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Petzl Actik Core Headlamp review: Versatility for night adventures

headlamp petzl actik core for sports

Petzl Actik Core technical details

Weight: 88 gr (3.1 ozs)
Light power: 600 lumens
Beam distance: 115 meters (377 feet)
Waterproof: IPX4
Power supply: Rechargeable battery or AAA batteries
Battery run time: 2 to 100 hours

Main features of the Petzl Actik Core headlamp

  • Light and powerful: 600 lumens for only 88 g.
  • Versatile and comfortable movement lighting for dynamic activities:
    • The wide and homogeneous light beam allows you to see comfortably at your fingertips or your feet.
    • Mixed light beam (broad and focused) that allows you to see up close and at a distance to be able to move around.
    • Three levels of white lighting: MAX BURN TIME (maximum autonomy), STANDARD (better power/autonomy balance), and MAX POWER (maximum brightness).
    • Fixed red lighting to maintain night vision without dazzling the environment and flashing to signal presence, especially in case of emergency.
  • Easy to use:
    • Single button to easily and quickly select the lighting level or color.
    • Plate that allows the flashlight to be oriented very easily in the desired direction.
    • Light indicator when turning the flashlight on and off that allows you to check the battery level.
    • Rechargeable via a micro USB type B connector.
    • Reduced environmental impact: the use of a CORE battery is equivalent to 900 batteries throughout its useful life.
    • Practical phosphorescent reflector to find the turned-off flashlight, even in the dark.
    • LOCK function to prevent accidental ignition during transport/storage.
  • Removable, washable strap with symmetrical regulation to facilitate adjustment.
  • Reflective tape to be visible at night.
  • Storage and transport bag that allows you to transform the flashlight into a lamp.
  • HYBRID CONCEPT construction: supplied with the CORE battery, the ACTIK CORE is also compatible with three AAA/LR03 batteries (not included). The flashlight automatically detects the power source and adjusts the lighting outputs.
  • Compatible with HELMET ADAPT and BIKE ADAPT 2 fixings to install the flashlight on any type of helmet or bicycle.

Testing and results

In this review, we will introduce you to the Petzl Actik Core 600 headlamp, a model designed to provide you with powerful and versatile lighting in any situation. It is a rechargeable, powerful and versatile model that has accompanied me on several nighttime adventures, updated in 2021 by modifying the design, improving battery performance and increasing power. Discover how this flashlight can enhance your nighttime adventures and ensure optimal visibility in challenging conditions. Keep reading to find out all its features and benefits!

Performance

Functioning with CORE Battery

Lighting capability according to ANSI/PLATO FL 1 protocol
Illumination colorLight modesLight powerBeam distanceRun timeReserve
WhiteMAX BURN TIME7 lm10 m100 h
STANDARD100 lm60 m7 h2 h
MAX POWER600 lm115 m2 h
Redfixed2 lm5 m60 h
intermittentvisible at 700 m for 400 h

Functioning with AAA Batteries

Lighting capability according to ANSI/PLATO FL 1 protocol
Illumination colorLight modesLight powerBeam distanceRun timeReserve
WhiteMAX BURN TIME7 lm10 m100 h
STANDARD100 lm60 m10 h20 h
MAX POWER450 lm100 m2 h
Redfixed2 lm5 m60 h
intermittentvisible at 700 m for 400 h

The Petzl Actik Core headlamp surprised me with its power and versatility. I have been able to use it in different situations and scenarios, such as hiking, semi-urban running and camping. The white mode offers a wide and homogeneous lighting that allows you to see the environment well, especially in the Standard Mode, which will surely be the most used, since it offers the best relationship between lighting-distance-duration, even in completely dark environments far away. of artificial lights. I would use Max Power Mode in speed sports such as cycling, where you need a lot of close lighting and also great distance vision to anticipate difficulties along the way, but remember that its duration will be limited.

The two LEDs work together perfectly; one delivers a wide medium-range beam of light and the other emits a long-range focused beam but smaller amplitude. Many headlamps have these modes as separate functions, but the Petzl Swift Actik Core has both LEDs working together in all white light modes, and I really like the result.

The red mode is ideal for preserving night vision and not disturbing other users, although it will always be used occasionally, almost anecdotally. The strobe mode is useful for signaling the position in case of emergency. The intensity can be regulated according to needs, from 7 to 600 lumens. The battery has a good life and recharges quickly in just over 3 hours. The headband is comfortable and fits well on the head. The front is light and compact, making it easy to transport and store.

In conclusion, the Petzl Actik Core headlamp is an essential accessory for lovers of outdoor activities. It has an excellent quality-price ratio and offers very complete features. I recommend it to you with no doubt.

How to use – Petzl Actik Core tutorial

The Petzl Actik Core headlamp is very easy to use. It works with a single top button to turn it on and off and to switch between lighting modes: white, red and strobe. To adjust the intensity, you must click on the button to go from one level to the next until the desired level is reached. To turn it off, you have to press the button for two seconds.

To access the red light, you must press and hold the button for 2 seconds, and being in red light mode, with one click you will change to strobe mode. If you want to lock the front to prevent it from being accidentally turned on while you are transporting it, you must press and hold it for 4 seconds. You will know that it has been locked with a double flash of the red light. To unlock it, hold for 4 seconds.

To recharge it, you must remove the back cover of the battery compartment and connect it to a USB port using the included cable.

Parts and frame

The Petzl Actik Core headband is composed of a thick, low-elastic adjustable tape with a reflective line to be seen from a distance; The durable plastic housing covers the entire body of the flashlight. On the front there are three LEDs – focused white, wide white and solid red/strobe – and the top control button is large enough and easy to access. In the same section is the battery compartment. The package includes a USB cable.

The battery is a 1250 mAh CORE that offers a range of up to 100 hours in Max Burning Time mode and 2 hours in Max Power mode. The battery is compatible with other headlamps of the brand that use Hybrid Core technology and can be replaced with three AAA batteries if desired.

I really like its design, it is quite minimalist, and the rectangular spotlight with the pointed corners reminds me of a hunting insect, a kind of sensation of speed, as if I wanted to go participate in an X-Games,,,,,, ok I think I got very excited.

Advantages of the Petzl Actik Core headlamp

  • Reactive Lighting Technology: The Actik Core 600 lumens flashlight uses Reactive Lighting technology, which automatically adjusts the light intensity according to surrounding conditions. This optimizes battery performance and ensures optimal lighting without having to constantly make manual adjustments.
  • Tough and durable: With its waterproof and shock-resistant construction, the Petzl Actik Core is designed to withstand the demands of outdoor activities. Its durability ensures that the flashlight will accompany you during many nighttime adventures.
  • Additional features: The flashlight has a lock function to prevent accidental switching on and a battery level indicator that allows you to monitor its charge. It’s also compatible with accessories like the Petzl Noctilight chest belt, which transforms the flashlight into a table lamp.
  • Exceptional light output: The Petzl Actik Core headlamp offers a maximum output of 600 lumens, allowing you to illuminate considerable distances and tackle difficult terrain with confidence. Whether you’re running, camping, or exploring trails, this flashlight will provide you with clear, bright lighting.
  • Rechargeable battery: The Actik Core comes equipped with a USB rechargeable battery, which allows you to save money on disposable batteries and contribute to caring for the environment. Additionally, it offers the option of using standard AAA batteries as a backup, in case you don’t have access to a charging source.
  • Versatile Lighting Modes: This headlamp features multiple lighting modes, including proximity white light, hover white light, and red light to preserve night vision. The different modes allow you to adapt the intensity and range of the light according to your specific needs.

Weak points of the Petzl Actik Core headlamp

  • Battery life at full power: When using the flashlight at its full light output, battery life may be reduced. If you plan to use it for extended periods in this mode, it’s a good idea to carry a spare battery or have access to a charging source to avoid running out of power at critical times.
  • Strap adjustment: Some users have mentioned that the strap adjustment can be a bit uncomfortable, especially for people with smaller heads. Be sure to properly adjust the strap to avoid discomfort during use.

Comparative of headlamps Petzl Actik Core 600 vs Swift RL vs Tikka v2

Selection of discounted products at the best price

Model
Customer rating
Light power
Red light
Power supply
Waterproof
Battery run time
hedlamp petzl actik core vs swift rl vs tikka
Actik Core
4.6⭐ of 3801 votes
600 lumens
Yes
Rechargeable battery or AAA batteries
IPX4
Up to 100 hours
headlamp petzl swift rl vs actik core
Swift RL
4.6⭐ of 1310 votes
1100 lumens
Yes
Rechargeable battery
IPX4
Up to 100 hours
headlamp petzl tikka vs actik core
Tikka v2
4.6⭐ of 3350 votes
300 lumens
Yes
Rechargeable battery or AAA batteries
IPX4
Up to 110 hours

Comparative of headlamps Petzl Actik Core vs Black Diamond Storm 500R vs Ledlenser MH5

Model
Customer rating
Light power
Red light
Power supply
Waterproof
Battery run time
linterna frontal petzl actik core
Actik Core
4.6⭐ of 3801 votes
600 lumens
Yes
Rechargeable battery or AAA batteries
IPX4
Up to 100 hours
linterna frontal black diamond storm 500r
Black Diamond Storm 500R
4.4⭐ of 297 votes
500 lumens
Yes
Rechargeable
IP67
Up to 200 hours
linterna frontal ledlenser mh5
Ledlenser MH5
4.0⭐ of 11 votes
400 lumens
Yes
Rechargeable battery or AA batteries
IP54
Up to 35 hours

What do users think of the Petzl Actik Core?

Opinion 5/5 ⭐

Quality-price is a headlamp that is well worth it. I only have one small “but” for this product, although I already knew it before buying it, and that is that having to remove the front cover to charge the battery is not the most comfortable. Otherwise, great.

Opinion 4/5 ⭐

The whole issue of lighting is very good, but I used it for a whole night at medium power, and it did not last 8 hours, at 5 o’clock under lighting.

Opinion 3/5 ⭐

I thought it was better, but much lower-priced flashlights do the same as this… in the end, the only good thing is that it has a removable battery, and you can put AAA batteries in it if you don’t have your battery charged (because having an additional battery costs about the same as buying another flashlight)

Final opinion of the Petzl Actik Core headlamp

The Petzl Actik Core Headlamp is a standout option for those looking for reliable and versatile lighting during their nighttime outdoor activities. With its light output, rechargeable battery, and adaptive lighting modes, this flashlight gives you the visibility you need in any situation. Although it does have some limitations in battery life and strap fit, its many features and ruggedness make it an excellent choice for adventurers and outdoors. Do not hesitate to buy the Petzl Actik Core headlamp and discover the comfort and safety that it can bring to your night experiences in nature.

headlamp petzl actik core for sports

BUY NOW Petzl Actik Core

Weight: 88 gr (3.1 ozs)
Light power: 600 lumens
Beam distance: 115 meters (377 feet)
Waterproof: IPX4
Power supply: Rechargeable battery or AAA batteries
Battery run time: 2 to 100 hours

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