Two headlamps worth lining up side by side. The NU27 leans on low weight while the HM50R V2.0 answers with brightness, so the pick comes down to which you value.
| Nitecore NU27 | Fenix HM50R V2.0 | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 79✓ | 75 |
| Max lumens | 600 lm | 700 lm✓ |
| Weight | 2.0 oz✓ | 2.8 oz |
| Beam distance | 123 m✓ | 115 m |
| Max runtime | 57 h | 42 h |
| Price | $45✓ | $60 |
| Battery | Rechargeable | Hybrid |
| Water rating | n/s | IP68 |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: NU27 in blue, HM50R 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 Nitecore NU27 and Fenix HM50R V2.0 take different routes to the same job. The NU27 wins on low weight and longer throw, and the HM50R V2.0 pushes back on brightness.
The NU27 is 22 g lighter, a longer beam (123 vs 115 m), and $15 cheaper. The HM50R V2.0 is brighter (700 vs 600 lm). On the default GearScore the NU27 leads 79 to 75.
Pick the NU27 if you care most about low weight and longer throw, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the HM50R V2.0 if brightness matter more to you, or you are focused on your priorities.
The Nitecore NU27. It is 22 g lighter than the HM50R V2.0.
The Fenix HM50R V2.0. It is brighter (700 vs 600 lm) than the NU27.
The Nitecore NU27, 79 to 75 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the NU27 for low weight, or the HM50R V2.0 for brightness. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.