As a videographer in 2024, you’ll want to guarantee your on-camera lighting is exceptional to capture stunning footage. The Selens, 176 pcs LED, VILTROX, and NEEWER models offer impressive features like adjustable brightness and color temperature control, catering to diverse shooting needs. But which one is truly the best fit for your workflow? Explore the unique capabilities of each light and discover how they can elevate the production value of your videos. The right choice could make all the difference in delivering professional-quality content that captivates your audience.
Selens LED Video Light for DSLR Camera and Camcorder
The Selens LED Video Light is an excellent choice for DSLR camera and camcorder owners seeking a versatile and affordable on-camera lighting solution that offers impressive brightness, adjustable color temperature, and long-lasting battery life.
With 168 LED lights and a dimmable intensity, you can easily control the light output to suit your needs.
The bi-color function allows you to adjust the color temperature from a warm 3200K to a cooler 5600K, ensuring you can match the ambient lighting.
You’ll appreciate the multiple battery options, including AA, Nikon, and Canon, giving you the flexibility to power the light no matter where your shoot takes you.
While some users reported a slight green tint, the included diffuser and color correction can easily address this minor issue.
Overall, the Selens LED Video Light delivers excellent value and performance for the price.
Best For: DSLR and camcorder users looking for a versatile, affordable, and high-performing on-camera lighting solution.
Pros:
Impressive brightness with 168 LED lights
Adjustable color temperature from 3200K to 5600K
Supports multiple battery types for flexibility
Cons:
Some users reported a slight greenish tint to the light
A few instances of malfunctioning units, though most reviews are positive
May require color correction or use of the included diffuser to address tinting
For DSLR camera and camcorder users seeking a versatile and powerful lighting solution, the 176 pcs LED Light from LimoStudio is an excellent choice.
Featuring 176 ultra-bright LEDs, this continuous light delivers natural illumination that reduces red-eye and produces sharper images.
With a 45-degree angle, 11W output power, and 1320LM luminous flux, it’s well-suited for a variety of shooting scenarios.
The light’s dimmer function allows you to adjust the brightness from 10% to 100%, giving you precise control over the lighting.
Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, the light provides ample runtime and is compatible with popular battery types like NP-F550/750/970.
The included travel charger guarantees you can keep the light charged and ready to use, even on the go.
Best For: The LimoStudio 176 PCS LED Light is best for DSLR camera and camcorder users who require a versatile, powerful, and adjustable lighting solution for their photo and video projects.
Pros:
176 ultra-bright LEDs deliver natural, even illumination
Adjustable brightness from 10% to 100% provides precise lighting control
Rechargeable lithium-ion battery with long runtime and compatible charger
Cons:
Some users reported durability issues with the product
Brightness may not be sufficient for exceptionally large or well-lit spaces
If you’re seeking a compact, versatile, and high-quality video light that delivers exceptional color rendering and brightness, the VILTROX VL-162T CRI95+ LED Video Light may be the perfect choice.
With its dimmable brightness and adjustable color temperature range, this light offers precise control over your lighting setup.
The built-in LCD display provides valuable information, while the multiple lamp design allows you to connect multiple units for enhanced coverage.
Boasting a high CRI of 95+, this light guarantees accurate color reproduction, and its impressive 1070 lumens of brightness verifies your subjects are well-illuminated.
Powered by a Li-battery or AC adapter, the VL-162T provides up to 3 hours of runtime, making it a reliable companion for your video shoots.
Whether you’re using it on your camera, a tripod, or a light stand, this versatile light delivers exceptional performance and flexibility.
Best For: Videographers, content creators, and photographers seeking a compact, high-quality LED video light with exceptional color rendering and brightness control.
Pros:
Dimmable brightness and adjustable color temperature range for precise lighting control
High CRI 95+ for accurate color reproduction
Compact and versatile design with multiple lamp connections for enhanced coverage
Cons:
Battery life may be a concern for some users, as mentioned in some reviews
Lacks a built-in AC adapter, requiring users to purchase one separately
Some users may prefer a more robust or feature-rich lighting solution
NEEWER 160 LED CN-160 Dimmable Ultra High Power Video Light
Photographers and videographers seeking a versatile, high-output on-camera light will find the NEEWER 160 LED CN-160 Dimmable Ultra High Power Video Light an excellent choice.
This compact, lightweight LED panel boasts 160 LEDs, delivering impressive brightness that can be adjusted to suit your needs.
With its articulated hot-shoe mount, you’ll have no trouble positioning the light precisely where you want it.
The included filters allow you to create spotlight or diffused effects, as well as adjust the color temperature.
The versatile battery compatibility, using either NP-F550/F750/F970 Li-ion batteries or six AA batteries, guarantees you’ll never run out of power.
Combine the NEEWER’s long battery life, high output, and creative flexibility, and you’ve got a powerful, yet affordable, lighting solution for your video and photography projects.
Best For: Photographers and videographers seeking a versatile, high-output on-camera lighting solution.
Pros:
Impressive brightness output that can be adjusted
Articulated hot-shoe mount for precise positioning
Versatile battery compatibility using NP-F550/F750/F970 Li-ion or 6 AA batteries
Factors to Consider When Choosing On-Camera Video Lights
When choosing on-camera video lights, there are several key factors to ponder.
You’ll want to think about the brightness and color accuracy, as well as the battery life and power options.
Additionally, the mounting and versatility, size and portability, and dimming and temperature control capabilities of the lights are important factors to weigh.
Brightness and Color Accuracy
The brightness and color accuracy of your on-camera video lights are crucial factors to ponder when selecting the right equipment for your shoot.
Brighter lights, as indicated by higher lumen or lux values, can help certify your subjects are well-illuminated, while a desirable color temperature range and high CRI rating certify accurate color reproduction.
Look for video lights offering up to 1250 lux at 1 meter or 1070 lumens of maximum brightness illuminance. This certifies your footage is properly lit, preventing underexposure.
Additionally, seek lights with a color temperature range of 3200K-5600K, as this versatile range allows you to adjust the warmth or coolness of the light to suit various shooting scenarios.
Lastly, prioritize a high CRI of 95 or above. This rating certifies the light accurately reproduces colors, resulting in vivid and lifelike footage.
Dimmable lights that allow you to adjust brightness levels from 20% to 100% further enhance your creative control.
Battery Life and Power Options
Alongside the brightness and color accuracy of on-camera video lights, their battery life and power options are key deliberations when selecting the right equipment for your shoot.
The battery life of these lights can vary substantially, ranging from 2-3 hours with a single battery to up to 6 hours with multiple batteries. Some lights even offer the flexibility of using AA, Nikon, or Canon batteries, providing you with more options to power your gear.
Adjustable brightness is another factor that can impact battery life, so you’ll want to ponder the power consumption of the light when making your choice.
Rechargeable Li-ion batteries are a popular power option, offering high energy density and a long lifespan. For added convenience, some on-camera video lights come with a battery adapter that allows for the use of multiple battery types.
Mounting and Versatility
Mounting versatility is a crucial factor when selecting on-camera video lights, as it determines the ease of positioning and adjusting the light to suit your shooting needs.
Look for a hot shoe mount, which allows you to quickly attach and detach the light from your camera or a light stand.
Adjustable angles and tilting heads provide added flexibility, letting you direct the light precisely where you need it, reducing the need for additional equipment or constant adjustments.
The more installation options available, like 1/4′ screw threads or cold shoe adapters, the better the light will integrate with your existing camera, tripod, and light stand setup.
And if you’ll be using multiple lights, the ability to connect them together can enhance your overall lighting effects and give you more control over your desired lighting configuration.
Plus, a compact and lightweight design makes the light easier to transport, ensuring greater portability and convenience during your shoots.
Size and Portability
In addition to mounting versatility, the size and portability of an on-camera video light shouldn’t be overlooked when making your selection.
Compact and lightweight designs make it easier to transport the light between locations, reducing fatigue for the camera operator during extended shooting sessions. Dimensions like 8.4 x 3.9 x 7.4 inches can substantially impact how well the light fits in your camera bag or backpack.
Opt for a smaller, lighter option, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of quick setup and takedown, plus the comfort of a reduced strain on your body over long hours of use.
Look for a light that comes with a carrying case or hard case as well.
This added accessory provides extra protection for your investment and makes it a breeze to move the light from place to place. With the right combination of compact size and portability features, you can focus on capturing stunning footage without the hassle of lugging around heavy, bulky gear.
Dimming and Temperature Control
Adjustable brightness and color temperature controls are essential features to ponder when selecting an on-camera video light, as they allow you to fine-tune the lighting to best suit your shooting needs.
Look for models that offer a wide dimming range, typically from 20% to 100%, so you can adapt the brightness to accommodate various subjects and environments. Additionally, color temperature control, often spanning 3200K to 5600K, enables you to match the light’s warmth or coolness to ambient lighting conditions or achieve specific creative effects.
Some advanced on-camera lights feature a built-in LCD display, providing real-time readings of brightness and color temperature levels.
This allows for precise control and monitoring, ensuring you get the perfect lighting setup every time. Moreover, step-less dimming functions provide smooth, incremental adjustments to the brightness, giving you enhanced control over the lighting.
Bi-color lights, which can switch between two color temperatures, offer even greater flexibility in adapting to different shooting environments.
Durability and Heat Management
When selecting an on-camera video light, pay close attention to its heat management capabilities, as overheating can lead to equipment damage or even safety hazards.
Look for lights with built-in heat sinks, ventilation systems, or other cooling mechanisms to guarantee safe and reliable operation. The material used in the light’s construction can also impact its durability and heat dissipation, with metal housings often being more effective than plastic ones.
Some lights may have limited operating times or require breaks to cool down, so consider the light’s duty cycle when making your choice.
Additionally, pay attention to the IP rating, which indicates the light’s resistance to solid particles and water – this can be vital for determining its overall durability and ability to withstand various environmental conditions.
Budget and Value Proposition
Alongside considering a light’s heat management and durability, you’ll want to weigh its budget-friendliness and overall value proposition when selecting an on-camera video light.
After all, your goal is to find the best balance between cost and quality to meet your specific needs.
The good news is that on-camera video lights span a wide price range, from under $50 to over $200, so there’s an option for every budget.
When evaluating value, look at key factors like brightness, color temperature range, battery life, and adjustability.
A higher-priced light may offer superior performance in these areas, but it may not be necessary if you’re a casual user.
Consider the total cost of ownership, including batteries and any accessories.
Ultimately, the best value is the light that checks all your boxes at a reasonable price point.
Don’t be afraid to do your research to find the perfect on-camera video light for your needs and budget.
Brand Reputation and Reliability
As you evaluate on-camera video lights, don’t overlook a brand’s reputation and reliability, as they directly impact the product’s quality, performance, and longevity.
Opt for well-known brands that have a proven track record of producing high-quality gear.
These brands typically offer better customer support, extensive warranties, and flexible return policies, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it – scrutinize customer reviews and ratings to gauge real-world experiences.
A brand’s reputation can also influence the resale value of your investment, with reputable brands often retaining their value better over time.
Look for brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes, material quality, and testing procedures, as this signals a commitment to producing reliable and durable products.
Ultimately, a brand’s reputation and reliability can make all the difference in ensuring you get the best on-camera video light that will serve you well for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can On-Camera Video Lights Be Used for Photography?
Yes, on-camera video lights can be used for photography. They provide additional illumination to capture well-lit, vibrant images. Just guarantee the lights’ intensity and color temperature suit your photography needs for the best results.
How Long Do On-Camera Video Lights Typically Last?
These on-camera video lights’ll last forever, my friend! Depending on the brand and quality, you can expect them to shine brightly for anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand hours. Just don’t forget to replace the batteries occasionally.
Are On-Camera Video Lights Compatible With All Cameras?
While on-camera video lights are designed to work with a variety of cameras, their compatibility can vary. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations to guarantee your lights are compatible with your specific camera model for peak performance.
Can On-Camera Video Lights Be Used in Low-Light Conditions?
On-camera video lights can be incredibly useful in low-light conditions. They provide the extra illumination you need to capture high-quality footage, even in challenging lighting environments. Just be sure to adjust the light’s intensity to avoid overexposure.
How Do On-Camera Video Lights Compare to Studio Lighting?
Did you know on-camera video lights are 50% more energy-efficient than studio lighting? While they can’t match the power of a full lighting setup, they’re more portable and provide just enough illumination for your shots in low-light conditions.
Conclusion
You can’t go wrong with any of these exceptional on-camera video lights, as they’ll light up your footage like the stars in the night sky.
Whether you’re a budding videographer or a seasoned pro, these lights will have you capturing stunning visuals that’ll leave your audience awestruck.
So, get ready to shine bright and take your videos to new heights in 2024.
