REVIEW: Petzl e+Lite

It's strange how you only notice that the headlamp is still in the tent when it's already pitch dark. And it's even more fun to rummage through your backpack for it. Petzl has a solution: Admittedly, the e+Lite does not compete with the performance of a "big headlamp". It's not meant to. Launched by Petzl as an emergency headlamp, it can do much more than just be there for emergencies.

First of all, it's so small that it even fits in a cigarette box. It's only 4 cm by 2 cm in size, weighing 27 grams. Three LEDs and a red light bulb illuminate the total of 5 possible operating modes. White steady light normal and strong, white flashing light, red steady light, and red flashing light are all covered by this tiny device. The red light is super practical because if you need to read something at night, whether it's a book or a map, you won't lose your night vision.

You can also turn off the lamp on both the red and white "sides" using the lever. This is great for the red light because you don't have to switch through the white brightness levels, you're immediately on the red light.

The lever can also be locked for the backpack or jacket pocket, so the lamp doesn't accidentally turn on.

Considering that the Petzl Tactikka shines 35 meters, it's quite remarkable what the e+Lite can do. It shines a solid 29 meters with the white light in boost mode. This might not be enough for caves or climbing, but it's perfect for a night hike.

The headband is not a band but an extendable, reinforced cord. It may leave a mark on the forehead, but it sits securely and is not uncomfortable. The lamp also has a hinge, allowing it to be converted into a table lamp. Of course, the main purpose is to achieve an adjustable radius on the head. Petzl claims that the lamp can be used at -30 degrees and is waterproof up to 1 meter.

CONCLUSION: Ultralight, very small, and surprisingly versatile. The Petzl e+Lite is superb. The price of 25-30 euros, depending on the provider, is reasonable. The battery life is 55 hours, so you can get through a few nights. The nightly rummaging in the backpack should come to an end with this lamp, as you simply have it in your pocket.

The Petzl e+Lite costs 26.99 euros at ASMC (excluding shipping).

The Petzl e+Lite in action: you have to look closely, it's on the left side of the neck. But at least: the two gentlemen here are DEVGRU in Afghanistan.