Comparison of the Fenix HM65R-T v2.0 and HM65R

May 30, 2024

The Fenix HM65R-T headlamp, especially popular among runners and athletes, has now undergone some changes and comes in version V2.0. How does it compare to the older Fenix HM65R?

We have already compared the two models in first generation in this article. However, the HM65R-T V2.0 doesn't even resemble its older sister anymore, and the changes in the design aren't the only things that have changed, so let's get to it.

The HM65R is a Fenix classic with grey-orange straps.
The HM65R-T V2.0 comes in three stylish color options.

 Light source, light shade and reflector combination

The HM65R and the new HM65R-T V2.0 headlamps are designed for the most demanding users, and each one is equipped with two high-end reflectors. While the HM65R has one spotlight reflector and one wide reflector, the HM65R-T V2.0 has only reflectors with a spotlight reflectors, but with a fundamentally different color temperature. This is due to movement in poor visibility, where the warmer shade of light is much more pleasant when reflecting off snowflakes, rain and fog, and better illuminates these adverse conditions. The light source in the main reflector of the HM65R is a LED Luminus SST-40 and the source in the wide reflector is a LED Cree XP-G2 R5. In the case of the HM65R-T, the light source in the main reflector is also LED Luminus SST-40 and the source in the secondary reflector is LED OSRAM GW PUSTA1.PM. In both headlamps, the main reflector uses a white/daylight shade and the secondary reflector uses a warmer shade - neutral (about 4500 K) in the case of the HM65R and significantly warmer (about 3000 K) in the case of the HM65R-T. All LEDs used have a lifetime of 50,000 hours of illumination. The HM65R allows the combination of both reflectors, so the shape of the light cone can largely be adapted to your current preferences. The HM65R-T V2.0 no longer allows both reflectors to be triggered at the same time and both emit light in virtually the same way, but with different temperatures and the light output is also different in maximum and minimum mode.

The HM65R allows you to combine both reflectors and adapt the shape of the light beam to the situation.
The HM65R-T V2.0 has the light cones tuned universally and you can turn on either cooler or warmer, but not both at the same time.

HM65R-T V2.0, with its 1600 lumens and 170 m range, outperforms the HM65R, which has 1000 lumens with 163 m range in the

Power control and runtime

Both headlamps use electronics with a runtime extension feature that gradually reduces power in small steps to extend the lighting time. However, each regulates the light in a different way. The HM65R-T V2.0 will reduce power more dramatically in the first few tens of minutes during lighting, and then the power output is constant. The HM65R reduces power gradually over the first few hours before the light output settles to a constant level.

 Note the range value, which shows that the HM65R light cone is slightly more concentrated in the centre and will reach further at the same light intensity.

For the secondary reflector, there is an even more significant difference in light shape (HM65R has a wide soft diffused light and HM65R-T V2.0 shines more into the distance with a stronger centre). The differences in runtime are as follows:

Performance graph of the Fenix HM65R-T V2.0	Performance graph of the Fenix HM65R

Graphs are based on values measured in accordance with ANSI standards. In real conditions (when the headlamp is turned on, off, switched between modes, used in different temperatures), these values and differences between models may be different.
The issue of differences between measurements in the lab and in real use was addressed in this article.

Memory for the last used mode

Another difference between the two models is the lack of memory in the HM65R-T V2.0. When switched on, it always lights up in the lowest light mode. The HM65R, on the other hand, has a memory function, and when the flashlight is switched on again, it remembers its last used light mode.

Straps

Both models have perforated and breathable straps. The sturdy top and main strap combination of the HM65R headlamp is replaced by a single wide strap around the head on the HM65R-T V2.0, which is tightened by a locking wheel. With this SPORT FIT System, the method of tightening or loosening the strap may seem a lot more practical, convenient and quicker for many users. This headlamp is particularly suited for sports use, such as trail running or cross-country skiing, thanks to this system. For crisis situations, a small whistle is also intergrated in the strap. The strap is about 1 cm wider (36 mm instead of 26 mm). The holder is missing the loop for the top strap, which the HM65R has.

Model HM65R can be used with black tactical straps without reflective elements AFH-02. HM65R-T V2.0 can be used with black strap for HL16, but no longer has a tightening wheel, only classic buckles.

 
The strap on the HM65R-T V2.0 is 1 cm wider.

 The belt with new tightening and loosening system on the HM65R-T V2.0 also allows for quick disconnects.
Also includes an SOS whistle.

Powered by Li-ion batteries

In both models, An 18650 type Li-ion battery with a capacity of 3400 mAh is included. Alternatively, two disposable lithium batteries of type CR123A can also be used for power, but do not try to recharge them in the headlamps!

Charging

Fast and convenient charging is a priority for both models, which is why they can be recharged via a modern USB-C cable.

Material and construction

The headlamps are made of magnesium alloy, which is one-third lighter than aluminum. Their construction is fully dustproof and waterproof to 2 meter depth according to IP68 standard and also shockproof to falls from

Color variants of HM65R-T V2.0.

So which is the right one?

If you choose one or the other, you won't go wrong in the range of top-quality outdoor and sports headlamps. The HM65R allows you to shape the light cone by independently controlling the two reflectors, and the wide reflector itself is great for work, for more static activities (like setting up a bivouac, cooking or moving around in camp). The HM65R-T V2.0 on the other hand offers more power and range, and the warmer shade of light is very pleasant when moving in any terrain in any weather. Together with the wide SPORT FIT strap, these are features that make it particularly suited for faster more dynamic movement in a variety of sporting activities.

If you are unsure of your choice, the easiest thing you can do is contact us. We will be happy to advise you by phone or answer your email questions.