We compared two popular head torches from well-known outdoor brands: the rechargeable-ready Petzl Tikka CORE and the waterproof, AAA-powered Black Diamond Spot 400.
What we looked at
Stated brightness, battery type and charging, lighting modes, build claims, and price.
The verdict
If you want a rechargeable headlamp out of the box, the Tikka CORE lists 450 lumens, includes the CORE rechargeable battery and still runs on AAA batteries if you'd rather, though it costs more. If you'd rather spend less, the Spot 400 lists 400 lumens, a waterproof build and three included AAA batteries, with a rechargeable BD 1500 battery available separately.
Lists 450 lumens and includes a rechargeable CORE battery that also runs on AAAs, though it costs more than the Spot 400.
The cheaper pick, with 400 lumens, a waterproof build and three AAA batteries included, but the rechargeable battery is sold separately.
PETZL Tikka CORE Headlamp (Green) — Best Rechargeable
Intended for: Marketed as a rechargeable, compact, easy-to-use headlamp with red lighting and 450 lumens, in a hybrid design that comes with the CORE rechargeable battery and also runs on three AAA batteries.
What we liked
- Stated 450 lumens, higher than the Spot 400's stated 400
- Comes with the CORE rechargeable battery and also works with three AAA batteries (not included)
- Three white lighting levels plus continuous red lighting
- LOCK function stops it switching on in transit or storage
- Detachable, washable, reflective headband
Worth knowing
- Costs more than the Spot 400 on these listings
- Recharges over micro USB rather than USB-C
Best for
- Anyone who wants a rechargeable headlamp ready to use out of the box
- Users who like being able to fall back on AAA batteries
- Night-time users who want red lighting and a lock function for packing
Not ideal for
- Buyers looking for the lowest price
- Anyone who specifically wants USB-C charging
Black Diamond Spot 400 Head Torch — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as a dimmable, waterproof 400-lumen head torch for hiking, camping, night running and emergency use, powered by three included AAA batteries.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Tikka CORE on these listings
- Three AAA batteries are included in the box
- Waterproof, rugged housing built for rain and snow
- Multiple brightness settings, proximity modes and a red night-vision mode
- Can be upgraded with the rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery and charger, sold separately
Worth knowing
- Ships with disposable AAA batteries — the rechargeable battery and charger cost extra
- Stated 400 lumens is lower than the Tikka CORE's 450
Best for
- Budget-minded hikers and campers who want a waterproof head torch
- Buyers happy to run on AAA batteries, or upgrade to rechargeable later
- Anyone who wants a stated waterproof build
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants a rechargeable battery included out of the box
- Buyers who want the higher stated lumen output of the two
