Head-to-head · Best Rechargeable Headlamps

Fenix HM50R v2 vs Sofirn HS21

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Fenix HM50R v2 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.3). The gap is mostly about technical outdoor users — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps

Fenix HM50R v2

4.6

$60as of May 28

The Fenix HM50R V2 is a lightweight, durable headlamp weighing just 2.75 ounces with 700 lumens output and 377-foot beam distance. Reviewers noted its IP68 waterproof rating and included USB-C charging cable, though some found the activation method requiring a long press rather than single click. The stiff clip, while stable, makes reattachment difficult for children. It's well-suited for technical outdoor tasks but lacks versatility with limited features and no flood function.

Strengths

— Lightweight at 2.75 ounces, suitable for backpacking, running, and climbing
— Bright output of 700 lumens with a beam distance of 377 feet
— Durable aluminum construction with IP68 waterproof rating

Watch-outs

— Limited features with only 4 modes and no flood function
— Activation requires long press instead of single click
— Stiff clip makes it difficult for children to reattach the headlamp

$60 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #5 in Best Rechargeable Headlamps

Sofirn HS21

4.3

$54.99as of Jun 7

The Sofirn HS21 is a T-shaped headlamp featuring an infrared gesture sensor, one spotlight LED, six floodlight LEDs, and three red LEDs. Reviewers praised its hands-free operation and multiple lighting modes, with the floodlight LEDs offering high CRI at 99. However, discrepancies between advertised and measured flood lumens were noted, with some reviewers reporting up to 30% lower output. Build quality concerns regarding bracket durability were also mentioned. This headlamp suits users seeking versatile lighting options with gesture control, though those prioritizing exact lumens may want to consider alternatives.

Strengths

— Features gesture sensor for hands-free operation
— Provides multiple lighting modes including spot, flood, and red LEDs
— Rechargeable 18650 battery with USB-C charging capability

Watch-outs

— Flood mode lumens significantly lower than advertised
— Build quality concerns with bracket snapping reported by some users

$54.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Fenix HM50R v2

The Fenix HM50R v2 surpasses the Nitecore NU27 600 in brightness with 700 lumens versus 600, and offers superior durability with an IP68 rating. However, it's less user-friendly than the Petzl SWIFT LT, which has a simple one-button operation, and lacks the adjustable color temperature of the Nitecore NU27 600.

Sofirn HS21

The Sofirn HS21 distinguishes itself with its gesture sensor for hands-free operation, a feature not found in the Nitecore NU25 400 UL or Silva Trail Runner Free H. However, it's less bright than the Fenix HM50R v2, which offers 700 lumens, and lacks the straightforward operation of the Petzl SWIFT LT.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Fenix HM50R v2	Sofirn HS21
Weight	78g (with battery and headband)	87g (without battery), 168.53g (with battery/headband)
Lumens	700 lumens	Up to 2,300 lm
Beam Distance	377 feet	Up to 230 m
Waterproof Rating	IP68	IP65
Battery	1*16340	1*18650 3.7V Li-ion
Charging	USB Type-C	USB-C
Modes	6 (Turbo, High, Med, Low, Red, Red Flash)	Spotlight, Floodlight, S+F, Red
LED Type	CREE XP-G3 S4	Spotlight (1Luminus SFT40), Floodlight (6CSP1919), Red (3*HFL1-R)

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