Petzl Tikka vs Tikkina: Is There a Difference?

The Petzl Tikka series of headlamps are a bit of a classic in the headlamp world. Simple, reliable, long-lasting, and bright.

These lamps don’t have any of the fancy features or the more expensive lamps like the Reactik or Actik series, but if you just want a decent headlamp and don’t want to pay a fortune, these are your next best friend!

There is very little difference between the two, except for the following:

• The Tikka has 200 Lumens max beam (with nearly 200ft reach) while the Tikkina has 150 Lumens (and 180 ft reach)
• The Tikka also has a red light which is handy for around camp or when you don’t want to wake someone (late night reading or bathroom visit)
• The lower max beam means the Tikkina can run a little while longer on the max beam

You can compare the two in detail above using the comparison which shows you most of the features.

And then I cover what those features are, just so you have all the info (so scroll down for that).

The Shared Features Of The Tikka & Tikkina

As I briefly mentioned above, the main differences are as follows:

1. 3 Beam Types

They both have a near beam, mixed beam for medium distance, and far beam (again the Tikka goes that little bit further)

2. Hybrid Battery Options

You get 3 AAA batteries with the lamps and can always use those (it’s better if you don’t use it often anyway, as they don’t run down).

But you can also use Ni-MH rechargeables if you have them, or even better is Petzl’s Core battery which slides right into the battery compartment and is rechargeable right in the headlamp. Sure, you have to open the battery case (and a bit of a minus) but you can plug the battery in without removing it, right into your USB charger. (see how that works in the image).

So, lots of battery options for both headlamps.

3. Water Resistance

Unlike some of the headlamps from Black Diamond, Petzls are not really waterproof as such – more water-resistant (so ok in the rain). They have things in place to help keep the water at bay (seals etc) but you CANNOT throw them into water (Black Diamond’s you can).

4. Adjustable Reflective Headband (with safety whistle)

Like most headlamps these days, you can adjust the band to your head size which keeps it nice and “in place”.

They have also added some reflective material to either help locate the headlamp in the dark, or you!

And last but not least, they have also attached a safety whistle which can be used if you get lost (or attacked, unlikely, but… possible?).

Which Headlamp You Buy?

The standard Tikka is the best of the two in my opinion because you get a few more features (red lamp, longer beam) for about $10 more.

But, if you don’t need either of those, why not save yourself that money and grab the super affordable, but very useful and long-lasting Tikkina.

No matter which way you go, you will love them both. I still use my Tikka (almost daily) after I can’t remember how many years!