Gearnalysis

Petzl Swift RL vs. Black Diamond Distance LT 1100

A close look at two headlamps buyers cross-shop. The Swift RL takes a modest overall edge, led by low weight, but the Distance LT 1100 has its own case.

Petzl
Swift RL
73GearScore
1100 lm · Rechargeable
wins 4 specs
Black Diamond
Distance LT 1100
70GearScore
1100 lm · Rechargeable
wins 0 specs
Petzl Swift RLBlack Diamond Distance LT 1100
GearScore73✓70
Max lumens1100 lm1100 lm
Weight3.5 oz✓3.8 oz
Beam distance155 m✓125 m
Max runtimen/s120 h
Price$130✓$150
BatteryRechargeableRechargeable
Water ratingIPX4IP67

Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Swift RL in blue, Distance LT 1100 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 Swift RL next to the Black Diamond Distance LT 1100 and the trade-offs are clear. The Swift RL wins on low weight and longer throw, and the Distance LT 1100 pushes back on value.

The Swift RL is 9 g lighter, a longer beam (155 vs 125 m), and $20 cheaper. On the default GearScore the Swift RL leads 73 to 70.

Pick the Swift RL if you care most about low weight and longer throw, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Distance LT 1100 if you would rather save the difference.

Common questions

Which is lighter?

The Petzl Swift RL. It is 9 g lighter than the Distance LT 1100.

Which throws farther?

The Petzl Swift RL. It is a longer beam (155 vs 125 m) than the Distance LT 1100.

Which has the higher GearScore?

The Petzl Swift RL, 73 to 70 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.

Swift RL or Distance LT 1100, which should you buy?

It depends on your priorities. Go with the Swift RL for low weight, or the Distance LT 1100 for the price. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.