Petzl SWIFT RL review

The SWIFT RL is the lamp for runners and anyone moving fast at night. Petzl rates it at 1200 lumens and 168 m while weighing 92 g, only 4 g more than the ACTIK CORE. Its REACTIVE LIGHTING mode reads ambient light and adjusts brightness and beam pattern on its own, which Petzl says gives longer burn time and less button pressing; at medium brightness it guarantees at least 7 h. In STANDARD LIGHTING mode the outputs are fixed: 800 lumens for 2 h, 190 lumens for 7 h, or 10 lumens for 100 h, plus a 6 second BOOST to 1200 lumens with a double tap. The split headband with removable foam is built to stay put while running or skiing. The 2250 mAh battery charges over USB-C in 5 h and shows its level on a five-step gauge. It costs $134.95, the most here, and is rated IPX4 like the other Petzl lamps.

Who it is for

trail runners and fast hikers who need a long beam

Price

$134.95 at the Petzl US store.

SWIFT® RL $134.95
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 12, 2026.

Key features

• 1200 lumens and up to 168 m on MAX POWER in REACTIVE LIGHTING mode
• 92 g with a 2250 mAh battery charged over USB-C in 5 h
• REACTIVE LIGHTING sensor adjusts brightness and beam to save battery
• Minimum 7 h burn time at medium brightness in REACTIVE LIGHTING
• Split headband with removable comfort foam

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: The most lumens per gram on this list
• Strength: Burn time is guaranteed down to -20 C, according to Petzl
• Strength: Headband, pouch and battery are sold as spare parts
• Weakness: The most expensive lamp here at $134.95
• Weakness: IPX4 rating only
• Weakness: Charging takes 5 h and the cable is not included

Key facts

• Price: $134.95
• Max output: 1200 lumens
• Weight: 92 g
• Battery: 2250 mAh Li-ion, USB-C
• Water rating: IPX4

Where it ranks

Petzl SWIFT RL is No. 3 in our Best Headlamps verdict.