Review: LEDLENSER NEO10R/MH5/NEO6R: A versatile outdoor headlamp that's more than just a light, made by a German manufacturer with deep knowledge of light
Written by Outdoor Gearzine Editorial Department
Every year, new, brighter outdoor headlamps designed for hiking, trail running, and other activities are released
It's true that brightness is one of the major points when evaluating the quality of a headlamp. However, after using headlamps for the past few years, the joy I feel when I see a new product that's just a little brighter may not be as great as it used to be. Of course, brighter is always better, but with all the models now being more than bright enough, it doesn't seem like there's much difference in performance
Headlamps should not only be considered for their brightness, but also for their overall quality as a tool to achieve a certain purpose, such as overall visibility, battery life, lightness, ease of use, etc. Now that the brightness competition between manufacturers is coming to a halt somewhat, it seems like the right time to think about this
Ledlenser , which we will be looking at today, is a global lighting company that has consistently produced lights used in a variety of fields since it was founded in a garage in Solingen, Germany, and now employs approximately 1,500 people worldwide. Ledlenser is involved in all fields that require high-quality lighting, including outdoor activities and sports, as well as automobiles, aviation, railways, construction sites, police and fire departments, and continues to produce the best lighting necessary for each of these fields.
We compared Ledlenser outdoor
table of contents
- Regarding the headlamps featured in this article:
- A rough comparison of performance and features of the NEO10R, NEO6R, and MH5
- We compared the features of each item
- Lighting performance: NEO10R for "bright and far-reaching," NEO6R for "wide reach," and MH5 for "balanced"
- Battery life: NEO10R with a large capacity battery and long-lasting brightness, MH5 with lightweight and versatile design, NEO6R with lightweight and long-lasting brightness
- Operability: Simple and intuitive operation
- Functionality: Multifunctional MH5, waterproof NEO6R, easy-to-ride NEO10R
- Weight: The NEO6R and MH5 are surprisingly light, while the NEO10R is heavy but not noticeable with some ingenuity
- Summary: Features of each model and recommended usage
- NEO10R: Bright, long-lasting, and comfortable fit, ideal for intense trail running
- MH5: Lightweight, multi-functional, and versatile, it's ideal for mountain climbing and other outdoor activities
- NEO6R: Ideal as a main light for camping or disaster preparedness, or as a secondary light for mountain climbing or trail running
Regarding the headlamps featured in this article:
This time, three of the most popular and high-performance items from the NEO/MH series of headlamps from Ledlenser's wide lineup: the , , MH5.These camping trail running .
A rough comparison of performance and features of the NEO10R, NEO6R, and MH5
| item | NEO10R | MH5 | NEO6R |
|---|---|---|---|
| image |  |  |  |
| Reference price (excluding tax) | 10,000 yen | 5,500 yen | 4,500 yen |
| Here is ◎ |
|
|
|
| Here is △ |
|
|
|
| long distance irradiation | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| short distance irradiation | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Battery life | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Operability | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Functionality | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| weight | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Specifications | |||
| item | NEO10R | MH5 | NEO6R |
| Light intensity (lm) (max/min) | 600/10 | 400/20 | 240/20 |
| Official firing distance (m) (max/min) | 150/20 | 180/40 | 30/10 |
| Official irradiation time (h) (max/min) | 10/120 | 4/35 | 6/40 |
| Official weight (g) | 179 | 94 | 95 |
| Actual weight (g) (main unit + battery) | 178(129+49) | 98(76+21) | 96 |
| Dedicated battery | Lithium-ion battery | Lithium-ion battery (750mAh, 3.7V) | Lithium polymer battery (1400mAh, 3.7V) |
| Dry cell batteries | × | 1 x AA battery | × |
| Waterproof and dustproof performance | IP54 | IP54 | IP57 |
| Front red light | × | ○ | × |
| rear light | △ (Battery lamp when worn on the back of the head) | × | ○ |
We compared the features of each item
Lighting performance: NEO10R for "bright and far-reaching," NEO6R for "wide reach," and MH5 for "balanced"
The outstanding feature of Redlenser lights that is not found in lights from other brands is, above all, the uniform and easy-to-see light distribution provided by the high-quality lens . With a typical headlamp, the brightness decreases more or less as you move from the center to the periphery, but Redlenser's light illuminates the entire illumination range with almost equal brightness. This performance is demonstrated in all three models.
NEO10R is suitable for brightly illuminating a single distant point
In the photo below, all models were used in wide mode to illuminate a nearby area with steps and unevenness. You can see that all models provide beautiful, uniform illumination from the center to the edge of the light. Comparing the models, the NEO10R stands out in brightness, as per its specs, but the MH5 is also bright enough and its range is not particularly narrow. The NEO6R is not suitable for illuminating distant objects in terms of brightness. In terms of illumination range, the NEO6R is simply larger, and the NEO10R and MH5 are almost the same, but the NEO10R is slightly larger
All three models have consistent brightness within the illumination range
Next, the photo below shows the low light mode, shining on my hands. According to the specs, the brightness in low light mode is NEO10R: 10 lumens, MH5: 20 lumens, and NEO6R: 20 lumens, but the difference is barely noticeable. However, while the NEO10R and MH5 have a wide beam that is noticeable on the edges even when set to wide, the NEO6R has a wide, broad beam range that feels like it illuminates the entire field of view, making it comfortable
The NEO6R is comfortable for hand illumination in weak mode
The NEO6R is ideal for illuminating nearby areas with a wide beam of light
All of the photos below are taken with wide light. The NEO6R's illumination range is extremely wide, equivalent to the human field of vision, which is said to be 150 degrees. This allows you to see obstacles within your field of vision without having to turn your head, significantly reducing stress
Battery life: NEO10R with a large capacity battery and long-lasting brightness, MH5 with lightweight and versatile design, NEO6R with lightweight and long-lasting brightness
The battery life displayed on the headlamp's packaging or website is merely the manufacturer's estimate of how long the battery will last, not the length of time it will maintain full brightness. Unfortunately, it's possible that even if you buy a headlamp thinking it will last a long time, it may actually become dim quickly
So we used a light meter to measure the actual change in brightness over time, and then compared that to how the brightness changed as the battery depleted
We fully charged the standard dedicated batteries for all three models, set them to high power mode, and continuously shone the light onto a sensor located just under 3 meters away to observe how the brightness changed over time
Please note that the brightness (LX, lux) here is merely a number obtained using this measurement environment and illuminance meter, so we hope you will use it as a reference for the degree of change in brightness over time as the battery depletes
Since the brightness and type of light are different, let's start by comparing the NEO10R and MH5
For both headlamps, the maximum brightness when fully charged actually drops off quite quickly. The NEO10R doesn't last more than 5 minutes. This shows that comparing headlamps based on full-power brightness (lumens) doesn't really make sense
NEO10R with amazing battery
However, after the sudden drop, the brightness continues to be maintained at a relatively high level, and although it gradually decreases, it still maintains sufficient brightness for more than half a day.
*The official battery capacity of the NEO10R is "3000mAh 3.6V", but when I checked the battery I used this time, it was "3400mAh 3.7V". I don't think it will affect most people, but the lifespan of the model currently on sale may be a little shorter.
The lightweight yet practical MH5
On the other hand, the MH5 remains brighter than the NEO10R for 30 minutes after a full charge, then drops sharply after about 40 minutes. It then maintains that brightness for about three hours, but after four hours it drops again and loses most of its brightness
The NEO6R is lightweight and has a long life despite its low illumination
Next is the NEO6R (photo below). This model only has wide mode, and its brightness is so different from the two models above that we've created a separate graph. The pattern of decline is the same as the two models above, but this model has less of an initial drop and maintains a constant light output for a long period of time. In this case, after six hours, the brightness drops sharply to almost zero
Operability: Simple and intuitive operation
All models are extremely simple to operate. There's only one button to operate, allowing you to change the light intensity and type. While many headlamps have complicated controls, the fact that these are intuitive to use without any hassle is highly praised. However, the lens aperture on the NEO10R and MH5 requires some force to switch between wide and spot, so I think it would be even easier to use if this could be done easily with one hand
Both the NEO10R and MH5 use only one battery, which makes changing batteries very easy. Changing three or four batteries in the dark takes a lot of concentration and can be stressful, so being able to use just one is extremely helpful
Functionality: Multifunctional MH5, waterproof NEO6R, easy-to-ride NEO10R
Here, we will look at the functions attached to the lamp, rather than its performance as a lamp. Of the three models, the MH5 was particularly impressive for its detailed functions tailored to its usage
The lamp part can be easily removed from the headband and used separately. It can be used as a handheld light or attached to a bag using the clip. This is very convenient when cooking at a tent, as it allows you to easily fix the direction of the light
The lamp itself has a clip, so it can be conveniently attached to a shoulder strap, etc
The MH5 also has a red LED on the front, which will help you avoid bothering people around you at campsites or mountain huts
The red LED means you don't have to worry about attracting attention at campsites or mountain huts
The included rechargeable batteries are almost identical in shape to AA batteries, so they can be used in place of AA batteries. Of course, you won't get 100% of the performance of rechargeable batteries, but being able to use dry batteries in environments where charging is not possible gives you a great sense of security
AA batteries can also be used instead of rechargeable batteries
Other notable features of the models include the NEO6R's IP57 waterproof rating, which means it can be used even when submerged in water. The NEO10R and MH5 are slightly inferior at IP54, but can be used in light rain without worrying about damage
The NEO10R also has an extension cord that allows the battery to be placed close to the body, which helps overcome the weight disadvantage described below
Weight: The NEO6R and MH5 are surprisingly light, while the NEO10R is heavy but not noticeable with some ingenuity
The NEO10R weighs 178g (main unit: 129g, battery: 49g), which is slightly heavier than the other two models. However, since the battery is attached to the rear, it doesn't feel as heavy as the numbers suggest when actually using it. A unique feature is that you can use the included extension cord to move the whole unit, including the battery, to a bag or similar. If you remove the battery box, the main unit weighs just 71g (the battery box is 107g), which significantly reduces stress on the head
The extension cable allows you to store the battery in your bag
The MH5 weighs 98g (body: 76g, battery: 21g), while the NEO6R weighs almost the same at 96g. However, the MH5's battery is stored in the same position as the body, so compared to the NEO6R, where the battery is located at the back of the head, the fit is slightly worse and it tends to move around more easily when running, making it less suitable for high-speed activities like trail running or fastpacking
Summary: Features of each model and recommended usage
NEO10R: Bright, long-lasting, and comfortable fit, ideal for intense trail running
The NEO10R is Ledlenser's trail running model. With a maximum of 600 lumens and a maximum battery life of 10 hours, coupled with its lower price compared to other manufacturers' trail running models, it is a popular model for long-distance trail runners
This is true for all Ledlenser lamps, but the NEO10R in particular provides uniform illumination throughout the illuminated area, from the center to the periphery. Lamps that are bright in the center but gradually dimmer towards the periphery can easily cast shadows on rocks and trees, obstructing visibility. However, the NEO10R employs an advanced focus system that utilizes both the lens and reflector, ensuring efficient and even illumination of the illuminated area, eliminating shadows caused by obstacles
Left: Strong mode (600 lumens), Right: Weak mode (10 lumens). Even on stairs, you can see clearly without any shadows. Even on stairs, you can see clearly without any shadows
There is a ring around the lamp that you can twist to switch between wide and spot illumination. Wide spreads the light and covers a wider area, while spot contracts the light and illuminates a longer distance
Left: Wide light, Right: Spot light
There is a big difference in visibility between wide light and spot light. Wide light illuminates everything from your feet to a few meters ahead with the same brightness, but when you switch to spot light, you can see farther away than you can with wide light
Left: Wide light, Right: Spot light
The actual weight is 179g, which is quite heavy, but by placing the battery at the back of the head, it maintains a sense of balance that makes it not feel heavy
The lamp and battery are separate, so it doesn't feel heavy
The excellent fit is also ideal for activities that involve a lot of movement. This excellent fit comes from the double elastic band and the shape of the battery box, which is curved to fit the shape of your head
The shape of the battery box and the double band provide a perfect fit
If the battery box is attached to the back of the head, the battery lamp also functions as a red rear light, so you can be reassured that you will be seen behind
If the battery box is attached to the back of the head, the battery lamp also functions as a red rear light
The NEO10R is considered the high-end of Ledlenser's outdoor line. While it can be used for a variety of activities, the manufacturer itself has targeted it for activities like trail running and fastpacking, so the light output, weight, and fit are set to be optimal for activities involving relatively high speeds at night. While many trail running models are quite expensive, the fact that this model can be purchased for 10,000 yen while still offering sufficient performance and functionality is a major selling point. The simple operation of a single button also gives you peace of mind that you can use it as usual, even when you're tired
MH5: Lightweight, multi-functional, and versatile, it's ideal for mountain climbing and other outdoor activities
The MH5 is a high-end model for outdoor use. The 2020 model has undergone detailed updates, improving both functionality and ease of use
Like the NEO10R, it uses an advanced focus system that provides uniform, even illumination across the entire illumination range. This is a very powerful advantage when choosing a Ledlenser. It has two brightness settings, low and high, and can be switched between 20 lumens and 400 lumens. The low 20 lumens setting is sufficient for close-up work at a tent site or in a mountain hut. When walking on trails at night or operating in the dark, using the high setting provides sufficient brightness at 400 lumens, which is the minimum required in terms of brightness, but still provides sufficient performance
Left: Strong mode (400 lumens), Right: Weak mode (20 lumens)
There is a ring around the lamp that you can twist to switch between wide and spot illumination. Wide spreads the light and covers a wider area, while spot contracts the light and illuminates a longer distance
Left: Wide light, Right: Spot light
With the previous model, you had to remove the battery from the device to charge it, but with the 2020 model, you can charge it directly with a dedicated cable. This eliminates the need to remove the device from the headband every time you want to charge it. However, if you bring a spare battery with you, you will need to attach it to the device to charge it, which can be a bit inconvenient. It's great that you can easily charge it with a mobile battery
The update makes it possible to charge it externally, making it even more convenient
The MH5 offers a simple yet powerful design, versatile versatility, and functionality that enhances ease of use. It produces a generous 400 lumens and runs on a single battery. It's also highly versatile; you can remove it from the headband and attach it to a bag's shoulder strap, or secure it inside a tent for use as an indoor lamp. While the included rechargeable batteries are the primary power source, it can also be used with AA batteries, making it ideal for long-term hiking and travel, and even keeping one at home for emergencies. This highly versatile model is a perfect addition. While other manufacturers' high-end models often seem to boast specialized features, this model, which defies that convention, makes you rethink what truly high-end means
NEO6R: Ideal as a main light for camping or disaster preparedness, or as a secondary light for mountain climbing or trail running
The NEO06R's features include an extremely wide beam angle, high water and dust resistance, and a lightweight fit. While it's the least powerful of the models we tested, its maximum output of 240 lumens is bright enough for a leisurely walk, and it can last for 40 hours in Low mode, providing reliable performance in both brightness and battery life
This light is designed for close-range use, making it ideal for outdoor activities like camping where you don't need to see far, and for disaster preparedness due to its lightweight and waterproof design. It also comes with a chest belt as standard, making it extremely useful as a secondary light to illuminate areas such as your feet, in addition to the main light
The lamp is very small, and the battery is located at the back of the head, so even though the total weight is almost the same as the MH5, it is well-balanced and you almost forget you're wearing it. It has high waterproof performance, with an IPX7 rating, and can be used even if temporarily submerged in water (1 meter deep for 30 minutes) without getting wet. It's waterproof enough to withstand heavy rain even if you leave it in your bag
The built-in battery is replaceable, so you don't have to worry about it running out. The NEO6R uses rechargeable batteries, but the NEO4, which has the same performance and can be used with dry batteries, is also available
The battery is removable and replaceable
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