Zebra H501 vs H51f

I've been looking for a small EDC headlamp and was going to pickup a H501 last year. Then with the XP-G coming I decided to hold off and wait for the new LED. After much waiting the H51 came out but I really wanted a flood so the wait continued. Now we have a H51F but it doesn't see to be the same great design as the H501 so I'm torn between the two.

What I like about the H501 was the size and convenience. I'm planning to carry this in my pocket so size is a big deal. Of course the H51F is much bright but it's also bigger and the beam isn't as nice. I plan to use it for mostly close up work since I already carry a surefire C2 as a primary light.

I think I'm leaning towards the H501 but I wanted to get some opinions and see what people are favoring.

There are some other threads discussing just this, a search will find lots of comments.

For close up work I MUCH prefer the even illumination from my H501s (yes, I have 2) compared with the brighter central spot of my H51F. Seeing as you have another regular light I have no hesitation in recommending a H501. I also prefer the tint of the H501.

For mostly close up work, if I'm in your shoe, I would get H501.
If you prefer higher output, I'd rather get H51 with the option of adding a diffuser to give me a pseudo H51F.

Come to think of it, that's what I'm having now....

mrshish said:

I plan to use it for mostly close up work since I already carry a surefire C2 as a primary light.

Click to expand...

Can't speak for the other model but I have been using my new H501 for a couple weeks now, for exactly this purpose - close up work - and all I can say is, it's perfect. It broadcasts a wonderful even amount of light within the entire area that I am working on. No more moving my head just to zero in on something specific. And it's size is awesome. Assuming this light stands the test of time, I HIGHLY recommend it for this purpose.

I'm looking forward to Spring to test it around some campsites. I'm curious how it performs while setting up a tent in the dark. But for the things I have used it for thus far - working on the insides of electrical panels, appliances, computers, etc. - it's been perfect.

Jonny

Thanks guys, I think I just needed a confirmation that the 501 was the right choice. I'll order it today.

Tell us what you think after you get it. Always nice to hear another perspective.

Jonny

Ditto the recommendation for the H501w, it's a wonderful light. See beamshots comparing H501 and H51 here:

http://www.candlepowerforums.com/vb/showthread.php?310856-Flood-Beam-Headlamp-List-2011

I have both and I won't be getting rid of the H501. The pure flood is just the ticket for hands on work like setting up a tent, cooking, etc

The 501w is a really nicely made little light. Allot nicer than the Tikkina my daughter likes to steal on me. I actually bought my 501w for reading in bed so not to disturb my wife. I can say that I really like the warmer version for working up close and reading, seems easier on the eyes.

I also have the H31w, but I wouldn't use that for reading. I think it would be a little harsh.