SEO Link List

appliances

Dishwashers

Small Kitchen Appliances

automotive & industrial

Accent & Off Road Lighting

Accessories

Accessories & Parts

Body & Trim

Brake Tools

Bulbs

Bumper Stickers, Decals & Magnets

Bumpers & Bumper Accessories

Car Electronics

Cleaning & Maintenance

Diagnostic, Test & Measurement Tools

Drive Train

Electrical Appliances

Engine Cooling

Engine Tools

Exhaust & Emissions

Exterior

Exterior Care

Finishing

Gaskets

Glass Care

Hood Scoops & Vents

Horns & Accessories

Ignition & Electrical

Interior

Interior Care

Jump Starters, Battery Chargers & Portable Power

Lighting & Electrical

Mirrors & Parts

Plumbing

Pullers

Running Boards & Steps

Safety

Shocks, Struts & Suspension

Snow & Ice

Steering & Suspension Tools

Thread Repair Kits

Tires

Tools & Equipment

Towing Products & Winches

Trailer Accessories

Truck Bed & Tailgate Accessories

baby products

Activity & Entertainment

Apparel & Accessories

Baby & Toddler Toys

Baby Care

Car Seats & Accessories

Diapering

Feeding

Gifts

Nursery

Potty Training

Safety

Strollers & Accessories

Travel Gear

beauty & personal care

Foot, Hand & Nail Care

Hair Care

Makeup

Personal Care

electronics

Camera & Photo

Car & Vehicle Electronics

Cell Phones & Accessories

Computers & Accessories

Home Audio

Household Batteries, Chargers & Accessories

Television & Video

Video Game Consoles & Accessories

Wearable Technology

health & household

Baby & Child Care

Health Care

House Supplies

Oral Care

Personal Care

Sexual Wellness

Sports Nutrition

Wellness & Relaxation

home & kitchen

Bath

Bedding

Heating, Cooling & Air Quality

Kitchen & Dining

Lighting & Ceiling Fans

Seasonal Decor

Storage & Organization

Vacuums & Floor Care

office products

Educational Supplies

Office & School Supplies

patio, lawn & garden

Gardening & Lawn Care

Outdoor Decor

Outdoor Heating & Cooling

Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor Power Tools

Patio Furniture & Accessories

Pest Control

pet supplies

Birds

Cats

Dogs

Fish & Aquatic Pets

Horses

Reptiles & Amphibians

sports & outdoors

Exercise & Fitness

Hunting & Fishing

Outdoor Recreation

Sports

toys & games

Arts & Crafts

Collectible Toys

Dolls & Accessories

Dress Up & Pretend Play

Games & Accessories

Kids' Electronics

Puppets & Puppet Theaters

Puzzles

Remote & App Controlled Vehicles & Parts

Sports & Outdoor Play

Stuffed Animals & Plush Toys

Tricycles, Scooters & Wagons

Vehicles

video games

PC

PlayStation 4

PlayStation 5

Xbox One

PETZL ACTIK CORE Headlamp

Curated from 77 real Reddit conversations

Refreshed on: April 1, 2025

Product Image 1
Product Image 2

PETZL ACTIK CORE Headlamp

Brand: PETZL
Price: $55
Snoop Score:
6.2
Sentiment
6.7
Popularity
7.7
Technical
4.9
Buy on Amazon for $55See All Headlamps Reviews
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Snoop's Take

The PETZL ACTIK CORE Headlamp is a powerful rechargeable light that delivers up to 600 lumens, designed for outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, and camping. This headlamp offers versatile lighting options, including red light mode and multiple brightness levels, making it a reliable companion for various conditions. Users have praised its long-lasting performance, with one stating, "they are very cleverly designed, offer a loooong tail of runtime so you're never left surprised in the dark," while others appreciate its lightweight design and comfort during extended wear. However, some concerns about the product's weight distribution and proprietary battery have been raised, which may impact overall satisfaction. Overall, the PETZL ACTIK CORE is highly recommended for those seeking a dependable headlamp for outdoor adventures.

Not for you? Check out our other rated Headlamps

So I really prefer headlamps over a flashlight.

Positive Feedback

No. Petzl and Black Diamond are generally both among the lower-quality headlamps available, despite their premium price.

Negative Feedback
Product
6.2
PETZL ACTIK CORE Headlamp
Buy on Amazon for $55
Trail Running
8 / 10
Camping & Hiking
7 / 10
Emergency & DIY
7 / 10
Cycling & Night Walking
5 / 10
See how this compares to all Headlamps

What it does well!

Key strengths users can’t stop talking about.
Petzl headlamps have a long-lasting performance.
“So I really prefer headlamps over a flashlight.”➕
“My first ever petzl tikka still works from 20 years ago.”➕
Comfortable to wear for extended periods.
“I have not had it get hot against my head.”➕
Lightweight and comfortable to wear
“The light itself is great, plenty bright, lightweight, comfortable, easy to use.”➕
Good for running or hiking
“Petzl core is still limited to micro-usb, and in attempt to keep some semblance of order in my chargers i try to stick with USB-C for anything new.”➕
“It's a nice light for running or hiking. I've used it on a few shorter trail races and I just charge the battery pack and take some AAAs for backup.”➕
Great for outdoor activities in dark and wet conditions
“Thanks! I’m really happy with it so far. I’m out where it’s very dark at night, and very wet, and it’s been great so far.”➕
Long runtime prevents being left in the dark
“they are very cleverly designed, offer a loooong tail of runtime so you're never left surprised in the dark, and the Reactive Lighting is the most smart feature a headlamp could ever have.”➕
Well-known and reliable brand
“You can get spare batteries anywhere.”➕
Reliable performance and trust in the brand
“Black Diamond and Petzl seem to be the most highly recommended brands but which model is your favorite that also has red light mode?”➕
“I just trust the product more. If you can splurge for a "core" model with the rechargeable battery I highly recommend it.”➕
Excellent battery life with AAA usage
“Love them both. The one at work I have gotten 50 hours easy on a set of batteries.”➕
“It’s using both medium and low power modes. At the end of the 50 hours it’s still shinning.”➕
Bright performance with multiple brightness modes
“The Actik lamp is a hybrid version allowing use of AAA batteries or Petzl proprietary battery, which is ok.”➕
“Most of that time will be spent *well* under 100 lumens.”➕

Where it needs some work!

Areas to watch—feedback on possible improvements.
Petzl is considered low quality for the price
“No. Petzl and Black Diamond are generally both among the lower-quality headlamps available, despite their premium price.”➕
“Definitely not Petzl or Black Diamond. What's your budget?”➕
Front-heavy design causes discomfort
“since all the weight is up front, I had to choose between it bouncing around or the strap being headache tight.”➕
Petzl headlamps may not be waterproof or durable enough.
“Black Diamond headlamps are crap! I had to throw away several and finally changed brands.... They are not waterproof, they lose battery connectivity, they are too complicated, their red light sux, they are large and heavy.”➕
“I agree on BD headlamps. They were great for a long time but the last 10 or so I've had have all shat the best on me.”➕
Proprietary battery is a drawback
“Fenix HM50R V2.0: 16340 rechargeable, replaceable LI-ion battery you can buy in your local "radio shack".”➕
Silva Hybrid Battery doesn't fit properly
“Did not work for me in my Petzl Actic Core from 2019, which came with a Core battery.”➕

Compare On All Talked About Dimensions

Product NameImagePriceScoreCompareSee DetailsBuy Now
Nitecore NU25 400 UL Ultra Lightweight HeadlampNitecore NU25 400 UL Ultra Lightweight Headlamp$36
7.8
DetailsBuy
Foxelli LED Headlamp Flashlight for Adults & KidsFoxelli LED Headlamp Flashlight for Adults & Kids$8
7.7
DetailsBuy
Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 Running HeadlampFenix HM65R-T V2.0 Running Headlamp$104
6.9
DetailsBuy
Blukar Headlamp Flashlight 2-PackBlukar Headlamp Flashlight 2-Pack$17
6.8
DetailsBuy
Keikuy Headlamp Rechargeable 2PCSKeikuy Headlamp Rechargeable 2PCS$39
6.8
DetailsBuy
BIAT Headlamp Rechargeable - 230° Wide Beam LEDBIAT Headlamp Rechargeable - 230° Wide Beam LED$11
6.8
DetailsBuy
GearLight 2Pack LED HeadlampGearLight 2Pack LED Headlamp$19
6.7
DetailsBuy
MIOISY Headlamp Rechargeable 1200 Lumen LED FlashlightMIOISY Headlamp Rechargeable 1200 Lumen LED Flashlight$13
6.4
DetailsBuy
WWOAA Headlamp Rechargeable 990,000 LumensWWOAA Headlamp Rechargeable 990,000 Lumens$39
6.3
DetailsBuy
Foxelli Rechargeable LED HeadlampFoxelli Rechargeable LED Headlamp$12
6.3
DetailsBuy
Spriak LED Headlamp FlashlightSpriak LED Headlamp Flashlight$17
6.3
DetailsBuy
MIOISY Rechargeable HeadlampMIOISY Rechargeable Headlamp$17
6.2
DetailsBuy
PETZL ACTIK CORE HeadlampPETZL ACTIK CORE Headlamp$55
6.2
DetailsBuy
BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 LED HeadlampBLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 LED Headlamp$44
6.1
DetailsBuy
Blukar Headlamp FlashlightBlukar Headlamp Flashlight$14
6.0
DetailsBuy
Energizer LED Headlamp Pro260Energizer LED Headlamp Pro260$15
5.5
DetailsBuy
Avlxt LED Headlamp, 2 Pack Rechargeable FlashlightAvlxt LED Headlamp, 2 Pack Rechargeable Flashlight$23
5.5
DetailsBuy
BLACK DIAMOND Deploy Rechargeable Running HeadlampBLACK DIAMOND Deploy Rechargeable Running Headlamp$59
5.4
DetailsBuy
WopkDupk Rechargeable Headlamp 3PCSWopkDupk Rechargeable Headlamp 3PCS$32
5.2
DetailsBuy
Lepro LED Headlamp RechargeableLepro LED Headlamp Rechargeable$15
4.9
DetailsBuy
PETZL Bindi Headlamp - Ultra-Compact Rechargeable 200 LumenPETZL Bindi Headlamp - Ultra-Compact Rechargeable 200 Lumen$49
4.4
DetailsBuy
Black Diamond Spot 350 LED HeadlampBlack Diamond Spot 350 LED Headlamp$34
4.1
DetailsBuy
Nitecore NU20 Classic Ultralight HeadlampNitecore NU20 Classic Ultralight Headlamp$25
4.0
DetailsBuy
LHKNL Headlamp FlashlightLHKNL Headlamp Flashlight$15
3.6
DetailsBuy
BLACK DIAMOND Astro 300 LED HeadlampBLACK DIAMOND Astro 300 LED Headlamp$19
3.6
DetailsBuy

Core Power Plays

The specs and strengths that make it shine.
Discussion on the importance of USB-C compatibility in headlamps
“headlamp that charges USB-C to USB-C (finally!) - Petzl Swift RL”➕
“Absolutely one of the best purchases I've ever made for my gear.”➕
“The Klein head lamp has had USB c to c for a long time, and has a lot of incredible features! It's fantastic”➕
“USB-c and power delivery. Fast charging. Fantastic headlamp.”➕
Discussion on headlamp features and preferences.
“i dont remember off-hand, rei says micro usb.”➕
“Does it charge with usb-c?”➕
Technical details on battery runtime
“Modern batteries (Lithium-Ion) are great and compact. But there are still limitations - especially when it comes to these small and lightweight headlamps.”➕
Commentary on component quality affecting headlamp performance
“I actually own the exact headlamp you do. I got it because I wanted a cheap one to throw in my car if I had to change a tire at night.”➕
Comparison of headlamp controls
“the current BD headlamps have an annoying and fiddly control. I just gave away a brand new one bc it was so annoying.”➕
Importance of minimum lumens in headlamps
“More than anything else, you should look at the minimum lumens.”➕
Discussion on the importance of headlamp features.
“Reliable, sturdy, long runtime, modular/repairable are all good things to take into account.”➕
Reference to red lighting and its perceived benefits.
“There's no mention that I saw of how stable the output is over time with the various lights.”➕

Hidden Hero Hacks

Unexpected tricks and side‑door uses you’ll love.
Discussion on starting in red light mode
“Headlamp that starts in Red light? Just curious if any of the Petzl headlamps can start in the Red light”➕
“Amazing headlamp.”➕
“I don't know of any Petzel that do off hand.”➕
“Do the new Petzls not have the sliding switch any more?”➕

Buyer’s Cheat Sheet

What to check before you click ‘Add to Cart.’
Questioning the longevity of rechargeable AAAs
“You’ve worn out 100 sets of rechargeable AAAs? Eneloops are supposed to be good for a couple of thousand cycles - that’s more than most 18650s.”➕
Debate on the value of cheaper headlamps.
“Do you legitimately think it’s worth the upgrade? I’ve been having really good luck with those super cheap 2/$20 rechargeable headlamps over the last few years and am having a hard time rationalizing spending $75 on the Storm.”➕
“In my experience yes. The cheap headlamps I have had in the past were not even remotely as good.”➕
Discussion on alternative headlamps
“There are quite a few smaller headlamps that can do 6 hours in a lower mode, and there's always the option of bringing spare batteries.”➕
“What lumen level are you running at? AAA/10440 is severely limited in that regard.”➕
Comparisons to other headlamp brands
“Thanks for suggestion, but it does not have floodlight either (as HM50R).”➕
“the downside is it's expensive. $100+”➕
Discussion on price differences in headlamps
“While somewhat “brighter” it seems like they have a much smaller radius and are essentially a spotlight.”➕
Discussion on headlamp comparisons and alternatives
“I was just looking at this lightweight option which looks nice.”➕
Inquiry about standard modes and runtimes
“50 hours sounds decent! Is this in the "standard" mode?”➕

Cautionary Callouts

Know the pitfalls before they catch you off guard.
Discussion on headlamp warranty experiences
“They tilt, turn and are LED. I have replaced them through extended warranty before, they sent an adjuster out 😂”➕
“And it probably cost about that much to replace the headlamps too.”➕
“Yeah, I'm with you, but we can hope, I guess.”➕
Preference for Black Diamond lamps over Petzl
“I've been quite pleased with the Black Diamond lamps. They have a number of models, the tap feature actually works quite well (esp. the newer updates), good battery, even easy to operate with gloves.”➕
Discussion on headlamp brands and quality.
“Our favorite pick is the Black Diamond ReVolt. You can find it for around $45.”➕
“Headlamps from flashlight enthusiast companies tend to be much nicer, like Zebralight, Olight, Fenix, Armytek, Nitecore, Acebeam, etc.”➕

You May Also Like

Explore more Headlamps
Headlamps
BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 LED Headlamp
BLACK DIAMOND Spot 400 LED Headlamp
Explore Headlamps
Headlamps
Blukar Headlamp Flashlight
Blukar Headlamp Flashlight
Explore Headlamps
Headlamps
MIOISY Headlamp Rechargeable 1200 Lumen LED Flashlight
MIOISY Headlamp Rechargeable 1200 Lumen LED Flashlight
Explore Headlamps