Surefire Sidekick Review [300 Lumens Keychain Flashlight]

Last Updated on December 4, 2024

A flashlight is one of the most overlooked EDC items. But what many people don’t know is that it can save them in a lot of situations. For instance, when your car breaks down in the dark, and you need to fix a tire. Also, you can use it to search for something in the trunk or under your bed. In case of an attack, a flashlight can also come to your rescue by shining it in the eyes of the would-be attacker to disorient them as you run away. Read this Surefire Sidekick Review to know more about this product.

In this flashlight review, we’re going to talk about one of the best keychain flashlights on the market. Some people don’t like carrying a massive tool in the name of a flashlight. In this case, a quality, durable, and reliable flashlight such as the Surefire Sidekick ultra-compact LED flashlight will do the cut. Surefire is a re-known brand, and it creates innovative and sturdy flashlights. The Surefire Sidekick LED flashlight is one of their smallest lights on the market.

Technical Specifications of the Surefire Sidekick Keychain Light:

However, this flashlight is no scrap as it is well built, sturdy, bright, and weather-resistant. Additionally, it is versatile, lightweight, and highly portable. Let’s look at its features, pros, and cons.

Surefire Sidekick Review 2025

Robust polymer construction

First and foremost, the Surefire Sidekick ultra-compact triple-output keychain light features a durable polymer body and a high-strength aerospace aluminum snap-clip-hook. This shows you how strong the flashlight is built. Also, it is a world apart from most of its competitors who feature cheap plastic materials that don’t last long. The polymer is a durable material and can withstand a lot of crashes and scratches from daily use.

High-performance LED

Similar to the big high-end flashlights, the Surefire Sidekick keychain light also comes with a virtually indestructible LED emitter. This is another outstanding feature that ensures the keychain light performs at a high level and doesn’t shutter because of a simple impact. Moreover, the LED has a longer lifespan, which makes the keychain torch even more reliable.

Related product: Need a weapon fleshlight? Check our SureFire x300 ultra review

Special faceted reflector

Apart from being equipped with an LED emitter, the keychain light also comes with a unique faceted reflector. The glass produces a broad, smooth MaxVision light beam optimized for the human eye. In conjunction with the LED bulb, the flashlight delivers a steady and centered light beam. The only disadvantage with this beam is that it doesn’t reach far, but it is suitable for concentrating on a particular spot or object.
Check Today’s Price

Three output levels

Additionally, the user is offered three light modes for versatility. The first light output is the low output level with 6 lumens, then the medium output level with 60 lumens, and finally, the high output level with 300 lumens. If you want your flashlight to run for an extended period, then you’ll have to turn on the low output level that runs for 45 hours. But for the brightest light, you can switch to the high output level with 300 lumens.

Easy click-switch design

Another top feature of the Surefire Sidekick flashlight is the easy click-switch design. This means that you won’t have a difficult time accessing the three output levels. All you have to do is press the pushbutton switch to access the output levels. The switch is fun and simple to use, unlike twist switches that you have to turn to access the light outputs.

Compact and lightweight

Some people don’t want to be burdened by large tactical flashlights. Therefore, the Surefire Sidekick flashlight appeals to such people who desire an ultra-compact and lightweight light. After using the keychain torch, you can quickly slide it in your front pocket or put it in the purse. You can also travel with this light anywhere as it won’t cost you anything.

Powered by a rechargeable Li-ion battery

The best part is that the Surefire Sidekick ultra-compact flashlight runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. As a result, you don’t have to run up and down, looking for replaceable batteries. When the battery runs out, you can recharge it by connecting a cable to the Micro-USB port. You can use a vehicle or wall charger to charge your Sidekick keychain torch. During charging, the battery blinks, and when it is full, the light remains constant.

Snap-click hook design and split ring

When it comes to storage, this should be the least of your worries. The Surefire Sidekick ultra-compact torch comes with an aerospace aluminum snap-click hook and split ring. Therefore, you can decide to hook the light to your belt loop or attach it to your keychain with keys. Furthermore, you can choose to keep the flashlight by simply sliding it in your pocket.

Weather-resistant

Even though it is ultra-compact, this flashlight still features some of the best materials. Like Surefire titan compact keychain light, it will defy harsh conditions and weather. The flashlight will deliver in the rain, cold climate, hot climate, and even in dusty conditions.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To maintain the SureFire Sidekick’s performance, regularly clean the exterior with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. Ensure the micro-USB charging port is free from moisture and dust to facilitate proper charging. It’s advisable to charge the flashlight periodically, even if not in use, to keep the battery in optimal condition. Avoid exposing the flashlight to extreme temperatures, as this can affect battery life and overall functionality. Proper care will extend the lifespan of your flashlight.

Warranty

Surefire is one of the top brands, and they do care about their customers. That’s why they have one of the best customer care support. In addition, Surefire offers a one-year non-hassle guarantee to buyers of the Surefire Sidekick ultra-compact flashlight.

Pros:

• Sturdy construction
• Ultra-compact and lightweight design
• Versatile flashlight with three light outputs
• Weather-resistant design
• Powerful LED bulb
• Outstanding brightness with maximum lumens of 300
• Simple to keep by attaching to keyholder or belt loop
• Rechargeable via Micro-USB port
• One-year warranty

Cons:

• It takes longer to recharge fully
• Not suitable for individuals who want an extremely bright light

Summary

Despite the Surefire Sidekick, ultra-compact variable output LED flashlight being small, it still performs at a high level and can be used for different lighting needs. From searching for lost keys in the backyard to disorienting an assailant and reading a book, this is a versatile light that everybody needs. It is easy to keep, use and won’t be a burden to you. Aside from that, it is weather-resistant and solidly built to defy severe conditions. So, you can always count on it regardless of its ultra-compact design. Besides, it is a worthy investment as Surefire backs it up with a one-year no-hassle warranty.

FAQ

Question: My flashlight blinks when it is charging – is this normal?
Answer: Yes, it is normal. The Surefire Sidekick keychain flashlight will blink when the battery is charging and stop or stay constant when charged fully. So, there is nothing to worry about.

Question: To what level does this flashlight resist the weather?
Answer: Surefire has not indicated any rating for weather resistance or impact, but users say that it holds up well in extreme weather conditions. Some users have even dropped it in water but say that it works very well. Others have used it in extreme cold, while some in extreme heat, and it went on to deliver. But this doesn’t mean that you can submerge it in water up to 20 meters or so.

Question: Is the rechargeable Li-ion battery on this unit replaceable?
Answer: No, it is not. Surefire wanted to make the work of their customers easier by bringing them a rechargeable unit, which they don’t need to change the battery. You can only recharge the battery, but you cannot remove or replace it. Doing so will require you to break apart the casing, and this will only damage the entire flashlight. Of course, that’s not what you want.