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Choose Petzl BINDI when a very light, compact lamp and simple lighting arrangement suit your trips. Consider Nitecore NU25 MCT when USB-C charging and selectable white-light colour temperatures are more useful. Both can support campsite tasks, but neither should be chosen for a demanding night route from its lumen number alone.
Table of Contents
Which NU25 is being compared?
This guide compares the Petzl BINDI with the current NU25 MCT using its standard headband. Older NU25 versions and the MCT UL have different specifications or headbands. The name “NU25” without the suffix is not enough to match a listing.
| Feature | BINDI | NU25 MCT |
|---|---|---|
| Listed weight | 35g | 50g, including bracket and headband |
| Maximum white output | 200 lumens | 400 lumens |
| Charging connection | Micro-USB | USB-C |
| Red light | Yes | Yes |
| White colour-temperature selection | No comparable three-temperature selection | 3,000K, 4,500K and 6,500K |
Start with the low-light jobs
Think about finding tent zips, reading, preparing equipment and walking to the facilities. A comfortable low setting and controls you understand can matter more than maximum output for these tasks.
Try operating the buttons in the dark before leaving. Learn how to switch to red light and how to lock the lamp for transport. Point the beam down around other campers rather than shining it into neighbouring tents.
Check comfort with your usual clothing
BINDI uses a minimal elastic headband arrangement. NU25 MCT has a broader standard band, while MCT UL uses a lighter alternative. Try the fit with your hat or hood and check whether the lamp stays at the chosen angle when you move.
A lower total weight is appealing, but a comfortable fit is personal. A band that slips or presses in the wrong place can outweigh a small saving on the scales.
Plan the charging kit
BINDI’s Micro-USB connection needs a different cable from USB-C equipment. Include that cable in your packing list rather than assuming your phone lead fits. Charge and store either lamp as instructed, keeping the connection dry.
Check runtime at the setting you expect to use. The longest advertised duration normally refers to a low mode, not the maximum lumen output shown in the comparison table. Take a suitable backup for a trip where losing light would create a problem.
If you are also considering a larger Nitecore model, the NU25 versus NU33 comparison explores the weight and battery-capacity trade-off.
Which should you buy?
Compare the Petzl BINDI on Amazon UK and Nitecore NU25 MCT with standard headband. Pick BINDI for minimum bulk or MCT for its charging and light-selection features, after checking the controls and beam suit your intended use.
Continue with our camping headlamp guide.
Reviewed 10 September 2026. This guide is based on published specifications and guidance.