Contents
Finding the best cheap video light can be tough. The top pick is the NiceVeedi 2-Pack LED Video Light Kit. It offers adjustable brightness and three color temperatures, ranging from 2800K to 6500K. The best value is the ALTSON 60 LED Portable Selfie Light. It’s lightweight and rechargeable, but you give up some brightness options.
Many buyers face the choice between adjustable color temperatures and portability. This decision influences which light will work best for their needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Video Lights Reviewed in Detail
Here are detailed reviews of each product to help you choose the best cheap video light for your needs.
1. Top Pick
2-Pack LED Video Light Kit, NiceVeedi Studio Light, 2800-6500K Dimmable Photography Lighting Kit with Tripod Stand&Phone Holder, 73" Stream Light for Video…
- 【MULTIPLE COLOR TEMPERATURE & ADJUSTABLE BRIGHTNESS】There are 3 Color temperatures (2800K, 4800K & 6500K) which offer different lighting atmosphere; This Studio Light is equipped with 356 Led beads which offers a stable and ample output of 15W. Features a high CRI of 97+ for precise color rendering. Adjust the brightness in a range of 10 to 100% with button up and down on remote to meet different photography circumstances, offering extra lighting for your works.
- 【LIGHT PANEL & POWER CABLE】The 10” (25.5 cm) x 7.8” (19.8 cm) LED light panel with compact design allows you to carry around conveniently with durable storage bag. Thickened light shell works a diffusion, making the lighting more softer. Ideal USB port for powering the device with 5V, 2A DC wall charger(not include) or power bank. Comes with USB-C adapters that allows you to power the device with cell phone or laptop.
- 【HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE TRIPOD】The tripod of the video light adopts durable but lightweight aluminum with powder sprayed layer, looks chic and classic. The light stand can be raised up to 60”. Folded size 17″, perfect to store and carry. Adjust the height flexibly with 3 screw knobs loosen and tighten. Attach and detach the light panel easily with the 1/4″ threads on the top of the tripod. Loosen the screw on side to rotate the light panel angle in range of 180°, tighten it when get suitable angle.
- 【WIDE APPLICATION】Essential equipment for Photo Studio, Video Recording, Photography, Low Angle Close Shooting, Portrait, Live Stream, Vlogging taking, Youtube Podcast Applications. Light weight and durable design allow you to carry around conveniently and move easily.
- 【Package List & Customer Service】There will be 2 LED studio light panels with cable. adjustable tripod stand for each light panel, 1 user manual, 1 storage bag, 2 USB-C adapters. Whatever issues you meet during the usage or any defects arise, rest assured that we are here to assist you.
The NiceVeedi 2-Pack LED Video Light Kit is designed for various lighting needs. Its versatility comes from having adjustable brightness and three color temperatures. With 356 LED beads, it provides stable and ample light, making it a top choice. This kit outperforms others by offering detailed color accuracy with a high CRI of 97+.
Compared to other picks, it stands out due to its multiple color settings and included tripod. The tripod adds stability and ease of use, especially for video recording. While other lights may focus on portability, this one prioritizes performance.
However, the brightness might be too overwhelming in small spaces. Users need to adjust the brightness appropriately to avoid harsh lighting effects. Overall, it is an excellent choice for those needing reliable light for diverse settings.
Pros
- Includes 356 LED beads for stable brightness.
- Offers three color temperatures: 2800K, 4800K, 6500K.
- Includes a tripod stand for easy setup.
Cons
- May be too bright for small spaces.
- Tripod may be less stable on uneven ground.
Best for: Those who need flexible lighting options. Not ideal for: Users in very small spaces.
This light is a great choice for versatile photography and video work.
2. Best Value
ALTSON 60 LED Portable Selfie Light Video Conference Lighting with Clip & Camera Tripod Adapter Rechargeable 2200mAh CRI 97+, 3 Light Modes for Phone iPhone…
- 【Best Light Effect CRI 97+】This slim and lightweight LED light will brighten up your beauty in front of the pictures, webcam, makeup, selfies, video conferencing, vlogging, live streaming, video recording, zoom meetings, filming, studio podcast, on camera photo light, etc.. The high CRI of 97+ is equal to a professional photography lighting to create your favorite light effects to complement your skin glowing, natural even like a baby.
- 【3 Light Modes & 10 Brightness Levels】The selfie light has 3 Light Modes (White, Natural, Warm) from 2500K-6500K color temperature adjustable to meet all your needs, allowing you to be charming in any surroundings. Built-in 60 LED lighting beads with 10 levels brightness adjustable, compatible with phones, tablets, laptops, computers, tripods, and cameras. Works on TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Snapchat, FaceTime no matter indoor or outdoor, daytime or at night.
- 【Multi-Function Design】With 160° rotation adjustable LED light panel for precise light positioning on your mobile phone, desktop computer, laptop, or bedside, it is suitable for all scenarios that need fill light, such as mobile phone shooting, zoom lighting or reading lamp; An adapter embedded with ¼-inch thread of 180° rotatable head for cameras (hot shoe mount included), tripods, selfie sticks. Fill lighting effect is better than small selfie ring light.
- 【2200mAh Battery& 15 Hours Standby Time】The selfie light for iPhone Lasts about 15 hours of light at 10% brightness, Lasts 4 hours of light at 50% brightness, battery is fast rechargeable. Compatible with all phones, tablets, laptops, computers, tripods, and cameras. 24 Months Warranty, please feel free to contact us with any problems or issues, we will 100% try our best to satisfy you, ASAP within 24 hours.
- 【Compact Pocket Size】Portable phone light clip only weighs 95g, perfectly fits in your pocket or pouch (Dimension: 3.9*2.8*0.78in). This mobile phone fill light can be a perfect gift for friends, family, colleagues, lovers who like to take selfies or post a lot of videos, I believe they will like it very much. Package Contents: 1* LED Video Light, 1* Clip, 1* USB-C Cable, 1* 1/4’’ Nut Adapter, 1* 1/4’’ Hot Shoe Mount, 1* Storage Pouch, 1* User Manual.
The ALTSON 60 LED Portable Selfie Light is a compact and efficient choice. It offers convenient features like a clip for easy attachment to devices. Its lightweight design is perfect for video conferencing and selfies. With a high CRI of 97+, it ensures excellent color reproduction in various settings.
When compared to other products, it excels in portability. However, it lacks the brightness levels that larger models provide. This makes it ideal for casual users but less suitable for professional-grade lighting.
A limitation is its shorter battery life during extended use. Users might find themselves needing to recharge during longer filming sessions. Overall, this light is effective for those who need a quick and easy lighting solution.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to clip on a device.
- Has a high CRI of 97+ for color accuracy.
- Features three adjustable light modes.
Cons
- Limited brightness compared to larger lights.
- Battery life may not last for long sessions.
Best for: On-the-go users and vloggers. Not ideal for: Those needing very bright lighting.
This light is perfect for quick setups and casual shoots.
3. Best Budget
UBeesize 12" LED Ring Light with 62" Tripod Stand, Phone Holder & Remote
- 【12-INCH RING LIGHT WITH 240 LEDS】Equipped with 240 high-efficiency LEDs, this 10W ring light delivers bright, stable and evenly diffused illumination. The soft light helps reduce harsh shadows and improves facial and product details for video calls, live streaming, makeup, photography and content creation.
- 【TOUCH CONTROLS, 5 COLOR MODES & 10 BRIGHTNESS LEVELS】Adjust power, color temperature and brightness directly from the responsive touch-control panel. Choose from 5 color modes ranging from 3000K warm light to 6000K cool light and 10 brightness levels from 10% to 100% for makeup, streaming, tutorials, video calls and product shoots.
- 【62-INCH TRIPOD & HANDHELD SELFIE STICK】The adjustable tripod extends up to 62 inches and quickly converts into a handheld selfie stick for flexible filming. Its lightweight yet stable design supports desktop recording, standing videos, selfies, group photos, travel content and overhead shooting.
- 【360° ADJUSTABLE FOR PORTRAIT, LANDSCAPE & OVERHEAD SHOTS】The rotatable light head and adjustable phone holder make it easy to switch between portrait, landscape, low-angle and overhead views. Position your phone and lighting at a comfortable angle for TikTok, YouTube, livestreaming, tutorials, makeup and video calls.
- 【COMPLETE USB-POWERED CREATOR KIT】 Includes a 12-inch LED ring light, 62-inch tripod stand, phone holder, Bluetooth remote shutter and USB power cable. This all-in-one setup is easy to assemble, store and move between bedrooms, offices, studios and travel locations for everyday content creation.
The UBeesize 12″ LED Ring Light delivers bright and even lighting. Its size offers excellent diffusion for videos and photos. With 240 LEDs, it provides an impressive output that enhances video quality. This feature makes it a fantastic choice for makeup tutorials and live streaming.
In comparison to other lights, this ring light focuses on even illumination. It reduces harsh shadows, making it suitable for detailed work. While this model excels in specific applications, it may take up more desk space than portable models.
One drawback is the reliance on a power outlet. This limits mobility, especially for on-the-go creators. Despite this, many users appreciate the consistent quality it brings to their productions.
Pros
- 12-inch size provides even diffusion.
- 240 bright LEDs enhance video quality.
- Includes tripod and remote for easy adjustments.
Cons
- May take up more space than other options.
- Requires a power outlet, limiting mobility.
Best for: Content creators focused on even lighting. Not ideal for: Users with limited space.
This ring light is excellent for detailed lighting in videos.
4. Best for Daily Use
Amazon Basics 2-Pack LED Video Light, 7 Vibrant RGB Colors and 3 Color Temperatures (2500-6500K), Dimmable Lighting with 62.3-Inch Adjustable Tripod, 360°…
- DIMMABLE BRIGHTNESS & COLOR OPTIONS: Adjust brightness from 0% to 100%; select from 3 color temperatures and 7 vibrant RGB colors to create dynamic lighting effects for any shooting scenario
- ADJUSTABLE LIGHTING ANGLES: LED video light panel features 1/4″ universal ball head and 360° gimbal with full 180° rotation for product photography, vlogging, or streaming
- WIDE APPLICATION: Ideal for studio photography, YouTube and TikTok videos, live streaming, makeup tutorials, gaming streams, and conferences; suitable for home, office, or study space
- COMPACT & TRAVEL-FRIENDLY: Ultra-slim LED panel design is easy to carry; no bulky stands or chargers needed; simply power via USB for quick setup and portability
- USB-POWERED DESIGN: Powered by DC 5V/2A wall plug, power bank, desktop computer, or car charger for flexible on-the-go lighting setups (adapter not included)
The Amazon Basics 2-Pack LED Video Light offers vibrant RGB colors and versatile settings. It features three color temperatures and adjustable brightness levels. The adjustable tripod allows for different setups, making it flexible for various shooting conditions. Its 360-degree gimbal lets you find the perfect lighting angle.
In comparison to other lights, this model shines in creative lighting options. The RGB colors can make your videos stand out. However, beginners may find the setup a bit complicated. While it provides excellent color variations, it may lack the brightness needed for larger spaces.
This kit is suitable for those who want to explore different lighting effects. If you are working in smaller areas, you will appreciate its size and flexibility.
Pros
- Offers multiple RGB colors for dynamic lighting.
- Adjustable tripod height allows for customization.
- 360-degree gimbal enhances lighting angles.
Cons
- Setup can be complicated for beginners.
- May not provide enough brightness for large areas.
Best for: Creators looking for colorful lighting effects. Not ideal for: Users needing high brightness for big spaces.
This kit is versatile for creative lighting needs.
5. Runner-Up
Torjim Softbox Photography Lighting Kit | 16" X 16" & 85W LED Studio Light
- 【Illuminate Your Creativity】 Torjim softbox lighting kit is made of high-quality PET fabric and a foldable nylon cover, which has high reflectivity, softer and even light, and a wider range of illumination. The inner baffle of silver particles built into the lampshade makes the light cast evenly, which maximizes the soft light ability and eliminates shadows.
- 【Energy Efficient Bulbs】 Softbox photography lighting kit is equipped with 85W energy saving bulb, 3000-7500K daylight CFL lighting bulb, which can save up to 80% energy, the bulb not only can work in low temperature environment, but also the bulb life is beyond your imagination. While saving electricity, it also provides constant and even light, providing a good photographic environment.
- 【Sturdy and Reliable】 This studio softbox is equipped with a tripods with independent locking knobs, made of high quality aluminum alloy, and the sturdy locking system ensures that your items are not affected by any wobble during use. Experiments have proved that the tripod can easily resist scratches from hard objects, providing excellent safety, reliability and sufficient stability for your lighting softbox.
- 【Flexibility at Your Fingertips】This Torjim softbox comes with a 210° rotatable head that can adjust the angle according to your needs. It is suitable for photography art, meeting different needs such as photography lighting, live broadcast, video fill light, etc. It can easily create perfect lighting effects for indoor shooting and make photos more attractive.
- 【What Will You Get】Our package contains everything you need: 1 X Softbox, 1 X Remote, 1 X LED Bulb, 1 X 60in Tripod Stand and 1 X Soft Diffuser.
The Torjim Softbox Photography Lighting Kit is designed for soft, even lighting. It includes a softbox that diffuses light beautifully, making it ideal for photography. The durable materials ensure longevity, which is essential for regular use. Compared to other picks, it shines in creating flattering light for portraits and products.
While this kit excels in light quality, it may not be as bright as traditional LED lights. Users might find that it requires additional setup time due to its bulkier design. This design may not be suitable for casual or mobile users.
Many photographers will appreciate the quality of light it produces. Those needing quick and easy setups might want to consider lighter options.
Pros
- Includes softbox for softer light diffusion.
- Compact design for easier setup.
- Durable materials ensure long-term use.
Cons
- Less bright than traditional LED lights.
- Bulky design may not fit small spaces.
Best for: Photographers needing soft light. Not ideal for: Casual users with limited setup space.
This softbox kit provides great light quality for photography.
6. Best for Beginners
2-Pack Photography Lighting Kit, NiceVeedi 25W LED Video Light Kit, 2900-7000K Dimmable Studio Light with Tripod Stand, 73" Stream Light for Video Recording
- 【MULTIPLE COLOR TEMPERATURE & ADJUSTABLE BRIGHTNESS】Provide 3 Color temperatures (2900K, 4800K & 7000K)to create various lighting atmosphere; This Upgraded Studio Light which is equipped with 352 Led beads to make the light more ample and avoid unnecessary shadows. Features a high CRI of 97+ for precise color rendering. Adjust the brightness in a range of 10 to 100% with button up and down on remote to meet different photography circumstances, offering extra lighting for your works.
- 【LIGHT PANEL & POWER CABLE】Extended LED light panel with compact design allows you to carry around conveniently with our durable storage bag. Extended light panel provide a larger area of light which will be more softer. Comes with 5V, 2A AC adapters that make the light output stable and continuous.
- 【HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE TRIPOD】The tripod of the video light adopts durable but lightweight aluminum with powder sprayed layer, looks chic and classic. The light stand can be raised up to 61”. Folded size 17″, perfect to store and carry. Adjust the height flexibly with 3 screw knobs loosen and tighten. Attach and detach the light panel easily with the 1/4″ threads on the top of the tripod. Loosen the screw on side to rotate the light panel angle in range of 180°, tighten it when get suitable angle.
- 【WIDE APPLICATION】Essential equipment for Photo Studio, Video Recording, Photography, Low Angle Close Shooting, Portrait, Live Stream, Vlogging taking, Youtube Podcast Applications. Light weight and durable design allow you to carry around conveniently and move easily.
- 【Package List & Customer Service】There will be 2 LED studio light panels with cable, adjustable tripod stand for each light panel, 1 user manual, 1 storage bag, 2 AC adapters. Whatever issues you meet during the usage or any defects arise, rest assured that we are here to assist you.
The NiceVeedi 25W LED Video Light Kit is perfect for beginners. Its compact design makes it easy to carry and set up. This kit includes adjustable brightness, allowing users to control the light output. Compared to other picks, it is straightforward and user-friendly, which is excellent for those just starting out.
However, it has limited color temperature options. This might restrict the creative potential for users who want more versatility. it may not provide enough brightness for larger shooting areas.
Overall, it is a suitable choice for new users needing simple lighting solutions. Those looking for more advanced features should explore other options.
Pros
- Compact and portable design.
- Easy to set up for beginners.
- Includes adjustable brightness settings.
Cons
- Limited color temperature options.
- Might not be bright enough for larger areas.
Best for: Beginners looking for an easy setup. Not ideal for: Users needing higher brightness levels.
This light is a simple choice for newcomers to video production.
7. Most Versatile
ULANZI VL49 RGB Video Lights LED Camera Light with 3 Cold Shoe & 1/4 Screw
- 【Professional RGB LED Video Lights】The new version VL49 RGB LED video light adopts 60 high color rendering led beads, illumination angle up to 120°, the brightness can reach 800LUX@0.5m, topest CRI95 cab completely with perfect color of sunlight and ensure that its light is natural lifelike. Apply to portrait, children,wedding and new photography etc.
- 【HUE & Brightness & CCT Adjustable】Hue adjustable from 0 degree -359 degree; Brightness from 0%-100% dimmable; Color temperature from 2500K(warm) to 9000K(cold) dimmable. Led camera light built-in LCD display for accurate readings, let you work more effectively.
- 【2000mAh Large Capacity Battery】The mini led lights is built-in 2000mAh rechargeable lithium battery, charging time is about 2 hours, max brightness output up to 2 hours, min brightness output up to 10 hours. With Type-C charging port on camera video light, It also can be used while charging, no longer need to worry about the problem of insufficient battery.
- 【Magnetic Attraction Design】Back Side Magnet Adsorption Design, adsorb on most metals surface, set up the scene easily. Mini pocket size, lightweight, portable photography light, making your video creation easier. As a rgb led light, it is ideal for selfie, vlog, still-life, party atmosphere lights, portrait, children’s photography and youtube video
- 【Small Size & Standard 1/4 Screw】The pocket light size is about 66mm*80mm*30mm, easily to carry by one hand and is a must pack item for your camera bag, very small but puts out a decent amount of light. The standard 1/4 screw is suitable for the tripod, also with 3 cold shoe mount for the cameras or DSLR Camcorder recording, Dimmable for DJI OSMO Mobile 3 Pocket Zhiyun Smooth 4 Sony RX100 VII Canon G7X Mark III A6400 GoPro 9 8 7 6 5 Vlogging etc. What’s more, Supports multi-light assembling
The ULANZI VL49 RGB Video Light is designed for versatility. It features RGB settings that allow for creative lighting options. Its compact size makes it easily attachable to cameras, making it ideal for vlogging. When compared to other models, its versatility allows users to explore different lighting scenarios.
However, it may lack the brightness needed for extensive use. Users might find that it does not perform well in larger spaces requiring more illumination. the battery life can be short during intense filming sessions.
This light is perfect for those who want to add unique effects to their videos. Users who need consistent high brightness may want to consider other options.
Pros
- RGB settings for creative lighting.
- Easily attachable to cameras.
- Compact size for portability.
Cons
- Limited brightness for extensive use.
- Battery life may be short during heavy use.
Best for: Users needing versatile lighting options. Not ideal for: Those requiring consistent high brightness.
This light is great for various creative projects.
8. Best Compact
Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit, Ring Light for Monitor Clip On
- 【ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE AND BRIGHTNESS】Our video conference lights have 3 color temperatures (white light/warm light/natural light) which are 3200k-6800k, 5 levels of brightness adjustment, and 48 LED lamp beads with 10W brightness. Easily change your ideal lighting with the switch, to make your skin more perfect and more suitable your environment.
- 【CIRCLE DESIGN, MULTI-UTILISATION】Using ring light design, the light is more even than solid light illuminating the face, no glare, no shadow, soft light is not dazzling. It is also a mini ring light. Which could be widely used for remote online work, video conference, zoom call, self-broadcast, live streaming, makeup, YouTube, Tiktok.
- 【STABLE AND FLEXIBLE, EASY TO CARRY】The LED video light adopts a clip set design. You only need to clamp the clip to the edge of the computer screen, which is very solide and will not loosen off. The rotation can also adjust the direction and angle of the light. The size of the lamp is very light and portable, and it is a perfect partner for your work.
- 【USB POWERED】： There are more power options as all USB ports can be used to power the task light, such as a display ,laptop, mobile power supply or a mobile phone charger. It is environmentally friendly.
- 【AFTER-SALES SERVICE】 We will provide you with high-quality after-sales service. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us, we are always on-line to help you. Wish you a pleasant shopping trip!
The Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit is designed for portability. Its compact size makes it easy to carry and set up anywhere. With adjustable brightness, it works well for video calls and conferencing. Compared to other models, it excels in convenience and ease of use for on-the-go creators.
However, it may not provide the brightness levels found in larger lights. color accuracy may not be as high as other options. Users looking for professional-grade lighting may find it lacking.
Despite these drawbacks, it is an excellent choice for anyone needing quick and easy lighting solutions for casual use.
Pros
- Ideal for travel due to compact size.
- Rechargeable for convenience.
- Multiple mounting options available.
Cons
- Limited brightness compared to larger lights.
- Color accuracy may not be as high.
Best for: Travelers needing portable lighting. Not ideal for: Users requiring high-quality color rendering.
This compact light is perfect for on-the-go filming.
Video Lights Compared Side by Side
The following table shows key features of each product. The columns indicate color temperature, brightness settings, and special features. Compare these details to find the best cheap video light that fits your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2-Pack LED Video Light Kit | Top Pick | NiceVeedi | $49.99 | Check |
| 2 | ALTSON 60 LED Portable Selfie Light Video Conference… | Best Value | ALTSON | $12.1 | Check |
| 3 | UBeesize 12" LED Ring Light with 62" Tripod Stand | Best Budget | UBeesize | $29.69 | Check |
| 4 | Amazon Basics 2-Pack LED Video Light | Best for Daily Use | Amazon | $31.49 | Check |
| 5 | Torjim Softbox Photography Lighting Kit | 16" X 16" & 85W… | Runner-Up | Torjim | $39.99 | Check |
| 6 | 2-Pack Photography Lighting Kit | Best for Beginners | NiceVeedi | $59.99 | Check |
| 7 | ULANZI VL49 RGB Video Lights LED Camera Light with 3 Cold… | Most Versatile | ULANZI | $18.95 | Check |
| 8 | Cyezcor Video Conference Lighting Kit | Best Compact | wonderful LIFE | $19.99 | Check |
| 9 | NiceVeedi 2-Pack Photography Lighting Kit | — | NiceVeedi | $89.99 | Check |
| 10 | Zoom Lighting for Computer | — | LitONES | $36.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Video Lights
Color Temperature Range
Choose a video light with a wide color temperature range. A range of 2500K to 6500K allows for more creative lighting options. This flexibility helps you match the light to the environment or mood you want to create. Look for lights with at least three color temperature settings.
Brightness Levels
Select a video light with adjustable brightness. This feature helps control how bright the light is. A good rule of thumb is to pick a light with a dimming range from 0% to 100%. This lets you adapt to different shooting situations easily.
Size and Portability
Consider the size and weight of the video light. If you need to take it on the go, look for lightweight models like ring lights. A compact design makes it easier to transport, especially if you plan to film in various locations.
Type of Light
Different types of lights serve various purposes. LED lights are common for video because they produce little heat and last a long time. Softboxes create softer shadows, so think about what look you want in your videos.
Power Source
Check how the light gets its power. Some lights are rechargeable, while others need to be plugged in. A rechargeable light can be more convenient for on-the-go filming, but make sure it has a good battery life to avoid interruptions.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from product listings, manufacturer specifications, and user reviews. We looked at over 30 video lights to find the best options. This broad overview helps ensure we cover the most popular and relevant models.
How we built this shortlist
We built this shortlist by identifying key features that matter to buyers. We focused on color temperature range, brightness, and user ratings. The top choices were narrowed down to the best cheap video lights based on these factors.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out products with poor user ratings or limited functionality. Models lacking adjustable brightness or color temperature options were excluded. These features are essential for quality video lighting, so they were prioritized.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand or measured in a lab. We did not create scores based on personal experience. All information is based on available data and verified user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to include the latest products and trends. We check for new models and changes in availability. Updates happen at least once a month to keep the information current.
Frequently asked questions
What should I look for in the best cheap video light?
Look for features like adjustable brightness, a range of color temperatures, and portability. These aspects will help ensure you get the most versatile lighting for your needs.
Is LED lighting good for video?
Yes, LED lights are excellent for video. They produce less heat, have a long lifespan, and can be dimmed for various effects. This makes them a popular choice for video creators.
Can I use a cheap video light for professional work?
Absolutely! Many cheap video lights offer great quality and features. Just ensure they meet your specific needs for brightness and color accuracy.
What is CRI and why is it important?
CRI stands for Color Rendering Index. It’s a measure of how accurately a light source displays colors. A CRI of 90+ is ideal for video work as it ensures true-to-life colors.
How do I set up a video light?
Set up your video light at eye level and angle it towards your subject. Adjust the brightness and color temperature as needed. This will help create flattering lighting for your video.
What to look for
Color Temperature
Choosing the right color temperature is key for video lighting. Look for lights that offer a range from 2500K to 6500K. This range allows you to create warm or cool tones depending on your shooting environment. Warmer tones (around 3200K) are great for cozy settings. Cooler tones (around 5600K) work well for daylight situations.
Brightness Adjustment
Brightness adjustment is essential for controlling your lighting. A good video light should allow you to dim or brighten as needed. Aim for a range from 0% to 100% brightness. This flexibility helps you adapt to different filming conditions, preventing harsh shadows or overexposure.
Size and Portability
Consider the size and weight of the video light if you plan to move it often. Compact and lightweight lights are easier to transport. Look for models that can be set up quickly and have adjustable stands. This makes them convenient for on-location shoots.
Power Source Options
Check the power source of your video light. Some run on batteries while others need to be plugged in. Battery-operated lights are more portable and can be used anywhere. If using a plug-in light, ensure the cord is long enough for your setup.
Light Type
The type of light you choose can affect your video quality. LED lights are popular for their efficiency and low heat output. Ring lights provide even illumination, perfect for beauty shots. Softboxes offer softer lighting with less shadow but can be bulkier.
Shopping around? We have 3 more video light guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- FAA drone hub Federal Aviation Administration
- FAA recreational drone rules Federal Aviation Administration
About the author
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