Gearnalysis

BioLite HeadLamp 425 vs. Princeton Tec Vizz

Here is how these two headlamps compare on the numbers. The HeadLamp 425 leans on low weight while the Vizz answers with brightness, so the pick comes down to which you value.

BioLite
HeadLamp 425
73GearScore
425 lm · Rechargeable
wins 2 specs
Princeton Tec
Vizz
71GearScore
550 lm · AAA
wins 2 specs
BioLite HeadLamp 425Princeton Tec Vizz
GearScore73✓71
Max lumens425 lm550 lm✓
Weight2.8 oz✓3.2 oz
Beam distance85 m85 m
Max runtime60 h135 h
Price$60$52✓
BatteryRechargeableAAA
Water ratingIPX4IPX7

Highlighted cells mark the better spec: HeadLamp 425 in blue, Vizz in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. Runtime is shown for context and is not scored, since makers publish it at different brightness levels. GearScore is the overall rating (0 to 100); re-weight it on the full headlamp comparison. Prices are current MSRP.

The BioLite HeadLamp 425 against the Princeton Tec Vizz is a study in priorities. The HeadLamp 425 wins on low weight, and the Vizz pushes back on brightness and price.

The HeadLamp 425 is 14 g lighter. The Vizz is brighter (550 vs 425 lm) and $8 cheaper. On the default GearScore the HeadLamp 425 leads 73 to 71.

Pick the HeadLamp 425 if you care most about low weight, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Vizz if brightness and price matter more to you, or you are focused on your priorities.

Common questions

Which is lighter?

The BioLite HeadLamp 425. It is 14 g lighter than the Vizz.

Which is brighter?

The Princeton Tec Vizz. It is brighter (550 vs 425 lm) than the HeadLamp 425.

Which has the higher GearScore?

The BioLite HeadLamp 425, 73 to 71 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.

HeadLamp 425 or Vizz, which should you buy?

It depends on your priorities. Go with the HeadLamp 425 for low weight, or the Vizz for brightness. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.