10 Best Budget Headlamps 2025 in the United States

The BLACK DIAMOND Storm 500-R is a versatile and powerful headlamp suitable for various outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, running, and hunting. One of its standout features is its impressive 500-lumen brightness, which ensures excellent visibility in low-light conditions. Additionally, the headlamp offers multiple lighting modes, including red, green, and blue night vision, which cater to different needs and activities.

The PowerTap Technology allows for quick adjustments between full and dimmed power, adding convenience during use. The brightness memory function is also a great advantage, as it allows users to maintain their preferred light setting when turning the headlamp on and off. The integrated rechargeable lithium battery is a cost-effective solution compared to disposable batteries, although a runtime of 2 hours may be limiting for longer trips.

The headlamp is lightweight at just 4.2 ounces, making it comfortable for extended wear. Its water resistance rating of IP67 ensures it can withstand harsh weather conditions, adding to its durability. However, some users might find the need for carrying a charging cable inconvenient, especially in remote areas without power sources. The headband is made from recycled elastic and Repreve fiber, which is a plus for eco-conscious users. Despite its higher price point, this headlamp is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable, multi-functional, and eco-friendly lighting option, but it may not be ideal for extended use without frequent recharging.

The BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 is a durable headlamp designed for various outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, running, and more. With 400 lumens of brightness, it provides ample light for most nighttime tasks. The headlamp's PowerTap Technology is a standout feature, allowing users to quickly switch between maximum brightness and dimmed power, which can be very handy in different scenarios.

The Brightness Memory function is also useful as it lets you maintain your preferred brightness setting without having to readjust every time you turn it on and off. The red night vision mode, with both dimming and strobe options, is beneficial for preserving night vision and for use in emergency situations. Additionally, an integrated battery meter display helps you keep track of how much power you have left, preventing unexpected battery drain.

It is lightweight and made from durable polycarbonate, which makes it easy to carry and resistant to wear and tear. Being waterproof adds to its durability, especially in wet conditions. However, the battery life might not be as long as some other models, depending on the settings used. Also, while it has various modes, some users might find toggling between them a bit cumbersome. If you are looking for a versatile, budget-friendly headlamp with good brightness and useful features, the BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 is a solid choice.

The BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400-R is a well-rounded budget headlamp that shines with a strong 400 lumens brightness, making it suitable for camping, hiking, running, or work tasks in low light. It offers a good variety of lighting modes, including dimming, strobe, and a handy red night-vision mode that can be used without switching through the white light settings. This is great for preserving night vision during outdoor activities.

The rechargeable 1500 mAh lithium-ion battery with USB charging is convenient and eco-friendly, although the runtime of about 4 hours on full brightness might require carrying a backup for longer trips. Weighing just under 96 grams, it’s lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. Its waterproof rating means it can handle wet weather without worries. Features like brightness memory and a digital battery meter provide practical control and clear info on remaining power.

It requires one AAA battery when not using the rechargeable option. This headlamp is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable, feature-rich light source without spending a lot.