BioLite Range 300 Headlamp Review

W.Back in 1973, Petzl introduced the first modern headlamp, a vast improvement over the handheld (or candle if you want to go back even further) torch. I’ve owned more than a few headlamps over the years and was happy to try them out. BioLite 300 range. This model promised to be lighter and more comfortable, but still provide enough light in a rechargeable package.

biolite 300 range at a glance

Recommended RRP: $39.95
Flag: Blue, gray and red
Weight: Advertised weight of 1.8 oz. My scale tipped at 1.9 oz. The included USB-C charging cable adds another 0.4 oz.
Production: 1.5 – 300 lumens
Battery life: 4 – 100 hours
Origin: made in China
Warranty: three years

Review circumstances

I received a BioLite Range 300 for review in late summer 2025. The lamp accompanied me on a trip to Alaska, as well as multiple camping trips in Ohio and numerous overnight walks.

Features of the BioLite 300 range

Light and comfortable: The lamp is incredibly light. My scale measured his weight at 1.9 oz. My other headlamps, a Petzl and a Black Diamond, weighed 3 and 3.4 ounces, respectively (including 3 AAA batteries each).

The difference in comfort is noticeable. Because of the lighter weight, the Range 300’s strap doesn’t need to be as tight on my head to stay in place. Speaking of the strap, the comfortable, stretchy material is all that touches my forehead. On the others, there’s a sizable plastic clip that attaches the light to the strap and presses against my skin.

BioLite does not use hard plastic against the forehead.

Rechargeable and fast charging: On multi-night hikes in the past, I carried a spare set of AAA batteries (1.4 oz). With the Range 300, the 0.4oz charging cable provides access to the power bank I already carry. According to published specifications, a full charge lasts 4 hours on high mode (300 lumens) and up to 100 hours at 5 lumens.

Fast charging is one of the features that sets the Range line of headlights apart. Eight minutes of charging adds another full hour on the brightest setting, and the headlamp should charge from zero to fully in 70 minutes, a feature that could be particularly attractive to hikers looking to quickly recharge during resupply stops.

Battery indicator: There is a 3-light battery indicator on the Range 300 that shows charging status, so you shouldn’t lose all light unexpectedly.

Reservation mode: When the battery began to run low, the lamp switches to backup mode, reducing the light to 5 lumens to give you a one-hour grace period before being completely plunged into darkness. The 5 lumens of light wouldn’t be great for hiking, but it’s enough to see while rummaging through a backpack or tent.

Waterproof: Information about the headlamp indicates that it is IP67 waterproof to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. Rain shouldn’t be a problem, and even letting it fall into the stream shouldn’t be a problem. I did just that as a test and the lamp continued to work fine.

BioLite 300 Pros Range

Solid: The lamp appears to be well made and provides plenty of light for my needs.

strong bbattery life: A full charge is enough for most weekend trips. The battery indicator and standby mode mean you’re much less likely to be left completely in the dark. The ability to add an hour of bright light with just eight minutes of charging is impressive.

I used the Range as a makeshift nightlight on a recent trip in a travel trailer, hanging it at its lowest setting (1.5 lumens), where it provided enough light to go to the bathroom without turning on the lights and waking everyone up. Since my older brothers have very old prostates, this was very helpful. The light would last over a week on a charge if used this way.

Overdeliveries compared to specifications: I appreciate a product that promises less and delivers more. On a full charge, my test unit lasted a little longer than the promised 4 hours on high power. An 8-minute charge added more than the hour on high that Biolite advertised. And once the battery was drained enough to automatically switch to 5-lumen standby mode, it maintained that light setting for the full hour promised.

Waterproof: While I wouldn’t throw the Range into every stream you cross, the worry-free use of the light on dark, rainy nights is a real plus.

Three-year warranty: Peace of mind.

BioLite 300 Range Cons

Without red light option: While the Range 300 has a strobe function, there is no red light setting. While it’s not a big deal to me, those hiking with groups, especially if staying in shelters with other people, absolutely need a red light option as a courtesy to those around them.

For those hikers, climb a Rank 400which includes a red configuration, could be a good option. An additional $20 can purchase a red light option, up to 400 lumens output, and longer battery life. The lamp is still relatively lightweight, but a little heavier at 2.6 oz.

How did it go?

The BioLite Range 300 has worked well for me. The full 300 lumens, while not as bright as some lights, are plenty bright for hitting trails after dark. With its light weight and comfortable strap, I could put it on and leave it overnight, something I hadn’t done with my previous headlamps. The battery life is sufficient for most weekend trips, and on longer hikes, recharging is a better option for me than changing batteries.

Buy the Biolite Range 300 Headlamp

Other options

400-R Black Diamond Point

• Recommended RRP: $69.95
• Weight: 2.6 ounces

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

• Recommended RRP: $87.95
• Weight: 3.1 ounces

Biolite Range 300 headlamp was donated for review purposes

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