Head-to-head · Best Rechargeable Headlamps

BioLite Range 500 vs Knog Bandicoot 250

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

BioLite Range 500 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.5 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about backpackers needing fast charging — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #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 →

Ranked #6 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps

Knog Bandicoot 250

4.3

$55as of May 28

The Knog Bandicoot 250 is praised as a game-changing ultralight headlamp that balances power, comfort, and affordability. Reviewer Michael Lanza of The Big Outside called it a 'great all-around value' for backpacking, hiking, climbing, and trail running, noting its 250 lumens of brightness and 2.1 oz weight. The lamp is rechargeable, easy to operate, and features a silicone housing that adjusts to fit most head sizes. However, some users found the reading lights too angled downward for comfortable reading while lying down. This headlamp is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, reliable light source but may not suit those needing maximum waterproofing.

Strengths

— 250 lumens of brightness with 100+ foot range suitable for hiking and trail running
— Ultra-lightweight at 2.1 oz./59.5g, comfortable for extended wear
— Rechargeable with USB plug-in charging, no cords needed

Watch-outs

— Reading lights are angled too far downward for comfortable reading
— IP67 rating offers limited waterproofing (1 meter for 30 minutes)

$55 · 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.

Knog Bandicoot 250

The Knog Bandicoot 250 is significantly lighter than the BioLite Range 500, which weighs 2.6 oz versus 2.1 oz, and offers better adjustability with a silicone housing. However, it lacks the 500 lumens output of the BioLite and doesn't feature the gesture control of the Sofirn HS21.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	BioLite Range 500	Knog Bandicoot 250
Weight	75 g	2.1 oz./59.5g
Lumens	500 lumens	250
Beam Distance	100m	over 100 feet
Waterproof Rating	IP67	IP67
Battery	1634 mAh lithium-ion	Rechargeable USB
Charging	USB-C	USB-A, 4 hours to full charge
Modes	5 modes (White Spot, White Strobe, Red Flood, Red Strobe, White Flood)	5 default modes (Spot, Ambient, Red, Reading, Combo)
LED Type	White and Red LEDs	—

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