A good headlamp for the price, the Lifesystems Intensity 300 is a value head torch for any season but Winter.

The Lifesystems Intensity 300 is by far the least expensive headlamp tested and is great value for money. It’s not as powerful as many other headlamps but I found it adequate for most walking.  

Chris Townsend’s verdict

With the exception of winter or harsh conditions, this is a good headlamp for the price.
Pros
  • Cost
  • Big button
Cons
  • Can’t toggle between modes
  • No lock mode
  • Short battery life
Quick Specs
Price: £30 | $38.47
Weight: 194g
Power Source: 1800 mAH Li-ion rechargeable
Battery Life: 2 – 38 hours
Brightness: up to 300 lumens / 10-65 metres
Features: 3 light modes, red light, reflective headband, water-resistant (IPX6)
www.lifesystems.co.uk

There are three LEDs, two white, one red. The smaller white one only has one light level and that’s dim. It’s fine for close-up use – looking at maps, in camp – but not for walking except on a very smooth clear path. The larger LED has two light levels. With the brightest one the battery life is just two hours. However the lower level is okay on good paths and lasts several hours longer.

The headlamp is operated by one button and here the Intensity 300 is better than some much more expensive headlamps as the button is big and easy to use with gloves. The smaller LED comes on first. Another press switches to the larger LED at its lower setting. Another press goes to the brighter one. The next press switches on a white strobe before a final one switches off the lamp. To switch on the red LED the button needs to be held down in either of the white light modes.

There’s no way to toggle between the settings so if you want to return to one you have to switch the lamp off and start again. You have to go through the modes to turn the lamp off too.

For the price this is a good headlamp. Outside of winter it should be fine for most walking except on very rough terrain where a brighter light would be useful.

Testing Notes

Chris tested the Lifesystems Intensity 300 on night walks and when camping in the Scottish Highlands, mainly the Cairngorms, throughout 2024. This comparative review was first published in the November 2024 issue of The Great Outdoors. His other reviews in this comparative test can be found in our guide to the best head torches.