My wife and I love our old NU25. We bought it 3.5 years ago and still kicking in. Lately I have bought the new NU31. Nitecore is a reputable company they build products to last. They have good selection of material, attention to detail and have good manufacturing experience and listen to what their customers want.
as an owner of the new NU25 UL which I love as also the following features- the shock cord band is not only light reflective but also glows in the dark and since I store it with the cord wrapped around the headlamp it flows nicely allowing me to find it in the dark- don’t worry about the cons as the pro features outweigh them
Good video, thanks. Valid point on all the different modes, I can never remember them, end up just pressing the buttons until I get a brightness i'm happy with.
Thanks 🙏🏻 and agree, too many features and hard to keep track on all the combinations. I will probably use the mix and the Red the most because of that 😄
I love my old NU25. I once left it in my pocket and put it through the washing machine … no problem… it worked perfectly (and was very clean😂) I still use it on my hikes
Just ordered one this weekend. Never got a chance to try the older version. But from everything I've seen the new one looks pretty good. Light weight, easy to use AND has USB-C. Pretty big step up from my $5 Amazon special that turns off randomly for no reason
Greetings from Alabama! This was a short, accurate review that focused on the essentials. Sometimes engineers “upgrade” an item without a clear understanding of what users want. Well done!
I have a petzl bindi the only reason I side graded to the nitecore was due to the lack of usb c. I'm surprised they haven't update it with one yet, might have to try modding it myself.
Just like you I believe the Bindi to be a great and affordable choice, but it is time it was upgraded with a USBC and a somewhat brighter red light. Good luck with the modification 🙂
I have a Black diamond, that weighs 88 grams and using batteries. I didn't want to buy the old version notecore, just to save a few grams, but having to remember to bring a separate cord for charging. But the new one with usbC, that is the same cable as my phone and watch, now that one I'm thinking of because I can use the same cable and powerbank and don't have to bring extra stuff. That to me is smart. And happy new year to you. I look forward to following you next year aswell.
I think, type C is the biggest upgrade, because then I would use the same cable for the phone and flashlight, here goes away the extra grams:) on my old NU25 I put only single shock cord, works perfect and simple, it seems to me kind of messy and complicated with those double cords, I would definitely reduced that to a single cord, if I get it. Its true, too many features make it too cumbersome, once I had a black diamond with all those features I have never learned for years till I lost the flashlight. the biggest weakness of my old nu25 is battery life(I understand it is penalty we pay for the small size) so if the new one is not significantly better than it is just the type C connection, that speaks for it, thank you for good, informative review, Happy New Year Robert!
A happy new year to you out too 🥂 and glad you like the episode! Yea the USBC is great and like you say…one less cord to bring for charging 👍🏻 beside that the Mix60 is the second great update along with a stronger bracket… not enough for an upgrade like you say! And yea, the headband 🫤 one might wonder why they choose making it like that!! A one strap solution is better, lighter and cheaper 🤷🏼♂️😄
I had the old version and I love it, I love the two red mode, and the lowest output, the only is the old micro usb, I need to carry extra cable just for this, my other device are all type c
for those saying you no longer need to bring a micro-usb cable with the new model…you can just get a usb-c to micro-usb attachment for a usb-c cable. it weighs like one ounce. or get a multi-pronged cable.
I like the usbc chargibg and prefer the lighter headband. The function of the buttons is different, first impression is that its not as intuitive. Maybe i'll get used to it. I never had a problem with the bracket, battery life or lumens in the old version. It will stay on my motorcycle and the new one will come hiking.
My nitecore nu 25 2017 version started randomly shutting down on my last long hike. Hoping it was just a fluke, perhaps I dropped it or it somehow was damaged. For this reason I just ordered the new UL version. The upgrades seem worth it. I will use the red light the majority of its use at camp late night and early morning. I will probably have an hour or two of night hiking at around 2 or 3 am getting up early to summit Whitney. And there were a couple nights when I hiked beyond sunset looking for a camping spot where I had to hike with the lamp.
Sorry to hear about the problems with the old version! I hope the new one will serve you well, especially when you’re planning summits and late night hikes because then you really need one you can trust!! Wish you all the best and good luck on your adventures 👍🏻
My guess is it wasn’t sufficiently charged at the beginning, as I recharged it at Muir Ranch on that trip, and had no issues with it after that. Anyhow, thanks for the content, looking forward to checking out the new version. I notice a lot of hikers that use headlamps with the shock cord wear it around their neck instead of their head, as well. Getting my gear ready for August hike and it looks like my son borrowed the original NU25, so I’ll just let him keep it and try the new model.
When you reviewed the features, I did not see you cover a lock feature. Did I miss that part? Dose it have one? Thanks of the nice review, you did a great job on this video. ~S
Yeah, you are right and for those expecting it not to and for hiking longer periods of time in the dark… could be a real dealbreaker ! For me not su much, I’m ok with the 60 lumens if I need to hike some time when dark and also moving around camp so 🤷🏼♂️ but still use the old 2017 version 😄 it’s lighter and good enough.
I’m in the process of returning one of these. The small rubber cover on the USB C port doesn’t line up properly and it’s impossible to close the cover properly - therefore, not waterproof. Has anyone else had this issue?
Thanks for info, they are a bit tricky to close yes, but not impossible. So there might be something wrong with yours…I hope you will get a new replacement that works better!!
I prefer the 2 brightness levels of the old model. The low setting is good for looking and doing thing at arms length and the high setting throws out a very wide flood a light that lets you see like 20 ft easy just with red light
hello, i like to bring a book hiking and read before bed. i heard that he nitecore is too bright even on lowest of modes. would the low6 and red10 be too much for reading or is it good enough?
Hi 👋🏻, well… I mainly use the 2017 version when not trying other for reviews and that one has the 1 lumen as the lowest and would say that is perfect for reading. But even 6 lumens isn’t very bright and should be ok. I don’t read on my hikes but when I read at home I rather have a bit too bright than too low light!! I can just recommend you try 🙂 or buy the old 2017 version.
😮I'm all about flashing modes. You never know when you might needed em. Stuff happens. Also usb c is worth the upgrade.. Who in 2024 wants different type of cables with them, especially in Europe where usb c is standard
Hi 👋🏻 and glad you liked the review! And , the puffy is from a Polish company called Cumulus, the Plancklite jacket. Made a review last year on it, linked below. ua-cam.com/video/SX5GxBZPlA8/v-deo.html The weigh it only 140 grams in size large and yea, it’s as good as it looks. 🙂👍🏻
@@chrishamilton2527 well I think it is, they are very into “custom made” so maybe all you need to do is ask. The customer support is excellent so send them an email and ask. 🙂
Yes it’s a good alternative if you don’t feel like a red light is necessary and a bit simpler approach and less light modes compared to the NU25. Some even say the NU20 is the best one for hikers… for me, I think I would miss the red light too much.
Although I also have a new NU25, the NU20 is the light I use for week-long hikes and trail running. Mainly because of it‘s low weight and simplicity. I lost the old NU25 a while ago. Do I remember correctly that it had a very nice high-CRI reading light?
There is (or was) a NU20 CRI with somewhat lower output than the regular NU20 I own. On the old NU25, I liked the high CRI light, because it made reading a little more pleasant. On the other hand I was on a night run with the new NU25 and found the combined beams great for better peripheral vision. That made running a little more relaxed in the wet forest, where the ground and trees in the rain absorb so much light. One more thing: does your new NU25 also jiggle a bit up and down in it‘s mount? The older design never did that.
@@AReResearch hi and well, I only used it for walking so it doesn’t move much up and down but sure, for running and since the mount isn’t that tight it might jiggle a bit yea. I have heard that also from others. For hiking not a problem, for running 🤷🏼♂️ I don’t know!
I've been a diehard NU25 fan and upgraded to the new one for trail running. I've been using it for about a month now and I'll be sending it back unfortunately. Love the new design but the main reason is that it starts dimming basically immediately when on high. The 400 lumens is a huge mislead IMO. This is likely due to its lower capacity battery or thermal throttling. Cycling the brightness button will get you back your lumens but the dimming process starts again. I just discovered their NU43 so I'll be trying that one next.
Thanks for sharing your experience and I have heard also other people having problems with dimming, also on the 200lumens… i haven’t had time to investigate this further but will do some trials myself soon and see if it is just bad copy’s or on all the 2gen NU25s.
I’ve been using the old version for a few years. I’ve had 3 of them. The bracket on every one broke. The light still works but not as a headlight. My last one broke in about 6 months and they no longer sell the bracket
Yeah, that’s one of the bigger downsides and what they actually fixed with the new version! I prefer the standard NU25 before the NU25 UL because of the shock cord getting tangled and difficult to adjust! The headband in the standard is much better.
Thank you for your solid review. Do you have any experience with how the headlight performs in freezing temperatures and wet conditions? I myself have used the Black Diamond with standard triple A batteries which have not been reliable in colder and wetter weather.
Glad to hear you like the review and well…I have not used the new one in those conditions yet but the old one a lot and no problems. IP66 is solid and the built in batteries won’t be as sensitive as regular ones. Sure…all batteries drains faster when cold and looses a bit but shouldn’t be a problem with the NU25 old or new generation.
I haven’t but I have heard people having problems with step downs I all kind of different modes both and 400 and 200 mix mode and now you at spot…I would contact Nitecore and ask and maybe get a new one!
I mainly used mine in and around camp but yea, heard from others also the 200 drop after a while… probably due to over heating 🤷🏼♂️ but not sure! I have gone back using the NU25 2017 version instead, lighter and good enough.
Interesting headlamp and I consider getting one to save weight. But did you really try out the new running time in high mode? In some flashlight communities it is discussed that high mode will only last a few minutes before being continually reduced to about 190 lm to save battery and reduce heat. So, one of the most interesting features compared with the old version, does not exist. What is your experience?
For short No, I didn’t check all the runtimes and Yea I have heard people talking about this problem with the lumens dropping after a certain time on the higher and also the 200 lumens . I have to try and see for myself and maybe talk to Nitecore if that is normal or if the headlamp is defective. So, no real good answer to your question… but if it was “standard” and on all… Nitecore for sure made a big mistake not telling us about this!
Using the app 'Light meter', you can test the rate of auto dimming. On the NU25UL it took just 150 seconds to drop below half brightness. It also did this on the lower modes. Pretty disappointed.
@@procrastinator1842 good idea and yes, many reports regarding the drop in output. For me it doesn’t matter much since I mainly use it in and around camp but, if hiking in the dark it’s important.
Too many settings or features making it difficult to catch it and figure it out after a while it is seating unused. I think they ought to make it simpler, more straight forward to change the different light settings and improve the amperage of its battery!!!
Using this I noticed it doesn't hold the 200 lumens mix mode. In fact if the battery is half-full it will switch to 60 in less than 2 minutes. I don't have anything to compare it to but I feel a little cheated. I mean I know typically flashlights don't hold maximum output but I though 200 mid mode for 4 hours is exactly as described on the box and it isn't. But otherwise it's fine. I brought it to work around the house such as in the basement and other badly lit areas and occasionaly I walk my dog with it since I live out of town.
Thanks for that heads up, I will check that in the near future because if it is supposed to be 4h that is what you expect and plan for! Now the 60 is fine but if a bit technical it’s nice to have the 200!!
I agree, it’s still the 2017 version that’s in my pack with a DIY headband. I still have some other equipment I bring sometimes that uses the micro USB so🤷🏼♂️ no real dealbreaker at the moment.
@@timoeveraers336 what’s double the weight? Nebo Mycro is the same weight when you do the shock cord mod. I haven’t looked at the weight of the new Mycro 500 but it is usb c and 500 lumens
@@KentAlvarez-pt7tb hi 👋🏻 it’s easy, when on my UA-cam page… you have tabs, “home” “videos” “shorts” and “community tab” then just scroll down and the giveaway winners are presented. I hope you find it 🙂
I wish they hadn't put that big flood in there. USB c is a great change and the medium spot battery life is better. But the flood is not very useful and takes up a lot of space. It also makes the UI a pain to use.
@@roberthammenrudh Sort of the 400L. I think the 400L is mixed mode. I did some testing while hiking to see if I could tell the difference between the 400L mixed mode, the 200L spot, and the 200L flood. My conclusion was that I could tell the difference between all three and I liked hiking best with the 200L spot only. The flood kind of bounces off my glasses frame and annoys me. And I didn't notice any real difference in my ability to see the trail between spot and mixed. IMO I might as well go with spot only since it drains the battery more slowly. So I wish they had made the light a little smaller with only a small flood (like the old one had and the NU33 has) and no mixed mode. The flood-only mode and mixed modes just are not especially useful to me. I liked the old flood mode with the high CRI led because it made it easier to cook with (since I could see the difference in browns between food being cooked properly and being burned).
Well, depends if you want/need the red light or not. Myself I think it’s a great feature for camp and not destroying night vision or disturbing wild life. But the NU20 is popular too so 🤷🏼♂️ also a good choice.
Thanks for the excellent review. I’ve just bought this head torch and watched the review to find out how to mount the light onto the headband! 😊 On first impressions I like the build quality, and although there are too many functions, I’d rather have that than too few. The weight isn’t really an issue for me (although I was surprised at how light it was compared to other head torches) and whilst it’s a shame about the throttling of the higher power settings, I don’t think that’s much of a concern, as this is more of an emergency torch for hiking into dusk/early evening rather than dedicated night hiking for me. Anyway, keep up the great reviews! 👍🏻
Thanks 🙂👍🏻 and yea that’s about how I use it too. Not much night hiking for me either and mostly for spending time in camp or maybe pitching the tent if arriving a bit late. But here, especially during the summer the sun like never sets so don’t actually need a headlamp then anyways 😄 so mostly spring and autumn! Glad you like the headlamp and, the review 🙂
What the heck were they thinking. This "new version" is an entirely different product that just carries over the name, if I want a reasonably small strong headlamp I would rather use my Petzl Swift RL. The "old" NU25 was the perfect camping lamp due to its two red light modes and the aux warm white light. Get outa here Nitecore, you're drunk.
I kinda felt the same way as you and yeah, it’s a new product. I still use the old version although the new ones are not to bad either. Petzl Bindi is also another good option.
@@roberthammenrudh I actually tested the Petzl Bindi and it is nowhere near as good as the "old" NU25 for camping purposes, the red light is weak and more of an afterthought and the there's no warm white light for reading etc. I just tried to order another spare NU25 but no luck thus I ordered two red light headlamps from Amazon.
I bought the 1st gen just to see how bad a cheap Nitecore headlamp could be! I wasnt dissapointed, its really bad. Hard to press buttons, flood is too weak, spot is stronger but with an awful white. A Sofirn at the same price is way better. Ill stick with my better Fenixes and LedLenser. I cant find a point if wearing a cheap, lightweight headlamp if its useless in power and runtime. Please delete my comment if its offensive, i simply hate that light.
Its junk they make stuff that falls apart and u keep sending it back to get replaced until the warranty expires and ur screwed. It's fine If u barely ever use it. But if u use it daily ull end up sending it back all the time.
Sorry to hear you have bad experiences with Nitecore, I don’t 🤷🏼♂️ but totally understand if you choose something else then. I hope you find something they works for you 🙂
My wife and I love our old NU25. We bought it 3.5 years ago and still kicking in. Lately I have bought the new NU31.
Nitecore is a reputable company they build products to last. They have good selection of material, attention to detail and have good manufacturing experience and listen to what their customers want.
as an owner of the new NU25 UL which I love as also the following features- the shock cord band is not only light reflective but also glows in the dark and since I store it with the cord wrapped around the headlamp it flows nicely allowing me to find it in the dark- don’t worry about the cons as the pro features outweigh them
Good video, thanks. Valid point on all the different modes, I can never remember them, end up just pressing the buttons until I get a brightness i'm happy with.
Thanks 🙏🏻 and agree, too many features and hard to keep track on all the combinations. I will probably use the mix and the Red the most because of that 😄
I love my old NU25. I once left it in my pocket and put it through the washing machine … no problem… it worked perfectly (and was very clean😂) I still use it on my hikes
That’s a good test for the IP66 rating 😂👍🏻 glad to hear it still working!!
Just ordered one this weekend. Never got a chance to try the older version. But from everything I've seen the new one looks pretty good. Light weight, easy to use AND has USB-C. Pretty big step up from my $5 Amazon special that turns off randomly for no reason
Yea it’s a good buy for sure 👌🏻 and a big step up 😄
Bought the old version one this year so im not upgrading for another few years, but always happy to see manufactures switching to USB C.
Same here. Really like the red light in the old one.
Greetings from Alabama! This was a short, accurate review that focused on the essentials. Sometimes engineers “upgrade” an item without a clear understanding of what users want. Well done!
You are absolutely right and thanks a lot 👍🏻🙂
Great review. Seen a few now, and I like. Subscribed.
Glad to hear, thanks 🙏🏻 and welcome to the channel 🙂👍🏻
I have a petzl bindi the only reason I side graded to the nitecore was due to the lack of usb c. I'm surprised they haven't update it with one yet, might have to try modding it myself.
Just like you I believe the Bindi to be a great and affordable choice, but it is time it was upgraded with a USBC and a somewhat brighter red light.
Good luck with the modification 🙂
I have a Black diamond, that weighs 88 grams and using batteries. I didn't want to buy the old version notecore, just to save a few grams, but having to remember to bring a separate cord for charging. But the new one with usbC, that is the same cable as my phone and watch, now that one I'm thinking of because I can use the same cable and powerbank and don't have to bring extra stuff. That to me is smart.
And happy new year to you. I look forward to following you next year aswell.
Yea the USBC is a great update 👍🏻 and thanks 🙏🏻 🙂 and a happy new year to you as well !
I think, type C is the biggest upgrade, because then I would use the same cable for the phone and flashlight, here goes away the extra grams:) on my old NU25 I put only single shock cord, works perfect and simple, it seems to me kind of messy and complicated with those double cords, I would definitely reduced that to a single cord, if I get it. Its true, too many features make it too cumbersome, once I had a black diamond with all those features I have never learned for years till I lost the flashlight. the biggest weakness of my old nu25 is battery life(I understand it is penalty we pay for the small size) so if the new one is not significantly better than it is just the type C connection, that speaks for it, thank you for good, informative review, Happy New Year Robert!
A happy new year to you out too 🥂 and glad you like the episode! Yea the USBC is great and like you say…one less cord to bring for charging 👍🏻 beside that the Mix60 is the second great update along with a stronger bracket… not enough for an upgrade like you say! And yea, the headband 🫤 one might wonder why they choose making it like that!! A one strap solution is better, lighter and cheaper 🤷🏼♂️😄
I had the old version and I love it, I love the two red mode, and the lowest output, the only is the old micro usb, I need to carry extra cable just for this, my other device are all type c
bike riders could use the red light. Also, if you ever get lost/in emergency situations. I think it is a great feature.
VERY CLEAR instructional video! Well done and thank you!
🙂🙏🏻
for those saying you no longer need to bring a micro-usb cable with the new model…you can just get a usb-c to micro-usb attachment for a usb-c cable. it weighs like one ounce. or get a multi-pronged cable.
That’s off course also possible, these small adapters are popular and lightweight 👍🏻
it's missing natural light (Aux High CRI ) as well, something everyone keeps missing
agree, quality of light (high CRI) is more important to me than quantity of lumens.
Thanks for the clear explanation of both old and new!
Glad you liked it 👍🏻🙂
I like the usbc chargibg and prefer the lighter headband.
The function of the buttons is different, first impression is that its not as intuitive. Maybe i'll get used to it.
I never had a problem with the bracket, battery life or lumens in the old version. It will stay on my motorcycle and the new one will come hiking.
Like and use the old 2017 as well, like it better for some reason, and lighter 🤷🏼♂️
Helpful review! Keep it up
Thanks 🙏🏻
My nitecore nu 25 2017 version started randomly shutting down on my last long hike. Hoping it was just a fluke, perhaps I dropped it or it somehow was damaged. For this reason I just ordered the new UL version. The upgrades seem worth it. I will use the red light the majority of its use at camp late night and early morning. I will probably have an hour or two of night hiking at around 2 or 3 am getting up early to summit Whitney. And there were a couple nights when I hiked beyond sunset looking for a camping spot where I had to hike with the lamp.
Sorry to hear about the problems with the old version! I hope the new one will serve you well, especially when you’re planning summits and late night hikes because then you really need one you can trust!!
Wish you all the best and good luck on your adventures 👍🏻
My guess is it wasn’t sufficiently charged at the beginning, as I recharged it at Muir Ranch on that trip, and had no issues with it after that. Anyhow, thanks for the content, looking forward to checking out the new version. I notice a lot of hikers that use headlamps with the shock cord wear it around their neck instead of their head, as well. Getting my gear ready for August hike and it looks like my son borrowed the original NU25, so I’ll just let him keep it and try the new model.
When you reviewed the features, I did not see you cover a lock feature. Did I miss that part? Dose it have one?
Thanks of the nice review, you did a great job on this video.
~S
Thanks and yeah, forgot that!’ Yep it has a locking feature as well…same as the old one I think and by pressing the two buttons simultaneously.
for me the only benefit of the new version is the type-c. the other changes is rather step in wrong direction for me
Kind of agree even if I like the the Mix60…I will keep my old one!
@@roberthammenrudh the old one with type-c and couple modes for high CRI diode - that's would be the perfect headlamp for me
Hey!
What is the actual (tested) runtime of the flashlight at maximum power? If it is kept on continuously, that is, at its highest declared lumens.
Only problem with new version is that it's reduce brightness by itself with the time. Tests were done on other сhannels.
Yeah, you are right and for those expecting it not to and for hiking longer periods of time in the dark… could be a real dealbreaker ! For me not su much, I’m ok with the 60 lumens if I need to hike some time when dark and also moving around camp so 🤷🏼♂️ but still use the old 2017 version 😄 it’s lighter and good enough.
Nitecore just released their "NU20 Classic".
@@joez4284 yep, and one I will try out within short. Looking forward to it 🙂
I’m in the process of returning one of these. The small rubber cover on the USB C port doesn’t line up properly and it’s impossible to close the cover properly - therefore, not waterproof. Has anyone else had this issue?
Thanks for info, they are a bit tricky to close yes, but not impossible. So there might be something wrong with yours…I hope you will get a new replacement that works better!!
Wish I hadn't bought the new light. Only good thing about it is the USB-C and battery size. You're correct in they should ditch the modes nobody uses.
I prefer the 2 brightness levels of the old model. The low setting is good for looking and doing thing at arms length and the high setting throws out a very wide flood a light that lets you see like 20 ft easy just with red light
I prefer the old one as well, good enough and just what I need.
hello, i like to bring a book hiking and read before bed. i heard that he nitecore is too bright even on lowest of modes. would the low6 and red10 be too much for reading or is it good enough?
Hi 👋🏻, well… I mainly use the 2017 version when not trying other for reviews and that one has the 1 lumen as the lowest and would say that is perfect for reading. But even 6 lumens isn’t very bright and should be ok. I don’t read on my hikes but when I read at home I rather have a bit too bright than too low light!! I can just recommend you try 🙂 or buy the old 2017 version.
😮I'm all about flashing modes. You never know when you might needed em. Stuff happens. Also usb c is worth the upgrade.. Who in 2024 wants different type of cables with them, especially in Europe where usb c is standard
100% agreed with you. Thanks
😀👍🏻
thank you for an informative review - Im curious about the dark red puffs jacket you're wearing......what brand is it and is it as good as it looks?
Hi 👋🏻 and glad you liked the review! And , the puffy is from a Polish company called Cumulus, the Plancklite jacket. Made a review last year on it, linked below.
ua-cam.com/video/SX5GxBZPlA8/v-deo.html
The weigh it only 140 grams in size large and yea, it’s as good as it looks. 🙂👍🏻
@@roberthammenrudh thank you - pity it’s not available in larger sizes.
@@chrishamilton2527 well I think it is, they are very into “custom made” so maybe all you need to do is ask. The customer support is excellent so send them an email and ask. 🙂
@@roberthammenrudh thank you. That would be amazing. They have some very interesting gear. I’ll send them an. email. Best wishes.
i love my NU20
Yes it’s a good alternative if you don’t feel like a red light is necessary and a bit simpler approach and less light modes compared to the NU25. Some even say the NU20 is the best one for hikers… for me, I think I would miss the red light too much.
Although I also have a new NU25, the NU20 is the light I use for week-long hikes and trail running. Mainly because of it‘s low weight and simplicity. I lost the old NU25 a while ago. Do I remember correctly that it had a very nice high-CRI reading light?
@@AReResearch yea it has… but so do the NU20 right? 🤔
There is (or was) a NU20 CRI with somewhat lower output than the regular NU20 I own. On the old NU25, I liked the high CRI light, because it made reading a little more pleasant. On the other hand I was on a night run with the new NU25 and found the combined beams great for better peripheral vision. That made running a little more relaxed in the wet forest, where the ground and trees in the rain absorb so much light.
One more thing: does your new NU25 also jiggle a bit up and down in it‘s mount? The older design never did that.
@@AReResearch hi and well, I only used it for walking so it doesn’t move much up and down but sure, for running and since the mount isn’t that tight it might jiggle a bit yea. I have heard that also from others. For hiking not a problem, for running 🤷🏼♂️ I don’t know!
I've been a diehard NU25 fan and upgraded to the new one for trail running. I've been using it for about a month now and I'll be sending it back unfortunately. Love the new design but the main reason is that it starts dimming basically immediately when on high. The 400 lumens is a huge mislead IMO. This is likely due to its lower capacity battery or thermal throttling. Cycling the brightness button will get you back your lumens but the dimming process starts again. I just discovered their NU43 so I'll be trying that one next.
Thanks for sharing your experience and I have heard also other people having problems with dimming, also on the 200lumens… i haven’t had time to investigate this further but will do some trials myself soon and see if it is just bad copy’s or on all the 2gen NU25s.
I’ve been using the old version for a few years. I’ve had 3 of them. The bracket on every one broke. The light still works but not as a headlight. My last one broke in about 6 months and they no longer sell the bracket
Yeah, that’s one of the bigger downsides and what they actually fixed with the new version! I prefer the standard NU25 before the NU25 UL because of the shock cord getting tangled and difficult to adjust! The headband in the standard is much better.
Can we used new bracket for the old version? Its same dimension or not? 😅😅😅😂😂😂
@@secretminie good question 👍🏻 haven’t tried! Don’t think so but will investigate!!
Thank you for your solid review. Do you have any experience with how the headlight performs in freezing temperatures and wet conditions? I myself have used the Black Diamond with standard triple A batteries which have not been reliable in colder and wetter weather.
Glad to hear you like the review and well…I have not used the new one in those conditions yet but the old one a lot and no problems. IP66 is solid and the built in batteries won’t be as sensitive as regular ones. Sure…all batteries drains faster when cold and looses a bit but shouldn’t be a problem with the NU25 old or new generation.
@@roberthammenrudh Thank you for your quick response to my question. Reliability is important.
Awesome video! Needed a headlap so I order the new NU25 going to work great for me. Thank you
You’re welcome 👍🏻 glad you liked it!! 🙂
Do you have stepdown from high spot mode? My steps down after a min in full battery. Dont know why
I haven’t but I have heard people having problems with step downs I all kind of different modes both and 400 and 200 mix mode and now you at spot…I would contact Nitecore and ask and maybe get a new one!
The 400 lumen mode does not last long, I continue, but at 200 lumens it is capable of giving several hours without reducing power? thanks!
I mainly used mine in and around camp but yea, heard from others also the 200 drop after a while… probably due to over heating 🤷🏼♂️ but not sure! I have gone back using the NU25 2017 version instead, lighter and good enough.
You could review the new NU20 :)
Yes. I hope benig able to do so soon. 🙂
Astronomers use the red light to preserve night vision. It's essential on any headlamp to be honest for anyone not just astronomers however.
Yea and perfect when in a group not to blind others, I like also the green light for that but not many headlamps have that option.
Can the battery be replaced if it dies? I didn’t find any informations online
Well no, it’s a built in battery and not to be replaced. Maybe possible if you have the skills 🤷🏼♂️
Interesting headlamp and I consider getting one to save weight. But did you really try out the new running time in high mode? In some flashlight communities it is discussed that high mode will only last a few minutes before being continually reduced to about 190 lm to save battery and reduce heat. So, one of the most interesting features compared with the old version, does not exist. What is your experience?
For short No, I didn’t check all the runtimes and Yea I have heard people talking about this problem with the lumens dropping after a certain time on the higher and also the 200 lumens .
I have to try and see for myself and maybe talk to Nitecore if that is normal or if the headlamp is defective. So, no real good answer to your question… but if it was “standard” and on all… Nitecore for sure made a big mistake not telling us about this!
Using the app 'Light meter', you can test the rate of auto dimming. On the NU25UL it took just 150 seconds to drop below half brightness. It also did this on the lower modes. Pretty disappointed.
@@procrastinator1842 good idea and yes, many reports regarding the drop in output. For me it doesn’t matter much since I mainly use it in and around camp but, if hiking in the dark it’s important.
@@roberthammenrudh I bought mine for multi day hiking and trail running 😂 Large fail...
@@procrastinator1842 haha ok, yes can understand that!! No good for sure!!
Too many settings or features making it difficult to catch it and figure it out after a while it is seating unused. I think they ought to make it simpler, more straight forward to change the different light settings and improve the amperage of its battery!!!
I can only agree 👍🏻 it’s quite simple though despite the many functions, but they could absolutely remove a few of them to make it even easier.
Using this I noticed it doesn't hold the 200 lumens mix mode. In fact if the battery is half-full it will switch to 60 in less than 2 minutes. I don't have anything to compare it to but I feel a little cheated. I mean I know typically flashlights don't hold maximum output but I though 200 mid mode for 4 hours is exactly as described on the box and it isn't. But otherwise it's fine. I brought it to work around the house such as in the basement and other badly lit areas and occasionaly I walk my dog with it since I live out of town.
Thanks for that heads up, I will check that in the near future because if it is supposed to be 4h that is what you expect and plan for! Now the 60 is fine but if a bit technical it’s nice to have the 200!!
@@roberthammenrudh pls confirm l if it's true..im not buying this knowing it will not give you 4hrs in mid settings 200l mix..thank you
@@simon-nb5vx hi Simon…I will test this as soon as I get an opportunity like the upcoming week!
I still like the older one better, lighter, looks better, thinner, hugs the head better, micro-usb is all that lets it down.
I agree, it’s still the 2017 version that’s in my pack with a DIY headband. I still have some other equipment I bring sometimes that uses the micro USB so🤷🏼♂️ no real dealbreaker at the moment.
@@roberthammenrudh yeah I wish i could have everything with same charge format but i have 5 diff cords in my pack.
Sold the old one and got the new one, the usb-c alone did it for me.
Understand completely, a lot prefer having only USBC. I don’t care that much but it’s definitely one of the upgrades worth changing to gen2 for.
You should look at the NEBO Mycro, half the price as the nu25 and 400 lumens.
Thanks for the tip, I will look into it! 🙂👍🏻
But it is double the weight, only micro usb and it shuts off, while recharging. :/
@@timoeveraers336 what’s double the weight? Nebo Mycro is the same weight when you do the shock cord mod. I haven’t looked at the weight of the new Mycro 500 but it is usb c and 500 lumens
Mycro looks to be a nice little head torch but stated burn time at 50 lumens is only 2 hrs, so only 20% of the time versus Nu25
Who wins on nitecore giveaways?
Hi 👋🏻 winners was announced on Saturday in the community tab 🙂
Where i can find the community tab?
@@KentAlvarez-pt7tb hi 👋🏻 it’s easy, when on my UA-cam page… you have tabs, “home” “videos” “shorts” and “community tab” then just scroll down and the giveaway winners are presented. I hope you find it 🙂
It is not hard to use at all. It's simple and a brilliant lightweight lamp for running hiking and camping in and around a tent
The debate between nitecore and a black is now settled, thanks Rob.
🙂👍🏻
I wish they hadn't put that big flood in there. USB c is a great change and the medium spot battery life is better. But the flood is not very useful and takes up a lot of space. It also makes the UI a pain to use.
You mean the 400L? Yes. Maybe an overkill 🤷🏼♂️ depends I guess on the scenario but I very rarely use it.
@@roberthammenrudh Sort of the 400L. I think the 400L is mixed mode. I did some testing while hiking to see if I could tell the difference between the 400L mixed mode, the 200L spot, and the 200L flood. My conclusion was that I could tell the difference between all three and I liked hiking best with the 200L spot only. The flood kind of bounces off my glasses frame and annoys me. And I didn't notice any real difference in my ability to see the trail between spot and mixed. IMO I might as well go with spot only since it drains the battery more slowly.
So I wish they had made the light a little smaller with only a small flood (like the old one had and the NU33 has) and no mixed mode. The flood-only mode and mixed modes just are not especially useful to me. I liked the old flood mode with the high CRI led because it made it easier to cook with (since I could see the difference in browns between food being cooked properly and being burned).
@@commentsonthetube14 I agree ☝🏻 I prefer the old one and will continue use it until it breaks! 😄 or something better turns up!
i miss the nu20 simpler is sometimes better
It’s a good option if one doesn’t feel the need for a red light 👍🏻
I bought the old model instead for 299 SEK.
You did the right choice 😄👍🏻
Better choice is the NU20 x'D
Well, depends if you want/need the red light or not. Myself I think it’s a great feature for camp and not destroying night vision or disturbing wild life. But the NU20 is popular too so 🤷🏼♂️ also a good choice.
I can see in the dark so I haven’t used this light yet
😂👍🏻
🦉
Thanks for the excellent review. I’ve just bought this head torch and watched the review to find out how to mount the light onto the headband! 😊
On first impressions I like the build quality, and although there are too many functions, I’d rather have that than too few. The weight isn’t really an issue for me (although I was surprised at how light it was compared to other head torches) and whilst it’s a shame about the throttling of the higher power settings, I don’t think that’s much of a concern, as this is more of an emergency torch for hiking into dusk/early evening rather than dedicated night hiking for me.
Anyway, keep up the great reviews! 👍🏻
Thanks 🙂👍🏻 and yea that’s about how I use it too. Not much night hiking for me either and mostly for spending time in camp or maybe pitching the tent if arriving a bit late. But here, especially during the summer the sun like never sets so don’t actually need a headlamp then anyways 😄 so mostly spring and autumn!
Glad you like the headlamp and, the review 🙂
What the heck were they thinking. This "new version" is an entirely different product that just carries over the name, if I want a reasonably small strong headlamp I would rather use my Petzl Swift RL. The "old" NU25 was the perfect camping lamp due to its two red light modes and the aux warm white light. Get outa here Nitecore, you're drunk.
I kinda felt the same way as you and yeah, it’s a new product. I still use the old version although the new ones are not to bad either. Petzl Bindi is also another good option.
@@roberthammenrudh I actually tested the Petzl Bindi and it is nowhere near as good as the "old" NU25 for camping purposes, the red light is weak and more of an afterthought and the there's no warm white light for reading etc. I just tried to order another spare NU25 but no luck thus I ordered two red light headlamps from Amazon.
@@Roman-nu1om the good red light is one of the very good features of the NU25 I agree and the Bindi is much weaker so understand your choice.
I bought the 1st gen just to see how bad a cheap Nitecore headlamp could be! I wasnt dissapointed, its really bad. Hard to press buttons, flood is too weak, spot is stronger but with an awful white.
A Sofirn at the same price is way better.
Ill stick with my better Fenixes and LedLenser. I cant find a point if wearing a cheap, lightweight headlamp if its useless in power and runtime.
Please delete my comment if its offensive, i simply hate that light.
Its junk they make stuff that falls apart and u keep sending it back to get replaced until the warranty expires and ur screwed. It's fine If u barely ever use it. But if u use it daily ull end up sending it back all the time.
Sorry to hear you have bad experiences with Nitecore, I don’t 🤷🏼♂️ but totally understand if you choose something else then. I hope you find something they works for you 🙂