Petzl Tikka XP 2 Review

The Petzl Tikka XP 2 stood out as the top smaller headlamp we tested in the category of headlamps that take two AAA batteries. It is amazing how much light and functionality you get in such a small package. It tested as well as some of the bigger and heavier headlamps that take three or four AA batteries! It performed solidly in most categories and really stood out in close proximity tests – how evenly the light was within a 5-30 foot radius. This is because this headlamp comes with a diffuser shield that pulls down when you want the beam to be spread evenly (and as a result the beam does not go as far). This is an awesome feature and one that we used a lot whether it was night climbing or just searching for something in the car. Expect above average durability from this light (we have a Tikka headlamp more than ten years old that is still going strong). This light comes with a red LED mode that few other headlamps have. We never use this feature but some people swear by it because it doesn't affect your night vision as much as the normal white light mode.

The only downside to this headlamp is the price. At $55 this is among the most expensive small headlamps out there. For another $10 you could jump into the "serious headlamp" category and get a Black Diamond Icon. In fact, the Icon is carried by so many retailers that you can usually find the Icon headlamp on sale for $45-60.

The Princeton Tec Fuel scored almost as high as the Tikka XP and is slightly lighter and more compact. Not only does the Fuel retail for half the cost of the Tikka XP, it is often on sale for less than $20.

For $15 less than the Tikka XP, there is the Black Diamond Spot. While the Tikka XP 2 scored higher for close proximity and battery life, the Spot scored better for beam distance and gloved use. We still lean toward the Tikka but the Spot is a better value.

Perhaps the biggest competition for the Tikka XP is its sibling the Petzl Tikkina 2. While the Tikkina scored slightly lower in most tests related to beam power and light quality, it outperformed the Tikka XP (and nearly every other headlamp) in battery life. But more importantly, at $20 the Tikkina is about a third the price. Considering you can nearly buy three Tikkinas for the price of a Tikka XP, you really need to want the Tikka XP's diffuser and slighter better performance.

We tested this side-by-side with the first generation of this light. We found the new XP 2 did perform better, but not so dramatically that you need to toss the old one. Compared to the Petzl Tikka Plus 2, we would rather spend the extra money to get the diffuser on the Tikka XP or save money and get the Tikkina.

Accessories and Other Versions
You can now get a Tikka Lens Kit ($6) and a rechargeable version called the Tikka Core ($110).

The Bottom Line
Yes, the Tikka XP is the best small headlamp we tested and one of the few in its class with a red LED light mode. But at $55 it is not the best value. If you want the best, get the Tikka XP. If you want the best value, get the Tikkina 2 or Princeton Tec Fuel.

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