Nitecore HC30 headlamp review
The Nitecore HC30 headlamp was released in 2017. It uses Cree XM-L2 U2 LED, SMO reflector and 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The powerful emitter in this headlamp provides up to 1000 lm output, 6600 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 162 m.
Keen to discover if this Nitecore headlamp lives up to the hype? Keep reading!
Table of Contents
- Nitecore HC30 specifications
- Body, materials, weight, colors
- System, LED, lens, reflector
- Performance, flux, intensity, throw
- Software, user interface, modes
- Features, battery, protections
- Accessories, package contents
- Links
- Conclusion, pros and cons
- Photos
- Comparisons
The content of this article reflects our own experiences and viewpoints. We aim to offer insights on a topic, and we hope others find it helpful and motivating. Additionally, we make every effort to provide accurate and comprehensive coverage.
The HC30 is useful when you need to use both hands. This light has 5 modes of lighting. The HC30 mode memory eliminates the need to cycle through modes. It provides convenience and saves time. You can use the strobe function as a self-defense tool.
Nitecore HC30 specifications
| Brand | Nitecore |
|---|---|
| Name | HC30 |
| Type | HC30 |
| Rating | |
| Launch | 2017 |
| Form | headlamp |
This is a comfortable headlamp. Whether you're engaging in outdoor activities like camping, running, or fishing, etc.
Body, materials, weight, colors
| Weight | 40.3 g |
|---|---|
| Length | 98 mm |
| Head diameter | 24.2 mm |
| Material | aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish |
| Colors | black |
The flashlight is lightweight and easy to handle for most people. A smaller flashlight is easier to carry in a pocket, bag, or pouch. The aluminium body of the HC30 has excellent thermal conductivity. HAIII is a specific anodizing process, it creates a thicker and harder oxide layer than regular anodizing. The HC30 flashlight is available in black.
System, LED, lens, reflector
| Emitter | Cree XM-L2 U2 LED |
|---|---|
| Color temperature | 6500 K |
| Reflector | SMO |
| Lens | toughtened AR coated glass |
| Switch | electronic front |
Cree is widely regarded as a reputable LED manufacturer. Warm, white light is generally more comfortable. The SMO's main job is to focus and project light from the source. The AR coating is thin and applied to the lens surface. The electronic switches may have a higher chance of standby drain.
Performance, flux, intensity, throw
| Flux | 1000 lm |
|---|---|
| Intensity | 6600 cd |
| Throw | 162 m |
| CD/LM factor | 6.6 |
With 1000 lm, the HC30 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The HC30 flashlight has 6600 cd, it provides a much brighter and more intense beam. The throw is the distance in meters at which the flashlight produces a light intensity of 0.25 lux. Candela per lumen (cd/lm) measures a flashlight's beam intensity.
Software, user interface, modes
| Modes | 5 modes |
|---|---|
| Mode memory | yes |
| Ramping mode | no |
| Strobe | yes |
| SOS/Beacon | yes |
A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. You can use Strobe for signaling purposes. It can also be used for self-defense or to attract attention in emergency situations. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed.
Features, battery, protections
| Battery | 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery |
|---|---|
| Battery indicator | no |
| Charger port | no |
| LVP | yes |
| Thermal regulation | yes |
| Protection | IPx8 |
| AUX LEDs | no |
| Magnetic | no |
The HC30 flashlight's power source is 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery. The HC30 cannot charge batteries. You may need an external charger to keep your battery going. This flashlight has built-in low voltage protection (LVP). It prevents damage from over-discharge. The built-in thermal control adjusts brightness output to prevent overheating. The "8" in the IPx8 rating means the highest level of protection.
Accessories, package contents
| Package contents | clip diffuser headband spare o-ring spare rubber cover |
|---|
The clip is very helpful, it lets you quickly access your flashlight while keeping your hands free for other tasks. When using spare O-rings, follow the maker's instructions.
Links
| Official site | https://flashlight.nitecore.com/ |
|---|
Conclusion, pros and cons
This Nitecore flashlight, like any other, has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a close look at both sides to understand this flashlight better. I share my thoughts on its standout features and the parts that might need improvement. Keep in mind, these are just my opinions, and you might have a different perspective.
Pros
- lightweight
- aluminium body
- AR coated lens
- adequate performance
- multiple modes
- mode memory
- tactical strobe
- SOS/beacon function
- low-voltage protection
- thermal regulation
- waterproof
- clip
Cons
- cool light
- no battery indicator
- no built-in charger
- no auxiliary LEDs
- non-magnetic
Photos
Comparisons
According to our statistics, the Nitecore HC30 flashlight was most often compared on our site with the following flashlights.
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Updated: May 1, 2024
