LED
The number of individual light emitting diodes (LED) in the bike light (see "Type").
A larger number of LEDs, on the one hand, makes it possible to achieve greater brightness of the headlight and reduces the likelihood of its complete failure (the failure of one LED does not lead to a loss of lamp operation). On the other hand, the technical features of modern LEDs are such that manufacturers prefer to put one bright single-chip LED instead of several case ones into powerful “long-range” bicycle lights. On the third, there can also be several single-chip LEDs, to increase reliability and provide additional adjustments (for example, changing the brightness by turning on / off individual LEDs). Therefore, only lamps of the same price category should be compared by this parameter. At the same time, “multiple-charged” models, in addition to the described advantages, also have disadvantages — they are, usually, more complicated, more expensive and larger.
Illumination range
The greatest range at which a bicycle headlight (see "Type") provides effective illumination. The criteria for what is considered effective lighting are very arbitrary and may be different for different manufacturers; therefore this figure is approximate. Nevertheless, it allows you to fairly accurately assess the effectiveness of the flashlight and is more visual than the value of the luminous flux (see above). It is also worth choosing a bicycle headlight according to the range, taking into account the intended application; here note that in some (especially inexpensive) models, “range” can be achieved by narrowing the beam and, accordingly, reducing the light spot.
Operating modes
The number of individual operating modes provided in the bike headlight (see "Type"). Usually, this parameter takes into account all available adjustments: for example, for a model with 3 brightness adjustments and the ability to work in the stroboscope format, 6 modes will be indicated (3 brightness values \u200b\u200bfor constant light and the same for a stroboscope). A specific set of modes in each case should be clarified separately, but in general, the more there are, the more options for use the headlight suggests, the higher the likelihood that an unforeseen situation will not take the owner by surprise.
Max. operating time
The longest time of continuous operation without replacing or recharging the power source, provided by a bicycle headlight (see "Type") in constant light mode (if there is a flashing mode, the operation time is usually longer, but it cannot be called the main one). This item indicates the value for the most economical format of operation, at minimum brightness; therefore, the actual headlight run time will generally be lower than advertised. It is also worth considering that many replaceable batteries (see "Power") are available in different capacities and have different durability — which means that battery life will also depend on the quality of the batteries. At the same time, this indicator is quite suitable for evaluating bicycle headlights and for comparing them with each other.
USB charging port
The presence of a flashlight
USB-portused to charge the battery. Note that this can be either a full-size socket or a smaller version — miniUSB or microUSB; in this case, there is no fundamental difference between them. Any such connector makes the flashlight independent of branded chargers and allows you to charge it from any USB output — for example, in a computer or laptop. In addition, there are also separate chargers with USB ports that can be connected to sockets or car cigarette lighters. Thus, for many cyclists, this particular charging method is preferable.
Shockproof
The presence of a bicycle lamp with enhanced
protection against shocks and concussions, allowing it to endure falls, collisions, etc. with less risk than unprotected models. This feature is indicated only if it is expressly indicated (and therefore guaranteed) by the manufacturer. At the same time, there are two things to consider when buying a shockproof flashlight. Firstly, such protection is not absolute, and a sufficiently strong blow or an unfortunate set of circumstances (like falling on a sharp stone) may well disable the flashlight. Secondly, the specific degree of protection can also be different, this point should also be clarified according to official data.
Quick release mount
The presence of a mount that allows you to quickly remove the bike light and put it back. This can be either a mount on the body of the lamp itself, or a base that is constantly on the bicycle, to which the lamp is attached using a latch, magnet or other similar device. Anyway, the convenience
of a quick-release mount is obvious: the flashlight can be removed (for example, to replace batteries, repair, or to avoid theft from a “tied” bike) in just a couple of seconds, and without the use of special tools.
