Nitecore NU25 UL

In 2017 Nitecore introduced NU25 which quickly gained a cult following in the ultralight backpacking scene. Despite its legendary status NU25 had some shortcomings such as an overkill headband, micro-USB port, charging cable was in field of vision when charging the lamp while using it and of course there could always have been more lumens. Luckily in late 2022 Nitecore released NU25 UL which solves all these issues and offers some additional new features.

Instead of one main mode of light NU25 UL has two: a penetrating spot light and a broad flood light which both deliver 200 lumens of output each. Combined you get best of both worlds and 400 lumens of luminous flux. For camp chores the flood light mode can be set to 6 lumens which can last up to 45 hours on one charge. Additional auxiliary 10 lumen red light mode protects your ability to see in the dark and is also very useful around camp and especially in the tent at night.

Nitecore NU25 UL has switched from previous micro-USB to a new standardised USB-C port minimising the amount of cords and cables you need to carry with you. The port is also now placed on the side of the lamp instead of the bottom so the charging cable doesn’t interfere with your field of vision as it did with NU25 when recharging from a power bank while simultaneously using the lamp. Capacity of the lithium ion battery is increased to 650 mAh.

Headband has been thoroughly updated based on customer feedback. NU25 UL’s headband is minimal without compromising functionality, quite the contrary. It will remind some NU25 users of the replacement they have done with cords and a line lock on their NU25. The new headband in NU25 UL is reflective and glows in the dark.

Technical details

• Weight including lamp, battery and headband 45 g
• Max output 400 lm
• Max beam distance 64 m
• Max beam intensity 1029 cd
• Max runtime 45 h
• Rechargeable 650 mAh Li-ion battery
• Dimensions 60,1 mm x 33 mm x 25,5 mm