Lightest Reactive Lamp
Petzl Swift RL
$130
Max output1100 lumens
Weight3.6oz / 102g
BatteryFront-mounted rechargeable
ReactiveYes
WaterproofIPX4
Price$130
TrailCraft score 8.2/10
Read Full Review →Most Powerful Reactive Lamp
Petzl NAO RL
$175
Max output1500 lumens
Weight5.3oz / 150g
BatteryRear-mounted rechargeable
ReactiveYes
WaterproofIPX4
Price$175
TrailCraft score 9.5/10
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Bottom line: The Swift RL is a single front-mounted unit at 3.6oz — lighter overall but all the weight sits on your forehead. The NAO RL is heavier at 5.3oz and splits weight front and rear, so it feels more stable at a run. Short outings: Swift. Long nights and running: NAO.
Head-to-head differences
Weight distribution
Petzl Swift RLAll on the forehead — bounces more at a run
Petzl NAO RLSplit front and rear — noticeably more stable in motion
NAO wins for running and technical movement.
Total weight
Petzl Swift RL3.6oz — lighter overall
Petzl NAO RL5.3oz
Swift wins on absolute weight.
Output
Petzl Swift RL1100 lumens
Petzl NAO RL1500 lumens
NAO wins, though both are far beyond typical needs.
Simplicity
Petzl Swift RLOne unit, one strap — nothing to route
Petzl NAO RLRear pack means a cable and more strap adjustment
Swift wins on simplicity.
Choose the Petzl Swift RL if:
- →You want reactive lighting at the lowest weight
- →Simplicity of a single unit appeals
- →$130 rather than $175
Choose the Petzl NAO RL if:
- →You run or move fast in the dark and bounce bothers you
- →You want maximum output and runtime
- →Weight distribution matters more than total weight
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View Full Category →Common Questions
How does reactive lighting work?
A sensor reads reflected light and adjusts output in real time — dimming when you look at a map, brightening when you look down a trail. It extends runtime substantially.
Can I turn reactive mode off?
Yes, both offer standard constant-output modes if you prefer manual control.
Do either work in heavy rain?
Both are IPX4 — rain resistant rather than waterproof. For sustained downpours, an IP67 lamp is a safer choice.