Head-to-head · Best Rechargeable Headlamps

Fenix HM50R v2 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

Fenix HM50R v2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about technical outdoor users — read the strengths below before deciding.

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 →

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

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.

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	Fenix HM50R v2	Knog Bandicoot 250
Weight	78g (with battery and headband)	2.1 oz./59.5g
Lumens	700 lumens	250
Beam Distance	377 feet	over 100 feet
Waterproof Rating	IP68	IP67
Battery	1*16340	Rechargeable USB
Charging	USB Type-C	USB-A, 4 hours to full charge
Modes	6 (Turbo, High, Med, Low, Red, Red Flash)	5 default modes (Spot, Ambient, Red, Reading, Combo)
LED Type	CREE XP-G3 S4	—

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