Attending a Twice concert in the Philippines is an unforgettable experience, filled with vibrant energy, fan chants, and a sea of glowing lights. For any dedicated ONCE, holding an official lightstick—known affectionately as the Candy Bong—is the ultimate way to connect with the group and fellow fans during live performances. As the group’s stage production evolves, the technology behind these cheering wands has also advanced, leading to multiple versions available in the market.
Choosing the right version requires balancing your budget, collection goals, and concert plans. With different designs and connectivity features across the generations, making an informed choice ensures your device syncs perfectly with the venue’s central control system. This guide breaks down the differences between the official Twice lightstick versions, how to verify their authenticity, and how to secure a genuine unit.
Understanding the Official Twice Lightstick Versions
The official Twice lightstick has undergone several design and technological transformations since its debut. The original Candy Bong featured a whimsical, lollipop-inspired design with a rotating light effect and a desktop cradle. This classic version established the signature apricot and neon magenta color scheme that defines the identity of the fandom. It relied on basic LED patterns and a physical switch to cycle through lighting modes, making it a beloved collector’s item for long-time fans.
The second iteration, known as the Candy Bong Z, introduced a sleeker, more modern aesthetic. It replaced the white lollipop frame with a black handle and a circular ring that displayed a wider spectrum of colors. This version was the first to integrate advanced Bluetooth connectivity, allowing concert organizers to sync the lightsticks to the venue’s central control system for synchronized light shows. The physical button on the handle offered a tactile response, allowing users to manually cycle through solid colors and flashing patterns when not connected to a central transmitter.
The latest model, the Candy Bong Infinity, elevates the design with an infinity mirror effect inside the center ring, creating a deep, multi-layered visual illusion. It features a touch-sensitive control pad on the handle instead of a physical button, offering a more seamless user interface. The internal LED components are upgraded to support more complex color transitions and faster response times during live events, making it the most technologically advanced version available.
Power requirements also vary slightly across these models, though most rely on a removable battery carrier housed inside the handle. The older versions and the Candy Bong Infinity typically use three AAA alkaline batteries to power their LEDs and wireless chips. Checking the battery compartment design is crucial, as some counterfeit models feature poorly molded plastic carriers that can damage the internal spring contacts or cause the batteries to fit loosely.
Key Factors to Consider Before Buying
Before purchasing a Candy Bong, you must evaluate how you plan to use it, especially if you intend to bring it to upcoming world tours. The most critical factor is concert central control compatibility, as older models may not support the wireless protocols used in modern stadium shows. While the Candy Bong Z and Candy Bong Infinity are designed to sync with current concert control systems, the original Candy Bong is generally not supported for central synchronization at recent tours.
Your budget is another major consideration, as prices vary significantly depending on the model’s release date and features. The Candy Bong Infinity, being the most advanced version, typically carries a higher retail price compared to older models, which varies depending on shipping fees and local retail markups. When budgeting, check the current price in ₱ on official retail sites, keeping in mind that international shipping and local customs duties can increase the final cost.
For some fans, collectibility outweighs practical concert use. If your primary goal is to display the lightstick on a shelf alongside your album collection, the original Candy Bong or Candy Bong Z offers immense nostalgic value. However, if you plan to attend multiple live shows and want to be an active part of the synchronized light ocean, investing in the Candy Bong Infinity is the most practical choice.
You should also consider the weight and ergonomics of the device during long concert hours. The Candy Bong Infinity features a slightly different balance point due to its infinity mirror assembly and touch-sensitive handle. Testing how the handle feels in your hand and ensuring the wrist strap is securely attached can prevent accidental drops during high-energy performances. Additionally, the advanced LEDs and touch sensors on the Infinity model may consume battery power faster, requiring you to carry spare batteries to the venue.
How to Verify Authenticity and Avoid Counterfeits
The popularity of Twice has led to a proliferation of counterfeit lightsticks in the market, making verification an essential step for every buyer. The first line of defense is the official holographic authenticity sticker or QR code located on the packaging box. Genuine merchandise features a high-quality hologram that shifts colors when tilted under light, and scanning the QR code should direct you to the official verification portal of the manufacturer or entertainment agency.
Inspecting the physical build quality of the lightstick can quickly reveal a counterfeit unit. Genuine Candy Bongs are constructed from high-grade, matte-finish plastics with clean seams and precise logo engravings. Counterfeit versions often exhibit rough plastic edges, misaligned seams, blurry text on the printed manual, or a loose battery compartment cap that does not screw on smoothly. The packaging box itself is also a key indicator; genuine boxes are sturdy and have a matte finish, while counterfeits often use thin, glossy cardboard that dents easily.
The behavior of the LED lights and Bluetooth connectivity is another reliable indicator of authenticity. Genuine lightsticks connect seamlessly to the official Candy Bong mobile application, allowing users to adjust colors, brightness, and flashing speeds. If a lightstick fails to connect to the official app or exhibits erratic color changes that do not match the app’s commands, it is highly likely a counterfeit.
Be cautious of product listings that feature unusually low prices, as official lightsticks are rarely sold at deep discounts. If a seller offers a brand-new Candy Bong Infinity for a fraction of the standard retail price, you should inspect the listing for missing security seals or vague product descriptions. Avoid listings that use stock photos instead of actual product photos, and always ask the seller for close-up images of the packaging details and the holographic sticker.
Where to Buy Official Twice Lightsticks in the Philippines
To ensure you receive a genuine product, it is best to purchase from established K-pop merchandise specialty stores operating in the Philippines. Many of these physical and online retailers import directly from South Korea and provide clear guarantees of authenticity. Visiting a physical store allows you to inspect the packaging and holographic seal in person before making a payment, giving you peace of mind before the big concert day.
When navigating major online marketplaces, look for verified seller badges, official mall indicators, or highly rated shops specializing in Korean entertainment merchandise. Read customer reviews carefully, paying close attention to photos uploaded by previous buyers showing the holographic sticker and the connected mobile app. Avoid unverified third-party sellers who cannot provide proof of official sourcing or those who refuse to share real-time photos of the product.
If you prefer to buy directly from international official stores, you can place a pre-order during official merchandise drops. This method guarantees authenticity but requires careful consideration of international shipping fees, customs duties, and delivery timelines. Ensure that the shipping address is formatted correctly for local couriers in the Philippines, and track the package closely to avoid delivery delays, especially during peak concert seasons.
Joining local fan bases and organized group orders can also be a reliable way to secure a lightstick. Experienced group order managers often pool orders to reduce international shipping costs and handle the customs clearance process. When participating in a group order, verify the manager’s track record, read reviews from past transactions, and ensure they provide clear updates throughout the shipping process to avoid potential scams.
Essential Care and Maintenance for Your Lightstick
Proper maintenance is essential to preserve the lifespan of your Candy Bong and protect your investment. The most critical rule for any lightstick owner is to remove the batteries immediately after every use. Leaving batteries inside the compartment for extended periods, especially in the hot and humid climate of the Philippines, can lead to battery acid leakage, which corrodes the metal contacts and permanently damages the internal circuitry.
Store your lightstick in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme humidity. High temperatures can warp the plastic casing or degrade the adhesive holding the internal components together. Using silica gel packets inside the storage box or display case can help absorb excess moisture and prevent mold growth on the strap or manual, ensuring your device remains in pristine condition for the next comeback.
During transport to concert venues, protect the delicate internal wiring and mirror assemblies by using a padded lightstick pouch or the original packaging box. Avoid throwing the lightstick loosely into a backpack where it can collide with heavy items like power banks or water bottles. Always loop the included wrist strap around your wrist during performances to prevent the device from slipping out of your hand during intense cheering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the original version at current Twice concerts?
While you can physically bring the original Candy Bong to a concert, it will not sync with the venue’s central control system. Modern Twice tours utilize updated wireless protocols that are only compatible with the Candy Bong Z and Candy Bong Infinity. The original version will only display its default lighting modes and will not participate in the synchronized color transitions controlled by the production team.
What type of batteries does the Twice lightstick require?
The official Twice lightsticks, including the Candy Bong Z and Candy Bong Infinity, typically require three AAA alkaline batteries. It is highly recommended to use high-quality, brand-new alkaline batteries from reputable manufacturers to ensure stable voltage and prevent sudden power drops during a show. Always check the specific version’s manual to confirm the correct battery orientation before inserting them into the carrier.
Is it safe to buy second-hand lightsticks?
Buying a second-hand lightstick carries risks, particularly regarding hidden battery corrosion or worn-out Bluetooth chips. If you choose to buy a used Candy Bong, ask the seller for detailed photos of the battery compartment contacts to check for rust or green residue. Additionally, request a video demonstrating that the device successfully connects to the official mobile app and cycles through all color modes before finalizing the purchase.
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