Weight: 116g | 1400 lumen

Best for: High-quality, efficient lighting for in-camp activities and route finding. 

Overview

The NU43 is the lightest 1400 lumen headlamp available. Made from alloy and plastic, it’s powered with a non-removable 3400mAh 18650 battery, fast-chargeable by USB-C. Run time ranges from 165hr in ultra-low power mode to around 10hr at 600 lumens (duration above 600 is unspecified). Maximum throw is an impressive 130m at 1400 lumens.     

Performance

This compact torch has a high-quality beam that is broad and evenly diffused without hot spots. This provides good peripheral light, plenty of reach and is easy on your vision. The ultra-low beam is suitable for reading or cooking, and I found the 100 lumen low beam sufficient for walking on an easy track. At 600 lumens it’s ample for off-track tramping and night-time mountain biking. I reserved the 1400 lumen mode for searching for distant features. The module pivots centrally, providing excellent beam angle range and stability on the head, and the broad headband is easily adjusted. The separate mode and power buttons avoid baffling operation sequences and are easy to use with gloves on. I did find that the silicon grip bead/sweat gutter dug into my bare forehead after a while, and the non-removable battery requires forethought for charging. 

What we like

Excellent peripheral lighting, fast charging, stable, lightweight, good value.

Limitations

Non-removable battery, bare skin discomfort.

Why buy the Nitecore NU43 headtorch? 

With its powerful, diffuse beam, build quality and low weight, there is a lot to like about this user-friendly headlamp if you can allow for the non-replaceable battery. I have adopted it as my go-to for tramping and night riding.