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.

The short answer

Fenix HM50R v2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.6). The gap is mostly about technical outdoor users — read the strengths below before deciding.

Ranked #2 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps

BioLite Range 500

4.5

$59.95as of Jun 7

The BioLite Range 500 is a lightweight, fast-charging headlamp that delivers 500 lumens of illumination. TreeLineBackpacker reviewer found it comfortable and easy to adjust, with a seamless uni-body design that eliminates pressure points. The unit offers up to 200 hours runtime on low and charges quickly, though it lacks a weather cover for the USB-C port. 1Lumen reviewer noted its 445 lumens output and 84-meter beam distance. This headlamp is recommended for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable, comfortable lighting solution at $70.

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 Amazon Full review →

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps

Fenix HM50R v2

4.6

$60as of May 28

The Fenix HM50R V2 is a lightweight, durable headlamp weighing just 2.75 ounces with 700 lumens output and 377-foot beam distance. Reviewers noted its IP68 waterproof rating and included USB-C charging cable, though some found the activation method requiring a long press rather than single click. The stiff clip, while stable, makes reattachment difficult for children. It's well-suited for technical outdoor tasks but lacks versatility with limited features and 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

$60 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

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

Spec	BioLite Range 500	Fenix HM50R v2
Weight	75 g	78g (with battery and headband)
Lumens	500 lumens	700 lumens
Beam Distance	100m	377 feet
Waterproof Rating	IP67	IP68
Battery	1634 mAh lithium-ion	1*16340
Charging	USB-C	USB Type-C
Modes	5 modes (White Spot, White Strobe, Red Flood, Red Strobe, White Flood)	6 (Turbo, High, Med, Low, Red, Red Flash)
LED Type	White and Red LEDs	CREE XP-G3 S4

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