[REVIEW] Sofirn SP31 (XP-L2 V6 3D, 1x18650) (Pictures, Beamshots, etc.)

Actually, I like “Medium” as-is at the measured 485 lumens. I treat “Medium” as “High” since that’s similar to running 3x7135 at 100% which, coincidentally, is my preferred output for a tube 18650.

That said, I agree that 5 modes would be better than 4. For spacing, I’m thinking that an ideal would roughly be:

  • 1 (Moon/FF)
  • 10 (Low)
  • 100 (Med)
  • 500 (High)
  • 1000 (Turbo)

At least for me during testing, the double-click to strobe was not an issue in changing between modes since the timing is a bit faster than I would normally change modes. I can definitely see how it could be a potential (very disorienting) problem if it happened, though. I do agree, since I would never want to enter strobe on accident. They could use a long-press to enter or change the strobe modes and a single press to exit so you can exit quickly.

Acebeam EC35 clone?

Same class/competition but I don’t think it’s a clone of the EC35 specifically. There are other similar looking lights like the Fenix PD35 TAC.

Excellent review. Whats not to like about this for 29.95. There’s also one of these on Amazon for 26.95, same seller Sofirn. Maybe the cool white? doesn’t say.

Personally, I like a 1 lumen low, and have no use for a super sub-lumen “firefly” mode. I don’t have fidgety fingers and don’t mine a double click to turbo strobe. But wouldn’t mind if they simply got rid of strobe altogether.

Getting to be quite the competition for this type of light. This Sofrin, Atactical A1, Zanflare, and a few others. Nice to see good lights in this price range.

Thanks! The one that is currently $26.95 on Amazon is the Sofirn SP32. The tail cap and mode spacing are both different. From pictures, I think that the SP32 only uses the side switch. The SP32 also probably tail stands better even with a lanyard attached. Not sure if the LED is the same temp or not, though.

I definitely agree with you about the ~1 lumen mode, I think it's perfect. Lights that use <=0.1 lumen are too dim for anything that I need.

Thanks for the review mate. Ordered one the other day. I think it’s great value. Got the SP30A too, to gift.

Nice to see a light come out with the new emitter especially in this tint.

Since this company is related to the one it seems like. I think they are finally listening and getting away from cooler temps. Makes sense now that they will have to order like 10,000 v6 3d for the group buy light. I highly doubt its just a coincidence they choose the v6 3d tint but I’m glad they did my favorite tint

Yeah, I’m definitely glad no matter what the reason. I’m hoping that after the good feedback they receive on using warmer/NW emitters that it continues the trend.

I did a back-to-back walk last night with this light and another that was CW. The difference was huge. So much more eye strain/fatigue with CW. I think that CW also messes with my circadian more when I take a walk before bed. NW is superior in every way.

Well done review. If I needed one I would buy it. Just a personal preference (to give as gifts etc.) I think 18650 lights would do well to include integrated charger. Not sure how much that costs the manufacturer but that and a few more modes would make this a great general purpose light.

Nice review as always :+1:

So this light should be offering a good balance between throw and flood I believe?

An outdoor beam shot comparison with a similar light (let’s say Convoy S2+ for example) would be nice to see! :innocent:

Yeah, I consider this to be a “balanced beam”. Way less tunnel-vision effect than using a thrower like the C8. Perfect for walking the dog, etc. In reality, this is the type of profile that I would use the most.

FYI - The SP31 now has a 35% off coupon code on Amazon (US):
93DRB44D

I can not get the code to work. Says it’s not valid.

Very nice review BTW.

Doh sorry about that. They must have expired those codes already. Both the SP31 and SP32 codes no longer work.

Not a problem. I only wanted to try the code because I was issued a code for a sample that expired before I got home from work to get the light. Another issued and again no joy. Kinda glad I did not get a light after reading your review. I certainly could not have done as well of a job as you did. Again, thanks.

I also requested the single tailcap SW or the dual SW. :+1:

Nick

I bought my SP32 in Sofirn’s AliExpress store with the coupon they have there.
It reduced the price in almost 2€ (± $2 USD). It takes longer to arrive than through Amazon, but it’s cheaper, though!

SoCalTiger: after this time using it, are you glad with the overall functioning of the light?

Yes! The only real “con” for me is that I have unintentionally entered strobe mode when trying to quickly switch modes while out on a walk. So, my recommendation to manufacturers now is that they don’t use double-click to activate strobe modes. I’d rather have a double-click go to Turbo as that is a less distracting situation between the two. And then a long-press for strobe.

That said, the SP31 is currently on my primary 18650 EDC rotation. For walks, it’s usually either this or my C8.

The SP31 has the superior color temp and tint. I absolutely love the XP-L2 V6 3D.

Hum, gotta be careful with possible entering on strobe then…
I got that same problem with my Manker E11 when going up on modes. A faster click and it ‘strobes’!
I’d also prefer the double click for turbo, and eventually triple click for strobe or no strobe at all, but…not all manufacturers think alike!
Still, the overall appreciation seems nice, what is very good! I’m waiting for mine, hope it doesn’t take long to arrive!!

Thanks for your information! :+1:

SoCalTiger,

Thanks for reviewing this light, we appreciate all the hard work and I love the photo’s!

Cheers,
Splott-Light :slight_smile:

Great review, thanks!

Saw this on amazon the other day and thought it was interesting.

Do you also have the SP32? And it is on your EDC rotation instead of this one in the review (SP31)?

I really like a 2-switch setup with forward clicky tail, Although I’d prefer if the tail switch had no memory and always starts in high, like my Ultrafire C20 (Crelant 7G3CS clone) a “Tactical tailcap high mode switch” as Crelant calls it.

Love that light for those reasons, but it’s a bit too long. Sofrin SP31 is only about 4mm shorter but I like that it has the XPL and 3D tint.

I also wish they sold just the base light W/O battery and charger, I’d rather pay $5-8 less, than get stuff I’m not going to use.