NexTorch hiStar 2300-Lumen Headlamp Review: Big Output, One Charging Gripe

NexTorch's hiStar headlamp claims 2,300 lumens from a unit that weighs under six ounces. GAT Daily strapped it on in the woods and the city to see whether it lives up to the spec sheet.

Key points

• Output: 2,300 lumens and a 256-meter beam, switchable between spot and flood, with white, night-vision and red modes plus an SOS setting.
• Build: aerospace-grade magnesium alloy casing, dust-proof, fully waterproof and rated for one-meter drops. It runs on a USB-C 18650 or two cold-resistant CR123A batteries.
• Controls: a large mode ring and dimming dial that the reviewer worked in total darkness and with tactical gloves on.
• Fit and versatility: a ribbed, thicker strap with two slide buckles; under six ounces with strap and battery; the lamp detaches to serve as a task light or a hard-hat or helmet light.
• The gripe: the battery has to come out of the lamp to charge, with the cable plugged into the cell itself. Price: $99.

Quick take

GAT Daily scores it high across the board, with the awkward charging routine the only real drawback. The reviewer's advice is that cheaper headlamps exist, but each one gives something up that this one does not.

Read the full story at GAT Daily.