FlashlightChart.com
Nitecore

Nitecore HC60 headlamp review

Cree XM-L2 U2 LED
1000 lm output
3400 cd intensity
1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery

The Nitecore HC60 headlamp was released in 2016. 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, 3400 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 117 m.

Want to know if the Nitecore made a really good flashlight? You'll find out by the end of our article!

Table of Contents

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. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications for the Nitecore HC60, then tell us.

Nitecore HC60 / HC60

This Nitecore headlamp plays a crucial role in safety. It is especially important during nighttime or in emergencies. This light has 5 modes of lighting. You don't have to cycle through many modes to find what you want. The HC60's mode memory makes the flashlight start in your preferred or needed mode. The strobe function produces a high-frequency flashing light pattern. It disorients or distracts potential threats or aggressors. This USB rechargeable flashlight eliminates the need for disposable batteries. It offers a cheaper and more eco-friendly solution.

Nitecore HC60 specifications

BrandNitecore
NameHC60
TypeHC60
Rating
Rated 4 / 5 based on 1416 user votes.
Launch2016
Formheadlamp

This headlamp lets you aim the beam where you need it. It gives better sight and cuts the risk of accidents or mistakes.

Nitecore HC60 / 1

Body, materials, weight, colors

Weight98.5 g
Length79 mm
Head diameter18.5 mm
Materialaluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colorsblack

The HC60 is small, compact, and designed for ultra-portability. A balanced flashlight has even weight. It can be more comfortable to hold for longer and reduce hand fatigue. The aluminium body of the HC60 has excellent thermal conductivity. This means it can effectively dissipate heat generated by the flashlight's components. The HAIII coating resists corrosion well. It shields the aluminum from moisture, humidity, and other corrosive elements. The HC60 flashlight comes in a stylish black color.

Nitecore HC60 / 2

System, LED, lens, reflector

EmitterCree XM-L2 U2 LED
Color temperature6500 K
ReflectorSMO
Lenstoughtened AR coated glass
Switchelectronic front

Lighting professionals trust Cree LEDs. Cree LEDs have gained a strong reputation for quality and performance. The color temperature choice depends on the light's use and personal taste. The smooth reflector creates a well-defined hotspot at the center. This hotspot provides a concentrated beam for long-range use. The AR coating reduces the loss of light due to reflections, allowing more light to pass through the lens. Some flashlights with electronic switches have programmable features. They allow users to customize the behavior of the flashlight.

Performance, flux, intensity, throw

Flux1000 lm
Intensity3400 cd
Throw117 m
CD/LM factor3.4

With 1000 lm, the HC60 flashlight will offer a brighter and more powerful beam of light. The HC60 flashlight has 3400 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. The candela per lumen (cd/lm) ratio can be used to determine if a flashlight has a spot or flood type beam.

Software, user interface, modes

Modes5 modes
Mode memoryyes
Ramping modeno
Strobeyes
SOS/Beaconyes

A flashlight's modes are different output settings or brightness levels. They can be chosen to meet different needs and preferences. The flashlight has mode memory. It remembers the mode you were using when the light was last turned off. It stays in that mode when you turn it on again. The HC60 flashlight has a strobe function. It produces a rapid, repetitive flashing of light. The SOS signal is commonly used in outdoor adventures or survival scenarios.

Features, battery, protections

Battery1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery
Battery indicatoryes
Charger portmicroUSB
LVPyes
Thermal regulationyes
ProtectionIPx7
AUX LEDsno
Magneticno

The HC60 flashlight utilizes 1 x 18650 Li-Ion battery as its power source. A battery indicator lets users see the battery status. It helps them decide when to recharge or replace the battery. A flashlight's USB charger can be very useful. This is especially true in emergencies. In such situations, access to power outlets may be limited. The flashlight detects when the battery's voltage has dropped to a certain level. Then, it reduces or cuts off the power.

The HC60 has thermal protection feature. These mechanisms track and regulate the flashlight's temperature as it operates. The "7" in the IPx7 rating shows that the flashlight can survive being submerged in water. It can withstand a certain depth for a limited time without getting damaged.

Accessories, package contents

Package contents18650 battery
headband
microUSB cable
spare o-ring

The included battery lets you immediately use the flashlight for your desired applications. It saves time and allows you to focus on your tasks or activities. Instead of searching for matching O-rings, having spare O-rings allows quick fixes.

According to the ANSI/NEMA FL1 Standard, we measure the performance of the HC60 flashlight 30 seconds after switching on the light. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

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
  • battery indicator
  • USB charger
  • low-voltage protection
  • thermal regulation
  • waterproof
  • battery included

Cons

  • cool light
  • low intensity
  • no auxiliary LEDs
  • non-magnetic

Photos

Nitecore HC60 / HC60 photo 1.
Nitecore HC60 / HC60 photo 2.
Nitecore HC60 / HC60 photo 3.
Nitecore HC60 / HC60

If there’s information about the Nitecore HC60 that you would like to see on this site, then write to us.

David Hagon
I love bushcraft and flashlights. I find joy in mastering wilderness survival skills and exploring the realm of illuminating gadgets. Bushcraft isn't just fun, it's a learning journey. I form a strong bond with nature. It's more than a hobby, it enriches me in practical and spiritual ways.
FlashlightChart.com / Flashlights / Nitecore / Nitecore HC60 (2016)