The Flextail TINY HELIO 600Z headtorch is a compact, high-output lighting solution designed for ultralight backpackers, trail runners, and anyone who values weight savings without sacrificing performance. With a claimed output of 600 lumens and a featherlight build, it’s positioned as a serious contender in the minimalist lighting category. In this review, we explore how the HELIO 600Z performs across real-world scenarios, focusing on brightness, usability, battery life, and long-term durability.
Design and Build Quality
At just 40 grams including the strap, the HELIO 600Z is one of the lightest headtorches in its class. The body is made from a durable polycarbonate shell with a matte finish that resists scratches and fingerprints. It’s IPX6 rated, meaning it can withstand heavy rain and splashes, though it’s not submersible.
The headband is minimalist but functional. It’s a single elastic loop with a silicone grip strip on the inside to prevent slippage. Adjustment is easy and secure, and the torch sits flush against the forehead without bouncing during movement. The lamp unit itself is compact and low-profile, making it ideal for runners and fastpackers who want minimal bulk.
The torch features a single button interface that cycles through modes with short or long presses. It’s tactile and responsive, even with gloves on. The USB-C charging port is protected by a rubber seal, and the overall build feels solid despite its ultralight weight.
Light Output and Beam Pattern
The HELIO 600Z offers up to 600 lumens on its highest setting, which is impressive for its size. The beam pattern is a balanced mix of flood and spot, making it suitable for both close-up tasks and trail navigation. The central hotspot is bright and focused, while the peripheral spill provides enough ambient light to maintain situational awareness.
There are multiple brightness levels, including:
- High (600 lumens): Ideal for fast-paced trail running or technical terrain
- Medium (300 lumens): Good for hiking and general use
- Low (50 lumens): Perfect for camp tasks or reading
- Moonlight mode (5 lumens): Conserves battery and preserves night vision
The torch also includes a red light mode, which is useful for preserving night vision and avoiding disturbing others in camp. The transition between modes is smooth, and there’s no flicker or delay.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is one of the most important factors for any headtorch, and the HELIO 600Z performs well for its size. It uses a built-in 800mAh lithium battery, which delivers the following approximate runtimes:
- High: 2.5 hours
- Medium: 5 hours
- Low: 20 hours
- Moonlight: 100+ hours
Charging is via USB-C and takes around 1.5 hours from empty to full. There’s a battery indicator light that flashes red during charging and turns green when complete. While the battery isn’t replaceable, the torch is designed for long-term use with efficient power management.
For users who often face damp, cold conditions, the sealed battery and USB-C port are a welcome feature. You won’t need to worry about corrosion or fiddling with battery compartments in the rain.
Usability and Comfort
The HELIO 600Z excels in usability. The single-button interface is intuitive, and the torch remembers the last mode used, which saves time during repeated use. The headband is comfortable for extended wear, and the torch sits securely without shifting.
It’s ideal for ultralight backpackers who want a reliable light source that won’t weigh down their pack. Trail runners will appreciate the stable fit and bright beam, while campers and bikepackers will value the long battery life and red light mode.
The torch also works well as a handheld light or clipped to a hat brim, thanks to its compact design. It’s versatile enough to serve as a backup light or primary torch depending on your needs.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Despite its lightweight build, the HELIO 600Z is surprisingly tough. The housing resists impact and abrasion, and the IPX6 rating ensures it can handle heavy rain and splashes. It’s not designed for underwater use, but for most outdoor scenarios, it’s more than adequate.
The headband retains elasticity over time, and the lamp unit shows no signs of wear after repeated use. The USB-C port cover remains snug, and the button continues to function reliably even in cold conditions.
Value and Comparison
In the UK market, the Flextail TINY HELIO 600Z retails around £35–£45 depending on the seller and seasonal discounts. This places it in the mid-range category for ultralight headtorches. Compared to competitors like the Nitecore NU25 or Petzl Bindi, the HELIO 600Z offers more lumens and better battery life at a similar weight.
Its combination of brightness, comfort, and durability makes it excellent value for money. For users who prioritise weight savings and reliable performance, it’s a smart investment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultralight at just 40g
- Bright 600-lumen output
- USB-C charging with fast recharge time
- Multiple brightness levels and red light mode
- Comfortable and secure fit
- IPX6 water resistance
Cons:
- Non-replaceable battery
- No tilt adjustment on lamp unit
- Limited beam customisation
- Not suitable for deep winter mountaineering
Final Verdict
The Flextail TINY HELIO 600Z headtorch is a standout option for ultralight adventurers, trail runners, and minimalist campers. It delivers powerful light in a compact package, with thoughtful features that enhance usability and comfort. While it’s not built for extreme alpine conditions, it excels in the environments most users encounter—wet trails, dark campsites, and early morning starts.
For buyers looking for a reliable, lightweight headtorch that won’t break the bank, the HELIO 600Z is a top contender. It’s well-built, easy to use, and offers excellent performance for its size. Whether you’re fastpacking across the Peaks or bikepacking through Wales, this torch won’t let you down.
