Comparison Console
Nitecore LA30 vs Sofirn SD15
EDC Flashlights comparison. Compare price, weight, specifications, materials, and real-world use case.
Command Brief
Recommended read
Nitecore LA30 stands out as the lightest option for weight, with about a 3% gap from the closest alternative. Sofirn SD15 stands out as the cheapest option for retail price, with about a 7% gap from the closest alternative. Sofirn SD15 stands out as the highest output option for max lumens, with about a 1100% gap from the closest alternative.
Decision Signals
What stands out
Sofirn SD15 stands out as the cheapest option for retail price, with about a 7% gap from the closest alternative.
Nitecore LA30 stands out as the most expensive option for retail price, with about a 8% gap from the closest alternative.
Nitecore LA30 stands out as the lightest option for weight, with about a 3% gap from the closest alternative.
Sofirn SD15 stands out as the heaviest option for weight, with about a 3% gap from the closest alternative.
Nitecore LA30 stands out as the lowest output option for max lumens, with about a 92% gap from the closest alternative.
Sofirn SD15 stands out as the highest output option for max lumens, with about a 1100% gap from the closest alternative.
Sofirn SD15 stands out as the shortest runtime option for max runtime, with about a 97% gap from the closest alternative.
Nitecore LA30 stands out as the longest runtime option for max runtime, with about a 3329% gap from the closest alternative.
Specification Profile
Relative dimensions at a glance
Each axis is normalized against the largest raw value among the products in this comparison. Farther outward means a larger value, not necessarily a better result. Axes with an unverified value are omitted.
Price & carry
Retail price
US$39.95Most expensive
US$36.99Cheapest
Weight
117 g (4.13 oz)Lightest
120 g (4.23 oz)Heaviest
Length
75.2 mm (2.96 in)Shortest
119 mm (4.69 in)Longest
Output
Max lumens
250 lmLowest output
3000 lmHighest output
Max candela
96 cdLowest candela
36225 cdHighest candela
Beam distance
19.6 m (64 ft)Lowest
381 m (1250 ft)Highest
Max runtime
3360 minLongest runtime
98 minShortest runtime
Power & durability
Battery type
Built-in 3.7V 1800mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery or 2 AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH)
21700 lithium-ion
Charging type
Micro-USB charging
External charger (single bay, micro-USB powered)
Rechargeable
Yes
Yes
IP rating
IP66
IPX8
Impact resistance
1 m (3 ft)
Unknown
Material
Polycarbonate (body)
Anodized aluminum
Use case profile
Best for
CampingFishingEmergency lightingGeneral outdoor useHands-free lighting
Diving useUnderwater explorationGeneral flashlight use
Common praise
Dual power options provide versatility and reliable backupHigh CRI LEDs offer good color rendering and reduce eye strainLong runtime up to 56 hours on lowIP66 rating provides good water and dust resistanceCompact size with magnetic base and hanging loop for versatile placementGood battery charge indication and advanced power cut-off for battery preservation
High output with good measured lumensSolid build quality with smooth anodizationEffective rotary dial interface with clear mode detentsIncludes wrist lanyard for retentionExternal charging with included 21700 charger and cable
Common complaints
Size and weight not ideal for backpackingCharging port does not charge AA batteries if installedNo way to disable bright green charge complete indicator light
Lack of grip texture on body and tailcapNo onboard chargingNo pouch, magnet, or pocket clip included
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