Nitecore HA23 UHE Headlamp Review
Nitecore HA23 UHE#
- Specifications
- Introduction
- Torch in use
- Build quality
- LED, bezel, lens and reflector
- Size and comparison
- User interface
- Batteries and charging
- Performance
- Beamshots
- Conclusion
- Price
- Product page
Specifications#
| Brand/model | Nitecore HA23 UHE |
|---|---|
| LED | Dual-core MCT UHE LEDs (3000K, 4500K, 6500K), Red LEDs |
| Maximum lumens | 600 lm |
| Maximum beam intensity | 4,364 cd |
| Maximum throw | 132 m |
| Battery | 3*AAA Batteries or 1*Nitecore HLB1500 Li-ion Battery Pack |
| Onboard charging | No |
| Material | Polycarbonate |
| Modes | 5 |
| Blinkies | Neutral White (SOS, Beacon), Red (Slow Flash) |
| Reflector | TIR |
| Waterproof | IP68 |
| Review date | March 2025 |
Introduction#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE is a headlamp with four dual-core MCT UHE LEDs side-by-side capable of producing Warm White (3000K), Neutral White (4500K) and Cool White (6500K) light. It has two red auxiliary LEDs with multiple brightness levels. It takes three AAA batteries or a Nitecore HLB1500 Li-ion battery pack.
I recently reviewed the Nitecore NU27 headlamp. It is very similar to the HA23 UHE (the user interfaces are identical) but it has a built-in battery pack with USB-C charging.
The lack of user replaceable battery in the Nitecore NU27 might be a deal-breaker for some.
This where the Nitecore HA23 UHE really shines! You can use use 3*1.5V AAA Alkaline batteries, 3*1.2V AAA Ni-MH batteries or a Nitecore HLB1500 Li-ion Battery Pack.
The Nitecore HA23 UHE is much more convenient for situations where you need to quickly swap the batteries. It is also better for the long term where you may want the ability to replace the batteries after years of use.
Here is my video review:
Nitecore provided this torch for review. I have not been paid for this review nor have I held back my opinions of this torch.
Packaging#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE comes in what appears to be an ecofriendly cardboard box with a lot of information about the headlamp in white text. The retail box is surrounded by a sheath with high resolution images and further details about the HA23 UHE.
The following was included in the box:
- Nitecore HA23 UHE.
- Headband.
- Clip.
- Nitecore diffusing stuff sack.
- 3*AAA Alkaline batteries.
- User manual.
Torch in use#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE headlamp feels relatively lightweight and comfortable on my head.
It feels a little bit heavier compared to the Nitecore NU27 headlamp.
The strap is adjustable.
The angle of the headlamp can be adjusted by moving it downward.
The headlamp clicks into place while adjusting it.
The strap can be removed from the bracket and a clip can be inserted so that the Nitecore HA23 UHE may be clipped onto something like a backpack.
The clip fits very securely.
The diffusing bag can be placed around the light to make it light up. It can also be used to carry the headlamp, headband and the clip.
Build quality#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE is mostly made of polycarbonate and it has a wide TIR optic.
The headband is comfortable. It can be adjusted and it can stretch.
The NITECORE text on the headband is reflective.
There is a thin line on the inside of the headband that helps with grip.
The TIR optic comes with a protective film that needs to be removed before using the headlamp.
The hinges feels sturdy and they allow the headlamp to click into place while adjusting the angle.
LED, bezel, lens and reflector#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE headlamp has four dual-core MCT (Multiple Color Temperatures) UHE (Ultra High Efficiency) LEDS capable of producing three colour temperatures: Warm White (3000K), Neutral White (4500K) and Cool White (6500K).
It has two red auxiliary LEDs.
And there are four blue battery status indicator LEDs.
All of these LEDs sit behind a custom TIR optic.
Neutral, Warm
Cool, Red
CCT, CRI, and duv#
I have taken Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT) and Colour Rendering Index (CRI, RA of R1-R8) measurements with the torch positioned half a metre away from an Opple Light Master Pro III (G3).
The CRI is around 69.
The CCT is around 4379K for Neutral White, 3221K for Warm White and 5815K for Cool White.
The Delta u, v is slightly positive (slightly green) on lower modes and it is close to pure white on High.
The beam produced is very floody. There is an oval-shaped hot spot with a corona and a wide spill.
| Cell | LED | Mode | CCT (K) | CRI (Ra) | x | y | Duv |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | Neutral | Ultralow | 4343 | 70.9 | 0.3680 | 0.3747 | 0.0029 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | Low | 4365 | 70.8 | 0.3669 | 0.3729 | 0.0024 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | Mid | 4386 | 71.1 | 0.3658 | 0.3706 | 0.0017 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | High | 4424 | 71.3 | 0.3640 | 0.3676 | 0.0009 |
| Alkaline | Warm | Ultralow | 3193 | 68.9 | 0.4304 | 0.4136 | 0.0048 |
| Alkaline | Warm | Low | 3211 | 68.9 | 0.4286 | 0.4117 | 0.0043 |
| Alkaline | Warm | Mid | 3227 | 69.0 | 0.4267 | 0.4092 | 0.0036 |
| Alkaline | Warm | High | 3254 | 68.9 | 0.4241 | 0.4065 | 0.0030 |
| Alkaline | Cool | Ultralow | 5675 | 68.1 | 0.3283 | 0.3495 | 0.0061 |
| Alkaline | Cool | Low | 5754 | 68.4 | 0.3266 | 0.3456 | 0.0049 |
| Alkaline | Cool | Mid | 5845 | 68.9 | 0.3247 | 0.3416 | 0.0038 |
| Alkaline | Cool | High | 5989 | 69.6 | 0.3220 | 0.3363 | 0.0024 |
Calculate Duv from CIE 1931 xy coordinates
Dimensions and size comparison#
Dimensions#
I took the following measurements using a digital caliper.
| Measurement | Unit (mm) |
|---|---|
| Length | 60.35 |
| Width | 30.83 |
| Height | 45.26 |
| Headband height | 24.3 |
Weight#
I took the following measurements using a digital scale.
| Weight | Unit (g) |
|---|---|
| Nitecore HA23 UHE | 41.39 |
| Headband | 14.9 |
| 3*AAA Ni-MH | 37.94 |
| Nitecore HA23 UHE with headband | 56.29 |
Size comparison with its competition#
Nitecore HA23 UHE, Nitecore NU27
User interface#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE has two buttons to control it:
- Power button
- MODE button
The Power button is used to turn the light on and off. It is also used to adjust the brightness levels.
The MODE button is used to change the colour temperature, select the red light, access special modes, and check the battery status.
Primary Light#
| State | Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Off | Short press the Power button | Battery status indicator turns on for 2 seconds |
| Off | Long press the Power button for 1 second | On (Neutral White LOW) |
| On | Long press the Power button for 1 second | Off |
| Off | Double press the Power button | On (Neutral White ULTRALOW) |
| On | Short press the MODE button | Cycle (Neutral White, Warm White, Cool White) |
| On | Short press the Power button | Cycle (LOW, MID, HIGH) |
| Off | Long press both buttons for 2 seconds | 3 flashes indicates Lockout |
| Lockout | Long press both buttons for 2 seconds | Unlock and enter Neutral White ULTRALOW |
Auxiliary Red Light#
| State | Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Off | Long press the MODE button for 1 second | On (Red LOW) |
| On | Short press the Power button | Cycle (Red LOW, Red HIGH) |
Special Modes (SOS, Beacon, Red Slow Flash)#
| State | Action | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Any | Double press the MODE button | SOS |
| SOS, Beacon, Red Slow Flash | Short press the Power button | Cycle (SOS, Beacon, Red Slow Flash) |
| SOS, Beacon, Red Slow Flash | Double press the MODE button | Return to previous state |
Mode memory#
There is no mode memory.
Blinkies#
The red light has a slow flash mode.
This is what SOS looks like with the white light:
And this is what beacon mode looks like with the white light:
I measured the blinky modes with a Zoyi ZT-703S oscilloscope using High Speed mode.
Battery status#
Click the MODE button while the light is off and the battery status indicators will turn on for 2 seconds.
| Status of the indicators | Battery level |
|---|---|
| 4 constant-on | 75% - 100% |
| 3 constant-on | 50% - 75% |
| 2 constant-on | 25% - 50% |
| 1 constant-on | 0% - 25% |
Low voltage protection#
The brightness is reduced and the light turns off when the voltage is low.
Pulse Width Modulation#
I did not notice any visible PWM (flickering).
I measured the PWM of the light with a Zoyi ZT-703S oscilloscope.
Neutral: Ultralow, Low, Mid, High
Warm: Ultralow, Low, Mid, High
Cool: Ultralow, Low, Mid, High
Red: Low, High
What I like about the UI#
- Simple to use.
What could be improved#
- A shortcut to High from off would be nice.
Batteries and charging#
Battery#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE can take three Alkaline AAA batteries, three rechargeable Ni-MH AAA batteries, or a Nitecore HLB1500 Li-ion Battery Pack.
I highly recommend using rechargeable Ni-MH AAA batteries or a Nitecore HLB1500 Li-ion Battery Pack. Alkaline batteries tend to leak after long periods of storage.
Charging#
The headlamp does not have built-in charging.
Performance#
Specifications from the manual:
Powered by 3 x Alkaline AAA Batteries#
Primary Light (Neutral White Light, Warm Light, Cool White Light)
| High | Mid | Low | Ultralow | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Output (lumens) | 600 | 280 | 100 | 6 |
| Runtime | 1h 30min | 2h 30min | 8h | 97h |
| Beam Distance (metres) | 132 | 94 | 54 | 14 |
| Beam Intensity (cd) | 4,364 | 2,197 | 722 | 47 |
Auxiliary Red Light
| High | Low | Slow Flash | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Output (lumens) | 15 | 5 | 15 |
| Runtime | 13h | 31h | |
| Beam Distance (metres) | 5 | 4 | |
| Beam Intensity (cd) | 7 | 3 |
Primary Light (Neutral White Light)
| SOS | Beacon | |
|---|---|---|
| Output (lumens) | 600 | 600 |
| Runtime | ||
| Beam Distance (metres) | ||
| Beam Intensity (cd) |
Powered by 1 x NITECORE HLB1500 Li-ion Battery Pack#
Primary Light (Neutral White Light, Warm Light, Cool White Light)
| High | Mid | Low | Ultralow | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Output (lumens) | 600 | 280 | 100 | 6 |
| Runtime | 3h | 4h 30min | 12h | 125h |
| Beam Distance (metres) | 132 | 94 | 54 | 14 |
| Beam Intensity (cd) | 4,364 | 2,197 | 722 | 47 |
Auxiliary Red Light
| High | Low | Slow Flash | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Output (lumens) | 15 | 5 | 15 |
| Runtime | 16h | 41h | |
| Beam Distance (metres) | 5 | 4 | |
| Beam Intensity (cd) | 7 | 3 |
Primary Light (Neutral White Light)
| SOS | Beacon | |
|---|---|---|
| Output (lumens) | 600 | 600 |
| Runtime | ||
| Beam Distance (metres) | ||
| Beam Intensity (cd) |
I used three eneloop pro AAA 1.2V Ni-MH 900mAh cells and three Duracell AAA 1.5V Alkaline cells for the following tests.
Lumen measurements#
I have taken lumen measurements with my DIY lumen tube.
| Cell | LED | Mode | Specs | Lumens @turn on | Lumens @30 sec | Lumens @10 min |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | Neutral | Ultralow | 6 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | Low | 100 | 120 | 116 | 115 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | Mid | 280 | 336 | 327 | 304 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | High | 600 | 707 | 683 | 427 |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | Ultralow | 10 | 10 | 10 | |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | Low | 120 | 116 | 115 | |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | Mid | 336 | 328 | 303 | |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | High | 709 | 685 | 429 |
Runtime graphs#
I used my own DIY lumen tube with a TSL2591 sensor and forked bmengineer’s project RuTiTe to record runtimes.
Note: Lumen measurements may be off by 10% with my DIY lumen tube.
The room temperature was approximately 21 C.
Alkaline#
Ni-MH#
Runtime#
Here is a summary of the runtime results:
| Cell | LED | Mode | User manual | Runtime | Turn off | Final voltage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | Neutral | High | 1h 30min | 2h 22min 36s | 17h 38min 50s | 1.07, 1.06, 1.06 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | Mid | 2h 30min | 3h 32min 0s | 18h 36min 31s | 1.07, 1.07, 1.06 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | Low | 8h | 14h 59min 17s | 18h 40min 2s | 1.08, 1.06, 1.05 |
| Alkaline | Neutral | Ultralow | 97h | 10min+ | 10min+ | |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | High | 3h 20min 41s | 4h 21min 27s | 1.18, 1.17, 1.17 | |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | Mid | 4h 4min 15s | 5h 2min 38s | 1.18, 1.17, 1.17 | |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | Low | 7h 18min 22s | 8h 7min 36s | 1.19, 1.18, 1.18 | |
| Ni-MH | Neutral | Ultralow | 10min+ | 10min+ |
“Runtime” is the time until the output reduces to 10% of the output at 30 seconds (as per the ANSI/PLATO FL1 2019 Standard).
“Turn off” is the time until my DIY lumen tube no longer detects more than 1 lumen.
“+” indicates that the light remained on after recording had stopped.
The runtimes are better than expected with 3*1.5V AAA Alkaline batteries.
I do not have the Nitecore HLB1500 Li-ion Battery Pack to check those runtimes. However, the behaviour of the output looks very similar to the Nitecore NU27.
The output looks regulated but it definitely decreases over time, especially initially with the higher output modes.
Throw#
I took lux measurements with a UNI-T UT383BT at 30 seconds. High was measured at one metre.
| Cell | LED | Mode | Specs (cd) | Specs (m) | Candela measured (cd) | Distance (m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alkaline | Neutral | High | 4,364 | 132 | 4,429 | 133 |
Beamshots#
I went to a local park and aimed the Nitecore HA23 UHE at a tree 70 metres away while using High.
Beamshots were taken using a Sony RX100M2 using 3.2", f3.2, ISO 100, 5000K WB.
Nitecore HA23 UHE (High) Neutral#
Nitecore HA23 UHE (High) Warm#
Nitecore HA23 UHE (High) Cool#
Nitecore NU27 (Turbo) Neutral#
Nitecore NU27 (Turbo) Warm#
Nitecore NU27 (Turbo) Cool#
SPERAS B7 (S-High + F-High)#
Fenix HL16 (Turbo)#
ZebraLight H53Fc N (H1)#
I later visited a playground and aimed the headlamp at a big apple approximately 2 meters away while using the red emitter.
Red beamshots were taken using a Sony RX100M2 using 0.25 second shutter, f3.2, ISO 800, 5000K WB.
Nitecore HA23 UHE (Red) High#
Nitecore NU27 (Red) High#
SPERAS B7 (Red)#
The following red beamshots were taken using a Sony RX100M2 using 0.4 second shutter, f3.2, ISO 800, 5000K WB.
Fenix HL16 (Red)#
ZebraLight H502pr#
Cyansky HS5R#
Conclusion#
The Nitecore HA23 UHE is a pretty good general purpose headlamp!
I really like the oval shaped beam that it produces.
The ability to change between Neutral White, Warm White and Cool White is nice. The Warm White light helps cut through fog while the Cool White light is great for seeing in the distance. Neutral White is a good general purpose colour temperature.
The colour rendering index that I measured was only 69 CRI. It would be even better if high CRI (90+) LEDs were used.
I love how the batteries can be replaced instead of being built-in. This gives me peace of mind knowing that I can always replace rechargeable batteries in years to come.
The headlamp is brighter than expected and the runtime are slightly better than expected.
The build quality is really good.
I like how Nitecore included a carry bag for the headlamp and a clip. The clip accessory is a nice way of extending the functionality by allowing the headlamp to be clipped onto something instead of using the headband.
I highly recommend the Nitecore HA23 UHE as a general purpose headlamp.
Pros:#
- The batteries can be replaced.
- Good build quality.
- Good beam distance.
- Nice beam shape.
- Ability to change between Neutral White, Warm White and Cool White light.
- Output is well regulated.
- The clip allows the torch to be attached to a backpack for EDC use.
- Simple user interface.
Cons:#
- Low CRI.
Price#
US$35.95
Product page#
TBC