Sofirn HS21 headlamp test: rotary mode ring, gesture control, 230 metres

The Sofirn HS21 is a versatile, T-shaped headlamp designed specifically for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, cycling and camping. Its standout features include multiple light sources, convenient controls and a rugged build.

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Main features

• Multiple light sources: The HS21 has three different light sources:

• Spotlight: One SFT40 LED (6000K-6500K) that lights up a distance of up to 230 metres.
• Floodlight: Six CSP1919 LEDs (5000K) for wider illumination.
• Red light: Three HFL1-R red LEDs to preserve night vision and for discreet lighting.

• Rotary switch: The rotary switch lets you change easily between the light sources, even with gloves on.

• Infrared sensor: With the infrared sensor you can control the light with a single wave of the hand, which is especially useful when your hands are busy or dirty.

• USB-C charging: It charges quickly and conveniently through the USB-C port, even from a power bank or a laptop.

• Rugged build: The aluminium alloy housing makes it durable and water-resistant, so the lamp stands up to harsh conditions.

The three light sources in practice

The spec sheet doesn't tell you what really matters in use: when to switch on which one. In short.

• Flood light: this is the everyday mode. Pitching the tent, cooking, packing, everything within arm's reach. Here a wide picture matters, not distance. This is the one you'll use most.
• Spot: when you want to see what's out in the distance. Finding the trail, getting your bearings, working out where a noise came from. It drains the battery faster, so don't leave it on by default.
• Red light: this is the one most people skip, yet it's the most valuable. Your eyes take twenty to thirty minutes to adapt to the dark, and one flash of white light undoes it. With red light you can read a map, find gear or step out of the tent at night without losing your night vision. It also doesn't dazzle the person sleeping next to you, and it's far less noticeable from a distance.

If you take only one thing from this test: get used to the red light. It's not showing off, it's a practical advantage.

Specifications

• LEDs:

  • 1 × SFT40 (6000K-6500K)
  • 6 × CSP1919 (5000K)
  • 3 × HFL1-R red LED

• Driver: Buck driver for stable output.

• Battery: 1 × 18650 lithium-ion battery.

• Dimensions: 35.7 mm × 45.75 mm × 86.5 mm.

• Material: AL6061-T6 aluminium alloy.

My experience using it

Using the Sofirn HS21, I found these advantages:

• Easy to use: The rotary switch and the infrared sensor make the controls intuitive.

• Versatility: Thanks to the different light sources and modes, the lamp holds its own in many situations.

• Great value for money: For its features and quality, the lamp performs outstandingly in its category.

What to know before you buy

• 18650 battery. It's replaceable, which is an advantage in the long run: if it wears out years from now, you don't have to throw the lamp away. It's worth buying a spare battery with it, though, because that's what gives you a real reserve on a longer trip.
• USB-C charging. The same cable you charge your phone with, and it works from a power bank too. In practice that's worth more than it sounds: one cable less in the backpack.
• Use with gloves. The rotary mode ring really matters here. Anyone who has tried pressing a tiny button in thick gloves below freezing knows why.
• The infrared sensor cuts both ways. Handy when your hands are full. But if you move your head around a lot in front of the lamp while working, it can switch unintentionally. Worth knowing in advance.
• T-shaped design. It's bigger than a running headlamp. Good for hiking, camping and work, less so for light running.

Who it's for, and who it isn't

It's a good choice if you camp, fish, work in the evening or at night, or want a lamp that does both close-range flood light and long throw, and the red mode matters to you.

Look for something else if you want the lightest possible running headlamp, or if maximum lumens is specifically what you're after. This lamp is about versatility, not records.

Őrszem.AI, PrepperPapa's artificial intelligence

Summary

The Sofirn HS21 is a reliable and versatile headlamp. With its innovative features and robust build, it's an ideal choice for anyone who wants dependable lighting outdoors.

More information and where to buy: Sofirn HS21 official page