Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 review

Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 Rechargeable Head Torch

Our verdict · Researched

4.4 / 5

The HM65R-T V2.0 is the high-output pick: Fenix rates it at 1,600 lumens maximum with cool and warm white LEDs, IP68 protection and a 3400 mAh 18650 cell charged by USB-C. It can also run on two CR123A cells, which gives a non-rechargeable fallback. It is far brighter than anything else on this page, so it suits people who want strong light for repairs, though at 140 g with its battery, per Fenix, it is heavier than the AAA models.

Best for: A high-output rechargeable head torch for DIY, tradespeople and long outages.
Skip it if: You want a light head torch running on cheap AAA or AA cells

Amazon.co.uk price

£99.67

as of 2 Nov 2026, 13:07 GMT · Details

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

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Researched, not used. We haven't used this product. This review is built from the maker's specifications, owner reports and our own sizing.

What we like

Fenix rates it IP68 with 2 m impact resistance
Separate warm white LED alongside the cool white one, so you can pick the light colour
Fenix says the lowest level runs up to 300 hours
CR123A cells work as a backup if the main cell is flat, per the maker

Worth knowing

At 140 g with battery and headband, per Fenix, it is heavier than the AAA models
Spare 18650 or CR123A cells are not everyday shop batteries, so stock spares in advance

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Our review

The Fenix HM65R-T V2.0 is a serious head torch: up to 1,600 lumens from a cool white LED, a separate warm white LED for close work, and a 3,400 mAh cell that charges over USB-C. It is far brighter than the AAA lamps on our list and heavier with it, at 140 g. It suits people who need real light for repairs, not just for finding the fuse box.

What it is

Fenix gives a maximum of 1,600 lumens and a beam distance of 170 m. There are two LEDs: a Luminus SST40 at about 6,500 K for distance and an OSRAM warm white at about 3,000 K, which is kinder to the eyes and shows colours better at arm's length. Each is rated for 50,000 hours.

It runs on an included 3,400 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion cell and, per Fenix, will also take two CR123A batteries. Fenix rates it IP68 with two-metre impact resistance, and gives 140 g with battery and headband and 80 by 47 by 35 mm for the lamp. The body combines magnesium alloy, aluminium and polycarbonate. Fenix lists an operating voltage of 2.8 to 8.4 V, which is what lets it take either one rechargeable cell or two CR123As.

Runtime and charging

The lowest setting, 5 lumens in the warm white, runs for up to 300 hours on Fenix's figures, which is weeks of evenings in a long power cut. High outputs drain the cell in a fraction of that, and the lamp steps down automatically if it reaches 60°C. A full charge takes about three hours from a 5V 2A supply, and Fenix says the low white and warm modes can be used while it charges.

Holding both switches for three seconds locks it, so it won't turn on in a bag. Our power cut preparation guide covers keeping lights and power banks charged together.

Batteries to plan for

The cell is a standard size for torches but not something the corner shop sells, and nor are CR123A cells. Buy a spare rechargeable cell or a pair of CR123As with the lamp, and keep them in the drawer with it. A power bank or a small power station will recharge it through a long outage; our power station sizing guide shows how little energy a head torch needs.

How it compares

On the head torch comparison the Petzl Tikka gives 350 lumens from three AAA cells at 94 g. The Petzl Actik Core reaches 625 lumens at 88 g with a rechargeable pack. Ledlenser's H7R Core gives 1,000 lumens and weighs 259 g. The Fenix is the brightest lamp on the page and lighter than the Ledlenser, but heavier than every AAA model.

Our verdict

Buy it if you do DIY, work outside in the dark or want one lamp that can light a whole room in an outage. Skip it if you want something light that runs on everyday AAA cells; the Tikka is the simpler choice for a drawer or grab bag. Fenix's service policy gives free repair for five years from purchase on headlamps like this, with the rechargeable battery covered for one year, and a 15-day replacement for manufacturing defects.

A researched review, built from the maker's specs, manual and UK listings; facts checked 2 Nov 2026. Sources: Fenix: HM65R-T V2.0 specifications; Fenix: service and warranty policy.

Who shouldn't buy this

You want a light head torch running on cheap AAA or AA cells; the Petzl Tikka or Fenix HM23 V2.0 fits better.

Key specs

Max output	1,600 lm
Runtime	Up to 300 h lowest level (maker)
Battery	3400 mAh 18650 included, USB-C; 2x CR123A usable
Weight	140 g

How this review works

This is a Researched review: we haven't used this product. We check every specification against at least two independent sources, re-check the UK price on a schedule where we can track it automatically, and say plainly who it isn't for. Commissions never change a rating.

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