A close look at two headlamps buyers cross-shop. The Range 400 leans on low weight while the Axis answers with brightness, so the pick comes down to which you value.
| BioLite Range 400 | Princeton Tec Axis | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 74✓ | 70 |
| Max lumens | 400 lm | 450 lm✓ |
| Weight | 2.6 oz✓ | 2.9 oz |
| Beam distance | 90 m✓ | 35 m |
| Max runtime | 200 h | 50 h |
| Price | $60✓ | $80 |
| Battery | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
| Water rating | IP67 | IPX4 |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Range 400 in blue, Axis 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.
Put the BioLite Range 400 next to the Princeton Tec Axis and the trade-offs are clear. The Range 400 wins on low weight and longer throw, and the Axis pushes back on brightness.
The Range 400 is 7 g lighter, a longer beam (90 vs 35 m), and $20 cheaper. The Axis is brighter (450 vs 400 lm). On the default GearScore the Range 400 leads 74 to 70.
Pick the Range 400 if you care most about low weight and longer throw, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Axis if brightness matter more to you, or you are focused on your priorities.
The BioLite Range 400. It is 7 g lighter than the Axis.
The Princeton Tec Axis. It is brighter (450 vs 400 lm) than the Range 400.
The BioLite Range 400, 74 to 70 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the Range 400 for low weight, or the Axis for brightness. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.