A close look at two headlamps buyers cross-shop. The NU31 takes a modest overall edge, led by brightness, but the Actik has its own case.
| Nitecore NU31 | Petzl Actik | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 73✓ | 70 |
| Max lumens | 550 lm✓ | 450 lm |
| Weight | 3.4 oz✓ | 3.5 oz |
| Beam distance | 145 m✓ | 100 m |
| Max runtime | 147 h | 100 h |
| Price | $40✓ | $65 |
| Battery | Rechargeable | Hybrid |
| Water rating | IP66 | IPX4 |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: NU31 in blue, Actik 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 Nitecore NU31 next to the Petzl Actik and the trade-offs are clear. The NU31 wins on brightness and low weight, and the Actik pushes back on value.
The NU31 is brighter (550 vs 450 lm), 3 g lighter, and a longer beam (145 vs 100 m). On the default GearScore the NU31 leads 73 to 70.
Pick the NU31 if you care most about brightness and low weight, which makes it the better call for your priorities. Pick the Actik if you would rather save the difference.
The Nitecore NU31. It is brighter (550 vs 450 lm) than the Actik.
The Nitecore NU31. It is 3 g lighter than the Actik.
The Nitecore NU31, 73 to 70 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the NU31 for brightness, or the Actik for the price. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.