Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black Review

First Impressions of Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black

The Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black immediately strikes me as a minimalist powerhouse. Nitecore promises a lightweight, rechargeable headlamp with both white and red LEDs, and judging by its sleek design and feather-light feel, it seems to deliver on that promise right out of the box. As someone who spends countless hours in the wilderness, often relying on headlamps for navigation and task lighting, I’m always on the lookout for gear that blends performance with portability.

I was looking for a reliable, lightweight headlamp for early morning fishing trips and late-night campsite chores. My old headlamp was bulky, ate through batteries, and had a frustrating user interface. The Nitecore NU21‘s compact size and USB-C charging were immediately appealing, addressing my pain points with older models.

Unboxing the Nitecore NU21, I was struck by how incredibly light it is. The PC construction feels solid enough, and the reflective headband is a nice touch for added visibility. Compared to my previous headlamp, a heavier, AA-powered model from Black Diamond, the NU21 feels like a breath of fresh air. I also considered the Petzl Bindi, another ultra-light option, but the Nitecore‘s higher lumen output and red light function swayed me.

My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. I’m excited to put the Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black through its paces and see if its performance matches its promising design. Its compact form factor and feature set have me genuinely intrigued.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Nitecore NU21 on a pre-dawn fly fishing trip in the Ozark mountains. The dense forest canopy demands a reliable light source before sunrise. The headlamp performed admirably, providing ample illumination for navigating the rocky terrain and rigging my line.

The red light function proved invaluable for preserving my night vision while scouting for trout. Switching between modes was intuitive, and the headlamp remained comfortable even after several hours of use in humid conditions. I was initially concerned about battery life, but the NU21 easily lasted through the morning with power to spare.

Extended Use & Reliability

After two months of regular use, the Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black continues to impress. It has become my go-to headlamp for everything from trail running to setting up camp in the dark. The PC construction shows no signs of cracking or damage, despite being tossed in my pack repeatedly.

Cleaning the NU21 is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth removes mud and grime. Compared to my old headlamp, which required disassembly for thorough cleaning, the Nitecore is a breeze to maintain. It definitely outperforms my expectations for such a lightweight device, proving to be a reliable and versatile tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black

Specifications

• The Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black boasts compact dimensions of 2.37″ x 1.3″ x 1″. This makes it incredibly easy to pack and carry.
• It weighs in at a mere 1.55 oz, making it almost unnoticeable during extended use. This is crucial for activities where weight is a major concern.
• The headlamp features both white and red LEDs, offering versatility for different situations. Red light helps preserve night vision, while white light provides bright illumination.
• It offers four light modes: High (360 lumens, 2h runtime), Mid (170 lumens, 3.5h runtime), Low (60 lumens, 8h runtime), and Ultralow (6 lumens, 37h runtime). These modes cater to a wide range of lighting needs.
• The NU21 is water resistant, providing protection against rain and splashes. This is essential for outdoor use in unpredictable weather.
• It’s also impact resistant, adding to its overall durability. This ensures it can withstand accidental drops and bumps.
• The built-in USB-C charging port allows for convenient recharging. This eliminates the need for disposable batteries.
• A lockout mode prevents accidental activation in your pack. This is a great feature to save battery.
• The reflective and glow-in-the-dark headband enhances visibility in low-light conditions. Safety is always a priority.
• The Nitecore NU21 utilizes a unibody optical lens system with various facets for reflecting a uniform and soft light. This reduces eye strain during prolonged use.
• It requires (1) Lithium battery (included), so it’s ready to go out of the box. This is very convenient.
• The PC construction keeps the weight down while maintaining reasonable durability. The Nitecore‘s PC construction ensures a balance of strength and weight savings.

Performance & Functionality

The Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black performs its primary function – providing light – exceptionally well. The 360-lumen high mode is bright enough for most tasks, and the lower modes are perfect for conserving battery life or reading in your tent. The red light is invaluable for preserving night vision.

The headlamp’s interface is intuitive and easy to use, even with gloves. The single button controls power, mode switching, and lockout. However, a slightly more tactile button would be an improvement.

The NU21 meets and even exceeds my expectations for a headlamp in this weight class. Its brightness, runtime, and ease of use make it a standout performer.

Design & Ergonomics

The Nitecore NU21‘s minimalist design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Its low weight makes it incredibly comfortable to wear for extended periods. The unibody construction feels solid and durable.

The headlamp is user-friendly, with a simple one-button interface. There’s a slight learning curve to master the different button presses, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black appears to be built to last. The PC construction seems resistant to scratches and impacts, and the water resistance is a welcome feature.

Maintaining the NU21 is simple. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Nitecore NU21 comes with a USB-C charging cable. There aren’t many customization options, as it’s a fairly minimalist design. However, the headband is replaceable.

The headlamp is compatible with standard USB-C charging cables. This is convenient for anyone who already owns USB-C chargers.

Pros and Cons of Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black

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Who Should Buy Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black?

The Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black is perfect for trail runners, hikers, backpackers, and anyone who values lightweight gear. It’s also a great option for anglers who need a reliable red-light headlamp for preserving night vision.

Those who need extremely long runtimes or require a headlamp for heavy-duty industrial use might want to consider a more robust model. This headlamp is designed for lightweight applications.

A portable power bank is a must-have accessory to ensure the Nitecore NU21 remains charged on extended trips. This adds to the usability in the back country.

Conclusion on Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black

The Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black is an exceptional piece of gear that combines lightweight design with impressive performance. It’s a reliable and versatile tool for anyone who spends time outdoors.

The price of $35.99 is more than justified given its features and performance. For the money, you get a well-designed, durable, and feature-rich headlamp that will serve you well in a variety of situations.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Nitecore NU21 Headlamp Black to anyone looking for a lightweight, rechargeable headlamp. Its blend of performance, durability, and ease of use make it an excellent value. Grab one today and experience the freedom of lightweight illumination!