sofirn SP36 Pro Flashlight Review High Lumens and Advanced Anduril 2.0 UI

Description

Compact & Tough Design for Everyday Carry

Holding the sofirn Flashlight High Lumens SP36 Pro in my hand, I immediately noticed its soda can-shaped design that fits snugly and comfortably. The aluminum body feels solid yet lightweight, weighing just about 300 grams without batteries. That makes it perfect for daily use, whether I’m hiking, working in the garage, or just needing a reliable handheld flashlight around the house. The IPX8 waterproof rating adds extra peace of mind, as I’ve accidentally dropped mine in puddles and even used it in a light rain without any issues. The compact size — approximately 50mm head diameter and 126.7mm length — allows for easy storage in pockets or backpacks without feeling bulky.

Ultra Bright Illumination with Adjustable Modes

This flashlight packs a punch with its SS-T40 5000K LED, delivering a blazing 8000 lumens of brightness and an impressive 450 meters beam distance. I tested it outdoors during a nighttime walk, and the beam practically lit up an entire football field. What’s more, the Anduril 2.0 firmware offers a remarkable user interface with multiple light modes tailored for different scenarios. From a gentle moonlight mode perfect for reading or close tasks to a turbo brightness that could probably signal passing planes, this flashlight’s versatility blew me away. Temperature calibration is necessary for max output, but it’s a straightforward process that ensures the light runs safely at peak performance.

Onboard USB-C Charging Convenience

The inclusion of a built-in USB-C charging port is a huge plus. I plugged it straight into my laptop and car charger using the provided USBA to USBC cable, and the charging was surprisingly fast and hassle-free. No more fumbling with external battery chargers or swapping out batteries in the dark. The flashlight requires 3 lithium polymer batteries, which come pre-installed, so it’s ready to go right out of the box. This feature alone makes it stand out compared to other powerful flashlights that rely on more cumbersome charging methods.

Brightness and Runtime: Power Meets Endurance

Being a flashlight rated at 40 watts with a runtime of up to 72 hours, it balances power and longevity quite well. I experimented with various modes, noticing that lower brightness settings allowed the battery to stretch for prolonged use, while turbo mode drained it faster but provided intense illumination when needed. For emergency situations or extended outdoor use, this balance is critical. The lithium-ion battery composition contributes to its solid runtime, and having spare O-rings in the package shows the manufacturer’s attention to durability and maintenance.

Benefits

• Exceptional brightness capable of lighting up very large areas with ease.
• Versatile light modes thanks to the advanced Anduril 2.0 UI.
• Compact and robust aluminum body that’s waterproof and easy to carry.
• Convenient USB-C charging built into the flashlight itself.
• Long runtime with efficient lithium-ion batteries included.

Downsides

• The temperature calibration step before using max output could be confusing for beginners.
• It requires 3 specific lithium polymer batteries, which may be less common than standard AA or AAA.
• The screw tube mechanism to prevent bad connections needs careful tightening; otherwise, the flashlight might flicker or not turn on.
• The brightness is so intense that it might be overkill for casual users or indoor tasks.
• No dedicated holster or clip included, which could be a minor inconvenience for some.

Alternative Products

Comparing this flashlight to popular competitors like the Fenix PD36R and Olight Warrior X Pro, certain differences stand out. The SP36 Pro excels in brightness, easily surpassing many rivals with its 8000 lumens output, whereas the Fenix model offers around 1600 lumens and the Olight about 2250 lumens. However, those competitors often boast more compact sizes or built-in magnetic charging docks, which the SP36 Pro lacks. On the other hand, its IPX8 waterproof rating and aluminum build match or exceed many rivals, making it a rugged choice for tougher conditions. The Anduril 2.0 interface also offers more customization than most competing brands, which usually stick to simpler on/off and a few preset modes.

While the SP36 Pro’s USB-C onboard charging is convenient, some users might prefer the magnetic charging found on other models for ease. The battery requirements for the SP36 Pro could be a downside compared to flashlights using standard rechargeable 18650 batteries, which are easier to replace or source. Overall, this flashlight shines brightest in raw power and programmable options but may fall short slightly in user-friendliness compared to its peers.

Price Worthiness and Value Proposition

Considering the features packed into this flashlight, its value proposition is solid for those who need a powerful, durable, and versatile lighting tool. The combination of ultra-bright output, programmable modes, and USB-C charging elevates it above many cheaper alternatives. While it might not be the most budget-friendly option for casual users, those who prioritize performance and ruggedness will find it worth the investment. Its long runtime and waterproof design add to the overall cost-effectiveness, reducing the likelihood of frequent replacements or additional accessories. Given that batteries and charging cable come included, it avoids extra hidden costs that can creep up with other high-lumen flashlights.

User Experience and Practical Usage

Testing this flashlight has been quite the adventure, and it’s definitely earned a spot in my everyday carry gear. My kids were fascinated by the intense light during our backyard camping, and the adjustable modes allowed me to avoid blinding them while still providing enough light for tasks. The robust build has survived accidental drops and outdoor exposure, proving its toughness. However, I did notice the importance of keeping the battery contacts clean and ensuring the tubes are tightly screwed to avoid intermittent power issues. This little maintenance detail keeps it running smoothly. Its size strikes a nice balance—large enough to grip comfortably but not so big that it feels cumbersome.

In all, this flashlight offers a powerful, well-rounded experience with a few quirks to be mindful of, especially for those new to high-performance LED lights.

Additional information