Ya none of these are going to last super long on the highest power, but I don't typically need that much light for long periods of time. My 18650 Zebra will go a lot longer at 400 lumens than any AA powered headlamp I've ever tried at that same output. That said, I've also found there are big differences in the 18650 battery quality. Better batteries last much longer. With typical use at moderate light output I can easily go an entire weeks backpack trip with the Zebra and know I'll have plenty of juice to spare. Save the high settings for when you really need it in short spurts and it will last a long time.
I'll agree with you wholeheartedly on the adjustable beam. Most of the time I want a floody beam pattern, but I don't want to carry an extra light just for when I want some throw. So I either have a floody light and miss out on the throw when I want it or I pick the standard beam pattern and live with a hot spot I don't need or want most of the time. I have an Ultraspire running lamp (waist mounted) that also uses an 18650 battery and I can move back and forth between flood and spot with a quick twist on the lens housing. I really wish Zebra would incorporate that feature. The flood and spot might not be as totally uniform, but I'll gladly take that flexibility over having to choose one for all situations.
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