A decent ebike headlight is a must-have for every ebike, especially during the dark winter months. But what are the differences between the huge selection of headlights available on the market? We took a close look at a wide range of ebike headlights.
1. Setting up the test bench for comparing ebike headlights
2. High-end ebike headlights in the test
3. Mid-range ebike headlights in the test
4. Entry-level ebike headlights in the test
5. Mini ebike headlights in the test
1. Setting up the test bench for comparing ebike headlights
In the test, we wanted to compare more than just numbers and values. Instead, we looked at the actual illumination in front of the ebike. This is what the test bench looked like: Each headlight was installed at a height of exactly one metre. This corresponds roughly to the height at which many headlights are ultimately installed on ebikes. To make it easier for us to replace the lamps, we worked with a tripod at this point. All candidates for the test were connected to a power source with twelve volts and a maximum of 1.5 amps. You will typically encounter these performance data in the current Bosch Smart System. At peak performance, the lamps deliver 18 watts.
The headlights were aligned so that the brightest illumination of the light field hit a point five metres away at a height of 50 centimetres. Due to the constant weather and lighting conditions, we were able to work with identical camera settings during the test.
2. High-end ebike headlights in the test
Whether an ebike headlight belonged to the high-end category was determined solely by the manufacturer’s retail price. Anything above the 200 euro mark was considered high-end by us.
Busch + Müller Briq-XL E
On paper, the Briq-XL E from Busch + Müller is the most powerful headlight in the entire comparison. In our opinion, this headlight also spreads the most intense beam of light in front of us. This beam is also very wide. Its shape reminds us of two trapezoids stacked on top of each other. The light from the headlight is distributed very evenly across the entire surface. Busch + Müller has clearly defined the upper edge of the light cone so that it can be easily adjusted to avoid dazzling other road users. In high beam mode, the boundary shifts further upwards while maintaining the same light intensity.
In addition to its robust aluminium housing, the Briq-XL E impresses with additional digital features such as bend lighting. The headlight can be conveniently adjusted individually in the accompanying app. To get the most out of it, you can also connect it to the motor of your ebike using two power cables.
Technical data of the Busch + Müller Briq-XL E
- High beam: 220 lux
- Low beam: 150 lux
- Luminous flux: 2,000 lumens – 8,500 lumens
- Power consumption: 16 W – 60 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 5 V – 15 V
- Bend lighting
- Bluetooth and app
- Manufacturer’s RRP: from 449 euros
Supernova M99 Pro 2
From Supernova, we chose the M99 Pro 2 for our test. Its light cone appeared significantly wider and more evenly illuminated in our test compared to the Briq XL. There are no sharp edges in the carpet of light. The 99 mirrors built into the optics appear to do a good job. In terms of brightness, it does not quite match the Briq XL. Nevertheless, it is still at a very high level. Here, too, we recommend connecting it with two power cables.
Technical data of the Supernova M99 Pro 2
- High beam: 450 lux
- Low beam: 130 lux
- Luminous flux: 500 lumens – 3,000 lumens
- Power consumption: 5 W – 35 W
- Compatibility: 12 V ebikes
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 449 euros
Lupine SL X
The third big name among manufacturers of high-quality headlights is Lupine. Its top-of-the-range headlight is called the Lupine SL X. In our test, it produced a more distinctive light pattern. Once again, trapezoidal shapes can be seen, as was already the case with the Briq-XL E. Apart from that, however, the light intensity drops quite abruptly. The high beam also remains very limited to the centre. If you are looking for a headlight that shines particularly far, this model is a good choice.
Technical data of the Lupine SL X
- High beam: 2,800 lumens
- Low beam: 900 lumens
- Luminous flux: max. 320 lux
- Power consumption: 2 W – 30 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 5 V – 15 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 440 euros
Lupine SL MiniMax
The little brother of the SL X is called Lupine SL MiniMax. As the name suggests, it is significantly smaller. Despite the similar design, the Lupine SL MiniMax casts a completely different light pattern than the SL X. It appears more even and harmonious, with fewer sharp edges. When switching to high beam, you notice the lower luminous flux. The illuminated area is larger, but not nearly as bright. In our opinion, the headlight strikes a good balance that is perfectly adequate for use in the city. However, it may not be sufficient for long night rides on trails.
Technical data of the Lupine SL MiniMax
- High beam: 2,100 lumens
- Low beam: 900 lumens
- Luminous flux: max. 250 lux
- Power consumption: 2 W – 22 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 6 V – 13.5 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 380 euros
Lupine SL F
The SL F headlight completes the Lupine trio. It is the only representative of the high-end category to use lens technology. This results in a significantly smaller design compared to the other headlights with their mirrors.
When installing the lamp, we encounter a permanently installed complete light cable for the first time. Usually, current models only feature a short light cable. This allows you to connect it to a main cable that is laid only once in or on the ebike and connected to the motor, and usually supports all common headlights from Busch + Müller, Supernova, Lupine, etc. This makes changing a lamp much easier. This is not possible with the Lupine SLF. However, the manufacturer intends to change this for this product in the future.
The light field of the Lupine SL F appears very homogeneous with few darker spots, but is naturally very conical due to its lens. In front of the ebike, the light field starts out relatively narrow and widens more and more towards the front. Nevertheless, we like this quite a lot. This applies less to the colourful edges that appear at the top and sides. With the clear upper edge, however, the light cone can be easily aligned so as not to dazzle oncoming traffic.
Technical data of the Lupine SL F
- High beam: 1,300 lumens
- Low beam: 900 lumens
- Luminous flux: max. 110 lux
- Power consumption: 1.5 W – 16 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 6 V – 13.5 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 350 euros
Litemove RXW-2900
Litemove is the fourth manufacturer to make its mark in the high-end headlight segment. Externally, the top model, the Litemove RXW-2900, is very reminiscent of the Lupine SL X. However, at a price of 279 euros, it is significantly cheaper than its competitors. We were pleasantly surprised by its very bright and evenly illuminated carpet of light.
There were hardly any dark spots to be seen. Although the brightness is below the level delivered by the Supernova M99 Pro 2 or the Busch + Müller Briq-XL E, it certainly doesn’t need to hide from the competition. Even if the light cone is also slightly narrower. In high beam mode, it only extends forwards.
Technical data of the Litemove RXW-2900
- High beam: 200 lux
- Low beam: 140 lux
- Luminous flux: 650 lumens – 2,900 lumens
- Power consumption: max. 28 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 11 V – 16 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 279.95 euros
Conclusion on the comparison of high-end ebike headlights
No matter which headlight you choose in this category, you are sure to get a really good light. In our opinion, the Briq-XL E from Busch + Müller is currently the best ebike headlight you can install. Why? The headlight has a very modern look with its angular design. It offers the best illuminated light field in the entire test. You can scale it very high using the app. It also provides a great feature with the bend lighting.
The best value for money is provided by the Litemove RXW-2900. At a reasonable price, it has a lot of power and a really good light field – not so wide, but very bright and reaching far forward.
3. Mid-range ebike headlights in the test
In the mid-range category, we take a look at ebike headlights that cost between 100 and 200 euros.
Busch + Müller IQ-XL E
There are no rules without exceptions. 😉 In terms of price, the Busch + Müller IQ-XL E, at 299 euros, should clearly belong in the high-end category. However, we have classified it as mid-range for two reasons. Firstly, you can now find this light everywhere for significantly less than 200 euros. Secondly, its performance no longer meets the highest standards. This is illustrated by our test footage. Its very wide light field, typical for Busch + Müller, is illuminated quite unevenly. Especially in the near field, it appears relatively dark and only becomes really bright at a distance of ten to 15 metres. The high beam shines extremely far upwards and can quickly dazzle other vehicles. Added to this is the clunky-looking aluminium housing, which makes the headlight quite heavy. All in all, we believe that what used to be a top-of-the-range headlight is now only mid-range.
Technical data for the Busch + Müller IQ-XL E
- High beam: 250 lux
- Low beam: 300 lux
- Additional daytime running light
- Power consumption: 11 W – 16 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 11 V – 48 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 299.90 euros
Litemove AEW-230
The Litemove AEW-230 again uses lens technology. Its low beam light pattern shows two very bright, narrow spotlights illuminating the centre with an almost white light. The light in the adjacent area has a significantly warmer tone. Despite the differences, we find this quite pleasant. Especially since the light field is wide enough. Coloured edges appear again at the edges. In high beam mode, the light pattern changes from a cone to a trapezoidal shape with a nice upper edge.
Technical data of the Litemove AEW-230
- High beam: 230 lux
- Low beam: 170 lux
- Luminous flux: 550 lumens – 950 lumens
- Power consumption: 7.3 W – 15 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 9 V – 16 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 169.90 euros
Sigma Eox FL 170 HB
With the Eox FL 170 HB, Sigma offers a headlight that, thanks to its small dimensions, does not obscure the handlebars. A lens is concealed beneath the aluminium housing. The lamp emits its light in a very varied manner. The area at a distance of ten to 15 metres from the handlebars appears significantly brighter and has a relatively narrow diameter. Everything in front of this is illuminated more dimly, with darker spots appearing here and there. At close range, the light pattern is significantly wider than at a distance.
In high beam mode, the nuances between near and far, dark and light, are noticeably reduced. In addition, there is additional illumination beyond the 15-metre range. Nevertheless, the headlight does not reach as far as others. However, it can be easily adjusted thanks to its clear light edge.
As a bonus, the Sigma FL 170 HB features a USB-C charging socket. This allows you to charge mobile devices such as smartphones and bike computers while riding. This also works with the light being switched on.
Technical data of the Sigma Eox FL 170 HB
- High beam: 170 lux
- Low beam: 120 lux
- Luminous flux: max. 850 lumens
- Power consumption: 12 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 12 V – 16 V
- USB-C charging port (5 V / 2 A)
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 149.95 euros
Litemove AC-210
The Litemove AC-210 is a prime example of a very cone-shaped carpet of light. Directly in front of the handlebars, the shape is quite narrow and then becomes wider with increasing distance. The whole thing is wonderfully even and very brightly lit at the same time. Litemove has done a really good job here. In high beam mode, coloured edges reappear at the sides. Apart from that, however, you get an equally homogeneous light field with a clearly recognisable light edge.
Technical data of the Litemove AC-210
- High beam: 210 lux
- Low beam: 140 lux
- Luminous flux: 460 lumens – 700 lumens
- Power consumption: 10 W – 16 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 11 V – 16 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 159.90 euros
Busch + Müller IQ-X E
Its wide light field makes it clear that the IQ-X E is another lamp from Busch + Müller. However, its uneven illumination is immediately apparent. Between the close range and the long range, which begins at around five metres, there is a horizontal zone that almost acts as a dividing line. Other headlights from Busch + Müller and from other manufacturers have been proven to perform better in this respect. You either like this light field or you don’t. This headlight does not have a high beam – and it is the only one in our test that costs 100 euros or more.
Technical data of the Busch + Müller IQ-X E
- Low beam: 150 lux
- Power consumption: min. 7.5 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 6 V – 60 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 169.90 Euros
Conclusion on the comparison of mid-range ebike headlights
In our opinion, no model in this category clearly stands out from the field of test candidates. All headlights are quite similar. Those who are particularly interested in a good balance between price and performance should take a look at the Sigma Eox FL 170 HB. The price of around 150 euros seems fair. The lamp also scores points with its charging function. Looking only at the light pattern, the Litemove AC-210 has a slight edge. Although it produces a strongly conical light field, this appears extremely homogeneous and bright.
4. Entry-level ebike headlights in the test
When it comes to simpler ebike headlights, we look at models that cost less than 100 euros. Due to their lower power output, they also require far less power from the motor than mid-range or high-end models. This increases the range of ebikes with which they can be combined. The entry-level models are usually also compatible with rear wheel hub motors from Mahle and Co.
Litemove RX-E90
The Litemove RX-E90 is the only headlight in this category to offer a high beam. The manufacturer uses aluminium for the housing. It also manages to keep the dimensions compact. The difference to the higher-quality headlights is clearly evident in the test. The light pattern appears darker overall than before. In addition, there are spots, which indicates less homogeneous illumination. The light field is quite narrow. Only at the closest range is it likely to be three or four metres wide. As indicated, the forward illumination is good, but very centred. In high beam mode, the light cone extends quite a bit further forward, creating a bright tunnel.
Technical data of the Litemove RX-E90
- High beam: 90 lux
- Low beam: 50 lux
- Power consumption: 2.9 W – 5.8 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 5 V – 16 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 95.95 euros
Busch + Müller IQ-XS E
The Busch + Müller IQ-XS E is essentially a smaller version of the IQ-X E. It casts a really wide, even light pattern. Experience has shown that the manufacturer attaches great importance to this. We had the impression that it tends to split up slightly, creating almost a cross shape. In addition to the fairly bright centre bar, there is another bar running across. The light intensity drops noticeably in the areas between them.
Technical data for the Busch + Müller IQ-XS E
- Low beam: 80 lux
- Power consumption: 2.7 W
- Compatibility: e-bikes with 6 V – 42 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 99.90 euros
Litemove SEC-110
The Litemove SEC-110 headlight also comes with a lens similar to those seen on other Litemove headlights. At 110 lux, it has the strongest low beam in our comparison of entry-level headlights. Its light field impresses with its homogeneity and brightness. Even the pronounced cone shape is hardly noticeable. After all, the cone is considerably wider than the light field of the Litemove RX-E90.
Technical data of the Litemove SEC-110
- Low beam: 110 lux
- Power consumption: 8 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 8 V – 16 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 64.95 euros
Busch + Müller Briq-S
Many ebike manufacturers equip their urban ebikes with a Busch + Müller Briq-S. Presumably, they like its trapezoidal, wide appearance. The design reminds us vaguely of motorcycle headlights and, of course, very much of the Briq-XL E. However, the Briq-S only has a plastic housing. Somehow, the price of around 40 euros has to be achieved. Fortunately, this does not detract from the light field. Around a wide, bright centre bar, there is still enough residual light for the surrounding areas. It also looks really good in the near field. Other headlights in this category certainly offer greater brightness in certain areas. However, when it comes to harmonious illumination, no other headlight comes close to the Briq-S.
Technical data for the Busch + Müller Briq-S
- Low beam: 60 lux
- Compatibility: ebikes with 5 V – 42 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 39.90 euros
Litemove RX- E50
The Litemove RX-E50 is the equivalent of the RX-E90. However, it does not feature a high beam. In return, it draws less power from the ebike system than any other headlight in this comparison. Instead of an aluminium housing, it now only has a plastic one. When it comes to the light field, there are again significant differences compared to the higher-quality models. The light field is primarily concentrated in a diameter of around three metres at a distance of five to ten metres in front of the ebike. Everything beyond this appears much darker. Given the rather narrow light field, we recommend this headlight for riding in areas with additional street lighting.
Technical data of the Litemove RX- E50
- Low beam: 50 lux
- Power consumption: 2.5 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 5 V – 16 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 38.95 euros
Herrmans H-Black MR4
The Herrmans H-Black MR4 is completely encased in plastic. With it, you can save a few quid as well as a few grams on the total weight of your ebike. We find its light field more impressive than that of the equally affordable Litemove RX-E50. It is significantly wider and shows less difference between light and dark areas. With its classic round design, it fits well into the cockpit.
Technical data of the Herrmans H-Black MR4
- Low beam: 120 lumens
- Power consumption: 1.9 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 6 V – 12 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 39.95 euros
Conclusion on the comparison of entry-level ebike headlights
The Busch + Müller Briq S is the clear winner in terms of value for money. For just 39 euros, it provides a harmonious light field. This allows you to see well and ensures that you are also easily seen. If we consider performance alone, the Litemove SEC-110 is the most impressive of the headlights under 100 euros. No other entry-level lamp in our comparison shines brighter. And at 65 euros, the price is still reasonable.
5. Mini ebike headlights in the test
As the name suggests, mini headlights aim to deliver the greatest possible performance in the smallest possible size.
Supernova Mini 3 Pro
The Supernova Mini 3 Pro implements this approach quite impressively. Due to its small size, it can be mounted on the fork as well as on the handlebars. The light field looks a little unusual. At close range, hardly any light hits the road. This is followed by a very bright and wide central area. With the brightness remaining constant, the light field then narrows again in the distance. Nevertheless, it can work quite well while riding. Objects in the distance are captured by a narrower area. Then, when they enter the central field of vision, they are illuminated very comprehensively. Very close to the ebike, there is hardly any illumination because you have already reacted to the spot and are concentrating on a new area. Only a practical test can really show whether this solution is suitable for you.
Technical data of the Supernova Mini 3 Pro
- High beam: 190 lux
- Low beam: 110 lux
- Luminous flux: 450 lumens – 1,200 lumens
- Power consumption: 7.5 W – 21 W
- Compatibility: 12 V ebikes
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 179 euros
Lupine SL Nano
The Lupine SL Nano is the smallest of the minis. But don’t let that fool you. It offers amazing performance. Its round housing emits a very bright and almost rectangular light field. This provides really uniform illumination. One small drawback: a few streaks of green and purple light are visible at the end of the light field. These are probably reflections caused by the lens.
The lamp also has a high beam button. We did not install this in our test and were therefore unable to test the high beam.
Technical data of the Lupine SL Nano
- High beam: 1,000 lumens
- Low beam: 700 lumens
- Light intensity: max. 140 lux
- Power consumption: 2 W – 14 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 5 V – 15 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 148 euros
Supernova M99 Mini Pure
The Supernova M99 Mini Pure was clearly designed as a simpler version of the large Supernova M99 Pro 2 headlight. Compared to the other mini headlights, it is also slightly larger. The biggest difference between the M99 Mini Pure and the M99 Pro 2 is the high beam, which the former lamp lacks. Thanks to the mirror, it creates a light field that is very similar to the low beam of the M99 pro 2. The light illuminates the road from a distance to the immediate vicinity with a nice wide beam. A few darker spots are visible. Overall, however, it seems quite well balanced.
Technical data of the Supernova M99 Mini Pure
- Low beam: 150 lux
- Luminous flux: 450 lumens
- Power consumption: 5.2 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 5 V – 13.5 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 249 euros
Supernova Starstream X Pro
With its unique design, the Supernova Starstream X Pro immediately catches the eye. Due to its extremely flat and wide design, you might expect a light pattern in the shape of a bar. Instead, the low beam produces a narrow, vertical area in the centre of the light field where the headlight shines most brightly. Below this, there is a wide, horizontal bright close-range area towards the ebike. The brightness does not decrease significantly to the left and right of this area. When switching to high beam, the vertical area of the light field mentioned above mainly extends forward.
Technical data of the Supernova Starstream X Pro
- High beam: 145 lux
- Low beam: 70 lux
- Luminous flux: 510 lumens – 1,000 lumens
- Power consumption: 12 W – 18 W
- Compatibility: ebikes with 12 V
- Manufacturer’s RRP: 249 euros
Conclusion on the comparison of mini ebike headlights
We find two mini headlights particularly recommendable. One is the Lupine SL Nano. It best fulfils the requirements of this category – namely, providing as much power as possible in as small a space as possible. If the size of the light is less important for your ebike, then the Supernova Starstream Pro X is a good choice. We find its light field even more impressive than that of the Lupine.
Images: Elektrofahrrad24 GmbH; Busch & Müller KG; Herrmans OY AB; Litemove Technology Co., Ltd; Lupine Lighting Systems GmbH; Sigma-Elektro GmbH; Supernova Design GmbH