Sofirn HS21 Review
I review the Sofirn HS21. This headlamp has a combination of premium features that I’ve never seen together in a headlamp before. Get the Sofirn HS21:
https://amzn.to/4fj8IUo (Affiliate link)
General thoughts after a week of usage/size comparison/practicality/interesting things:
• So it seems like Sofirn releases a new light every time I check their website, and some of them are quite similar. So when I got the HS21 in the mail, I felt pretty indifferent about it. But on closer inspection, I think this has to be the best headlamp they’ve made. I think the HS21 represents a turning point where the line between ‘budget’ and ‘premium/mainstream’ lights seems non-existent. The HS21 has separate red, spot, and flood LEDs – all with regulated output on all four channels. The head rotates to change modes, the headband mount has a snap-on system, and there’s a motion sensor that allows hands-free operation of the light. All of these features are only heard of on far more expensive lights, and I think Sofirn has outdone itself this time around! This is a must-have if you’re looking for a headlamp.
• What’s in the box? HS21 + 18650 cell, headband, USB-C charging cable, instruction manual, and spare o-rings.
• Comparison with Nextorch Max Star – twice the price, but the HS21 has so many extra features, it’s no contest. The only similarity is the rotating head switch.
Overall Construction, LED, lens, bezel and reflector
• Great quality machining – especially at this price point. There are no rough spots or imperfections. The design is practical and minimalist. Everything has a function. Anodizing is between matt black and smooth, and slightly grippy. There are some shallow cutouts on the body/head, and the back of the light – this helps the light to stay in place when attached to the headband.
• Single rubber switch in the center of the battery tube. Also serves as a battery indicator. The head is also made of aluminum and rotates between four pivot points to access various modes. The rotating mechanism feels firm and clicks into place confidently. On the right side of the light, there is a USB-C charging port with an LED charging indicator. The IR light or motion detector is next to the charging port.
• Sofirn has used the same snap-on design headband as with the HS42. This is the best attachment system for headlamps in my opinion as it allows easy installation and removal for those who want to use the headlamp as an EDC light. The light swivels up to 180 degrees. There is also a band running across the head to keep the light extra secure. I find that’s more necessary for 18650/21700 lights due to the added weight.
• Under the bezel there is a custom TIR lens that houses 10 different LEDs. 1xSFT40 (6000-6500K), 6xCSP1919 5000K 95CRI LEDs, 3xHFL1-R 620nm red LEDs. The light comes with a buck driver and has regulated output on all channels. That’s something you don’t see on many budget lights.
UI – modes
• Single click – on/off. Press and hold for ML from off. Double-click to lock/unlock. Triple-click to enable/disable infrared sensors. Rotate the head to switch modes.
• From on, press and hold for LMHT on all modes.
• IR sensors – wave RHS to change modes. Hold for 3 seconds for off.
• Double-click on the red mode for red flashing mode.
Performance – total output, beam profile, longevity, practicality
• Ceiling bounce test, CRI, CCT
Considerations
• No glass lens on the front of the TIR lens
• Rubber button design – wished they also would use a larger one. Metal.
• Proximity sensor/IR sensor can be sensitive to ambient light, and nearby objects. If you’re using the light in a cave or close to a nearby object, I’d suggest turning off the sensor (triple click).
• Although you can use this as an EDC light, it doesn’t come with a clip and is a little awkward to hold. No lanyard hole.
Verdict
This is hands down the best value headlamp out there right now. If I could only get one headlamp, this would be the one. It has features that you normally only see in more expensive lights. Lots of value given the price tag. Regulated output is important for me in a headlamp, as well as a powerful red mode for preserving night vision. The rotating switch makes it easy to switch between modes, especially when you’re wearing gloves, and the motion sensor is a great option if you don’t want to be fumbling around for the ‘on’ switch.
