Top 9 Best head torches of 2022

The Black Diamond Spot 325 is a stylish and elegant head torch that you won’t be ashamed of wearing. It exudes an immediate impression of quality compared to most other head torches on the market. The instruction manual is available in English and several other languages. There are plenty of illustrations that explain the different functions. The head torch is attached with a double-stitched band, the size of which is easy to adjust. The band is soft but at the same time stable and fits securely on the head even if you move it a lot.

Shine bright like a diamond

The Black Diamond Spot 325 has three different basic lights: headlamp, work lamp and night vision. The latter is a dim red light that doesn’t affect your night vision, but still gives some illumination. You change between the three functions with a separate menu button. The power can be changed by holding down the power button. The light on the head torch is pretty powerful even in standard mode. By holding down the switch, the side lamp is also switched on, which produces a very strong light. However, that does draw heavily on the battery. According to the instructions, the head torch reaches a maximum of 80 metres, but our experience was that it goes much further.

Versatile

The head torch works well for all types of outdoor activities in the dark. As a work light, it’s suitable for use in a dark room where you don’t want to be dazzled. The night vision is just an LED light, which works well, for instance, on a boat in the dark. The separate menu button makes it easy to switch between light modes. Once you’ve learned how it all works, it’s very easy to change the strength settings.

The Black Diamond Spot 325 is powered by three AAA batteries (included) and these can be replaced by rechargeable batteries in the same format. At maximum brightness, the batteries last for about four hours, but with more normal use they last at least twice as long.

Waterproof – suitable for sailors

The Black Diamond Spot 325 is a functional head torch that also works for anyone spending time on a boat, because it’s waterproof. As the torch fits so well on the head, it’s also perfect for all types of outdoor exercise. A quality lamp for anyone who cares about both performance and appearance.

The Black Diamond Spot 325 has been discontinued and replaced with the Black Diamond Spot 350. The updated model has offers greater brightness (350 lumens) and a longer range (86 metres). Apart from those specifications, the products are basically identical.

The Armytek Wizard C2 Pro LED headlamp 2500 lm is an incredibly bright head torch. At maximum turbo mode, it illuminates up to 131 metres. Which is like having a car headlight on your head. That brightness in combination with the design, robustness, number of light modes and functions makes it difficult to see why this head torch doesn’t cost twice as much. The bottom of the lamp is magnetic and can be attached to all metal surfaces.

Instructions for use in different languages

The Wizard C2 doesn’t look like a traditional head torch, and is more like an ordinary torch attached to a headband. The design is simple, hard and stylish. Because the headlamp has so many functions, it’s recommended to read the user manual carefully in order to get the most out of this model.

Head torch with twelve light modes

This model has as many as twelve different light settings. For everyday exercise, the three simplest settings of white light are good enough. The fourth white light setting has a definite wow effect. It’s extremely strong and lights up everything for 131 metres. It’s pretty impressive that the battery life is 2.5 hours on maximum turbo mode. There is an advanced setting that allows the torch to shine with a very dim light, and in that mode the battery lasts for up to 200 days without charging. The powerful lithium battery is included in the purchase and is charged with the included USB cable.

Head torch for tough activities

This is a tough torch that can handle hard work in extreme situations. Whether that’s cross-country running in mud, swimming at night, searching with a team in difficult terrain or whatever, this lamp works perfectly. The lamp is waterproof and can withstand both rain and snow. Because it shines very brightly, it works really well in slightly colder temperatures so it doesn’t overheat.

Headband fits well

The headband fits both around and over the top of your head. It is elastic and can be adjusted in several ways. The headband can be increased in size so that it can be worn on top of a riding or bicycle helmet. The sturdy headband is very helpful because the lamp itself weighs a lot. The fact that the head torch is so heavy is the only thing that prevents it from receiving the highest score. It is heavy to run with and you can feel the weight even after a long walk. The many different light levels are impressive, but they also make the lamp rather complicated to use. It’s also tricky to activate the weakest light levels.

Head torch for demanding activities

The Armytek Wizard C2 Pro LED head torch 2500 lm is an extreme torch designed for hard work. It is suitable for users who place high demands on their head torch and want a durable model that can withstand bad weather and impacts. This torch can be your best friend during any outdoor activity.

Stripped-back and solidly built sums up the Varta Indestructible H20 Pro. Here, the focus has been on function and not on any unnecessary effects. Just holding the lamp in your hand, you can feel the quality and see that this is a tough head torch. It has been fall tested and can withstand a few knocks.

Easy to use

As the H20 Pro only has two light modes, high and low, it’s never difficult to change the light, and nor is there any risk you’ll accidentally set the torch incorrectly. Just be careful when testing it at home. The stronger light mode is very powerful and not at all nice when it’s shining right in your eyes. In the dark, the light cone can reach a full 100 metres. The head strap is comfortable and can be adapted to different head sizes. It also works on top of a helmet. The torch fits well and it’s easy to access and change between the two light modes or adjust the angle even when you have it on.

Durable head torch

One well-thought-out detail is that the headband can be removed and washed, which is a good idea after a couple of heavy workouts or after you’ve had it out in the rain. The torch itself is both water and dust proof and has no problems with heavy rainfall. The H20 Pro can withstand a few knocks. If you have a job where a head torch can expect to be subject to impacts, or if you have hobbies that require a tough companion, this is a very good choice. The fact that it can also light up the darkest of spaces is no disadvantage.

Simple and solid headlamp

The Varta Indestructible H20 Pro is ideal for anyone who wants a simple and robust head torch. It can handle most things. It’s powered by standard AAA batteries and has a relatively long battery life. As it is both shock-resistant and water-resistant, this torch is excellent for outdoor training where you need something that really works. This LED torch will light up almost anything and you don’t have to worry about it breaking during use.

The Petzl Actik Core has a stylish design, but don’t be fooled by the small lamp housing – this head torch produces a huge amount of light that will amaze you (or dazzle anyone you meet along the way). It’s easy to learn how to use this head torch because the user manual is uncomplicated and easy to follow.

Good fit

The Petzl Actik Core is easy to put on and take off and it’s also easy to adjust the headband. The torch fits well on the head, but there are no rubberised bits on the inside of the headband to make it fit even more securely. However, since the headband is washable, we can see why. The design gets a plus point for the reflective details that provide increased visibility in the dark. Mounting accessories also allow you to attach the torch to a helmet or similar if required.

Made for outdoor life

This is a model that’s made for outdoor use, such as mountaineering, hiking, running, etc. The torch itself is multi-beam and has a maximum power of 420 lumens, making it a very powerful head torch. There are several different light modes as well as a red night light, which makes it possible to take photos in the dark without ruining the images.

Rechargeable battery

The Petzl Actik Core is powered by a battery with a long battery life. And you can charge the battery quickly via USB, which is great when you’re out on a long hike and want to economise on your powerbank. Regardless of whether you want to take a photo on an early autumn morning or go skiing on a winter evening, the Petzl Actik Core is ideal for users with high demands for the brightness of a head torch and who want a torch they can bring for longer adventures.

The design of the GP Xplor Lynx PH14 doesn’t particularly stand out, but it gets a plus in that there’s a reflective detail on the headband. This means you’re visible while moving in the dark even with the torch switched off. It’s easy to learn how to use the torch as the manual is very simple.

Easy to adjust the headband

The torch is attached to a headband made of stretch material that can easily be adjusted in size. Because the torch itself is a little on the small side, it feels more ready to adapt to the forehead and doesn’t jump around as much as heavier lamps when you’re moving faster. It feels comfortable to wear and is good for running. It’s also great for an evening walk, on a hike, or a camping trip. On top of the lamp housing there’s a centrally located button that allows you to easily change the brightness.

Five different lighting functions

The GP Xplor Lynx PH14 has five different light settings: three different intensities of white light – strong, medium and weak – and two red light functions where you can choose between a constant red light or a flashing red light for emergencies. It’s also possible to adjust the angle of the torch so that you get the light beam closer to the ground. The performance of the light itself is good, and you can see quite far with the strongest light mode and also get a decent spread of the light sideways.

Lasts for up to 78 hours

The head torch is powered by three AAA batteries, which are non-rechargeable and have a maximum lighting time of up to 78 hours if you use the lamp on the lowest light setting.

The GP Xplor Lynx PH14 is a cheap and lightweight head torch, ideal if you need to have your hands free when hiking or camping and want to be able to set the light on several different settings. If you’re going on longer trips, you’ll need to bring extra batteries though.

The Black Diamond Flare head torch doesn’t look all that exciting. But inside this small, round, aluminium head torch, there are two LED lamps that provide a surprising amount of light. This is all the more unexpected because this torch is relatively inexpensive. Everything about this torch is compact and minimalist, which isn’t to say the manufacturers have skimped on any of the usual features.

Good fit with elastic drawstring

The simple strap fits well around your head and can also be fastened around a helmet. The rubber band doesn’t provide the same level of security as found on other tougher strap systems, but it is less conspicuous. It's also easy to change the light settings on this head torch. This is done by rotating the round lamp housing. However, this does feel a bit stiff when you are actually wearing it. So it’s usually easier to choose a setting before you put the head torch on. Even tilting the lamp feels a bit awkward at times and it can be difficult to get it to sit exactly the way you want when you’re moving.

Impressively robust

Despite its small size, this head torch is impressively robust. The aluminium construction is waterproof. The fact that it is very light also means that, if you drop it, it probably won’t cause any problems. The torch is powered by two small lithium batteries which last for many hours at the lowest brightness.

Headlamp with five light modes

It can be set to five modes: two white lights, a red light, a flashing light and an SOS signal. Some people will find the SOS signal very useful, as the torch is easy to keep in a first aid kit and use in an emergency.

The Black Diamond Flare torch is for anyone looking for a small and convenient head torch. It may not be a head torch that you’d take on the craziest of adventures, but it’s perfect for a jog in the city on a dark autumn evening. Fewer functions would have made it easier to find the right mode when you’re running.

Small, handy head torch

The Flare Head Torch is easy to take out on adventures. You can fit this head torch in your jacket pocket. It isn’t the strongest torch on the market, but it does its job and most runners or cyclists will be happy with it.

The Petzl IKO Core has a futuristic design and looks very advanced at first glance. Once in place on your head, however, it’s discreet and not all that advanced to use. The text in the accompanying user manual is so small that it’s basically unreadable. But really you don’t need a user manual as the pictures on the box provide all the necessary information you need to be able to use it.

Head torch that illuminates a wide area ahead

The IKO Core is surprisingly easy to use. A button under the light turns it on and off. The three different light modes are regulated by pressing the same button. The modes are dim light, medium bright and bright light. However, the instructions are more focused on power consumption and are stated as "max burn time", "standard" and "max power". Apart from the three brightnesses, there are no other types of light to choose from. In practice only the strongest light mode works in a dark outdoor environment. The other two levels are too weak and it is difficult to see what they could ever be used for. The strongest light is good and does give a good view ahead of you. The light differs from other headlamps in that it doesn’t give a clear light cone with darker surroundings. Instead, the entire forward area is lit up just as brightly. This is unusual and also one of the torch's strongest properties.

Good head torch for running and orienteering

The head torch is mounted on a soft rubber strap which you pull over your head. The fit is adjusted with a cord that pulls on the rubber strap at the back. Possibly the torch’s most ingenious feature is that the battery is located in a holder at the back of the head where the cord which adjusts the fit is sited. This shifts the centre of gravity from the front of the head to the back of the head. This means you can barely feel the torch on your head, but you don’t risk it falling down onto your face during rapid movements. Despite its size, the torch is easy to fold away and tuck into the included pouch. At maximum setting, the torch offers a soft, yet strong, light – not only forward, but also to the sides. The fit and design in combination with the LED lights make the IKO Core well suited for activities such as running, orienteering or sailing. The single button on the torch is located directly under the lamp housing itself and is easy to use even with gloves.

Suitable for anyone living an active life

The Petzl IKO Core head torch suits anyone looking for a torch to use when exercising outdoors and who prioritises low weight and a design that holds the head torch in place. The design of the torch means the entire environment in front of you is illuminated. Thanks to the fact that the battery is located on the back of the head and the rubber strap can be tightened, the torch is stable on your head even during violent movements.

The LED Lenser SEO 5 has a design that makes it look convenient and functional. It's easy to learn how to use this torch because it's very user-friendly.

Five different lighting functions

The LED Lenser SEO 5 has five different lighting functions. There are three different functions for the standard white light where you can choose between a bright light, a weaker light and a flashing light. There’s also a red light and an emergency light function with a flashing red light.

What we liked most, however, is that it’s possible to focus the lamp. You can choose to have a wide light beam for walking around, or you can choose to focus the beam, which means that you can see that bit further. The torch can also be tilted so that you get the light beam closer to the ground, which is useful if you need to read a map, for example.

At the maximum light mode, you should be able to see up to 120 metres ahead. However, we found that you can see at best perhaps 50 to 60 metres ahead, after which the light fades significantly. Still, the strong light is adequate, for example, when you’re out running in the woods, hiking or cycling.

The torch is powered by three ordinary AAA batteries. It comes with two sets of batteries. This is necessary because the battery life is only seven hours if you use the head torch on maximum light mode.

Easily adjustable headband

The LED Lenser SEO 5 is secured around the head with a headband made of stretch material. It’s easy to change the size of the headband so you can get the fit just right. We found that the lamp housing itself feels a little flat against the forehead and a bit heavy when running, but you get used to it. The light settings are changed by a button located on top of the torch. It’s easy to change the brightness and the focus on the light beam with one hand.

The LED Lenser SEO 5 is a good choice if you’re going hiking, cycling, or camping and need a reliable and functional head torch for a few hours of use. If you’re hiking for longer or doing something else outdoors that takes a long time, we recommend a lighter head torch with a longer battery life.

The BioLite Head Torch 330 is a small, super light head torch with the housing for the battery, which is quickly and fully charged with a USB cable, located on the back of the headband. That placement gives a nice feeling on your head. It’s easy to angle the lamp housing when you’re moving, in case you need to look at a map or your sports watch. The headband is made of a moisture-repellent material and the torch itself is, to some extent, waterproof against rain and snow. The torch is so lightweight that it feels as if you’re only wearing the headband. In terms of fit, the torch is quite flexible, which means it fits well even over a hat or a bicycle helmet. It sits where it should and doesn’t slip around even when you run. The head torch also gets a plus for its stylish design, available in several vibrant colours.

Head torch with four light settings

The head torch has four light settings. At the lowest light level, the battery lasts for an impressive number of hours, considering how small and lightweight the torch is. Of all the head torches we tested, this model certainly isn’t the brightest. So if you plan to use this torch in the dark, we recommend using the strongest light mode. At dusk or if the head torch is to be used to provide better visibility in traffic, it’s sufficient to activate the flashing lamp function or the spotlight function, which can also be dimmed, in order to get a longer battery life. The torch settings are controlled with a small button located on the front of the lamp housing. It’s fairly easy to change settings on the go.

The instructions have many good and explanatory pictures, which means you don’t need to bother too much with the text.

Practical and takes up very little space

The BioLite HeadLamp 330's biggest advantages are its slim design and light weight. If you are happy to pay a bit extra for a few less grams, it could be ideal. The low weight makes it attractive for both hikers and climbers. You can easily switch between functions with one hand and angle the lamp. It’s also suitable for runners who exercise on level ground. As the strongest light mode is comparatively weak, however, it’s not recommended for runners who are going to run in rugged terrain in the dark. Overall, given the price, we would have expected a brighter light.