Sofirn Q8 5000lm review. Is it worth it in 2023?

2019

4 x Cree XP-L HI LEDs

5000 lm output

75625 cd intensity

4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries

The Sofirn Q8 (Q8) released in 2019. It uses 4 x Cree XP-L HI LEDs, SMO reflector and 4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries. The powerful emitter in this flashlight provides up to 5000 lm output, 75625 cd intensity, and a beam distance of 550 m.

The Q8 is an impressive flashlight that offers both power and reliability. Its robust build and outstanding illumination make it a versatile lighting instrument. The mode memory of Q8 contributes to a more seamless and intuitive user experience. It has a strobe function, which is one of the most effective self defense tools available.

Table of contents:

Sofirn Q8 specifications
Sofirn Q8 pictures
Sofirn Q8 comparisons

Sofirn Q8 (Q8) specifications

Brand	Sofirn
Name	Q8
Type	Q8
Rating	★★★★★ Rated 3/5 based on 1116 user votes.
Launch	2019
Form	flashlight

Flashlights enable you to navigate in the dark, locate supplies, signal for help, or provide comfort and security in challenging circumstances.

Body

Weight	400 g
Length	132 mm
Body diameter	50 mm
Head diameter	59 mm
Material	aluminium alloy with HAIII hard-anodized finish
Colors	black

Flashlights in weight range of the Q8 (400 g) may have features like extended battery life, intense brightness, or rugged construction for heavy-duty use. The ideal length of a flashlight depends on personal preference, intended use, and the specific features and functionality you're looking for. Aluminium is a lightweight material, which is beneficial for Q8 flashlight. Hard-Anodized Type III (HAIII) is a specific anodizing process that creates a thicker and harder oxide layer compared to regular anodizing. It involves subjecting the aluminum to a higher voltage and a sulfuric acid bath, resulting in a dense and durable coating. This flashlight comes in a sleek black color option.

System

Emitter	4 x Cree XP-L HI LEDs
Color temperature	6500 K
Reflector	SMO
Lens	AR coated glass
Switch	electronic side

The emitter of Q8 manufactured by Cree, a US-based LED manufacturing company. Cree is a well-regarded LED manufacturer known for its high-quality products and innovation in the lighting industry. Color temperature is a characteristic of light. It is measured in units called Kelvin (K) and is used to quantify the color appearance of light sources, particularly white light. The smooth reflector is typically used in flashlights where long-range illumination is a priority, such as searchlights or thrower flashlights. By minimizing light scattering and maximizing light directionality, the smooth reflector can produce a tighter and more concentrated beam that reaches greater distances.

The AR coating of the lens helps to mitigate these reflections by altering the refractive index of the lens surface. The Q8 utilizes electronic switch. Electronic switches on flashlights provide a range of advantages and additional features compared to mechanical switches.

Performance

Flux	5000 lm
Intensity	75625 cd
Throw	550 m
CD/LM factor	15.13

With 5000 lm, the Q8 flashlight will provide an exceptionally bright and powerful beam of light. It can illuminate large areas, outdoor spaces, or even act as a temporary spotlight in certain situations. 75625 cd represents an extremely high level of brightness for a flashlight. The throw distance refers to the maximum distance at which the flashlight can effectively illuminate an object or target. The stated throw distance typically indicates the point at which the brightness falls below a specified threshold, such as 0.25 lux. The candela per lumen (cd/lm) ratio can be used to determine if a flashlight has a spot or flood type beam. Well-focused spot beams can be over 100 cd/lm, tactical flashlights are typically between 20-100 cd/lm, and work lights are less than 10 cd/lm.

Software

Firmware	NarsilM
Mode memory	yes
Ramping mode	yes
Strobe	yes
SOS/Beacon	yes

NarsilM offers various customization options, allowing users to tailor the flashlight's behavior to their specific needs. This can include adjusting ramping profiles, configuring mode groups, setting shortcuts, and more. The Q8 has mode memory. Mode memory means that the flashlight will remember the mode you were using when the light was last turned off, and when you turn it on again. The Q8 flashlight with ramping mode has a user interface that enables you to control the brightness level by pressing and holding a button.

The Q8 is tactical strobe ready. The strobe light is disorienting to the person it is aimed at which makes it difficult for them to concentrate. It has the SOS beacon function for an emergency situation. The SOS flashes Morse code so you can signal for help when needed. The SOS signal is recognized as an international distress call and is used to indicate an urgent need for assistance.

Features

Battery	4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries
Battery indicator	yes
Charger port	no
LVP	yes
Thermal regulation	yes
Protection	IPx8
AUX LEDs	no
Magnetic	no

The Sofirn Q8 flashlight is powered by 4 x 18650 Li-Ion batteries. The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is low, charging, or fully charged. The Q8 doesn't have charger port. A charger port is a designated connection point or interface where you can plug in a charger to recharge the flashlight's battery. This flashlight has a built-in low voltage protection (LVP) to prevent damage to the cell from over-discharge, so protected cells are not necessary.

The Q8 has thermal protection feature. The thermal protection mechanisms are designed to monitor and regulate the temperature of the flashlight during operation. This feature helps prevent overheating, which can be detrimental to the flashlight's performance, battery, and overall safety. The Q8 flashlight with IPx8 rating can withstand being submerged in water beyond 1 meter for a prolonged period, typically specified by the manufacturer.

Accessories

Package contents	3 x spare o-rings spare rubber cover

Regularly replacing worn or damaged O-rings helps maintain the overall durability and performance of the flashlight.

The performance of the Sofirn Q8 flashlight is measured according to the ANSI / NEMA FL1 Standard 30 seconds after switching the light on. The ANSI/NEMA FL1 2009 Standard is a set of flashlight performance guidelines.

The specifications above are based on the official data published by the manufacturer, but we also take user reviews into consideration. If you found an error or something lacking in the specifications above for the Sofirn Q8, then don’t hesite and signal the problem to us.