Choose based on light output and beam
For work close to your hands, 200 to 500 lumens is enough; for lighting up a room or site, you want 1000 lumens or more. Just as important is the beam shape: a wide, diffuse beam lights a whole area without harsh shadows, while a focused beam reaches far but leaves the rest dark.
Hands free and built for the workplace
A headlamp keeps both hands free and always points the light where you're looking, which makes the difference in crawl spaces and installation work. For any light, check the IP rating: IP54 withstands dust and splashing water, IP65 or higher is needed if the light hangs outside in the rain. If you work in an area with explosion risk, you need a light specifically certified for that.
