Full trail review
In-depth analysis
The Nitecore NU25 is one of the lightest headlamps on the market, making it an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers and those seeking the lightest headlamps for their gear list. As an ultralight headlamp, it is ideal for weight-conscious users who prioritize minimal pack weight. Its compact design and secure fit also make it a great running headlamp for trail runners who need reliable illumination without extra bulk.
Suited for hiking · trekking
On trail
Ultralight rechargeable for hut dawn starts
Nitecore NU25
Nitecore
At a glance
- Weight
- ~28 g
- Power
- USB rechargeable
- Max output
- 400 lumens
- Best for
- Gram-conscious hikers
What we like
- Extremely lightweight—perfect for ultralight backpackers
- Quick USB-C charging
- Affordable price point
Trade-offs
- Non-replaceable battery
- Shorter battery life on high settings
Overview
The Nitecore NU25 is one of the lightest headlamps on the market, making it an excellent choice for ultralight backpackers and those seeking the lightest headlamps for their gear list. As an ultralight headlamp, it is ideal for weight-conscious users who prioritize minimal pack weight. Its compact design and secure fit also make it a great running headlamp for trail runners who need reliable illumination without extra bulk. Performance & Lighting Provides a clear mix of spot and flood beams, with red light for night tasks. Its 70 yd throw is impressive for its class.
Hands-on on the trail
Positioning Less bright than heavier models but excels where every gram counts. Not replaceable battery but great for tech-savvy users.
Your lightweight go-to. If you’re trimming every ounce, but still want functionality and performance, the Nitecore NU25 UL is a standout. Best for: Thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers, and minimalist trail runners.
Performance in the field
Positioning Heavier and more rugged than Nitecore or Petzl, this is for users who need toughness first. It’s not the lightest—but it’s close to indestructible.
The Nitecore NU25 is one of the lightest hiking headlamps on the market at just 45 grams. It’s perfect for ultralight backpackers or trail runners who count every gram.
Who it's for
Featherweight Design At just 45 g, it’s nearly weightless—perfect for ultralight backpacking and fast adventures. Garage Grown Gear confirms the light build with solid balance.
USB‑C & UI Quick USB‑C charging (~1.5 h). Dual-button interface and lockout mode prevent accidental activations—a must for pack safety.
Key features
360-lumen max output
360-lumen max output
USB C rechargeable battery
USB C rechargeable battery
Weighs just 45 g
Weighs just 45 g (1.6 oz)
Multiple beam settings (spot,
Multiple beam settings (spot, flood, red)
Comfortable, adjustable headband
Comfortable, adjustable headband
Lockout mode to prevent
Lockout mode to prevent accidental activation
Ready to buy?
Nitecore NU25
How it compares
$33.20indicative on Amazon
Tikkina is simpler and cheaper for occasional use; NU25 wins on rechargeable convenience, multiple brightness modes, and sub-30g weight in a trekking hip belt.
Read full reviewSpot 400-R adds more lumens and BD ecosystem familiarity; NU25 is the ultralight pick when every gram in the lid pocket matters on hut treks.
Read full review€66,78indicative on Amazon.nl
HM50R is the premium magnetic/work-light option with better beam quality; NU25 wins on price and headband simplicity for straightforward night-to-hut walking.
Read full review$161.00indicative on Amazon
dedicated headlamp wins on hands-free stability, red-light modes, and not draining your emergency phone battery on 5 a.m. rifugio departures.
Read full reviewTrade-offs
- Non-replaceable battery
- Shorter battery life on high settings
Bottom line
Your lightweight go-to. If you’re trimming every ounce, but still want functionality and performance, the Nitecore NU25 UL is a standout. Best for: Thru-hikers, ultralight backpackers, and minimalist trail runners. If you are still deciding, start with the related buying guide on this page for comparisons, then return here to check pricing and availability.
Ready to buy?
Nitecore NU25
Buying advice
In our guides it earns the "Runner-up" label. Before you buy, compare the alternatives on this page, check return policies, and match capacity or fit to your typical trip length. Read the full category guide linked below for side-by-side comparisons, then sanity-check current pricing. Affiliate links help support the site; recommendations follow the same editorial standards as our trek guides.
Category context
Trail electronics are reviewed for battery realism, not brochure numbers. Cold mornings, GPS logging, and photo bursts drain faster than lab tests — we note what survived full hiking days and what needed a top-up at the hut. For Nitecore NU25, apply the same lens: will you use it every day of the trip, or is it dead weight?
