Why does the flashlight constantly reduce the brightness after 1-2 minutes of light? How then to find out its actual working time at different power modes? Am I the only one with this problem?
@@FrozensAdventures Thank you for your answer! Maybe the flashlight saves the battery or the light bulb (because the body is made of polycarbonate), but then the table showing the working time in different modes is not relevant. In any mode, the flashlight lowers the light to an almost low mode. Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not say this. I will buy another more powerful one in an aluminum case and I hope there will be no such problems there.
Dose this light have a turbo mode? I've noticed on my NU 35 that when it's on turbo it dims down after about a minute or so, I believe it is to protect the bulb from overheating.
I can only imagine that it's a sort of a "oh what's over there?!" type of light. Like if you hear something and need to check it out. So it's a nice to have feature, for sure.
I'm an avid hiker and Outdoorsmen and have a prolifera of all kinds of lights especially headlamps. I get headaches wearing heavy lights or lights with tiny straps. I must have alot of shallow veins in my big noggin. The new NU25 is THE BEST light ever. The hybrid strap doesn't stop bloodflow to my temple, the light variations are perfect for 99% of my average situations and the USB C and added battery life is ultra convenient. One chord for everything electronic is crucial. Being out by yourself remember "One is none, and Two is one". As often as my charging chords go bad, I'd rather have an extra USB C...vs a bunch of different chords.
LOVE my original NU25 with custom shock cord strap I made for it. I have used it for thousands of hours. Sadly one of the hinge points on the separate back portion broke the other day, so I reached out to NiteCore to get a replacement. They did have them for sale around $5 a piece. But while I was at the site getting 2 of those, I went ahead and got the next Gen 2 NU25 (with intensions to make the same strap that I made for my original one). Well, the replacement back came in and I replaced it no problems and my trusty original is back in service. And I have been carrying the Gen 2 in my pocket for about a week and have used it for many various chores. I do like the new light output and the dual nature of it, though battery doesn't seem to last as long (have not formally tested though). I don't know man, I think they may have made a boo boo here with the Gen 2. I'm thinking they should have just slapped a USB-C fast charge on it and the new battery indicator and leave everything else alone. Time will tell though. Have a great day
totally agree. The new spot is supposed to be a little more efficient too. And the red lights have a proper lens this time for a little more focus. But other than those changes, it's kind of negatives all around except for the USB C stuff and the indicator. And I wish they would use the tini2 screen instead of the indicator.
@@commentsonthetube14 yep. Well I got 2 of those backs where the hinges are, since that part of the plastic is the weak point. Maybe I will just get another several years out of my original. The battery on that original seems to last for ever (though I usually only use the lowest setting and sometimes the middle). That thing has been probably my best piece of gear, top three at least.
The high CRI light was a great addition for us in one situation... map reading at night. The colors of all the symbols on a map were gray or hard to see with the regular lamp. The high CRI made all the colors light up so map reading was much easier. I like the original for walking dogs, working on cars and general use. I've used the red for hunting and around camp. I have carried the same one in my pocket for years. I am going to buy a second before they stop making them. I'll pass on the new one.
That's actually a really good idea, thanks for the comment. This new generation would not work like for that. I can see that being an issue if you are having navigation issues.
Except it's 20 lumens! I can't even read comfortably by that. It's not bright enough to solder, repair a car, do plumbing - or really anything except to not disturb others who are sleeping.
My son and I night hiked through a green tunnel as we headed for camp. My son had the old one. I had the new one. The extra light from the new one was noticeably more effective than the old one and made our hike in much safer. I now only need one charging cable too, now. These two upgrades are significant, and in my opinion outweigh your 'glaring issues'. I'd not recommend the old over the new. Especially as its main function is to help you safely navigate. Thank you for your review. Greatly appreciated.
I find the output and runtime improvements in addition to the USB-C charging to be the real winners also. I always wished for a little more light than what the 38 lumen level of the other one provided and found I preferred Petzl because theirs was 100 lumens for 8 hours with a 5 or 6 lumen low. The new Nitcore hits the target and I think it is the finest backpacking light ever. I never used the hi CRI… I do wish they kept the 2 levels for red.
I like the usb-c and the new battery indicator lights. Otherwise, the simplicity of the V1 was it’s selling point. I would have preferred just those 2 updates to the original.
100%. The new spot is actually better too. It runs around the same time on medium but it's substantially brighter on medium. I'd also love if they used the tini2 screen instead of the 4 dot indicator. That would be super useful for deciding between low/medium/high on a night hike depending on remaining battery life.
The changes to the levels and the added runtime at 60 lumens was nice… 38 lumens felt a little underpowered to me and the 60 lumens of the new one is a winner. I just got back from a short trip with the new one and found it to be perfect. The one lumen level was a bit too low for me but they moved that to 6 lumens and it is perfect. I also wanted to get rid of the micro-USB cord and am glad for that change.
I learned a couple things about my gen 1 in the video. I wasn't aware of the lockout or the battery indicator. I like the new battery indicator (as I will forget the conversion of number of flashes to battery level) and usb-c charging. No need to flash on lockout.
The headband with the silicone strip is for running and is required to keep the light from moving around with each impact. The clips on Gen 2 should make it much easier to take the light off to wash the strap after each run. I’ve been using the gen 1 since it came out and the light and strap are still going strong after very heavy use. Quite impressive. Removing and installing the strap was the only point on gen 1 I kind of wanted changed. I’m getting ready to buy a gen 2. I mostly run at night and the plan right now is to use the gen 2 facing front and the gen 1 facing rear on the original headband or attaching the gen 1 to the back of my running vest/pack and using the new half strap/half shock cord on the gen 1. I’m still kicking myself for not buying a couple more gen 1’s when they still around at reduced prices. Good review. I agree they should use the battery indicator for the lock indication. It seems like flashing the bigger lights isn’t necessary and would use more power.
I have both. I like the newer version better for two reasons: USB is on the side, so I can connect a powerpack kept in my pocket when I need to (which does happen to me) - the old version had it on the bottom, so the cord goes right in front of my eye; second: I do find the addition of the spot light helpful when I am looking for something not in the immediate area. IMO, they made very good improvements at no additional cost. Only grip is the red is a bit too bright for "stealthy" camp navigating.
Also I recommend a right angle connector if you plan on using it while powering. Luckily with USB c you don't have to worry about which direction the angle is as it's reversible.
The best feature on the NU25 is the directional tilt.... keeps me organized when putting in my contact lenses at low morning light in my tent. I really like the original headband, too... nice & wide so it will stay in place. The weight-savings of anything different seems a little extreme.
The CRI is actually very helpful when cooking real food. It lets you see the different browns so you can tell when it's done. Generally, I agree though. *The modes are an absolute mess. The flood is unnecessary. And the dual mode is a pain in the ass. *The main spot is better though. It is a little more floody than before, which is good. And it runs brighter on medium for about the same amount of time. * The red is better. It is more focused. * I miss the 1L modes on the red and the main beam * totally agree on the lock thing. * They should really include a small screen like on the tini 2. It would be very useful to know exactly how much runtime I have on which brightness modes if I am low. * I also bought both and the cover on the charging port on one won't close. The old design for the cover was better. * You can cut maybe 7 grams with the shock cord mod. I super optimized it (no cord lock) and that's the best I got. * I wish it was smaller like the old one. It's less the extra 25% weight to me and more the compactness. * Please tell Nitecore all of this... I love the gen1 light o much and was so excited about the gen2 and ended up so disappointed. I did a really long writeup of the light before I got it here about the issues I saw coming. facebook.com/groups/237341837649502/posts/916317113085301/ Need to do a followup now that I actually have it. Feel free to steal any of my ideas. I just want Nitecore to make a proper successor to the NU25 soon. Don't want to wait another 5 years. And I guess they're listening to you haha.
@@rsilvers129 you an I have a very different experience with it then. It's plenty to read by in my experience. I've used it to read at night at home before. And it tends to be plenty around camp. For small camp chores and cooking. Going to the bathroom at night and such. It's not good for hiking at night, but that's what the spot is for. Maybe it's a vision thing? I'm nearsighted so I see well up close but not far away. For me it's good enough within a few feet, which is all I usually need around camp.
My UL version arrives on Friday. I own 2 of the older model and love them. I made a headband for my old ones from grosgrain ribbon and a tiny piece of shock cord in the back, basically a lighter version of their new headband for the non-UL version. I hate the lockout feature on the old one and never use it, so that won’t bother me on the new one. Great video!
@@trivacker I don’t mind the UL headband Nitecore came up with. I don’t like their standard headband and always replace it. My favorite is the mod I mentioned in my original comment, which is just a piece of grosgrain ribbon the same width as the original headband folded over and hemmed at each end making it a couple inches shorter than your head, then a piece of shock cord to join it together. That said, I haven’t replaced the UL version Nitecore made, so I like it well enough. Here is a link to the mod: th-cam.com/video/mYnNEPvmUrs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=5aQlCbqQIt_kVtxX
I agree it doesn't need to flash for the lock but I do like the idea of a spotlight and a floodlight. Spotlight is of particular use to me as I often look for wildlife in trees at night and spotlights are great for that. As long as the spotlight is good to see things relatively far away its a good addition.
I love the idea of both lights however they could incorporate those features into the next model up. I would have liked if they stuck to the original features of the nu25. That's why I think they did too much. There's quite a few different models in the NU line.
I almost bought the gen 2, but I love to different red levels (I used low red in camp as my primary light). Here's what I want: a hat clip to option for those who prefer to wear a ball style cap (I have a 3D print file I modified that works okay at 9g), a return to the red led brightness options, the USB C port, and five primary LED modes (super dim, low, medium, high, and uber bright/ disorient a bear bright). I love the OG NU25, but I'll either buy another OG, or wait for Gen 3.
The silicone strip on the non UL is so it doesn’t creep. I’d like to see a version of that directly on the back of the UL, as I wear mine mainly on hats, usually a cowboy hat. I think it’s a useful feature.
I’ve got the big old heavy duty nitecore aluminium block with blue red green and white lights. Very heavy duty and waterproof and it’s still my favourite one because it never breaks. But I like the features on the new one and I probably will buy it
I think your points are pretty solid. The biggest issue for me is the way it locks out it could have been more discrete than that. If they had been hoping to make it more noticeable maybe just flash they red light or something along those lines. It's a nice lamp but no reason for me to swap from by current NU25.
It occurred to me today why Nitecore probably decided to add the quick flashing light when in lockout mode…..I put on my NU25 UL gen2 early this morning to take the garbage to the curb while it was still dark. I put on the headlamp and pressed the power button and got a quick flash. I immediately knew I had it in lock out mode. If the Nitecore would have used the blinking battery indicator to tip someone off, like the gen1, you may now have seen the light blink while it’s on your head. You would figure it out eventually, but I knew right away it was in lockout mode. Just my 2 cents. Cheers!
I got this new light with the UL shock cord version. I have nothing to compare it to but I am not sure why anyone would care to make it lighter since I barely feel any weight on my head using it. I think I prefer more battery. I was afraid the cord wouldn't be as reliable as the other headband but it actually works pretty good, could even run with it no problem.
Great review, but with 1) USB C 2) lockout 3) comes with the shock cord so you don’t have to order from a 3rd party company 4) ability to have a narrow vs wide beam and 5) longer battery life while being lighter is a win-win for my upcoming PCT hike next year. Keep your great videos coming and am looking forward to your headband hack!
It is actually not lighter :/ If you remove the band from the old one and replace with thin shock cord (Ex. litesmith) it is almost exactly an ounce. The new one is 25% heavier with the same ultralight band mod.
@@RokU5 Yeah, that's about what I got too. 31g for gen1, 38g for gen2. So I guess it's closer to 22.5% heavier. Even though it's just a few grams, it is still a pretty decent increase compared to the old one. But TBH, I am not really worried about a few extra grams, it just annoys me that they advertise it as being lighter when it isn't. It's about a fifth more light but you don't really get a fifth more performance (unless you love the big flood, I guess). More concerned with how it's less compact and the UI is kind of a pain. It has too many modes now with the new mixed mode added. I finally got a chance to try it on a full backpacking trip last weekend and it was fine. But I did end up preferring to hike with just the spot anyway. And at camp, I missed the high CRI, so I switched to the NU33. I really liked the NU33. It takes the mod too and ends up about 79g. But it has the high CRI light I liked from the gen1 and doesn't waste space/power on a primary flood I won't use. It is a lot brighter with longer throw so it was great for finding a good bear bag hanging tree. I wish the new NU25 was just a NU33 with a lower turbo mode and smaller battery. The UI makes a lot more sense on the NU33. I actually kind of like the new UI there. And the 2 brightness levels on the high CRI.
@@RokU5 36 is lighter than 31? I'm lost there. Or do you mean compared to the NU33? That's a whole different level of light. Mostly in that it has more than 3x the battery capacity. It is, without a doubt, generally better than either NU25 in every way except for size and weight. I preferred spot only on the gen2 for night hiking. I could not tell the difference between spot and mixed unless I decided to turn my eyes down to look at my feet without moving my head. The new spot is actually floodier than the old one and the old spot was fine for hiking without a flood. Actually, I could tell the difference because the flood lit up the back of my glasses which made everything harder to see. Spot only was all-around better for hiking. And saved battery. I don't think CRI has any value for reading text. It's helpful for maps though. The value in it is in seeing colors realistically. I like it for cooking because I can tell when food is done because I can tell the difference between shades of red and brown in meat and such. But it's also just more pleasant to the eye. If I am going to have a dim flood for camp chores like cooking and such, I tend to prefer high CRI. I don't need a 200L flood around camp. Though the 50L high CRI on the NU33 was nice compared to the 20L on the NU25 gen1. I just can't see a purpose to a 200L flood. It is not bright enough to really light up n area (I have a 4000L flood I love for that kind of thing). But it is too bright to be useful for small camp chores and such. And the spot is already floody enough to get a really good field of view and a little bit of distance. I feel like I gave it a decent shot, but it just didn't really add anything. Floods need to be much higher lumen to bring much to the table, especially when paired with a spot that is already pretty floody. Absent that, they can add utility if they're high CRI.
This will be my first foray into a "high" level head lamp. The three I have now are Ali Express specials of the under $5 variety. They work fine, take 3AAAs and super simple. So looking forward to this UL version.
I carry a rechargeable spot light, lights out to 200’…. So I can see everything. As an added bonus, I can also heat pop tarts on the lens.. duel purpose !! 😊
I've recently purchased a different headlamp, I use it at night when looking for things in the garage or storage etc, also use it to work on my car. It doesn't even have to be at night, it's just nice to see down into the engine bay without taking up a hand or trying to get a magnetic light to stick to something and actually shine in a useful way... anyways in situations like that the high CRI bulb IS useful. For example, you're under the dash of the car, say there's a purple, brown, and red wire. Believe it or not it can be tricky to see those colors when a standard LED is only reproducing about 70% of the colors your eye sees.
I received a couple of the headlamps too. I agree, I loved the simplicity of the v1. The v1 replaced a BD Storm that was too complicated. I feel the v2 added complexity that I do not need. I am on the fence as to which band I prefer. See you outside!
Totally agree with the flashing of the main white LEDs when put into locked mode being a bad idea , annoying and a waste of the battery , great suggestion using the blue battery indicator LEDs for that purpose . I own a NU10 and it too has a weak red LED that flashes behind the buttons when put into lockout . Back to the new NU25 I really like the ability to have the spotlight and flood on at the same time . Might get one ordered .
Yea, i think i agree with you. I just recently got it as well. I like the cord headband as it takes up less room in a pocket, but I don't see a need for two lights
The original NU25 in my view only has one real issue, that the plastic bracket has to few steps and should be made to function by friction and that it is to fragile. Should I find one other thing, then that I did not find it comfortable to have on a naked forehead for prolonged time. I usually use the "soft non-white light" as it fatiques my eyes much less and reduces glare-back from rain, fog and wet surfaces. EDIT: Just discovered I have the NU27 😀 Well, I have now given my review of that model 🙂 No wonder I got a bit confused, when I look at the Gen1 version in this video.
I have 4 or 5 of the nu25 gen1 floating around, and I use one of them daily. Outside of going to usb c, I don't see that gen 2 is better. I like how simple gen 1 is. Ill reserve further judgment until I give it a solid try. Have a feeling that ill pivot back to gen 1 though.
Two questions: 1. Have you since reviewed the new Nitecore NU25 UL since your comparison of the gen1 & 2? 2. Did you post a how to video to modify the shock cord headband on the new Nitecore NU25 UL? Cheers!
1. not formally. I don't like it. It's too bright, no low light mode, buttons don't make sense. Only thing that's good on it is that it shows battery level and has a USB C port. 2. Yes I have, you can find it here: th-cam.com/video/7dOL-r4ta6o/w-d-xo.html
@@FrozensAdventures truth be told, I had one on order when I sent you those questions about your review. I had time last night to play around and get acquainted with the features. I really like the ultra low 6 lumens feature by using the shortcut feature by double pressing the power button. The long press of the mode button in the off position, gets you immediately to the red light without having to turn on the light and flip through all the modes. It is bright, but I don't mind it because there are still enough lower lumen settings. I thought I'd be thouroughly confused by all the mode settings, sos/becon, lockout, and quick shortcut features, but it was fairly simple to learn. The shock cord band was suprisingly compfortable. I have such a big head, that I loosened it as far as it would go. Fits with or without a beanie just fine. My only criticism, the buttons are not as push friendly as Petzl and Black Diamond headlamps. I mainly bought it for the weight, red light, and variety of lumen modes. I was surprisingly pleased with most everything this little light had to offer. I could have gotten it's replacement, but I like the USB-C cord over the USB-Micro. Cheers!
If the original was great (it was) then this version is at least as good if not better… I think better and here is why: 1) the low output level is more useful at 6 lumens than it was at 1 lumen… I found the 1 lumen level to be less than I wanted to use and often wished for more and I think the 6 lumens is perfect. 2) The 60 lumen level is perfect for nearly everything and is longer running than the originals 38 lumens… I found the 38 lumens to be a little less than I wanted for night hiking (and I preferred the Petzl’s 100 lumens) but needed at least 8 hours of runtime and the original couldn’t deliver this combination. The new version strikes a perfect balance between runtime and output with the t0 lumen level. 3) USB-C charging… faster and one less cord to carry. I pair this headlamp with Nitecore’s TiNi 2 light (weighs just over 1/2 and ounce and both use USB-C. 4) Don’t have the added expense of making / buying the shock cord strap… and it’s plenty comfortable and easy to adjust. 5) I never used the high CRI lamp on the original and prefer the choice between spot and flood or, better, yet, the perfect beam that comes from mixing them. Overall, this is the most perfect headlamp for lightweight backpacking ever and if the original was a hit, then this should be doubly so. I do agree with the comment about the lockout indicator, it was perfect before but this is such a small matter and the lockout is typically toggled on when it is brighter so I don’t mind the change at all.
About the only thing I like on the Gen2 are the four lights to indicate remaing battery power. I don't need any of the other "improvements"! I wear my NU25 around my neck from the time I get out of the car until I get back in. That way its easily available, and of course I have the DIY shock cord mod as a strap. Nice review! Have you done or are you going to do a video on NiteCore's 10Kmah battery brick vs anker's?
I have the newer version and have been really happy with it. I don't see the issues that you pointed out to be a huge deal. This new version is light and reliable just as the original was. Of course I recognize there is always room to improve a product. But for me, I am happy with the newest one
I do like the flood and spot features. However, I don’t like the fact that you have to turn on the white light before you can access the red light. The original model had a red light that was operated by a separate button. I don’t want a flash of light when I’m adjusted to the dark and want to keep it that way.
I agree with the user interface being too complicated. That's why I got the UL21 instead. No separate 'flood' and 'spot' to mess with. Also a bit less power and battery, but still plenty for me. Added bonus: The red light is less bright. I also have an H68 (which has two power settings for the red light) and on high I find it too bright for reading. The brightness of the UL21 on red is in between the two modes on the HC68. Edit: The 2024 'NU20 Classic' looks like it's the direct descendant of the 2017 NU25, but it's hard to get in Europe.
Thanks for the review. Completely agree about the unnecessarily flashy lock feature one v 2. Does the red light have a low & high mode as before? Overall I’ll pass & stick w the old one - which to me remains nigh perfect. I do look forward to your follow up review after some use.
@@FrozensAdventures thank you for confirming this. For me - as one who does a good bit of star watching & a little night sky photography -this is a huge loss for a v 2.0. IMO also a loss for quality of sleep as low red light mode is what I normally use during the night. Very surprising omission by Nitecore. I hope it changes for future versions. Ordered another v 1 for future use/backup. 👍
Using double-sided 3/4" velcro for headband (10g). It holds lamp in place from sliding, doesn't get tangled and is more comfortable than bungee/rubber-bands. USB-c might be nice, since it's the last USB-micro in the kit, but is it worth the added size/weight? Color this author unconvinced.
I am receiving mine for Christmas so I still have to wait 2 more weeks😢 I immediately liked it because of light weight and brightness but also the low lumen is great I agree with you about the flashing of the lights will possibly be a issue in a shelter
To be honest I love my original NU25 and I never switched it over to the shock cord mod. It was lightweight enough as it was and lighter than anything else that I had been using. So a few extra grams for me wasn't going to make that big of a difference. As far as the new upgrades for versus the old model at the most I would say that I really would like to see would be the USB-C and the charge indicator is about it. I really don't need the rest as I am happy with the original modal as is. I don't foresee myself upgrading as the one that I have works perfectly fine so there is no need for me to buy something for just a couple things that really don't matter enough to upgrade.
I honestly didn't think I'd like the shockcord head band. I tried it out of curiosity and I surprisingly liked it more than the stock band. The it grew on me and it replaced my Petzl Actik. The bonus for me was it was half the weight of the lamp as the lamp weighed an ounce and the band weighed an ounce.
I like everything about the 1st gen, except the back. It broke pretty easily. I did an elastic cord mod and made the total weight 1.1oz. I do like the new gen2. It does take learning the new features. Especially when wearing it. I like the UL version with the patch of neoprene like material. It sticks better when raining or sweating. I did the elastic cord mod and it weighs 1.3oz (.2oz heavier). I tried the headband version but one of the metal clips was broken right out of the box.
The original headband is great for cycling - it grips the helmet and keeps the band from slipping. I'd imagine that's why they still include a bit of it on the gen-2 non-UL.
Well I’m curious how well the two beams work for distance and in camp use, the new design looks nice and it looks solid. I would say I also dislike the flashing lockout as it’s not needed, the shock cold band looks too thick and overkill, and I would want a simple once touch red and not have to cycle through a button to get to it… thanks for the review and I had no idea it was out. I’ll buy the new version now and see how I like it.
I haven't really found any use for the flood. The "spot" is already fairly floody anyways. And it never bothered me night hiking with the old spot (which was more focused than the new spot)
the flat elastic headband is probably aimed towards people who wear a climbinghelmet. shockcord might not fit under the usual clips that should keep the headband in place.
I like the faster charge, bigger battery, and absolutly agree that flashing a white light when locking the lamp is simply not well thought out. Personally I would like to see the buttons on the sides of the lamp making it clear which one you are selecting and makking locking and unlocking the lamp a one hand operation.
@@FrozensAdventures Yes sir you can, just a bit tight for my fingers. I think it would be so much easier to have them on the sides so a thin]mb and finger wound be easier. Great review as always, your insight is appreciated and valued
I just bought the original one. Ease of use is very important, I don’t want to memorize a bunch of functions when I’m adventuring or in an emergency or in the middle of a task. Micro USB sucks but I’ll just get an adapter. Hopefully Gen 3 will be a response to all the negative feedback on the Gen 2, and will be a simple offering of the Gen 1 with USBC, better battery indicator, more efficient battery life, and the same or less weight. You know, all the things Gen 2 should have been. I don’t think Gen 2 is a bad product. It should have just been a separate light from the NU25, since it had a cult following that appreciated very specific features.
I own original NU25 but I do a lot of work with it (electrician). Battery life is just enough for one average workday - high CRI flood is what I need mostly. This is why I think I have to upgrade. Any recommendations? NU33?
I'm already finding myself annoyed with the button combinations on this lamp. I accidentally make it SOS way to often. Unfortunately I'd stick with the original.
Not sure if I like having to turn on white 1st to get to red light. I like having the separate red light button on the gen1. Nice to keep night vision for a late night bathroom trip.
To me USB C charging is the big advantage, both compared to first gen and similar headlamps from BD and other brands. I'd be perfectly happy with either the old or gen 2 designs but will get the gen 2 version when I can get it where I live.
I feel like NiteCore threw out all the things I liked about the old version and added a bunch of features I don't want/didn't ask for in the new version. There's several other issues I have with the new versions that you didn't mention that I brought up in my review video of the headlamp
We will be interested in your findings after you have modified it and have given a run down , as well I don’t believe you did update on the enlightened equipment rain gear I am correct?
Check out the NITECORE Tiki 300 handheld light. I am trying to find a clip to attach to a cap. 0.43oz It has high CRI white light, 1,15,60,300 lumens no red light though.
I'm not a fan of the shock cord. It doesn't feel comfortable on my head. Just a me thing I'm sure. I actually ordered the nu25 through zpacks and love their headband! As for gen2 vs. gen1. I agree with you on the lockout mode. Should have left it with the battery indicator and not the main lights. Not such a big deal when locking it out since you are usually putting it away but when it's locked out and you need it then the entire world is getting flashed if not careful where you aim it. I see some positives in the Gen2 but really think keeping it smaller is better. If I had to choose a winner, I would have to say gen1 for the win with a better headband.
I gotta say, after walking the dog in pure darkness with the NU25 GEN2...i would MUCH prefer the OG NU25. One BRIGHTER LED would be better than 2 lower output LEDs with different lens. Maybe a 500-600Lm single LED , a spot light with good spill. I have a "UL" version (headband mod) of the Fenix HM50R v2 (700Lm) and it BLOWS other lamps out the water, though it is 1oz heavier with the headband mod. You could even carry a backup battery. But the light it is USB C rechargeable, its only 700MAH battery. The Fenix has super low lumen mode, and red LEDs. Overall I think the new NU25 gen2 is not an upgrade...weights more, less powerful light, needs a bigger battery. I just ordered another OG NU25 from litesmith after trying the new NU25 Gen2 and not liking it(my girl stole my NU25 that i got from litesmith a while back). Between the OG NU25, Nu25 GEN2, and the Fenix HM50r V2, I would still pick the OG NU25, but I would probably lose an OZ somewhere else in the pack in order to the take the Fenix, cause how well it lights up the trail and how far down the trail you can see, and see well.
How about actually comparing the light output of both units. I own both and notice the flood vs spot are completely different between the two units. The NU25 UL has far less throw than the original NU25
If it ain't broke, don't fix it. I have similar thoughts between my NU32 and the new NU33. The 33 is too complicated compared to the 32 and just upgrading the micro USB to a USB C on the 32 would be nice.
I wouldn't even consider a head-lamp/flashlight with CRI lower then 90 and color temperature above 4500, these characteristics already became an idustry standard.
@@rsilvers129 work maybe, but sitting together drinking some spirits or eating together play some cards etc it was perfect for that. For its size btw, I know there are better lights for that but I loved that it was just build in.
@@FrozensAdventures it’s a shame they aren’t interchangeable, I found it for 50% off and was impressed enough with the regular to buy both versions, it’s not the best but the UL will be great to keep in my pack for anything unexpected.
It charges faster as well and is reversible so easier to plug in when dark. I believe it also has a high number of plug in/take outs (whatever you wanna call that term) than micro USB. There's a few benefits.
Any lamp with a naked charging port with a rubber flap lid is useless unless your only out in dry weather and or protect it from moisture and water, serious lamps are water tight.
when i look on the website the original one says it weighed .99 oz and the new ul one says 1.59 oz. so i am confused. headbands aside does the new unit weigh more or less than the original?
just received mine, i dont like them. The buttons are too stiff, and UI is too complicated (its not too bad afyer few uses, but could be simpler) I have a NU32, which has by far the best UI and overall rating for me. Only redeeming quality of this light is USB-C charging, that's it :p
Nitecore ruined the 2nd gen by removing the 1 lumen mode. As a backpacker this is the most feature the 1st gen had. Very useful in the tent at night. 6 lumpen’s is too bright for the lowest setting. I hope they go back to the first gen design and simply add usb-c.
Honestly I think this is just picking at it for the point of piking at it. When you begin looking at stuff critically and skeptically, it's tough to see the major pros and very easy to obsess over minor cons. The NiteCore unit is way better than anything else out there; criticizing the remaining 20% is making it great for one user and worse for another. But otherwise it's a good review of the gen2 model, Jason. Keep up the solid content. 👍
I think the issue is that the gen2 is not as good as the gen1. It's not that nitecore doesn't make a great light, it's just that they made some weird design decisions. For the half gram that it takes me to pack a USB C to micro USB adapter, I think it is better to just use the old one.
I prefer the old one. While USB C and battery indicator lights are welcome, the new has no more high CRI (nice for reading and maps), no more secondary red light mode (this really sucks - when coming into camp late it was nice to have a bright red light for campsite selection and then turn it down for making camp). Beam intensity (cd) is worse. Beam distance/throw is worse. No more diffused light which will make it much harsher at very low intensity - but I guess since they removed the 1 lumen mode, f us anyway. 6 lumen is too much. Worst of all, it's heavier. FAIL.
The high-CRI was just 20 lumens, and so not bright enough to see colors anyway. It was worthless. In basically any situation you would need to use the 58 lumen mode of the main lamp instead.
Really, we are talking about a headlamp. If it's somewhat light in weight and does what you expect it to, what does it matter what brand it is? As long as you're happy with it what the hell.
I mean it's more than that for a thru hiker and serious backpackers. If you're just going to go camping once in a while go with the energizer at walmart for $9.99
Why does the flashlight constantly reduce the brightness after 1-2 minutes of light? How then to find out its actual working time at different power modes? Am I the only one with this problem?
I've only used it one trip, and didn't have that experience at all. Battery isn't dying I assume? I'll pin this to see if you get some answers.
@@FrozensAdventures Thank you for your answer! Maybe the flashlight saves the battery or the light bulb (because the body is made of polycarbonate), but then the table showing the working time in different modes is not relevant. In any mode, the flashlight lowers the light to an almost low mode. Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not say this. I will buy another more powerful one in an aluminum case and I hope there will be no such problems there.
Ive have a few nitecore handheld flashlights. They are pretty good about their warranty, it sounds like something is wrong with the board
Dose this light have a turbo mode? I've noticed on my NU 35 that when it's on turbo it dims down after about a minute or so, I believe it is to protect the bulb from overheating.
I can only imagine that it's a sort of a "oh what's over there?!" type of light. Like if you hear something and need to check it out. So it's a nice to have feature, for sure.
I'm an avid hiker and Outdoorsmen and have a prolifera of all kinds of lights especially headlamps. I get headaches wearing heavy lights or lights with tiny straps. I must have alot of shallow veins in my big noggin. The new NU25 is THE BEST light ever. The hybrid strap doesn't stop bloodflow to my temple, the light variations are perfect for 99% of my average situations and the USB C and added battery life is ultra convenient. One chord for everything electronic is crucial. Being out by yourself remember "One is none, and Two is one". As often as my charging chords go bad, I'd rather have an extra USB C...vs a bunch of different chords.
LOVE my original NU25 with custom shock cord strap I made for it. I have used it for thousands of hours. Sadly one of the hinge points on the separate back portion broke the other day, so I reached out to NiteCore to get a replacement. They did have them for sale around $5 a piece. But while I was at the site getting 2 of those, I went ahead and got the next Gen 2 NU25 (with intensions to make the same strap that I made for my original one). Well, the replacement back came in and I replaced it no problems and my trusty original is back in service. And I have been carrying the Gen 2 in my pocket for about a week and have used it for many various chores. I do like the new light output and the dual nature of it, though battery doesn't seem to last as long (have not formally tested though).
I don't know man, I think they may have made a boo boo here with the Gen 2. I'm thinking they should have just slapped a USB-C fast charge on it and the new battery indicator and leave everything else alone. Time will tell though. Have a great day
totally agree. The new spot is supposed to be a little more efficient too. And the red lights have a proper lens this time for a little more focus. But other than those changes, it's kind of negatives all around except for the USB C stuff and the indicator. And I wish they would use the tini2 screen instead of the indicator.
@@commentsonthetube14 yep. Well I got 2 of those backs where the hinges are, since that part of the plastic is the weak point. Maybe I will just get another several years out of my original.
The battery on that original seems to last for ever (though I usually only use the lowest setting and sometimes the middle). That thing has been probably my best piece of gear, top three at least.
The high CRI light was a great addition for us in one situation... map reading at night. The colors of all the symbols on a map were gray or hard to see with the regular lamp. The high CRI made all the colors light up so map reading was much easier. I like the original for walking dogs, working on cars and general use. I've used the red for hunting and around camp. I have carried the same one in my pocket for years. I am going to buy a second before they stop making them. I'll pass on the new one.
Never even thought of that! I use it for cooking. I have an ultralight grill and it's hard to see when the burger is properly cooked without high CRI.
That's actually a really good idea, thanks for the comment. This new generation would not work like for that. I can see that being an issue if you are having navigation issues.
I’m also a fan of the CRI light. Like you said it does bring out noticeably more color than a lot of the blue-ish LED’s do.
Also a huge fan of the high CRI-light. Used it for everything from map-reading to basically anything indoors or in-camp.
Except it's 20 lumens! I can't even read comfortably by that. It's not bright enough to solder, repair a car, do plumbing - or really anything except to not disturb others who are sleeping.
My son and I night hiked through a green tunnel as we headed for camp. My son had the old one. I had the new one. The extra light from the new one was noticeably more effective than the old one and made our hike in much safer. I now only need one charging cable too, now. These two upgrades are significant, and in my opinion outweigh your 'glaring issues'. I'd not recommend the old over the new. Especially as its main function is to help you safely navigate. Thank you for your review. Greatly appreciated.
Very good to know. First impressions are just that, my initial thoughts. Looking forward to using it in the field.
I find the output and runtime improvements in addition to the USB-C charging to be the real winners also. I always wished for a little more light than what the 38 lumen level of the other one provided and found I preferred Petzl because theirs was 100 lumens for 8 hours with a 5 or 6 lumen low. The new Nitcore hits the target and I think it is the finest backpacking light ever. I never used the hi CRI… I do wish they kept the 2 levels for red.
Thank you Jason 👊 Appreciate you my friend 🙏 always great to hear from you, stay safe and take care 👊👍
I like the usb-c and the new battery indicator lights. Otherwise, the simplicity of the V1 was it’s selling point. I would have preferred just those 2 updates to the original.
100%. The new spot is actually better too. It runs around the same time on medium but it's substantially brighter on medium. I'd also love if they used the tini2 screen instead of the 4 dot indicator. That would be super useful for deciding between low/medium/high on a night hike depending on remaining battery life.
The changes to the levels and the added runtime at 60 lumens was nice… 38 lumens felt a little underpowered to me and the 60 lumens of the new one is a winner. I just got back from a short trip with the new one and found it to be perfect. The one lumen level was a bit too low for me but they moved that to 6 lumens and it is perfect. I also wanted to get rid of the micro-USB cord and am glad for that change.
I learned a couple things about my gen 1 in the video. I wasn't aware of the lockout or the battery indicator. I like the new battery indicator (as I will forget the conversion of number of flashes to battery level) and usb-c charging. No need to flash on lockout.
Great insights, thanks for the video. I’ve been following along since your Mountain Hardware Lamina sleeping bag review. Take care.
Oh man I'm so sorry 😅
The headband with the silicone strip is for running and is required to keep the light from moving around with each impact. The clips on Gen 2 should make it much easier to take the light off to wash the strap after each run. I’ve been using the gen 1 since it came out and the light and strap are still going strong after very heavy use. Quite impressive. Removing and installing the strap was the only point on gen 1 I kind of wanted changed. I’m getting ready to buy a gen 2. I mostly run at night and the plan right now is to use the gen 2 facing front and the gen 1 facing rear on the original headband or attaching the gen 1 to the back of my running vest/pack and using the new half strap/half shock cord on the gen 1.
I’m still kicking myself for not buying a couple more gen 1’s when they still around at reduced prices.
Good review. I agree they should use the battery indicator for the lock indication. It seems like flashing the bigger lights isn’t necessary and would use more power.
I love the dedicated button for the red light in the old version.
There’s one on the new one too.
I have both. I like the newer version better for two reasons: USB is on the side, so I can connect a powerpack kept in my pocket when I need to (which does happen to me) - the old version had it on the bottom, so the cord goes right in front of my eye; second: I do find the addition of the spot light helpful when I am looking for something not in the immediate area.
IMO, they made very good improvements at no additional cost. Only grip is the red is a bit too bright for "stealthy" camp navigating.
Excellent points.
and can it be used while charging? I intent to use it with nitecore external battery box and 18650
Like the old one you can power it with a power bank but it will not charge the internal battery of the headlamp.
Also I recommend a right angle connector if you plan on using it while powering. Luckily with USB c you don't have to worry about which direction the angle is as it's reversible.
The best feature on the NU25 is the directional tilt.... keeps me organized when putting in my contact lenses at low morning light in my tent. I really like the original headband, too... nice & wide so it will stay in place. The weight-savings of anything different seems a little extreme.
The tilt of the gen2 band is improved. The bracket is also beefier. Mine has broke once or twice.
The CRI is actually very helpful when cooking real food. It lets you see the different browns so you can tell when it's done.
Generally, I agree though.
*The modes are an absolute mess. The flood is unnecessary. And the dual mode is a pain in the ass.
*The main spot is better though. It is a little more floody than before, which is good. And it runs brighter on medium for about the same amount of time.
* The red is better. It is more focused.
* I miss the 1L modes on the red and the main beam
* totally agree on the lock thing.
* They should really include a small screen like on the tini 2. It would be very useful to know exactly how much runtime I have on which brightness modes if I am low.
* I also bought both and the cover on the charging port on one won't close. The old design for the cover was better.
* You can cut maybe 7 grams with the shock cord mod. I super optimized it (no cord lock) and that's the best I got.
* I wish it was smaller like the old one. It's less the extra 25% weight to me and more the compactness.
* Please tell Nitecore all of this... I love the gen1 light o much and was so excited about the gen2 and ended up so disappointed.
I did a really long writeup of the light before I got it here about the issues I saw coming. facebook.com/groups/237341837649502/posts/916317113085301/ Need to do a followup now that I actually have it. Feel free to steal any of my ideas. I just want Nitecore to make a proper successor to the NU25 soon. Don't want to wait another 5 years. And I guess they're listening to you haha.
The high-CRI mode is only 20 lumens max and totally useless. It's not even bright enough to read by (except in emergencies and such).
@@rsilvers129 you an I have a very different experience with it then. It's plenty to read by in my experience. I've used it to read at night at home before. And it tends to be plenty around camp. For small camp chores and cooking. Going to the bathroom at night and such. It's not good for hiking at night, but that's what the spot is for. Maybe it's a vision thing? I'm nearsighted so I see well up close but not far away. For me it's good enough within a few feet, which is all I usually need around camp.
My UL version arrives on Friday. I own 2 of the older model and love them. I made a headband for my old ones from grosgrain ribbon and a tiny piece of shock cord in the back, basically a lighter version of their new headband for the non-UL version. I hate the lockout feature on the old one and never use it, so that won’t bother me on the new one. Great video!
Hey John, which one is more comfortable? NU25 headband or the UL version cord headband?
@@trivacker I don’t mind the UL headband Nitecore came up with. I don’t like their standard headband and always replace it. My favorite is the mod I mentioned in my original comment, which is just a piece of grosgrain ribbon the same width as the original headband folded over and hemmed at each end making it a couple inches shorter than your head, then a piece of shock cord to join it together. That said, I haven’t replaced the UL version Nitecore made, so I like it well enough. Here is a link to the mod: th-cam.com/video/mYnNEPvmUrs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=5aQlCbqQIt_kVtxX
I agree it doesn't need to flash for the lock but I do like the idea of a spotlight and a floodlight.
Spotlight is of particular use to me as I often look for wildlife in trees at night and spotlights are great for that. As long as the spotlight is good to see things relatively far away its a good addition.
I love the idea of both lights however they could incorporate those features into the next model up. I would have liked if they stuck to the original features of the nu25. That's why I think they did too much. There's quite a few different models in the NU line.
I’m a fan of the brighter capability and the bigger battery. Especially if they dont add weight!
I almost bought the gen 2, but I love to different red levels (I used low red in camp as my primary light).
Here's what I want: a hat clip to option for those who prefer to wear a ball style cap (I have a 3D print file I modified that works okay at 9g), a return to the red led brightness options, the USB C port, and five primary LED modes (super dim, low, medium, high, and uber bright/ disorient a bear bright). I love the OG NU25, but I'll either buy another OG, or wait for Gen 3.
The silicone strip on the non UL is so it doesn’t creep. I’d like to see a version of that directly on the back of the UL, as I wear mine mainly on hats, usually a cowboy hat. I think it’s a useful feature.
I’ve got the big old heavy duty nitecore aluminium block with blue red green and white lights. Very heavy duty and waterproof and it’s still my favourite one because it never breaks. But I like the features on the new one and I probably will buy it
I think your points are pretty solid. The biggest issue for me is the way it locks out it could have been more discrete than that. If they had been hoping to make it more noticeable maybe just flash they red light or something along those lines. It's a nice lamp but no reason for me to swap from by current NU25.
It occurred to me today why Nitecore probably decided to add the quick flashing light when in lockout mode…..I put on my NU25 UL gen2 early this morning to take the garbage to the curb while it was still dark. I put on the headlamp and pressed the power button and got a quick flash. I immediately knew I had it in lock out mode. If the Nitecore would have used the blinking battery indicator to tip someone off, like the gen1, you may now have seen the light blink while it’s on your head. You would figure it out eventually, but I knew right away it was in lockout mode. Just my 2 cents. Cheers!
I got this new light with the UL shock cord version. I have nothing to compare it to but I am not sure why anyone would care to make it lighter since I barely feel any weight on my head using it. I think I prefer more battery. I was afraid the cord wouldn't be as reliable as the other headband but it actually works pretty good, could even run with it no problem.
Hey Spets, which one is more comfortable? NU25 headband or the UL version cord headband?
@@trivackerI don't have both so I don't know. But the UL cord is comfortable to me.
Great review, but with 1) USB C 2) lockout 3) comes with the shock cord so you don’t have to order from a 3rd party company 4) ability to have a narrow vs wide beam and 5) longer battery life while being lighter is a win-win for my upcoming PCT hike next year. Keep your great videos coming and am looking forward to your headband hack!
It is actually not lighter :/ If you remove the band from the old one and replace with thin shock cord (Ex. litesmith) it is almost exactly an ounce. The new one is 25% heavier with the same ultralight band mod.
@@commentsonthetube14 I did the mod on both. Gen1 is 1.1oz Gen2 is 1.3oz
@@RokU5 Yeah, that's about what I got too. 31g for gen1, 38g for gen2. So I guess it's closer to 22.5% heavier. Even though it's just a few grams, it is still a pretty decent increase compared to the old one. But TBH, I am not really worried about a few extra grams, it just annoys me that they advertise it as being lighter when it isn't. It's about a fifth more light but you don't really get a fifth more performance (unless you love the big flood, I guess). More concerned with how it's less compact and the UI is kind of a pain. It has too many modes now with the new mixed mode added.
I finally got a chance to try it on a full backpacking trip last weekend and it was fine. But I did end up preferring to hike with just the spot anyway. And at camp, I missed the high CRI, so I switched to the NU33. I really liked the NU33. It takes the mod too and ends up about 79g. But it has the high CRI light I liked from the gen1 and doesn't waste space/power on a primary flood I won't use. It is a lot brighter with longer throw so it was great for finding a good bear bag hanging tree. I wish the new NU25 was just a NU33 with a lower turbo mode and smaller battery. The UI makes a lot more sense on the NU33. I actually kind of like the new UI there. And the 2 brightness levels on the high CRI.
@@commentsonthetube14 36 grams is lighter. The flood and spotlight is better for night hiking. CRI is good for reading, not much else.
@@RokU5 36 is lighter than 31? I'm lost there. Or do you mean compared to the NU33? That's a whole different level of light. Mostly in that it has more than 3x the battery capacity. It is, without a doubt, generally better than either NU25 in every way except for size and weight.
I preferred spot only on the gen2 for night hiking. I could not tell the difference between spot and mixed unless I decided to turn my eyes down to look at my feet without moving my head. The new spot is actually floodier than the old one and the old spot was fine for hiking without a flood. Actually, I could tell the difference because the flood lit up the back of my glasses which made everything harder to see. Spot only was all-around better for hiking. And saved battery.
I don't think CRI has any value for reading text. It's helpful for maps though. The value in it is in seeing colors realistically. I like it for cooking because I can tell when food is done because I can tell the difference between shades of red and brown in meat and such. But it's also just more pleasant to the eye. If I am going to have a dim flood for camp chores like cooking and such, I tend to prefer high CRI. I don't need a 200L flood around camp. Though the 50L high CRI on the NU33 was nice compared to the 20L on the NU25 gen1.
I just can't see a purpose to a 200L flood. It is not bright enough to really light up n area (I have a 4000L flood I love for that kind of thing). But it is too bright to be useful for small camp chores and such. And the spot is already floody enough to get a really good field of view and a little bit of distance. I feel like I gave it a decent shot, but it just didn't really add anything. Floods need to be much higher lumen to bring much to the table, especially when paired with a spot that is already pretty floody. Absent that, they can add utility if they're high CRI.
This will be my first foray into a "high" level head lamp. The three I have now are Ali Express specials of the under $5 variety. They work fine, take 3AAAs and super simple. So looking forward to this UL version.
I carry a rechargeable spot light, lights out to 200’…. So I can see everything. As an added bonus, I can also heat pop tarts on the lens.. duel purpose !! 😊
But can you heat up water for coffee? If so I'll switch right now and go stoveless :)
I've recently purchased a different headlamp, I use it at night when looking for things in the garage or storage etc, also use it to work on my car. It doesn't even have to be at night, it's just nice to see down into the engine bay without taking up a hand or trying to get a magnetic light to stick to something and actually shine in a useful way... anyways in situations like that the high CRI bulb IS useful. For example, you're under the dash of the car, say there's a purple, brown, and red wire. Believe it or not it can be tricky to see those colors when a standard LED is only reproducing about 70% of the colors your eye sees.
I received a couple of the headlamps too. I agree, I loved the simplicity of the v1. The v1 replaced a BD Storm that was too complicated. I feel the v2 added complexity that I do not need. I am on the fence as to which band I prefer. See you outside!
Totally agree with the flashing of the main white LEDs when put into locked mode being a bad idea , annoying and a waste of the battery , great suggestion using the blue battery indicator LEDs for that purpose . I own a NU10 and it too has a weak red LED that flashes behind the buttons when put into lockout . Back to the new NU25 I really like the ability to have the spotlight and flood on at the same time . Might get one ordered .
Yea, i think i agree with you. I just recently got it as well. I like the cord headband as it takes up less room in a pocket, but I don't see a need for two lights
The original NU25 in my view only has one real issue, that the plastic bracket has to few steps and should be made to function by friction and that it is to fragile.
Should I find one other thing, then that I did not find it comfortable to have on a naked forehead for prolonged time.
I usually use the "soft non-white light" as it fatiques my eyes much less and reduces glare-back from rain, fog and wet surfaces.
EDIT: Just discovered I have the NU27 😀
Well, I have now given my review of that model 🙂
No wonder I got a bit confused, when I look at the Gen1 version in this video.
Both lights flashing when you press a button in lockout mode is actually rather convenient if you want to use the device as a signalling lamp.
There's always the SOS setting too
I have 4 or 5 of the nu25 gen1 floating around, and I use one of them daily. Outside of going to usb c, I don't see that gen 2 is better. I like how simple gen 1 is. Ill reserve further judgment until I give it a solid try. Have a feeling that ill pivot back to gen 1 though.
Two questions:
1. Have you since reviewed the new Nitecore NU25 UL since your comparison of the gen1 & 2?
2. Did you post a how to video to modify the shock cord headband on the new Nitecore NU25 UL?
Cheers!
1. not formally. I don't like it. It's too bright, no low light mode, buttons don't make sense. Only thing that's good on it is that it shows battery level and has a USB C port.
2. Yes I have, you can find it here: th-cam.com/video/7dOL-r4ta6o/w-d-xo.html
@@FrozensAdventures truth be told, I had one on order when I sent you those questions about your review. I had time last night to play around and get acquainted with the features. I really like the ultra low 6 lumens feature by using the shortcut feature by double pressing the power button. The long press of the mode button in the off position, gets you immediately to the red light without having to turn on the light and flip through all the modes. It is bright, but I don't mind it because there are still enough lower lumen settings. I thought I'd be thouroughly confused by all the mode settings, sos/becon, lockout, and quick shortcut features, but it was fairly simple to learn. The shock cord band was suprisingly compfortable. I have such a big head, that I loosened it as far as it would go. Fits with or without a beanie just fine. My only criticism, the buttons are not as push friendly as Petzl and Black Diamond headlamps. I mainly bought it for the weight, red light, and variety of lumen modes. I was surprisingly pleased with most everything this little light had to offer. I could have gotten it's replacement, but I like the USB-C cord over the USB-Micro. Cheers!
If the original was great (it was) then this version is at least as good if not better… I think better and here is why:
1) the low output level is more useful at 6 lumens than it was at 1 lumen… I found the 1 lumen level to be less than I wanted to use and often wished for more and I think the 6 lumens is perfect.
2) The 60 lumen level is perfect for nearly everything and is longer running than the originals 38 lumens… I found the 38 lumens to be a little less than I wanted for night hiking (and I preferred the Petzl’s 100 lumens) but needed at least 8 hours of runtime and the original couldn’t deliver this combination. The new version strikes a perfect balance between runtime and output with the t0 lumen level.
3) USB-C charging… faster and one less cord to carry. I pair this headlamp with Nitecore’s TiNi 2 light (weighs just over 1/2 and ounce and both use USB-C.
4) Don’t have the added expense of making / buying the shock cord strap… and it’s plenty comfortable and easy to adjust.
5) I never used the high CRI lamp on the original and prefer the choice between spot and flood or, better, yet, the perfect beam that comes from mixing them.
Overall, this is the most perfect headlamp for lightweight backpacking ever and if the original was a hit, then this should be doubly so. I do agree with the comment about the lockout indicator, it was perfect before but this is such a small matter and the lockout is typically toggled on when it is brighter so I don’t mind the change at all.
About the only thing I like on the Gen2 are the four lights to indicate remaing battery power. I don't need any of the other "improvements"!
I wear my NU25 around my neck from the time I get out of the car until I get back in. That way its easily available, and of course I have the DIY shock cord mod as a strap.
Nice review!
Have you done or are you going to do a video on NiteCore's 10Kmah battery brick vs anker's?
Hmmm, love the usb C, thats huge.
I do agree with the concern of this being over complicated though, maybe I need to play with it.
I have the newer version and have been really happy with it. I don't see the issues that you pointed out to be a huge deal. This new version is light and reliable just as the original was. Of course I recognize there is always room to improve a product. But for me, I am happy with the newest one
I was just hoping for an updated original not a completely different product with the same model number.
I do like the flood and spot features. However, I don’t like the fact that you have to turn on the white light before you can access the red light. The original model had a red light that was operated by a separate button. I don’t want a flash of light when I’m adjusted to the dark and want to keep it that way.
You can press and hold the Mode button to directly turn on the red light.
@@Let_there_be_flashlight Awesome, glad to hear that option is available. It makes me much more likely to pick one up. Thanks!
Agree 1000% the NU25 was perfect. They should of just changed the port to usb c would of been 👌
The back plate breaks too easily though.
@@RokU5 never had a problem with mine but I'm pretty easy on my gear.
I agree with the user interface being too complicated. That's why I got the UL21 instead. No separate 'flood' and 'spot' to mess with. Also a bit less power and battery, but still plenty for me. Added bonus: The red light is less bright. I also have an H68 (which has two power settings for the red light) and on high I find it too bright for reading. The brightness of the UL21 on red is in between the two modes on the HC68.
Edit: The 2024 'NU20 Classic' looks like it's the direct descendant of the 2017 NU25, but it's hard to get in Europe.
Thanks for the review. Completely agree about the unnecessarily flashy lock feature one v 2. Does the red light have a low & high mode as before? Overall I’ll pass & stick w the old one - which to me remains nigh perfect. I do look forward to your follow up review after some use.
Unfortunately the red light only has 2 modes, on and blinking.
@@FrozensAdventures thank you for confirming this. For me - as one who does a good bit of star watching & a little night sky photography -this is a huge loss for a v 2.0. IMO also a loss for quality of sleep as low red light mode is what I normally use during the night. Very surprising omission by Nitecore. I hope it changes for future versions. Ordered another v 1 for future use/backup. 👍
Using double-sided 3/4" velcro for headband (10g). It holds lamp in place from sliding, doesn't get tangled and is more comfortable than bungee/rubber-bands. USB-c might be nice, since it's the last USB-micro in the kit, but is it worth the added size/weight? Color this author unconvinced.
I am receiving mine for Christmas so I still have to wait 2 more weeks😢 I immediately liked it because of light weight and brightness but also the low lumen is great I agree with you about the flashing of the lights will possibly be a issue in a shelter
I love my nu25 and my wife got one last year.
To be honest I love my original NU25 and I never switched it over to the shock cord mod. It was lightweight enough as it was and lighter than anything else that I had been using. So a few extra grams for me wasn't going to make that big of a difference. As far as the new upgrades for versus the old model at the most I would say that I really would like to see would be the USB-C and the charge indicator is about it. I really don't need the rest as I am happy with the original modal as is. I don't foresee myself upgrading as the one that I have works perfectly fine so there is no need for me to buy something for just a couple things that really don't matter enough to upgrade.
I honestly didn't think I'd like the shockcord head band. I tried it out of curiosity and I surprisingly liked it more than the stock band. The it grew on me and it replaced my Petzl Actik. The bonus for me was it was half the weight of the lamp as the lamp weighed an ounce and the band weighed an ounce.
I like everything about the 1st gen, except the back. It broke pretty easily. I did an elastic cord mod and made the total weight 1.1oz. I do like the new gen2. It does take learning the new features. Especially when wearing it. I like the UL version with the patch of neoprene like material. It sticks better when raining or sweating. I did the elastic cord mod and it weighs 1.3oz (.2oz heavier). I tried the headband version but one of the metal clips was broken right out of the box.
Great video
The original headband is great for cycling - it grips the helmet and keeps the band from slipping. I'd imagine that's why they still include a bit of it on the gen-2 non-UL.
Could be. Lots of people are missing the dimmable red light now though.
In my opinion they just needed to add the USB c to the first generation. It was great the way it was and I will probably stick with it.
Agreed!
Well I’m curious how well the two beams work for distance and in camp use, the new design looks nice and it looks solid. I would say I also dislike the flashing lockout as it’s not needed, the shock cold band looks too thick and overkill, and I would want a simple once touch red and not have to cycle through a button to get to it… thanks for the review and I had no idea it was out. I’ll buy the new version now and see how I like it.
You can press and hold the Mode button to turn on the red light directly.
@@Let_there_be_flashlight thanks, that solves that issue then. I dig the new design of it. Can’t wait to try it out
I haven't really found any use for the flood. The "spot" is already fairly floody anyways. And it never bothered me night hiking with the old spot (which was more focused than the new spot)
Good lord. I'll keep the old one. The next thing you know, Altra may change my favorite shoe model!
Those seem to be getting worse and worse. Talking lone peaks.
the flat elastic headband is probably aimed towards people who wear a climbinghelmet. shockcord might not fit under the usual clips that should keep the headband in place.
I like the faster charge, bigger battery, and absolutly agree that flashing a white light when locking the lamp is simply not well thought out. Personally I would like to see the buttons on the sides of the lamp making it clear which one you are selecting and makking locking and unlocking the lamp a one hand operation.
The lock does actually with one handed. You can just use your 2 fingers.
@@FrozensAdventures Yes sir you can, just a bit tight for my fingers. I think it would be so much easier to have them on the sides so a thin]mb and finger wound be easier. Great review as always, your insight is appreciated and valued
I just bought the original one. Ease of use is very important, I don’t want to memorize a bunch of functions when I’m adventuring or in an emergency or in the middle of a task. Micro USB sucks but I’ll just get an adapter.
Hopefully Gen 3 will be a response to all the negative feedback on the Gen 2, and will be a simple offering of the Gen 1 with USBC, better battery indicator, more efficient battery life, and the same or less weight. You know, all the things Gen 2 should have been.
I don’t think Gen 2 is a bad product. It should have just been a separate light from the NU25, since it had a cult following that appreciated very specific features.
Totally agree with ya there.
Spot on, Jason!
I own original NU25 but I do a lot of work with it (electrician). Battery life is just enough for one average workday - high CRI flood is what I need mostly. This is why I think I have to upgrade. Any recommendations? NU33?
I'm already finding myself annoyed with the button combinations on this lamp. I accidentally make it SOS way to often. Unfortunately I'd stick with the original.
Love my Black Diamond Spot rechargeable, and it seems like the new NU25 took some cues from Black Diamond.
I think the stock band is probably for runners. Just a thought. I love my original nu25
Don't know why I ever thought of that. Makes sense with the flashing red light.
Not sure if I like having to turn on white 1st to get to red light. I like having the separate red light button on the gen1. Nice to keep night vision for a late night bathroom trip.
The light does turn on from the last mode so there's that. But having the dedicated red light button was great on the last gen as well.
To me USB C charging is the big advantage, both compared to first gen and similar headlamps from BD and other brands. I'd be perfectly happy with either the old or gen 2 designs but will get the gen 2 version when I can get it where I live.
Those are kinda my thoughts. Still a great headlamp with some trade offs. We'll see how it performs on a night hike and around camp
I feel like NiteCore threw out all the things I liked about the old version and added a bunch of features I don't want/didn't ask for in the new version. There's several other issues I have with the new versions that you didn't mention that I brought up in my review video of the headlamp
Agreed!
We will be interested in your findings after you have modified it and have given a run down , as well I don’t believe you did update on the enlightened equipment rain gear I am correct?
That's correct. Haven't been caught in the rain much with it, but this year I wasn't able to backpack as often as I have in the past.
Can you charge while using the headlamp as with the old version? While, admittedly this is rarely necessary, it was nice to know it was an option.
I think you can.
Yes you can. I used that a lot night hiking or for mornings where I needed to make miles early.
Thanks for this sharing, my friend.... 🙏🏻👍🏻
Check out the NITECORE Tiki 300 handheld light. I am trying to find a clip to attach to a cap. 0.43oz
It has high CRI white light, 1,15,60,300 lumens no red light though.
Does this not have a red light? That's def useful when getting to a camp or shelter late. I also used the CRI, but am ok with going without that.
It does but it's not dimmable
I'm not a fan of the shock cord. It doesn't feel comfortable on my head. Just a me thing I'm sure. I actually ordered the nu25 through zpacks and love their headband! As for gen2 vs. gen1. I agree with you on the lockout mode. Should have left it with the battery indicator and not the main lights. Not such a big deal when locking it out since you are usually putting it away but when it's locked out and you need it then the entire world is getting flashed if not careful where you aim it. I see some positives in the Gen2 but really think keeping it smaller is better. If I had to choose a winner, I would have to say gen1 for the win with a better headband.
great video , sub earned
I gotta say, after walking the dog in pure darkness with the NU25 GEN2...i would MUCH prefer the OG NU25. One BRIGHTER LED would be better than 2 lower output LEDs with different lens. Maybe a 500-600Lm single LED , a spot light with good spill. I have a "UL" version (headband mod) of the Fenix HM50R v2 (700Lm) and it BLOWS other lamps out the water, though it is 1oz heavier with the headband mod. You could even carry a backup battery. But the light it is USB C rechargeable, its only 700MAH battery. The Fenix has super low lumen mode, and red LEDs.
Overall I think the new NU25 gen2 is not an upgrade...weights more, less powerful light, needs a bigger battery.
I just ordered another OG NU25 from litesmith after trying the new NU25 Gen2 and not liking it(my girl stole my NU25 that i got from litesmith a while back). Between the OG NU25, Nu25 GEN2, and the Fenix HM50r V2, I would still pick the OG NU25, but I would probably lose an OZ somewhere else in the pack in order to the take the Fenix, cause how well it lights up the trail and how far down the trail you can see, and see well.
How about actually comparing the light output of both units. I own both and notice the flood vs spot are completely different between the two units. The NU25 UL has far less throw than the original NU25
That will be in the review when I use it a bit more. This is just a first impressions video and it's already behind last gen.
If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
I have similar thoughts between my NU32 and the new NU33. The 33 is too complicated compared to the 32 and just upgrading the micro USB to a USB C on the 32 would be nice.
I wouldn't even consider a head-lamp/flashlight with CRI lower then 90 and color temperature above 4500, these characteristics already became an idustry standard.
Love the NU25 but it definetly needs an usb c upgrade. I will miss the the high cri light dearly. I used it as a lantern at camp.
The high-CRI was too dim to see colors. Too dim to do any work with.
@@rsilvers129 work maybe, but sitting together drinking some spirits or eating together play some cards etc it was perfect for that. For its size btw, I know there are better lights for that but I loved that it was just build in.
I prefer the original, USB C update & the slightly larger battery would be nice. Not thrilled with the rest of the updates.
Can the straps be swapped for both models? Or does the UL model only attach to the UL strap?
They both have different bracket mounts unfortunately. Another missed opportunity here.
@@FrozensAdventures it’s a shame they aren’t interchangeable, I found it for 50% off and was impressed enough with the regular to buy both versions, it’s not the best but the UL will be great to keep in my pack for anything unexpected.
Awesome video
But I don't use either one of those
maybe I should try 1 or both
But like you I like simple and efficient use
"glaring issues" on a lamp! Haha! Was that intentional?
No actually but umm yes!
Can you show me how to release the lamp from the bracket please?
Pull the sides gently at the pivot point.
Is there a way to instantly go to red mode without going through a white mode?
Yes just long press the left button
USB c is a plus if your trying to standardize all your gear to one cord? So there's That!
It charges faster as well and is reversible so easier to plug in when dark. I believe it also has a high number of plug in/take outs (whatever you wanna call that term) than micro USB. There's a few benefits.
I really like the ordinal ….send your new unit and I will give you my opinion!
how about using it in winter? can it survive?
It survive a thru hike of the PCT. Was dunked in water and frozen in the mountains. Still works great.
Any lamp with a naked charging port with a rubber flap lid is useless unless your only out in dry weather and or protect it from moisture and water, serious lamps are water tight.
when i look on the website the original one says it weighed .99 oz and the new ul one says 1.59 oz. so i am confused. headbands aside does the new unit weigh more or less than the original?
Yes the weight is weird. The old versions light and bracket only (no band) was 0.99oz the new light and brack (no band) is 1.3oz
Im still gonna bye it. The usb c is a game changer for me. Everything else I have is usb c and now i don't need a nother cord
They got rid of the high CRI LED?? HARD pass!!
Yea not sure what they were thinking
just received mine, i dont like them. The buttons are too stiff, and UI is too complicated (its not too bad afyer few uses, but could be simpler) I have a NU32, which has by far the best UI and overall rating for me. Only redeeming quality of this light is USB-C charging, that's it :p
The charging port cover was too hard to put back.
Agreed! Needs to be perfectly aligned before pressure is applied
I like the KISS method. Keep it simple stupid lol. Love the headlamp but why change so much from the first generation 🤷🏼♂️.
yeah, agree
Nitecore ruined the 2nd gen by removing the 1 lumen mode. As a backpacker this is the most feature the 1st gen had. Very useful in the tent at night. 6 lumpen’s is too bright for the lowest setting. I hope they go back to the first gen design and simply add usb-c.
Agreed, they really just needed a USB C port on the old model and it woulda been just as popular.
Honestly I think this is just picking at it for the point of piking at it. When you begin looking at stuff critically and skeptically, it's tough to see the major pros and very easy to obsess over minor cons. The NiteCore unit is way better than anything else out there; criticizing the remaining 20% is making it great for one user and worse for another.
But otherwise it's a good review of the gen2 model, Jason. Keep up the solid content. 👍
I think the issue is that the gen2 is not as good as the gen1. It's not that nitecore doesn't make a great light, it's just that they made some weird design decisions. For the half gram that it takes me to pack a USB C to micro USB adapter, I think it is better to just use the old one.
Agreed.
Could have just left it the way it was and added USBC charge
Seems crazy to me to make a video on a light and don't show a video of how it actually performs outside lol.
It's a first impressions which isn't a review. It's brighter than the gen1 one.
I prefer the old one. While USB C and battery indicator lights are welcome, the new has no more high CRI (nice for reading and maps), no more secondary red light mode (this really sucks - when coming into camp late it was nice to have a bright red light for campsite selection and then turn it down for making camp). Beam intensity (cd) is worse. Beam distance/throw is worse. No more diffused light which will make it much harsher at very low intensity - but I guess since they removed the 1 lumen mode, f us anyway. 6 lumen is too much.
Worst of all, it's heavier.
FAIL.
The high-CRI was just 20 lumens, and so not bright enough to see colors anyway. It was worthless. In basically any situation you would need to use the 58 lumen mode of the main lamp instead.
@@rsilvers129 20 lumens isn't good enough to read a map? Or hang around camp in pleasant light? Worked for me.
It is only 0.2oz heavier with modification.
@@RokU5 Probably. It should have become lighter.
The original NU25 has a high and a low red light. Does the version also have this?
No unfortunately they removed that feature and just have it on / blinking. Not a good update in my opinion, I think I will stay with the original.
To be honest - I think Gen1 is better
Really, we are talking about a headlamp. If it's somewhat light in weight and does what you expect it to, what does it matter what brand it is? As long as you're happy with it what the hell.
Overthinking trivial gear is what we do 😂
I mean it's more than that for a thru hiker and serious backpackers. If you're just going to go camping once in a while go with the energizer at walmart for $9.99
When you gonna go on a camp out
I'll do a cold trip somewhere close. This winter I am going to practice self arresting with an ice axe to prep me for the PCT.