A close look at two headlamps buyers cross-shop. The Nao RL leans on low weight while the HF8R Core answers with brightness, so the pick comes down to which you value.
| Petzl Nao RL | Ledlenser HF8R Core | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 67✓ | 58 |
| Max lumens | 1500 lm | 1600 lm✓ |
| Weight | 5.1 oz✓ | 6.8 oz |
| Beam distance | 200 m | 210 m✓ |
| Max runtime | 40 h | 90 h |
| Price | $200 | $120✓ |
| Battery | Rechargeable | Rechargeable |
| Water rating | IPX4 | IP68 |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Nao RL in blue, HF8R Core 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 Petzl Nao RL next to the Ledlenser HF8R Core and the trade-offs are clear. The Nao RL wins on low weight, and the HF8R Core pushes back on brightness and longer throw.
The Nao RL is 48 g lighter. The HF8R Core is brighter (1600 vs 1500 lm), a longer beam (210 vs 200 m), and $80 cheaper. On the default GearScore the Nao RL leads 67 to 58.
Pick the Nao RL if you care most about low weight, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the HF8R Core if brightness and longer throw matter more to you, or you are focused on your priorities.
The Petzl Nao RL. It is 48 g lighter than the HF8R Core.
The Ledlenser HF8R Core. It is brighter (1600 vs 1500 lm) than the Nao RL.
The Petzl Nao RL, 67 to 58 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the Nao RL for low weight, or the HF8R Core for brightness. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.