Convoy M2 vs Convoy M21B (both CULPM1)
In this video, I compare the Convoy M2 and Convoy M21B (both with CULPM1) to help you decide which one is right for you.
The M21B is slightly larger and takes a 21700 battery. The M2 takes an 18650 battery. Both have excellent throw (600-700m) and are suitable for EDC use. Though, I prefer carrying around the M2 as it’s a little smaller.
Both lights have very different drivers, so make sure you watch this video before you buy one.
Get the Convoy M21B here:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001739906319.html (6A)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005002309018051.html (8A)
Get the Convoy M2 here: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005001896829464.html
Individual review and technical measurements of each flashlight:
https://darrenyeo.com/convoy-m21b-culpm1/
https://darrenyeo.com/convoy-m2-culpm1-the-ultimate-pocket-thrower-on-a-budget/
Please support my work by purchasing recommended products here (affiliate link): https://www.amazon.com/shop/watercolourmentor
Tip jar:
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/darrenyeo
This flashlight sample was sent to me by Convoy. I was not paid to do this review. All opinions are my own.
Convoy M2 Notes:
General thoughts after a week of usage/size comparison/practicality:
• I’ve found my new favorite EDC. Impressive pocket thrower with strong spill.
• Fits easily in a pocket, I like the included clip.
• Comparison with other pocket throwers.
LED, lens, bezel, and reflector
• Perfectly centered LED. CULPM1 – 4040 (4mm2) footprint, better heat transfer. I went for the PM1 over the SFT40 as it throws further. Highest bin PM1s capable of producing 2000+ lumens @8A. Unsure what bin this one is. The NM1 can throw even more but with -300 lumens.
• Tactical style bezel, cutouts, SS.
• 25mm SMO reflector.
UI – modes
• 12 selections + memory
Performance – total output, beam profile, longevity, practicality
• No ring pattern. Previous reviewers have noted this. New gasket?
• Measured 656m throw with Opple Light Master Pro. It should be producing well over 1000 lumens with the 5A driver.
• Ramps down to 45% at 2mins 45.
• CCT: 5300K, CRI: 60 (both on 100% reading)
Considerations
• Finish is slippery.
• No onboard charging – need an external 18650 charger
• A tactical switch would make this perfect.
Verdict
• At the end of the day, this flashlight gets a 5-star rating from me. For $20-30, no other pocket thrower out there comes close in terms of value, performance, and quality. It’s my new favorite pocket thrower. Link to the M2 on the AliExpress Convoy shop above. A few places sell Convoy lights, but I’ve found they’re cheapest direct from Simon. I don’t get any commission from these links either – just want to make sure you get the best price possible.
Convoy M21B Notes:
General thoughts after a week of usage/size comparison/practicality:
• Strong pocket thrower with decent spill. feels rugged and sturdy.
• Fits easily in a pocket, though it didn’t come with a clip and the head is slightly large, though necessary to achieve decent throw figures.
• Comparison with other pocket throwers.
LED, lens, bezel, and reflector:
• Perfectly centered LED. CULPM1 – 4040 (4mm2) footprint, better heat transfer. I went for the PM1 over the SFT40 as it throws further. Highest bin PM1s capable of producing 2000+ lumens @8A. Unsure what bin this one is. The NM1 can throw even more but with -300 lumens.
• Tactical style bezel, cutouts
• 27mm SMO reflector.
UI – modes:
• 12 selections + memory
• Recommend 3-5 mode selection due to heat.
Performance – total output, beam profile, longevity, practicality:
• Beam pattern is nice, not ringy. New gasket?
• Measured 728m throw with Opple Light Master Pro. It should be producing over 1500 lumens with the 8A driver.
• Slow, linear ramp down from switch on to 8mins (ended test, was still at 70% output at 8mins)
• CCT: 5600K, CRI: 65 (both on 100% reading)
Considerations:
• Gets very HOT after a few minutes. Ramps down too slowly. Get the 6A version if you are worried. Ramping modes only go from 35% to 100%.
• No onboard charging – need external 18650 charger. No clip.
• A tactical switch would make this perfect.
Verdict:
Over-performing pocket thrower for a bargain price. I love the feel of it, the 700+m throw you get in such a small host. Link to the M21B on the AliExpress Convoy shop above. A few places sell Convoy lights, but I’ve found they’re cheapest direct from Simon. I don’t get any commission from these links either – just want to make sure you get the best price possible.
