While the purpose of every illumination device is pretty much the same, the choice of the different types mainly depends on the distinct features that set them apart. Now with headlamps, you may encounter certain properties that can be found in flashlights, however, they have much more to offer. Finding a headlamp that will suit your needs is not rocket science, but it can be annoying when you don’t know what will make or break your experience when using one. No matter the situation you need it for, there are some game-changing features to consider in your pursuit of the best LED flashlight headlamp.
Beam Type & Distance
With headlamps, you can choose from 3 types of beam distance and each one is best suited for a different situation. Flood (or wide) is mainly used for general camp tasks, up-close repair work, and reading. Flood beams do not throw light at a long distance. Furthermore, spot (or focused or narrow) beam is ideal for long-distance viewing. In most cases, this is a better choice to navigate a trail in the dark. And the last type, flood/spot adjustable headlamps are the most versatile ones.
Battery Life
You may think that battery life doesn’t really matter, but knowing how long your LED flashlight headlamp can function at its best is of great importance when you’re out exploring the great outdoors. A headlamp that can perform at its best but just for a little while will be of no use to you at all, and the same goes for a headlamp that operates at a lower level for a longer time. Find one that you can rely on when setting out on an adventure and will give you peace of mind every step of the way.
Lumens
The light output of any headlamp is not just the number of lumens it has, but how those lumens are used in making either a wide or spot beam. This is also determined with the type of optics a headlamp has and whether it is able to provide a smooth light distribution. Remember that two separate headlamps with the same lumen count can still have a different light output, which also depends both on the beam width and the optics system all-together.
Build
A high-quality LED flashlight headlamp should be sturdy yet comfortable enough to provide a comfortable grip. If you want it to last for many years to come, ensure it has an adequate IPX rating – IPX 4 rating is enough for regular headlamp use. But if you are going to travel by water a lot, getting one with a higher rating is a must.
