Head-to-head · Best Rechargeable Headlamps

BioLite Range 500 vs Nitecore UT27 MCT 800

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 clear margin (4.5 vs 3.2). 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 #8 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps

Nitecore UT27 MCT 800

3.2

$54.95as of Jun 7

The Nitecore UT27 MCT is a lightweight, rechargeable headlamp designed for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring an 800-lumen output and a Multi Color Temperature (MCT) LED system offering three color temperatures. Reviewers noted its IP66 rating and 1-meter impact resistance, making it suitable for rugged use. However, some reviewers pointed out build quality concerns from previous versions. It's ideal for hikers, climbers, and campers seeking a reliable, multi-functional lighting solution, though those needing extended runtime at maximum brightness may find its 14.5-hour capacity limiting.

Strengths

— 800 lumens maximum output with 168-meter beam distance
— Multi Color Temperature (MCT) system with three color temperatures (3000K, 4500K, 6500K) and varying CRI values
— IP66 rating for waterproof and dustproof performance with 1-meter impact resistance

Watch-outs

— Build quality issues noted in previous model version
— Limited battery life at maximum output (up to 14.5 hours with stable output)

$54.95 · 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.

Nitecore UT27 MCT 800

The Nitecore UT27 MCT 800 surpasses the Nitecore NU27 600 in brightness with 800 lumens versus 600, and offers a more advanced multi-color temperature system. However, it's less user-friendly than the Petzl SWIFT LT, which has a simpler one-button operation, and lacks the ultra-lightweight design of the Knog Bandicoot 250.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	BioLite Range 500	Nitecore UT27 MCT 800
Weight	75 g	74 g (including battery)
Lumens	500 lumens	800 lumens
Beam Distance	100m	168 meters
Waterproof Rating	IP67	IP66
Battery	1634 mAh lithium-ion	HLB1500 1500mAh lithium-ion
Charging	USB-C	USB-C (5V/0.5A)
Modes	5 modes (White Spot, White Strobe, Red Flood, Red Strobe, White Flood)	Turbo, High, Mid, Low, Red Constant-On, Red Flashing
LED Type	White and Red LEDs	UHE MCT (Multi Color Temperature)

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