BioLite Range 400 headlamp review: Fast-charging comfort that shines on winter runs

Winter darkness changes how we move outside. Dawn runs start in the cold gloom, and evening dog walks stretch into full night mode when light disappears early.

A good headlamp, like the Range 400, stops being optional and becomes the tool that keeps those moments possible.

I’ve used many over the years, some die too soon, others shift and bounce when I ran in them, and a few make simple tasks frustrating with fiddly buttons that are hard to use with gloves on, or harsh beams that can make you feel nauseous when moving.

When the BioLite Range 400 launched, its focus on fast charging and better everyday comfort immediately caught my attention.

I’ve tested it thoroughly these past few months on chilly evening runs and after-dark neighborhood walks.

It has quietly become the headlamp I grab first, not because it does everything, but because it handles the daily realities best.

Key specifications

The Range 400 keeps the design clean while hitting the practical marks.

• Price: $60 at bioliteenergy.com
• Max brightness and beam: 400 lumens with a focused spot beam reaching about 90 meters
• Runtime: 6 hours on high, up to 200 hours when dimmed low
• Battery: 1634 mAh Li-Ion, rechargeable via USB-C
• Charging speed: 8 minutes for roughly an hour on high, 30 minutes to 80%, full charge in around 80 minutes
• Water and dust resistance: IP67 rated (handles full submersion to 1 meter for 30 minutes, and heavy rain)
• Weight: 2.6 ounces (75 grams)
• Modes: Dimmable white spot, white strobe, dimmable red flood, red strobe (both white and red remember last brightness)
• Additional features: One-hand 60-degree tilt, moisture-wicking adjustable SlimFit headband (compatible with hats and helmets), lock mode, reserve mode (drops to 5 lumens for an extra hour when low)

Performance review

One of the best features is that quick 8-minute boost that provides a solid hour on high 400 lumen output, is genuinely useful.

I’ve topped it up right before a run or hike (because I had forgotten to prepare properly) and never worried about cutting an outing short.

The USB-C port sits on the rear for reasonably good access, though the unit needs to be tilted, which does mean you can’t make the most of the pass-through charging feature which allows you to charge it whilst using it.

Fit aways impresses me with BioLite headlamps (I have reviewed many in my time), this one is no exception.

With a SlimFit headband that uses a dual-adjustment system distributing tension evenly around your head.

It stays secure without pressure points, even on longer runs or under a beanie if you run with one. At 2.6 ounces, it’s light enough to forget, and the fabric handles moisture well in damp, cold conditions.

There is also plenty of reflectivity at the side (the BioLite logo), and also at the rear, as you can see in the image above.

This is important for being visible to cars and cyclists, as there’s no rear-facing red beam (only on the front).

The beam prioritizes spot throw over wide flood, so at 400 lumens, as you can imagine, it cuts through darkness effectively for trail running or hiking, illuminating obstacles far enough ahead for confident movement.

Dimming feels smooth on both white and red light modes, and the memory function starts it exactly where I left it, avoiding bright flashes when I only want low red for camp or close tasks.

The adjustable red flood mode preserves night vision nicely for reading or setup.

Runtime performs reliably in colder weather, and the reserve mode adds useful margin on longer outings.

The IP67 rating will hold up in steady rain and accidental streamside drops with absolutely no issues.

Once you learn how to change mode (from steady to strobe; double tap the mode button quickly), and adjust the brightness on the steady white and red beams, usability becomes second nature.

It’s very easy to operate thanks to there only being to buttons, but also the fact they are big enough to use, even with gloves.

There are a couple of limitations with this headlamp, which may or may not be important to you; they are not deal breakers for me, especially given the attractive price point.

The white light lacks a true flood pattern, so very close tasks like cooking can feel uneven unless switching to red mode. There’s no burst power mode or rear red light, which are features found on some pricier options.

Port access while worn requires a small adjustment, and the beam favors distance over perfectly even close illumination.

Overall, for the price, it excels for everyday winter use: runs, walks, light camping, or quick tasks after dark.

My verdict

The BioLite Range 400 has secured a regular spot in my winter kit, and the $60 price tag provides excellent value for money.

It nails the details that matter most in daily use, including rapid practical charging, a comfortable secure fit, and intuitive dimming with a reliable memory function.

For night runs, or anyone wanting a rechargeable headlamp that rarely needs babysitting, it works without drama.

At $60, it provides strong value with the charging speed and build quality. If you’re tired of headlamps that bounce, die quickly, or complicate simple nights outside, the Range 400 feels like a thoughtful, dependable step forward.

Thanks for reading, and let me know in the comments if you’ve tried it or have questions from your own use; I’m always happy to help. -Alastair