Ledlenser H5 Core Headlamp: a fully waterproof IP67 headlamp that runs on two AA batteries
Waterproof headlamps almost always come with a sealed rechargeable battery, because sealing a lamp is far easier when nothing has to open. The H5 Core is the unusual case that does both. It carries a full IP67 rating, meaning dust tight and able to survive temporary immersion, while still taking two standard AA batteries you can replace anywhere.
For anglers, workshop users, farmers and anyone building an emergency kit, that combination removes the usual compromise. You get weather protection at the level normally reserved for premium sealed lamps, without depending on a charger to keep the thing alive.
Flex Sealing and the focusing problem
The reason most focusable lamps are not properly waterproof is the focus mechanism itself. Moving a lens assembly while keeping the housing sealed is difficult, and manufacturers usually protect the rating by restricting how far the lens travels or by accepting a lower one.
Flex Sealing Technology is how Ledlenser holds IP67 across the full focus range. The patented Advanced Focus System still moves the beam smoothly from a wide flood for detailed close work to a focused spot for distance, and the seal holds throughout. In practice that means you can adjust the beam in driving rain without thinking about it.
Output and the wheel
Boost delivers 350 lumens with a beam distance of up to 160 metres in short bursts. Power gives 200 lumens to 120 metres for around 2 hours, and Low Power runs 15 lumens to 30 metres for up to 20 hours. The light source is a single high power LED at 6000 to 7500K with CRI 70.
Brightness is set with a Wheel Switch on the lamp head, rolled to move steplessly through the range rather than pressed to jump between fixed levels. You reach your preferred output in one motion and can do it by feel.
The lamp head tilts through 160 degrees, which is the widest arc in this part of the range. That lets you aim the beam nearly straight down at your hands, useful for detailed work at a bench, under a bonnet or over a tackle box.
Power and running costs
Two AA alkaline batteries are included and the lamp works out of the box. NiMH rechargeables fit the same compartment if you would rather run reusable cells day to day. It is worth being clear that this model is not USB rechargeable by design; if that is what you need, the H5R Core is the corresponding rechargeable version.
What you gain in exchange is independence. AA cells are available everywhere, hold charge in storage for years, and get you working again in seconds rather than hours.
Fit, materials and extras
The body combines aluminium alloy with a polycarbonate lamp housing, weighing 178 grams with batteries or about 131 grams without, with a compact head diameter of around 32 mm. The headband is adjustable, washable and antimicrobial treated, which is a sensible touch on equipment worn against the skin through hot work.
Cooling Technology improves efficiency and extends LED lifespan, a Transportation Lock stops accidental activation in a bag, and a low battery warning gives notice before the light fades. The lamp is compatible with Ledlenser Connecting System accessories for helmet and equipment mounting. Drop resistance is 1.5 metres with an operating range of -20°C to +40°C.
Features
- Compact battery-powered headlamp for work, outdoor activities and everyday use.
- Maximum output of 350 lumens.
- Beam distance of up to 160 metres.
- Advanced Focus System for seamless flood-to-spot beam adjustment.
- Wheel Switch with intuitive stepless dimming.
- 160° tilting lamp head for precise beam positioning.
- Powered by 2 x AA alkaline batteries (included).
- Compatible with NiMH rechargeable batteries.
- Flex Sealing Technology with IP67 dust-tight and waterproof protection.
- Cooling Technology helps improve efficiency and LED lifespan.
- Transportation Lock prevents accidental activation.
- Low battery warning indicator.
- Antimicrobial, washable adjustable headband.
- Compatible with Ledlenser Connecting System accessories.
- Durable aluminium alloy and polycarbonate construction.
- 1.5-metre drop resistance.
- Operating temperature range from -20°C to +40°C.
Specifications
- Boost: 350 lumens, up to 160m beam distance (short bursts).
- Power: 200 lumens, up to 120m, ~2 hours runtime.
- Low Power: 15 lumens, up to 30m, up to 20 hours runtime.
- Light Source: 1x High Power LED, 6000-7500K (cool white), CRI 70.
- Power: 2x AA alkaline batteries (included); also compatible with NiMH rechargeables (not USB-rechargeable, see the H5R Core for rechargeable version)
- Weight: 178g (with batteries) / ~131g (without).
- Dimensions: Compact head diameter ~32mm.
- Durability: Drop-tested from 1.5m, operating temperature -20°C to +40°C.
What's in the Box
- 1 x LEDLENSER H5 CORE HEADLAMP GIFT BOX
