Dual white + 660nm deep red headlamp with 90CRI — designed for night vision preservation and wildlife observation
The Sofirn H25LR is the red-light variant of the popular H25S, adding a 660nm deep red LED alongside the 90 CRI white light. This specific wavelength is chosen because it sits at the far end of the visible spectrum where rod cells in your eyes are least sensitive — meaning you can use it without destroying your dark-adapted night vision. It's the wavelength preferred by astronomers, wildlife observers, and military personnel.
The white LED delivers 500 lumens at 90 CRI — lower than the H25S but still plenty for close-range tasks and trail navigation. The real value is the dual-source setup: switch to red for preserving night vision during stargazing, reading maps at camp, or moving through areas where bright white light would disturb wildlife or other people. The 18650 battery provides excellent runtime, especially on the low-draw red mode.
USB-C charging, an 18650 battery, and Sofirn's straightforward interface keep things simple. At under $23, the H25LR fills a specific niche perfectly — it's the headlamp you want if red-light capability matters to you. Astronomers and night hikers routinely recommend it as the best budget option for preserving dark adaptation while still having a capable white light when needed.