Review: Nitecore HC65 UHE (Headlamp, 18650, USB-C Rechargeable, Multi Beam, UHE LEDs)

[Budda]

I received the light from Nitecore for the review.

The HC65 HUE is a multi beam headlamp, powered by a 18650 battery rechargeable via USB-C port. The light has 2 auxiliary sets of LEDs, 2 red ones and 2 HICRI ones; and 8 main UHE Leds.



The light comes in this box







The light comes with this compact case, that fits all the accessories (manual, additional headlamp central strap, charging cable), as well as the headlamp (battery included).









The light weights 152 grams, and measures 90x42x46mm.















The 2 electronic switches.



The body of the HC65 rotates sturdily over the plastic body, staying in position even when shaken vigorously.




The USB C charging port, next to it the 4 batteries indicator.







On the other side of the body of the lamp, the tailcap opens to revail the slot for the 18650 battery









The light comes with a 4000mAh 18650 battery.





The new headband, wider, with a waffle construction allows more airflow, while being always secured to your head thanks to a silicone strip (that also prevents sweat from running into your eyes).







UI

 

[Budda]

Output & Runtime











Beamshots





























My thoughts

The HC65 HUE is well built and finished.

I like the UI with 2 separate buttons that makes easy to scroll both through modes and levels. The levels are well spaced, and I liked that they kept the low modes for the HICRI mode.

The regulation is on the conservative side, with even the 500 Lumen mode stepping down gradually to preserve the battery. I would have liked a 700/1000 constant output mode.

Regarding the red LEDs and the HICRI ones, the beam in the pictures appear to be uneven, with one side more bright than the other. In practice, this is not noticeable and it didn't bother me. It's likely due to the way the LEDs are positioned under the optics.

I like that the light does not require a proprietary battery to operate.

Thanks to: AntoLed, Won, Zampa.

 

[bluedog225]

Crazy bright. Good runtime. Happy with it.

 

[Rob Littler]

HC65 UHE updated?

Got mine yesterday, it seems they are now mounting one of the auxiliary leds upside down, whilst the beam from them is still full of artifacts, it is symmetrical and the artifacts cancel each other out to some extent.