideration when compiling this list. 

Why we like it: After testing dozens of headlamps from multiple manufacturers, the Coast RL35R is hands down my favorite. It has the most features and one of the brightest lamps. You can combine multiple light modes to produce more than 1,100 lumens for two-and-a-half hours. If you prefer to use it on the lowest setting, it will run up to 83 hours. 

At first, I thought the voice activation was gimmicky. However, I realized this feature is ideal in lots of situations, including in cold weather when you can’t take off bulky gloves or when you’re working with your hands while camping. 

If this one doesn’t work for you, the Coast FL20R and the Fenix WH23R are solid contenders. Both offer great features and crisp, bright lighting. But in the end, the Coast RL35R was a class above. 

Keep in mind: As much as I love the RL35R’s voice activation, I think many users will use it once or twice before forgetting the commands (there are many). The number of light options seems a bit much. This headlamp is bulkier and heavier than many other headlamps I tested. 

Product details: Lumens: 1,100 | Modes: Flood, spotlight, arc, high, medium, low, red, green, blue | Battery: Rechargeable USB-C    

Why we like it: The Petzl Swift RL offers lots of features in a compact and lightweight headlamp. The proprietary reactive lighting claims to adjust the light output automatically, although I’m a bit skeptical about how well that feature really works. 

I like the automatic indicator displaying the charge level. The light swivel is one of the best I tested and the strap design holds it in place better than similar models. (Reddit’s ultrarunning community agrees and praises the headlamp’s ability to perform in inclement weather.) 

Keep in mind: The Swift RL could be more intuitive out of the box. The $130 price tag is steep, especially when there are plenty of perfectly fine options that are more affordable. This headlamp can feel a bit heavy after a few hours. 

Product details: Lumens: 1,100 | Modes: Standard light (high, medium, low), reactive light (high, medium, low), red light, red strobe | Battery: Rechargeable USB-C   

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Why we like it: I was very impressed by the quality of light coming from this flyweight (2.4-ounce) headlamp. The 500-lumen light seems brighter than some headlamps I tested claiming 1,000 lumens or more. I like that you can swap out the standard 1,250-millilamp-hour battery for three common AAA batteries, if needed. It’s comfortable on, with even weight distribution. You can also fold the headlamp into the semi-translucent storage pouch for a makeshift tent lantern. 

Keep in mind: With multiple parts, I found the band construction to be overly complicated. It doesn’t fit well over a baseball cap, which multiple reviewers have flagged as well. Other reviewers say the construction, particularly where the light meets the strap body, failed to hold up in the long run. (The headlamp comes with a five-year warranty). If you’re using three AAA batteries, the Iko Core’s max lumens drop from 500 to 350, which is still enough to find your way, but we’d prefer longer run times. 

Product details: Lumens: 500 | Modes: Low, medium, high | Battery: Rechargeable USB-C or 3 AAA   

Why we like it: The same bright light that makes this a top choice for an LED headlamp (see above) also makes it ideal for nighttime runners. It’s also one of the lightest and most comfortable headlamps we tested. The snug plastic and rubber strap keeps everything in its proper place, even on rough terrain.  

Petzl claims the light will last for nine hours on the 100-lumen setting and two-and-a-half at 500 lumens. If the rechargeable battery dies on the trail, you can swap it out for three AAA batteries. This headlamp is water resistant too—a thoughtful detail if it suddenly starts to rain while you’re pounding the pavement. 

Keep in mind: The Iko Core has three modes (low, medium, high) but no red light. Reviewers note that the construction, particularly where the light meets the strap body, failed to hold up in the long run. However, this headlamp comes with a five-year warranty. 

Product details: Lumens: 500 | Modes: Low, medium, high | Battery: Rechargeable or 3 AAA 

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Why we like it: At full strength, this 2,000-lumen headlamp can shine nearly 200 yards, significantly farther than most of the headlamps we tested.  

It’s also one of the most sturdily built headlamps we tested. The aluminum WPH34R is waterproof up to five meters and resists impact up to one meter, per Coast. It’s easy to operate with intuitive functions. The charging port is hidden underneath a knob instead of a rubber gasket, which makes it dustproof in addition to waterproof. The so-called “ultra strap” breathes well, with a silicone interior band to help keep it in place on your forehead.  

Keep in mind: The WPH34R is the heaviest headlamp we tested. We found the battery port a bit difficult to locate. The battery life could be better; it takes a long time to recharge. You need a proprietary rechargeable battery. 

Product details: Lumens: 2,000 | Modes: Flood, spotlight, flood/spot, red, green | Battery: Rechargeable   

Why we like it: The Swift RL may only be 100 grams, but it shines brighter than many significantly heavier headlamps we tested and illuminated more of the trail during a nighttime hike. 

The strap is designed to hug the curve of your skull, meaning this headlamp will stay in place while you’re moving around. The headlamp swivels up and down to illuminate any potential hazards in your path. We also appreciate that the Swift RL comes with a pouch that works as a light for your tent. 

Keep in mind: The rechargeable battery doesn’t interchange with AAAs, so unless you have a backup battery (which retails for $60), you may be out of luck. 

Product details: Lumens: 1,100 | Modes: Standard (high, medium, low); reactive (high, medium, low), red light, red strobe | Battery: Rechargeable USB-C   

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Why we like it: While most headlamps are classified weather- or water-resistant, Fenix’s flagship headlamp is waterproof to a depth of one-and-a-half meters in fresh water for up to 30 minutes, according to the brand. 

The solid aluminum light’s strong too. The anodized finish resists abuse and impact up to six-and-a-half feet, according to the company, in addition to resisting dust.

The 700-lumen light detaches from the strap base so you can use it as a flashlight. On turbo level, it shines farther than 375 feet. It takes an hour at the highest level to deplete the battery and about 90 minutes to fully recharge. 

At 2.7 ounces, it’s lightweight enough to wear for hours without straining your neck. Reviewers praise this headlamp’s ultra-comfortable headband and features. We also appreciate that Fenix offers a limited lifetime warranty. 

Keep in mind: I’m not sold on the battery life. I fully charged the light, played around with it off and on over a couple nights, then left it alone for a week. When I turned it back on, the battery indicator shined red, which meant there was less than half a charge left. I expected a bit more resiliency.  

Product details: Lumens: 600 | Modes: Turbo, high, medium, low, red, red flashing | Battery: Rechargeable USB-C  

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Why we like it: Red light is important to protect your night vision (and that of those around you). As an aspiring astrophotographer, I use the red light on my headlamp often. The 800 Pro has the best quality red light of all the headlamps I tested. It also generates red light in both the front and back, where the battery pack is located. Additionally, the light lasts a long time, up to 150 hours on low and four hours on medium. 

After testing, I also feel the Coast RL35R deserves an honorable mention. It features a brilliant red light that’s almost too bright, at a lower price. 

Keep in mind: The 800 Pro can feel a bit awkward on the head, given the weight imbalance between the light and heavier battery pack. The strap doesn’t wick sweat as well as other headlamps. The promised 800 lumens come in a 30-second burst. You get 500 lumens at standard high. At $100, I think this headlamp is a bit pricey for what you get. 

Product details: Lumens: 800 | Modes: Spotlight, floodlight, spot/flood, red flood, white strobe, 30-second burst | Battery: USB-C Rechargeable  

Why we like it: The WH23R headlamp is built for work applications, but it has several benefits for the campsite. While other headlamps I tested have push buttons, the WH23R has a simple side dial for choosing light modes. Pressing it lets you cycle through light intensities.  

With 600 lumens, according to the brand, this headlamp shines bright enough for chopping wood or performing other tasks around camp. It lasts for nearly four hours on a single charge. At the highest setting, the beam illuminates about 109 yards out. 

While this headlamp has a simple, old-school feel, it incorporates one high-tech twist. Once you switch the dial to on, you can wave your hand above it to turn it off or back on. It’s also easy to check the power—with the light off, simply press the side dial. Four lights mean 75-100 percent charged, three means 50-75 percent, and so on. 

If you want another option, the Petzl Tikka Core earns an honorable mention for camping. It’s a solid, no-frills headlamp that gets the job done, particularly when you’re staying close to your campsite. 

Keep in mind: The WH23R isn’t the sleekest or lightest headlamp on the market because it was designed to be worn with hard hats. It charges via a USB-C cord, with no option to switch out to a physical battery. There’s no red light. 

Product details: Lumens: 600 | Modes: Spotlight, flood, both, high, medium, low | Battery: USB-C charging port 

Why we like it: The Coast FL20R is easy to use, water resistant, and powerful enough for most situations. It offers everything most travelers will need in a rechargeable headlamp for about $25. Despite the low cost, it comes with a lifetime guarantee. 

The 520 maximum lumen light adjusts downward, providing up to 50 meters of light for nighttime walks. If you don’t need that much power or distance, the low 50-lumen setting will give you up to 25 hours of run time (versus more than six hours on medium and two and a half on high, according to the manufacturer). 

This is one of the lightest headlamps I tested—you may even forget you have it on, especially if you’re wearing it over a hat. 

Keep in mind: If you run out of battery while in the field, the integrated USB-C charging means you can’t switch out batteries. The red and green lights are relatively dim compared to the bright main light. 

Product details: Lumens: 520 | Modes: Low, medium, high, red, green | Battery: Built-in USB-C port 

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Why we like it: I keep this “just in case” headlamp in my day-hike fanny pack. It provides that extra bit of comfort knowing I have a weather-resistant light in my bag, especially when I’m out in the late fall and winter. If I had the money, I’d stash a Bindi everywhere, from the glove compartment in my car to a drawer in my desk. I love that you can lock the Bindi so it won’t accidentally turn on, which can lead to battery drain. 

For its compact size, the Bindi exhibits a ton of light (200 lumens). It’s so light and comfortable, that I wouldn’t mind wearing it all night. This could be a great option for ultra-light hikers looking for weight savings.  

It’s easy to test the battery: simply press the button and check the secondary (red) light. If it’s green, it’s charged between 66-100 percent. Orange indicates a 33-66 percent charge, while red means it’s at less than 33 percent and should be recharged. 

Keep in mind: The Bindi is so small partly because there’s no removeable battery. If you run out of juice in the wilderness, you can’t just insert some fresh AAAs. Despite the Bindi’s size, I expected a longer run time than two hours on high and three hours on medium. For budget-conscious outdoor lovers, the $50 may seem steep given this headlamp’s bare-bones features. 

Product details: Lumens: 200 | Modes: High, medium, low, red | Battery: Built-in USB-C port 

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Why we like it: The voice-activated RL35R is a great option for people who work with their hands or in the cold. Voice commands include setting the light to high, medium, or low, plus making adjustments in 20-percent increments, up or down. 

If you prefer a warmer light, the arc setting has you covered. The red, green, and blue lights are bright, but not overpoweringly so. On its brightest setting, the 1,100-lumen RL35R is comparable to other headlamps with a higher lumen count. At its highest setting, this headlamp can last about two and a half hours, while the lowest setting lets it run for up to 83 hours.   

Keep in mind: To take full advantage of the RL35R’s capabilities, you need to remember 15 voice commands. If you’re used to an ultra-light headlamp, the weight of this headlamp may feel uncomfortable. 

Product details: Lumens: 1,100 | Modes: Flood, spotlight, arc, high, medium, low, red, green, blue | Battery: Rechargeable USB-C  

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I’ve used a wide variety of headlamps for many decades in the outdoors, learning what makes a headlamp great rather than merely good. Over the course of several weeks, a small group of outdoor lovers and I thoroughly tested each of the headlamps featured in this article. 

To supplement my knowledge and opinions, I relied on the following: 

• Third-party reviews: When I felt that my expertise was lacking, I referred to expert sources online, including product reviews. 

• Brand reputation: I chose trusted brands that offer a generous warranty. 

• Feedback from other users: During the evaluation process, a few trusted friends, with varying outdoors experience levels, graciously offered their feedback and criticisms. 

Lumens and watts 

Lumens measure a headlamp’s brightness, while watts measure how much energy it uses. Cheaper options typically produce about 100-250 lumens, while higher-end models, including our pick, the Coast WPH34R, can produce 2,000 or more. Look for a headlamp producing at least 500 lumens if you plan to explore at night. 

Weight 

Although the heaviest headlamps we tested came in at under a pound, having that extra weight strapped to your head can be exhausting. If you plan to wear a headlamp for hours at a time, it may be best to get one that balances a decent amount of lumens with a manageable number of ounces. Our top picks, the Petzl Iko Core and the Fenix HM50R v2.0, produce plenty of lumens considering their light weight. 

Brightness 

Everyone wants the brightest light, but often the brightest lights have the shortest battery life. If you’re spending all your time at the campsite, a lower-powered (and lower-priced) option, such as our favorite Petzl Tikka Core, should be more than enough. 

Type of uses 

What do you anticipate doing in the dark? If you’re into astrophotography, you need a headlamp with a good red light, such as the Biolite 800 Pro or Coast RL35R from our list. If you’re into running, you need a lightweight lamp, like the Fenix HM50R v2.0 or Petzl Iko Core, that shines far and bright enough to avoid potential dangers on the trail. 

What are some headlamp maintenance tips? 

Most headlamps are weather resistant, not waterproof. If you’re caught in a sudden downpour or plunged into water, thoroughly dry your headlamp as soon as possible. 

If the straps get dirty from sweat or dirt, detach it from the lamp and wash it in a sink or basin with dish soap. Rinse and fully dry before reattaching it. 

What are the highest lumens for headlamps? 

Of the headlamps we tested, the Coast WPH34R produces 2,000 lumens. Headlamps designed for industrial purposes produce even more. But those tend to be cost-prohibitive and not the best fit for recreational use. It’s not uncommon to find headlamps that produce between 1,000 and 2,000 lumens at a reasonable price, but the average outdoors fan may not need all that light. 

Is a battery-powered or rechargeable headlamp better? 

That depends on personal preference. We prefer the hybrid model offered by several our contenders, including the Petzl Iko Core and Petzl Tikka Core. These let you exchange a rechargeable battery for either another battery or common AAAs, which is convenient if you find yourself running out of power in the woods.