Two headlamps worth lining up side by side. The FL97R leans on low weight while the HM65R-T V2.0 answers with brightness, so the pick comes down to which you value.
| Coast FL97R | Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 73✓ | 67 |
| Max lumens | 1250 lm | 1600 lm✓ |
| Weight | 4.2 oz✓ | 5.0 oz |
| Beam distance | 225 m✓ | 185 m |
| Max runtime | 15 h | n/s |
| Price | $60✓ | $105 |
| Battery | Hybrid | Rechargeable |
| Water rating | n/s | IP68 |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: FL97R in blue, HM65R-T V2.0 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 Coast FL97R and Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 take different routes to the same job. The FL97R wins on low weight and longer throw, and the HM65R-T V2.0 pushes back on brightness.
The FL97R is 24 g lighter, a longer beam (225 vs 185 m), and $45 cheaper. The HM65R-T V2.0 is brighter (1600 vs 1250 lm). On the default GearScore the FL97R leads 73 to 67.
Pick the FL97R if you care most about low weight and longer throw, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the HM65R-T V2.0 if brightness matter more to you, or you are focused on your priorities.
The Coast FL97R. It is 24 g lighter than the HM65R-T V2.0.
The Fenix HM65R-T V2.0. It is brighter (1600 vs 1250 lm) than the FL97R.
The Coast FL97R, 73 to 67 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the FL97R for low weight, or the HM65R-T V2.0 for brightness. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.