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Black Diamond Spot 400 Review
If you’re heading out into the backcountry or just need a reliable headlamp for early morning trail runs or late-night campsite chores, the Black Diamond Spot 400 is a serious performer in a compact package. Offering 400 lumens of brightness, multiple beam modes, and water resistance—all in a lightweight, low-profile design—it continues to be one of the most trusted headlamps in the outdoor community. In this Black Diamond Spot 400 review, we’ll break down what makes this headlamp so popular and how it stacks up against the competition.
Weighing just 2.6 oz (with batteries), the Black Diamond Spot 400 is impressively lightweight without sacrificing durability. It features Black Diamond’s signature PowerTap™ technology, which lets you instantly switch between full brightness and your last used setting with a quick tap to the side of the housing. The user interface is intuitive, with a single main button to toggle through proximity, distance, red night vision, strobe, dimming, and lock modes. The digital lock feature is especially helpful for preventing accidental battery drain in your pack.
One of the biggest advantages of the Black Diamond Spot 400 is its IPX8 waterproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes—perfect for wet and unpredictable conditions. The updated low-profile body sits close to the head and stays stable even while running or scrambling. It runs on three AAA batteries or is compatible with the rechargeable BD 1500 Li-ion battery (sold separately), offering flexible power options depending on your trip length and preferences.
For adventurers who want versatility, brightness, and weatherproof reliability in a compact package, the Black Diamond Spot 400 continues to be a top-tier choice.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 2.6 oz (with batteries) |
| Max Brightness | 400 lumens |
| Power Source | 3 AAA batteries or BD 1500 rechargeable (sold separately) |
| Beam Distance | Up to 100 meters |
| Water Resistance | IPX8 (submersible up to 1.1m for 30 minutes) |
| Best Use | Backpacking, trail running, mountaineering, camping |
Comparisons
Black Diamond Spot 400 vs. Petzl Actik Core
The Petzl Actik Core also offers 450 lumens and comes with a rechargeable CORE battery, but it’s slightly heavier and doesn’t have the same waterproof rating (IPX4 vs. Spot’s IPX8). While the Actik Core may edge out the Black Diamond Spot 400 in lumen output and battery flexibility out of the box, the Spot is more affordable and excels in rugged environments. If you’re prioritizing all-weather protection and a slimmer profile, the Spot 400 is the more durable, trail-ready choice.
Black Diamond Spot 400 vs. BioLite HeadLamp 425
The BioLite Headlamp 425 offers similar brightness and comes with a built-in rechargeable battery, which simplifies charging logistics. However, it lacks AAA compatibility and doesn’t perform as well in wet conditions. The Black Diamond Spot 400 gives users more flexibility with dual power options and better waterproofing. If you’re often in variable weather or off-grid for extended periods, the Spot’s hybrid power and water resistance provide peace of mind the BioLite can’t quite match.
Pros & Cons Summary
| Feature | Black Diamond Spot 400 | Petzl Actik Core | BioLite HeadLamp 425 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brightness | ✅ 400 lumens | ✅ 450 lumens | ✅ 425 lumens |
| Power Options | ✅ AAA + rechargeable compatible | ✅ Rechargeable + AAA | ❌ Rechargeable only |
| Waterproofing | ✅ IPX8 | ❌ IPX4 | ❌ IPX4 |
| Weight | ✅ Light (2.6 oz) | ✅ Light (2.8 oz) | ✅ Light (2.8 oz) |
| Best For | Wet, rugged adventures | All-around hiking | Short trips, daily use |
For additional Headlamp and lantern reviews, Check out our Best Headlamp and Lanterns guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Spot 400 rechargeable?
It comes with AAA batteries but is compatible with the BD 1500 rechargeable battery and charger (sold separately).
Can it be used in the rain or snow?
Yes. With an IPX8 waterproof rating, it’s built for full submersion and performs well in wet conditions.
How long does the battery last?
Up to 200 hours on the lowest setting and around 2.5–3 hours on high. Exact times vary by battery type and usage.
Does it have a red light mode?
Yes. It features red night vision mode with strobe and dimming settings.
Is it good for running?
Yes. The low-profile design and light weight make it great for running or fast hiking.
Final Thoughts
The Black Diamond Spot 400 is a reliable, rugged, and adaptable headlamp built for serious adventurers and weekend campers alike. With intuitive controls, flexible power options, and a waterproof body, it’s ready for almost any environment you throw at it. Whether you’re hiking through fog, setting up camp in the rain, or night-running on the trail, the Spot 400 has your back.
Its compact size and premium weather protection make it especially appealing for ultralight backpackers and those who demand gear that performs under pressure. While it may not have the internal rechargeable battery of some competitors, its compatibility with both AAA and BD 1500 batteries offers the best of both worlds. For dependable lighting when it counts, the Spot 400 remains one of the best in its class. For more headlamps, check out our Headlamp and Lanterns guide.
