Side by side
Convoy S2+ vs D3AA
Convoy S2+
52 positive (85%) · 5 mixed (8%) · 4 negative (7%)
Trust + time weighted: +82%
AI summary — not a quote
The Convoy S2+ is a highly regarded, budget-friendly flashlight celebrated for its ruggedness and extreme customizability. It is frequently cited as a staple for both beginners and enthusiasts due to its wide range of available LED emitters, color temperatures, and aftermarket parts like shorty tubes and specialized optics. While its design is over a decade old, it remains a top recommendation for those who value a reliable, simple tail-switch light that can be easily modified.
Pros
- Exceptional value and affordability
- Highly customizable with various emitters (e.g., 519A, B35AM, XHP 50.3 HI)
- Rugged and sturdy construction suitable for daily carry
- Extensive aftermarket support for parts like 18350 tubes, metal buttons, and TIR optics
Cons
- Pocket clip design uses 'janky' bolts and nuts that are prone to breaking
- User interface (UI) is polarizing; some users find the tail-switch-only navigation annoying
- Anodized finish can be easily scratched
- Lacks a side switch, which may be a dealbreaker for some users
Top excerpts
The convoy s6 and s2 offer excellent value for money.
Debating whether I should buy that or 280 Convoy S2s.
You gave me such a burst of nostalgia that I immediately ordered a Convoy S2+ with the Osram KY CSLNM1.FY emitter.
Size comparison: On the left the FireFlies X4 Stellar, on the middle the Wurkkos TS26 519A and on the right the Convoy S2+.
On the left the FireFlies X4 Stellar, on the middle the Wurkkos TS26 519A and on the right the Convoy S2+.
D3AA
61 positive (78%) · 15 mixed (19%) · 2 negative (3%)
Trust + time weighted: +75%
AI summary — not a quote
The Emisar D3AA is highly regarded as a top-tier compact flashlight, frequently cited as a benchmark for the AA/14500 dual-fuel category. It is praised for its high-efficiency Freeman driver, which allows for both impressive peak power and extremely low sub-lumen outputs for extended runtimes. Users value its extreme customizability, including various emitter options for high CRI and signature auxiliary lights, though the advanced Anduril UI presents a learning curve for some.
Pros
- Dual-fuel versatility (supports both 14500 Li-ion and standard AA batteries)
- Highly efficient Freeman driver provides excellent regulation and sub-lumen levels
- Extremely compact size, suitable for coin-pocket EDC
- Wide range of customization options for emitters, CCT, and body materials
Cons
- Anduril UI can be complex and intimidating for beginners
- Throttled performance when using alkaline batteries
- Alkaline batteries pose a leakage risk and trigger 'weak battery' mode
Top excerpts
EDC: D3AA with USB-c battery probably
I have the D3AA in copper and don't use it as much as the aluminum because of the weight. It drags the clothing when clipped, whereas the aluminum doesn't. It's a pretty around the house light, though.
Now that it arrived, I'm really happy with the new flashlight and can't wait to use it every day. The CCT is great and all I hoped for. The anodization looks nice, the clip seems strong and the small size is great. I'm also looking forward to using the magnetic tailcap, I've needed that a lot in the past couple of weeks. The most impressive feature is its great driver, looking at the lowest level is just magical.
Added 2 more standby blinky animations: 2 blinks on low, or 1 blink on low. This is for lights like D3AA where "steady low" mode uses too much power, so you can reduce standby power by using a low blink instead. Increases standby time about 4X to 10X on some lights.
the D3AA will trip protection circuits, and everything will go dark. ... Another reason the D3AA does not work well at High output, is that the 1.5V LiIon gets Hot, and this trips the Thermal Sensor in the D3AA.