Best headlamp: Petzl e+LITE

This is so far ahead of the headlamp competition, it's almost not even fair. The Petzl e+LITE was officially designed as an emergency light -- something you'd keep in your car or kitchen drawer to use when you're stranded, when the power's out. But this little thing is far more capable than that.

Like all modern LED lamps, it's bright and has great battery life. But what makes this one stand out:

• It's small: less than 1 cu. in.
• It's really light: less than 1 oz.
• And because of the previous 2 points, it's really comfortable.
  
• It points anywhere you want it with its ball & socket mount.
• It has many lighting options, including dim (battery saving), bright, blinking, and even a red light for seeing in the dark without ruining your night vision.
• The switch is easy to use simply by feel when it's strapped to your head.
  
• It's inexpensive.