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Princeton Tec Eos

*Est. $40

Reviewed by ConsumerSearch

Long distance LED headlamp

Pros

Excellent battery life (44 hours on low setting)
Adjustable bright spotlight
Voltage regulator for consistent light
Lifetime warranty

Cons

No diffuser for task lighting
No red light for night vision

Where to Buy

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Our Analysis
Specs
32 Amazon Reviews

The Princeton Tec Eos headlamp gets thorough testing in the LED headlamp comparison review at Backpacking Light, and even more technical tests at FlashlightReviews.com. For reviews based on extensive field tests, we turn to experienced gear testers at Backpacker magazine and BackpackGearTest.org. The owner-written reviews at REI.com are also useful, as are the REI staff calculations of practical light output and throw for hiking.

The waterproof 3.7-ounce Princeton Tec Eos headlamp is a top choice for lightweight distance lighting - for nighttime hiking, biking or running. It can throw a narrow spotlight beam as far as 190 feet, and reviews say the headband is both secure and comfortable. Brightness adjusts among three levels, and a voltage regulator keeps the light consistently bright much longer than most headlamps. If you need a red-light option for night vision, consider the 3.3-ounce Petzl Tactikka XP (*est. $60).

Where To Buy

Princeton Tec EOSR Maxbright Rebel LED Headlamp (Gray/Black)

(32 reviews)
Buy new: $49.99 $33.79 86 New from $26.36

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Our Sources

1. BackpackingLight.com

This review rates the Princeton Tec Eos on eleven factors, comparing it with nine other LED headlamps. The Eos gets top ranking for battery life and voltage regulation and for providing consistent light far longer than most other headlamps.

Review: State of the Market Report: LED Headlamps (2007), Rick Dreher, Mar. 2007

2. FlashlightReviews.com

This site specializes in expert technical reviews of handheld flashlights but also tests headlamps. The Princeton Tec Eos earns a top five-star rating here, based on detailed tests of light output, runtime and comfort.

Review: Princeton Tec EOS Headlamp, Doug Pribis, Dec. 2004

3. Backpacker Magazine

In this annual gear guide, editors call the Princeton Tec Eos headlamp a best buy, based on extensive field tests comparing new headlamps.

Review: 2006 Gear Guide, Editors of Backpacker magazine, Mar. 2006

4. Backpack Gear Test

Three experienced backpackers and gear testers review the Princeton Tec Eos headlamp here, reporting on long-term field tests as well as first impressions and early tests. The reviewers find the Eos sturdy and easy to use.

Review: Princeton Tec Eos Headlamp Reviews, Reviewers for BackpackGearTest.org

5. REI.com

More than a dozen owners review the Princeton Tec Eos headlamp here, giving it a near-perfect average rating. REI staff also calculate the amount of light the Eos throws (in lux) at two meters - the distance most important in seeing a path right ahead of you - plus beam throw in meters and battery life at high and low light levels.

Review: Princeton Tec Eos Reviews, Editors and contributors to REI.com

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