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Head-to-head · Best Rechargeable Headlamps

BioLite Range 500 vs Fenix HM50R v2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

BioLite Range 500 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about backpackers needing fast charging — read the strengths below before deciding.

BioLite Range 500
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps
BioLite Range 500
3 sources1 derived$59.95as of Aug 1

The BioLite Range 500 is a light, fast-charging headlamp putting out 500 lumens. A TreeLineBackpacker reviewer found it comfortable and easy to adjust, with a smooth uni-body design that avoids pressure points. Runtime reaches up to 200 hours on low and it recharges quickly, though there's no weather cover over the USB-C port. A 1Lumen reviewer measured 445 lumens output and 84 meters of beam distance. At $70 it comes recommended for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts who want reliable, comfortable lighting.

Strengths
  • — Lightweight design at 2.6 oz (75 grams)
  • — Fast charging capability, 80% charge in 30 minutes
  • — Comfortable uni-body lamp/strap design with soft padded band
Watch-outs
  • — Missing weather cover on USB-C port
  • — Unit can slip when little tension is applied to the band
$59.95 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Fenix HM50R v2
Ranked #2 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps
Fenix HM50R v2
3 sources$59.95as of Aug 1

The Fenix HM50R V2 weighs 2.75 ounces, puts out 700 lumens, and throws a beam 377 feet. Reviewers noted the IP68 waterproof rating and the USB-C charging cable in the box, though some disliked that activation takes a long press rather than a single click. The clip is stiff, which keeps it stable but makes reattachment hard for children. It handles technical outdoor tasks well, but the feature set is thin and there's no flood function.

Strengths
  • — Lightweight at 2.75 ounces, suitable for backpacking, running, and climbing
  • — Bright output of 700 lumens with a beam distance of 377 feet
  • — Durable aluminum construction with IP68 waterproof rating
Watch-outs
  • — Limited features with only 4 modes and no flood function
  • — Activation requires long press instead of single click
  • — Stiff clip makes it difficult for children to reattach the headlamp
$59.95 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

BioLite Range 500

The BioLite Range 500 offers faster charging than the Knog Bandicoot 250, which charges in 30 minutes versus 2.1 oz's 2.5 hours, and provides more consistent runtime at 200 hours on low. However, it's not as bright as the Fenix HM50R v2, which delivers 700 lumens, and lacks the IP68 waterproofing of the Fenix.

Fenix HM50R v2

The Fenix HM50R v2 surpasses the Nitecore NU27 600 in brightness with 700 lumens versus 600, and offers superior durability with an IP68 rating. However, it's less user-friendly than the Petzl SWIFT LT, which has a simple one-button operation, and lacks the adjustable color temperature of the Nitecore NU27 600.

Specs side-by-side

SpecBioLite Range 500Fenix HM50R v2
Weight75 g78g (with battery and headband)
Lumens500 lumens700 lumens
Beam Distance100m377 feet
Waterproof RatingIP67IP68
Battery1634 mAh lithium-ion1*16340
ChargingUSB-CUSB Type-C
Modes5 modes (White Spot, White Strobe, Red Flood, Red Strobe, White Flood)6 (Turbo, High, Med, Low, Red, Red Flash)
LED TypeWhite and Red LEDsCREE XP-G3 S4
MaterialAbs, PolycarbonateAluminum
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