Best Video Lighting Kits in 2023

Are you seeking ways to enhance your video quality as a content creator? One game-changing option is investing in video lights. If you want to become a video content creator, having proper video lighting and knowing how to use them is essential for creating high-quality content.

Improving your videos can make a considerable difference in their overall appearance and impact, regardless of whether you’re a professional filmmaker, YouTuber, or content creator. A high-quality key light can make your subject look more appealing and create a better atmosphere for your content, setting the tone for your viewers.

Finding the right lighting for your videos can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to content creation. Several factors are to consider when thinking about how to get the perfect video lighting, including the lighting type, color temperature, and brightness level.

With so many video lighting kits available on the market in 2023, it can be challenging to choose the best one. This article will explore the top-rated video lighting kits to help you elevate your content creation game.

What Are the Best Video Lighting Kits?

There are countless options; however, with some research and an understanding of your specific needs, you can find the perfect gear that suits your budget and requirements. So, let’s find out which video lighting kits are the best for 2023.

1) Rotolight NEO 3

Overview

The Rotolight NEO 3 is a versatile lighting option for hybrid photographers, offering constant lighting and flash output for stills and video shoots. It eliminates the need for separate video lights and provides full RGBWW options for natural light.

It is compatible with light stands and can be used as part of a three-point lighting setup, making it a must-have for any hybrid photographer seeking the best lighting quality.

It also adds an HSI mode that lets you select from 16.7 million colors and control hue, saturation, and brightness for natural light effects. Integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity allow you to control the lights remotely via a smartphone app.

The kit contains three lamps and three diffusion domes for more advanced users. With three-point lighting, you can set up the key light, fill light, and led light for optimal results, while the light stands to provide stability and adjustability to position the lights exactly where you need them.

Features

• Constant Max output of 5,443 Lux at 3 feet.

• Flash Max output of 10,700 Lux at 3 feet.

• CRI/TLCI 95/99.

• 50 degrees Beam Angle.

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless control.

• 1/4″ tripod for mounting.

• 50W power consumption.

• Dimensions (dia x depth): 145 x 50mm.

• Weight 354g.

Pricing

$599.00.

Bottom line

The NEO 3 is a versatile lighting solution that is a great lighting source for video recording and a flash for still photography. It’s an improvement on the previous NEO 2 model, featuring a full range of color options in flash and constant lighting modes.

2) Zhiyun Fiveray FR100C

Overview

The Zhiyun Fiveray FR100C Light Wand is a compact LED light that provides a consistent light source for video lighting and natural light, making it perfect for illuminating dark shooting locations. Its 100W output and adjustable color temperature dial make it ideal for video and photography, providing powerful light sources.

The control dial on the wand enables you to adjust the color temperature to complement the available light and dim the intensity of the light output. Additionally, the dial can be used to access the HSI menu, which allows you to dial in vivid colors for a neon-style look.

Despite its primarily plastic build, the wand feels reliably solid and has a textured handle to provide a comfortable grip. The wand is also relatively heavy for its size but comes with a 1/4-inch thread at the base, allowing you to mount it on a tripod.

Its portability makes it an ideal tool for on-location shoots, and its powerful 100W output can illuminate even the darkest locations.

Features

• Max output of 20708 Lux at 100MW power.

• 2700º K to 6200º K color temperature range.

• 0-360º Hue.

• Max Power Mode 4000K.

• Illuminance of 2200 Lux at 3 feet.

• TLCI Index: ≥97.

• CRI Index: ≥96.

• Product Size: 502*46*47(mm).

• Extension: 1/4″ Threaded Hole.

• Weight: 920g.

Pricing

$149.00.

Bottom line

The Zhiyun Fiveray FR100C Light Wand is a highly versatile and compact option with excellent color temperature control. It makes it easier for photographers and filmmakers to match the available light in different locations. Its compact size and rechargeable battery makes it a convenient and reliable lighting option for videographers and YouTubers on the go.

3) Rotolight AEOS 2

Overview

The Rotolight AEOS 2 is a professional LED panel with advanced features and high-speed sync flash. It replaces the original AEOS and improves its performance with features, including top-end RGBWW lamps with full 16.7 million color range, 2,500 digital filters, and a touchscreen interface. The AEOS 2 also has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for controlling functions via an app and the option to store user-defined presets.

The construction is lightweight and durable, with aluminum grab handles for easy maneuvering, and the battery pack is V-lock 24V 150W Li-ion. The basic kit includes the PSU and a diffuser dome, while additional kits add batteries, chargers, and light stands.

The AEOS 2 is impressive in power output, color accuracy, and versatility, with instantaneous recycling after a full-power flash. It is expensive but a top-performing option for professionals seeking advanced lighting solutions.

The Rotolight AEOS 2 is perfect for video lighting and has excellent color accuracy and versatility to help create a stunning video shoot. It’s designed as an all-in-one solution that can cater to all your video lighting needs, including fill lights. Its high-speed sync flash and instantaneous recycling after a full-power flash make it even more useful for professional videographers.

Features

• Constant Max output of 11500 Lux at 3 feet.

• Flash Max output of 17500 Lux at 3 feet.

• CRI/TLCI 95/99.

• 50 degrees Beam Angle.

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless control.

• 1/4″ tripod for mounting.

• 120W power consumption.

• Dimensions (dia x depth): 295 x 25mm.

• Weight 2400g.

Pricing

$1,799.00

Bottom line

Regarding video lighting and natural light, the Rotolight AEOS 2 is a high-end LED panel that delivers impressive performance for any video shoot. This video light is lightweight, durable, and has a touchscreen interface, built-in Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi capabilities, making it a top-performing option for professionals.

Although the Rotolight AEOS 2 is expensive, it is worth the investment for those who require advanced video lights and lighting solutions. Its advanced features and high performance make it a valuable addition to any videographer’s toolkit.

4) StellaPro Reflex S

Overview

The Light & Motion StellaPro Reflex S is a compact, portable LED lighting kit that combines powerful continuous LED lighting with a flash mode, triggered by a sync cable or wirelessly. The kit comes with a hybrid LED constant/flash head, a battery grip, various optics, heavy-duty cables, and additional accessories such as the Dome Diffusers, Cold Shoe Mount Kit, and Spider X Base Holster Kit.

The Reflex S is built for the great outdoors and can withstand harsh conditions with its IP65 water resistance and 1m impact resistance. The controls are practical, and the lamp can deliver up to 18,000 lumens.

With its digital burst technology, the lamp can keep up with continuous drive modes of up to 20fps, making it well-suited for shooting action sequences. However, diffusion domes or softboxes’ maximum intensity is relatively low.

Features

• Constant Max output of 6000 lumens.

• Flash Max output of 12000 lumens.

• Color accuracy: CRI 92, TLCI 93.
• Beam angle: 120 degrees (native).
• Wireless control/trigger: Wi-Fi, Godox, Elinchrom, Profoto.
• Optional mounts: Lighting stand/cold shoe.
• Battery life: 30-600 minutes.
• Dimensions (dia x depth): 230x100x100mm.
• Weight (excl battery): 785g.

Pricing

$1,096.99

Bottomline

The Light & Motion StellaPro Reflex S is a tiny yet powerful LED lighting kit that delivers excellent performance. The lamp can be adjusted to suit almost any creative shooting matter with various accessories and optics available.

It’s hybrid LED constant/flash head, battery grip, and heavy-duty cables make it a portable and versatile lighting solution. Overall, the Reflex S is a well-engineered lighting kit built for harsh outdoor conditions, making it an excellent choice for wedding and event photographers/videographers.

5) Zhiyun Fiveray M40

Overview

Zhiyun Fiveray M40 is a video light with impressive power, making it a serious contender for video creators looking for a constant light with a small footprint. With 40W power, 176 LED chips, and a peak brightness of 14,000 lux, the M40 stands out in the crowded video light market. The light is dimmable from 0-100% and covers a range of 2700K-6200K, providing the freedom to change the atmosphere of a shoot.

The light is well-built and comes with orange dials and large fonts, making it easy to use and intuitive. The light can be mounted with a ¼” tripod thread, swings open for variable angles, and hides the USB-C charging port. The battery can last around half an hour at full brightness and takes less than two hours to recharge.

Features

• Max power: 40W.
• Color temperature: 2700K~6200K.
• Dim level: 0~100%.

• Max output of 14000 Lux at 1 foot.

• CRI: ≥96.
• Charging time: 1hr50m.
• Runtime: 29 mins (100% brightness).
• Size (WxDxH): 136.5×77.8x29mm.
• Weight: 320g.

Pricing

$99.00.

Bottom line

The Zhiyun Fiveray M40 is an excellent choice for video creators looking for a small, powerful, and portable video light. The light packs 40W power, 176 LED chips, and a peak brightness of 14,000 lux, which makes it stand out from the competition.

It is easy to use, well-built, can be dimmed from 0-100%, and covers a range of 2700K-6200K. However, the small white text on the dials can be difficult to read, and the light is a little weighty, making it a trade-off to decide on.

Overall, the M40 is a good value for money and an excellent option for filling up small to medium-sized rooms.

6) SmallRig RC 220B COB Bi-Color

Overview

The SmallRig RC 220B COB Bi-Color LED Video Light is a powerful, high-quality professional video light designed for filmmakers and videographers. It’s an upgrade from the RC 120B, with more power and a higher Lux output. It has a color temperature range of 2700K to 6500K and offers nine built-in light effects.

The light has a high CRI rating of 95+ and a TLCI of 96+. It is powered by dual adapters or V-mount batteries, and the power consumption is 260W. The light has a standard Bowens mount and weighs 5.55kg. It also has a carrying case, plastic cover, hyper reflector, and AC adapter.

Features

• Illuminance (1m): 84500 LUX within 1-meter.
• Power supply: Dual Adapter / V-Mount Battery.
• Power Consumption: 260W.
• Color Rendering Index (CRI): 95+.
• TV Lighting Consistency Index (TLCI): 96+.
• Color temperature: 2700K – 6500K.
• Mount: Standard Bowens.
• Power range: 0-100 per cent / 0-10 FR.
• Wireless: Smartphone app.
• Light effects modes: Flash, Paparazzi, Lightning, Party, Broken Bulb, TV, Flame, Fireworks, heartbeat.
• Dimensions (main body/controller): 240×122×237.6mm.
• Weight (main body/controller): 5,500g (5.55kg).
• Included accessories: SmallRig RC 220B COB Bi-Color LED Video Light (2700-6500K), plastic cover, RC 220 Series Hyper Reflector, AC Adapter, and Power Cable. 
• Separate accessories: RA-R6090 Rectangular Softbox & V-mount battery plate.

Pricing

$369.99

Bottom line

The SmallRig RC 220B COB Bi-Color LED Video Light is a versatile and powerful video light suitable for professional use. It offers a wide range of color temperatures and lighting effects and is easy to control using the integrated display screen or the smartphone app. The light has a high CRI rating and TLCI, ensuring accurate color representation and subject illumination.

This is an excellent investment for videographers and filmmakers looking to create high-quality video content with various lighting fixtures and effects.

7) LumeCube 2.0

Overview

The LumeCube 2.0 is a versatile, easy-to-use LED light with various accessories, including a modification frame, warming gel, and diffuser. The device features a two-button configuration for turning it on and off and adjusting its brightness in 10% increments. A Manual Low Light Mode allows for even greater control over brightness, with 1% increments up to 10% brightness.

The device also includes a 360-degree optical sensor for improved directional lighting. The LumeCube 2.0 is compatible with the company’s Lume-X app, which enables users to control multiple Lume Cubes using a smart device.

Features

• Color temperature: 5600K.
• Lux (at 1m): 750.
• Power source: Lithium-ion battery.
• Dimensions: 41 x 41 x 43 cm.
• Weight: 99g.

Pros and cons:

Pricing

$89.99

Bottom line

The LumeCube 2.0 is a practical and budget-friendly lighting solution for content creators. It is small enough to occupy a permanent slot in a kitbag and includes a variety of accessories for added versatility. It’s also compatible with the Lume-X app, which provides additional control options. While the device doesn’t offer much innovation, it does improve on its predecessor with increased battery life and USB-C compatibility.

8) SmallRig RC 350D COB LED

Overview

SmallRig RC 350D COB LED Video Light is a powerful tool for professional video makers. It delivers a highly bright output of 149,000 Lux with high scores on TLCI and CRI to accurately reproduce colors from illuminated subjects. However, it has a fixed daylight color temperature of 5600 degrees Kelvin.

The light has a futuristic design and is constructed using a mix of metal and non-inflammable material. It has a carry case and an attachable reflector illuminating typically talking head subjects. The relatively silent fans won’t affect sound recordings.

Features

• Color temperature: 2700K – 6500K.
• Max power: 84500 LUX within 3 feet.
• Power source: Dual Adapter / V-Mount Battery.
• Dimensions: 240 x 122 x 237.6mm.
• Weight: 5.55kg.

Pricing

$719.00

Bottom line

Overall, the SmallRig RC 350D COB LED Video Light is a high-end device that will meet the needs of professional video producers. Its powerful output, special lighting effects, and accurate color reproduction make it a perfect accessory for studio or location-based shoots.

The device is expensive and may not suit hobbyist vloggers. While the fixed color temperature may be a downside, the RC 350D’s ability to fill a scene with warm light and control brightness levels makes it an ideal tool for filmmakers who value control over the subject and data on-screen.

Why Is Good Lighting Important For Filming Videos?

Effective lighting is crucial for producing professional and engaging videos. Proper lighting helps to minimize shadows, emphasize the subject, and enhance the overall visual appeal of the background.

Directing the brightest light sources toward the subject is important to make them stand out and capture the audience’s attention. By paying attention to lighting, you can significantly improve the quality of your videos and create a more polished and visually appealing final product.

What Equipment Do I Need For Lighting a Video?

When lighting a YouTube video, the equipment may differ depending on the project. However, frequently used items include LED lights, light stands, diffusion materials, and color-correcting gels.

It’s also crucial to consider the camera and its light sensitivity when selecting your lighting arrangement. This will allow you to create a more convincing and visually appealing video with optimal lighting.

How Can I Avoid Harsh Shadows?

Basic lighting equipment for YouTube videos includes video lights, light stands, diffusion materials, and color-correcting gels. However, selecting the right lighting equipment depends on the project’s requirements and the camera’s sensitivity to light.

A fill light can balance the key light source to prevent harsh shadows. The shadows can be softened by using diffusion material or bouncing light off a reflective surface. Proper lighting enhances the subject’s appearance, reduces shadows, and creates a professional look.

Conclusion

In summary, to make your videos look more professional, it’s essential to invest in the best lights that suit your needs. Different lighting options can provide various colors and intensities, so it’s important to understand how to use them to achieve the desired video light effect properly.

Additionally, considering the sensitivity of cameras and using a backlight can enhance the subject’s appearance and reduce harsh shadows, resulting in visually appealing content that engages your audience.