BioLite Range 400 Headlamp Review
A brand-new line of headlamps from BioLite that charge fast and are fully waterproof
Our verdict
The BioLite Range 400 is an excellent adventure headlamp. It is lightweight, durable, waterproof, and bright enough to hike or run in the darkest conditions. It is also easy to use and remains comfortable to wear for hours at a time.
The Range 400 is part of the new BioLite headlamp series (Range 300, 400, and 500). The Range series features ultra-fast charging, longer battery life, and a fully submersible IP67 water rating, while maintaining BioLite’s legendary headlamp comfort and secure fit.
BioLite will continue to sell their running specific headlamp, the Dash 450, and their extreme adventure 800 Pro Headlamp. They will be retiring the 325 headlamp.
The BioLite Range Series headlamp is an excellent choice for backpackers, thru-hikers, runners, and ultramarathoners. It is also ideal to keep in your day pack…just in case.
I have used the BioLite headlamps on nearly every backpacking trip since 2019. During my Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) southbound hike, I spent the last month hiking at night (or early morning) with the BioLite 330 (an old model) for 3-4 hours a day. The 330 is my all-time favorite headlamp. It was very comfortable, easy to use, and had good battery life. The BioLite Range 400 improves on the best features of my old 330 headlamp.
The new Range 400 has several significant updates from the BioLite Dash 450. It has significantly longer battery life, faster charging, and is more waterproof.
However, perhaps the most significant update is that the BioLite Range headlamps consolidate the light and battery pack. The previous BioLite headlamps, except for the 325, had the battery on the back of the headband.
We create reader-supported, mission-driven objective gear reviews that are independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.
BioLite Range Headlamp Specs
| Range 300 | Range 400 | Range 500 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $40 | $60 | $70 |
| Weight | 1.8 oz (52 g) | 2.6 oz (75 g) | 2.6 oz (75 g) |
| Max Light Output | 300 lumens | 400 lumens | 500 lumens |
| Max Beam Distance | 246 ft (75 m) | 295 ft (90 m) | 328 ft (100 m) |
| Run Time on High | 4 hours | 6 hours | 6 hours |
The evolution of the BioLite headlamps. The HeadLamp 330 (left), the BioLite Dash 450 (middle), and new BioLite Range 400 (right).
Best for
Backpackers and thru hikers who need long battery life
Ultramarathoners who run or train at night on trails
Keeping in your day pack…just in case
Comparison table
| Headlamp | MSRP | Weight | Max Lumens | Max Beam Distance | Max Battery on High | Max Battery on Low | Red Light Mode | Waterproof Rating | Charging System |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BioLite Range 300 | $40 | 1.8 oz (52 g) | 300 | 75 meters | 4 hours | 100 hours | No | IP67 Submersible | USB-C |
| BioLite Range 400 | $60 | 2.6 oz (75 g) | 400 | 90 meters | 6 hours | 200 hours | Yes | IP67 Submersible | USB-C |
| BioLite Range 500 | $70 | 2.6 oz (75 g) | 500 | 100 meters | 6 hours | 200 hours | Yes | IP67 Submersible | USB-C |
| BioLite Dash 450 | $60 | 2.75 oz (78 g) | 450 | 90 meters | 3 hours | 60 hours | Yes | IPX4 | USB-C |
| BioLite Headlamp 800 Pro | $100 | 5.3 oz (150 g) | 800 (burst mode) | 135 meters | 7 hours | 150 hours | Yes | IPX4 | Micro USB |
What we liked
USB-C fast charging: 8 minutes of charge gives 1 hour of run time on high for all models
Charges from 0 to 100% in 70 to 80 minutes, depending on the model
Fully submersible and dustproof, IP67 rating
An incredible 100 to 200 hours of run time on low
Easy to operate and intuitive control buttons
The moisture-wicking headband provides a secure, comfortable, “no-bounce” fit
What could be better
No floodlight. The Range 400 does not have a floodlight. It just has the spotlight and red light. The flood light is available in the Range 500 model.
Difficult to pass-through charge. The Range 400 has its charging port behind the tiltable lens/battery unit. It is very difficult to charge the headlamp while wearing it. Given the Range 400’s fast charging capabilities, which allow for 8 minutes of charging to achieve 1 hour of high brightness, pass-through charging is less important.
Features
Comfort and fit
Comfort and fit have always been the hallmark of BioLite headlamps. The moisture-wicking headband provides a secure, comfortable, “no-bounce” fit. There are no abrasion points. Plus, the Range 400 is only 2.6 ounces, so the front battery/lens unit doesn't feel like it's “tugging down” on my forehead.
Battery life
Both the Range 400 and 500 can run at high power for 6 hours and low power for 200 hours. The Range 300 has 4 hours of high power and 100 hours of low power. BioLite headlamps are dimmable, allowing you to adjust the amount of light for a given situation or to extend battery life.
Lightness and Brightness
Headlamp brightness is measured in lumens. The Range headlight series 300/400/500 reflects the maximum lumens. The Range 400 features a maximum brightness of 400 lumens and a beam distance of 90 meters (295 feet).
Dimmable
BioLite headlamps are dimmable, rather than having fixed (low/med/high) settings. This allows you to choose the precise level of light for a given situation. Generally, a low setting is sufficient for use inside my tent. I seldom need full high power, even when night hiking.
Charging
Fast charging is one of the Range’s standout capabilities: 8 minutes of charge gives 1 hour of run time on high for all Range models. The Range 400 and 500 will charge from 0% to 100% in 80 minutes.
Water resistance
The BioLite Range series is rated at IP67, meaning it is dust-tight and fully submersible. The Dash 450 and 800 Pro are rated IPX4. This means it is protected against water splashes, but is not rated for dust.
Control buttons
The BioLite Range 400 and 500 have two buttons on top of the battery/lens unit, whereas the Range 300 has only a single button. The rectangular button controls the headlamp lock, on/off, and brightness. The square button controls the light modes (spot/strobe/red). The buttons have a nice crisp feel. The controls are intuitive and easy to learn.
Locking feature
A reliable locking feature is an essential feature for headlamps, especially backpacking headlamps that get jostled and can accidentally turn on in your pack. On several occasions with other headlamps, I have arrived at camp to find my headlamp had turned on and the battery was dead.
The BioLite Range series has a secure, easy to use locking system. Holding the rectangular control button for 5 seconds locks or unlocks the headlamp.
Lighting modes
The BioLite Range 400 has spot, strobe, and red lights. All three light modes are dimmable. The Range 500 also features a floodlight mode. The Range 300 only has spot and strobe light modes.
Which BioLite Headlamp Should You Buy?
The BioLite Headlamp 330 (left), BioLite Dash 450 (middle), and BioLite Range 400 (right). With the Range 400, the battery is now included in the headlamp case rather than on the back of the headband.
With the introduction of the Range headlamp series, BioLite has created a nice use differentiation:
Backpacking Headlamp — Range 400/500
The BioLite Range 400 and 500 have the battery life, quick charging ability, and water/dust resistance to withstand long, rugged thru-hikes and backpacking trips. Both have a red light mode to help preserve your night vision and protect the eyes of your hiking partners. I prefer the Range 500 for backpacking because it has a floodlight mode, which I like to use in my shelter.
Unlike the Dash 450 and 800 Pro, the Range series does not have the battery located on the back of the headband. This makes it more comfortable to use while lying down.
Running Headlamp — Dash 450
The BioLite Dash 450’s battery is located on the back of the band. This means that it has a more balanced weight than the other headlamps. The balanced weight distribution helps the BioLite feel secure and reduce “bounce” during a run.
The Dash 450 features a red backlight integrated into its battery pack. The backlight is controlled separately from the front light. The backlight can either be a red flood or a red strobe light. This is a great safety feature for running or walking at night. However, the battery pack on the back makes it less comfortable when using it lying down in a tent. For more, read our review of the BioLite Dash 450.
Extreme Adventure Headlamp 800 Pro
The BioLite Headlamp 800 Pro has several features specifically designed for extreme adventures. It will fit a helmet. There are eight light modes, including an 800-lumen burst mode. Additionally, there is a constant mode, so the headlamp will not dim over time.
The 800 Pro has the longest battery life (7 hours on high) and an 8 hour reserve battery (5 lumens). Plus, it comes with a 3’ charging cord, making it easier to “pass-through” charge while you’re on the move. However, it is also the heaviest BioLite headlamp, weighing 5.6 ounces. The large battery pack on the back of your head does not make it conducive to using while lying down in your tent.
Household Emergency or Day Pack Headlamp - Range 300
The Range 300 is BioLite's most affordable headlamp ($40). There are only the spot and strobe white light modes. It weighs under 2 ounces and is perfect for keeping in a day pack or using when reading in bed.
BioLite Headlamp Usage Tips
The following are some tips I’ve learned over using the BioLite 330 for several years:
Adjust the Brightness For the Situation
BioLite headlamps have dimmable spot and flood lights. I seldom need to use the full brightness, even when night hiking. Dimming the light will significantly increase battery life.
Lock the Headlamp When Not In Use
Few things are worse than having a dead headlamp battery. BioLite headlamps can be locked by pressing the power/mode button for 5 seconds. Holding the button down for another 5 seconds unlocks the headlamp.
Use the Red Light Mode to Preserve Night Vision and Protect the Eyes of Others
Your campmates will appreciate you using the redlight mode. The red light will also help preserve your night vision.
Where to buy the BioLite Range headlamp
REI Co-op
For now, the Biolite Range is an REI exclusive. Free shipping with no minimum purchase for REI Co-op members, as well as a 10% dividend on all full-price merchandise and a one-year satisfaction guarantee.
BioLite
You may find exclusive colors or options when buying directly from the manufacturer.
Similar Products
BioLite Dash 450
Price: $60
Weight (including batteries): 2.75 ounces
Bulb type: LED
Light Output: 450 lumens
Maximum Beam Distance: 90 meters
Power Source: USB Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery (USB-C)
Run Time (High): 3 hours
Run Time (Low): 60 hours
Waterproof Rating: IPX4
The BioLite Dash 450 is BioLite's running headlamp, with a light on the back for visibility. For more, read our in-depth review of the Dash 450.
Power Source: USB Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery (micro USB)
Run Time (High): 4 hours
Run Time (Low): 225 hours
Weight (including batteries): 2.6 ounces
Maximum Beam Distance: 100 meters
Waterproof Rating: IP67
Price: $70
The Black Diamond Spot 400-R is similar to the BioLite Range 400 in many respects. However, it charges via micro USB, which means you have to carry another power cable on backpacking trips. We're always looking to simply our charging cables. For more, read our Best Headlamps review.
Power Source: USB Rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery (USB-C)
Run Time (High): 2:40 hours
Run Time (Low): 45 hours
Weight (including batteries): 1.98 ounces
Maximum Beam Distance: 64 meters
Waterproof Rating: IP66
Price: $37
The Nitecore NU25 UL is a great 400-lumen, lightweight headlamp. However, the battery doesn't last as long as the Range, and it has settings, rather than being dimmable. Read our review of the NU25 UL in our Best Headlamps story.
Why you should trust us / about the author
Mike Unger is closing in on 28,000 miles on North American long trails. He is one of a handful of people who is a Double Triple Crowner, having hiked the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail each—twice. He’s also hiked more obscure routes, such as the Ouachita Trail and the Oregon Desert Trail, and was part of the group that set the First Known Time on the Blue Mountains Trail.
He’s also picked up another passion along the way: long-distance bicycle touring, including the 1,850-mile Pacific Coast route and 2,700 mile Great Divide Mountain Bike Route.
