10 Best LED Video Lights in 2024 [Compared]

Best LED Video Lights
Best LED Video Lights

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Over the years, LED video lights have become popular with content creators of all levels from filmmakers to YouTubers. With a variety of options like LED panels, tubes, fresnels, and ring lights.

Back in the day, Tungsten and HMI lights were used to make movies, ever since movies were made. However, they are expensive, hot, heavy, and consume huge amounts of power…

Today, LED video lights are cool, compact, portable, quick to set up and use much less power. Also, they can also be easily matched to other light sources. Overall, they make being a filmmaker easier and more affordable.

In this article, we’re going to review the 10 best LED video lights for filming. We’ll look at key areas like power, color temperature, features, build quality, and pricing.

Before jumping in, let’s cover a few basics about the elements of lighting.

What Are LEDs?

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. They can use up to 75% less energy than incandescent lighting, plus they last much longer.

What To Look For in LED Video Lights?

Firstly, it’s important to consider a few quick things when choosing your first LED video light for filming:

  • How much power do I need?
  • Am I shooting indoors or outdoors?
  • Do I want harsh or diffused light?
  • Do they need to be dimmable?
  • Do they need to be portable and battery-powered?
  • Do I need Tungsten (3400K) or Daylight (5600K) color temperatures or both?

Key Terms You Need To Know

Without confusing you even further, here are a few key terms you should try to get your head around.

CRI (Color Rendering Index)

This is a score of how accurately the light source shows object colors. Basically, the closer the number is to 100, the closer it looks to natural light.

CCT (Correlated Color Temperature)

This measures the color temperature between 3200K (tungsten) and 5600K (daylight). LED video lights can also be higher or lower.

LUX (A Unit That Measures The Intensity Of Light)

A lux is the amount of light that falls on a surface one meter away.

So without further delay let’s look at some of the best LED lights for filming.

Best Multi-Source Lights (LED Panels)

First, are multi-source lights (LED panels). These are rows of individual LEDs arranged to form a single output of light. They can be large or small and are used to create lots of soft diffused light.

LED panels have become popular in the last few years so are very affordable and handy for filmmakers, YouTubers, and content creators.

1. Neewer 480 Bi-Color

  • Lights: 2 x 10” LED panels
  • Power: 28W
  • Output: 1200 LUX
  • Included: 2 x Light stands, 2 x soft diffuser
  • CCT: Bi-Color (3200-5600K)
  • CRI Score: 96+
  • Powered: AC Adapter or Sony NP-F550/NP-F970 batteries
  • Weight: 6.12kg

To get started, allow us to introduce you to a respected brand called Neewer. If you need lights that don’t take up much space and can be transported anywhere then check out this pair of run-and-gun LED panel lights. 

First off, are you filming at a location without power outlets? No problem. You can get up to 40 minutes of continuous shooting with a Sony NP-F550/NP-F970 Li-ion battery. On top of that, it’s nice to work without having annoying cables everywhere.  

With budget lights, you don’t usually see many U-brackets, AKA a ‘yoke’. This one does. Also, the LED panel frame is built like a rock. The whole frame is made out of aluminum.

Finally, you can get maximum intensity from the naked LED by easily removing the diffusion sheet. 👌

ProsCons
✔ Bi-Color✘ Stands are a little flimsy
✔ Rotates 360 degrees✘ Output could be better   
✔ Soft diffuser included 
✔ Portable battery-powered 

2. Neewer 13″ Bi-Color LED Panels

  • Lights: 2 x 13” LED panels
  • Power: 20W
  • Output: 660 LUX
  • Included: 2 x Light stands, 1 x carry case
  • CCT: Bi-Color (3200-5600K)
  • CRI Score: 97+
  • Powered: AC Adapter or Built-in Lithium batteries
  • Weight: 7.3kg

Next, we have a pair of larger 13” LED panels from Neewer. For the most part, these are perfect for a home studio, interviews, or tight-space shooting.

In addition to this, these LED video lights are portable with no extra batteries required. How so you ask? Because they’re built directly in the light. As a result, you have up to 90 minutes of continuous lighting. Also, the 4000mAh battery recharge only takes 2 hours. 👍

Check your settings at a glance with the crystal clear digital display at the back. You can easily see the brightness percentage, color temperature, and battery life. Save you squinting!

Lastly, you have a variety of mounting options. Both a 1/4 thread standard or directly to your camera with a cold shoe mount. This makes them one of the best LED lights for filming.

ProsCons
✔ Built-In Lithium Battery✘ Soft case, not very protective
✔ Ultra-Thin LED Screen 
✔ Clear LCD display 

3. Neewer 9″ 660 PRO II RGB LED Panels

  • Lights: 2 x 9” LED panels
  • Power: 50W
  • Output: 7000 LUX
  • Included: 2 x Light stands, 1 x carry case
  • CCT: Bi-Color + daylight + RGB
  • CRI Score: 97+
  • Powered: AC Adapter
  • Weight: 9.1kg

Moving along, if you want to add some real style to your project, try out this third option from Neewer. This LED panel has a spectrum of colors to choose from besides warm and cold. For example, if you run a YouTube channel then you can highlight your background with the color of your personal brand.

Next, all functions are made available through wireless control from your phone. Imagine, comfortably sitting next to your camera’s viewfinder, while cycling through various looks without moving.

Lastly, experiment with its 17 different light effects such as color cycling, party mode, pulsing, police car, candlelight, or paparazzi. See it in action below.

In short, this is one of the best LED lights for filming simply because it gives you total control in every way.

ProsCons
✔ Wireless App Control✘ Output not as high as claimed
✔ Light effects included✘ Stands could use sandbags
✔ Built-in diffuser 

4. GVM 1000D Bi-Color RGB

  • Lights: 2 x 10” LED panels
  • Power: 45W
  • Output:  5000 LUX
  • Included: 2 x Softboxes, 2 x barn doors, 2 x light stands, 2 x carry case
  • CCT: Bi-Color (3200-5600K) + RGB
  • CRI Score: 97+
  • Powered: AC Adapter
  • Weight: 9.16kg

Next, we have an LED panel from a growing brand called GVM (Great Video Maker). This package has all you need for a basic 2-point light setup that’s lightweight and portable.

First, the softbox setup is fast and easy with its velcro attachments. On top of that, you also have an egg-crate diffuser which is great for making your talent look their best. Also, you can add or remove the included barn doors with 4 screws.

When choosing the best LED lights for filming, you can’t ignore the Bi-Color + RGB feature. Having a wide creative color range along with the ability to match any light source, adds great value to any project.

Lastly, if you want both lights to have the exact same settings, you can use slave mode. Set each light to the same channel and everything you set on one light will be mirrored on the other. 👌

ProsCons
✔ Wireless App Control✘ App required to use all light functions
✔ Bi-Color + RGB✘ Softbox could use clips
✔ Barndoors & Softbox + Eggcrate included 
✔ Protective case included 
✔ 8 Light effects 

5. GVM 1000D Bi-Color RGB

  • Lights: 3 x 10” LED panels
  • Power: 45W
  • Output:  5000 LUX
  • Included: 3 x Softboxes, 3 x light stands, 1 x carrying case
  • CCT: Bi-Color (3200-5600K) + RGB
  • CRI Score: 97+
  • Powered: AC Adapter
  • Weight: 12.7kg

Finally, on our list of the best multi-source LED video light for filming, we have the 1000D RGB 3-Pack. Whether you’re on a  run-and-gun shoot or at a home studio, this light kit has you covered. It can be set up anywhere!

You have your key light, fill and hair light for a full setup. They can also be powered by 7.4V-4400mAh Li-ion batteries sold separately. They even come with 3 easy to install softboxes ready to use in minutes.

Working by yourself? No problem. Enjoy full control from the wireless app on your phone. Also, save time by setting up the lights in master and slave modes. Get the exact look you want without running around. As a result, this means you can spend more time on creative work.

ProsCons
✔ 3 Pack LED with Softboxes Included✘ Lithium Ion Battery not included
✔ Lightweight & portable (4cm thick) 
✔ 8 lighting effects 
✔ Wireless Controlled App 
✔ Large and Clear LCD display 

Best Single-Source LED Video Lights

As you can guess, single-source lights have a single source of light coming from them. They are known for creating hard clearly defined shadows, harsher light (when not diffused), or more directional light.

Single-source LED video lights are more popular with professional filmmakers as you can really control the output, direction, and quality of light.

6. Godox SL-60W

  • Lights: 1 x 60W LED light
  • Power: 60W
  • Output:  4100 LUX
  • Included: 1 x Softbox, 1 x light stand, 1 x wireless remote
  • CCT: 5500k
  • CRI Score: 95+
  • Powered: Built-in power supply
  • Weight: 4.9kg

Moving on, we have the Godox SL-60W. There are so many ways for filmmakers to use this compact LED video light…

First off, it’s very lightweight and portable. This makes it ideal when packing and transporting to a location.

Secondly, you can use countless third-party reflectors and softboxes with the built in Bowens mount. For example, when using it as a key light, add a grid to prevent light from spilling onto your background.

For the price, you are getting quality light for an insanely low price. Learn more about the Godox SL-60W below.

ProsCons
✔ Small size, light, and portable✘ The remote does not sync with settings made on the light itself
✔ Softbox and Eggcrate grid included✘ Fan is slightly noisy
✔ Wireless control with remote 
✔ Suitable for outdoor 
✔ Can be battery-powered  

7. Godox SL100Bi 100W Bi-Color

  • Lights: 1 x 100W LED light
  • Power: 100W
  • Output: 32100 LUX
  • Included: 1x Softbox, 1 x light stand, 1 x wireless remote
  • CCT: Bi-Color (2800-5600K)
  • CRI Score: 96+
  • Powered: Built-in power supply
  • Weight: 4.9kg

Next, we have an entry-level LED video light with intense output and Bi-Color ready – the Godox SL100Bi.

First and foremost, this light comes with COB (chip-on-Board technology). Basically, this means it can fit more LEDs in a smaller space and deliver high-intensity light. This also equates to a longer equipment lifespan.

For the most part, the compact and lightweight body offers flexibility to use in small studios or home settings. It’s really perfect for, YouTubers and content creators.

What’s also nice, is the easy-to-use control interface. The dials have no wobble or play in them. The buttons feel nice as they’re rubber and tactile. Watch the full review below.

ProsCons
✔ Bright light✘ Cannot be powered with batteries
✔ Bi-Color (2800-6500K)✘ There is a fan that has a low hum
✔ Long power cable – 4.5M✘ Doesn’t come with a bag
✔ 3 light effects 

8. GVM 300W LED Video Light

  • Lights: 1 x 300W LED light
  • Power: 300W
  • Output: 43500 LUX
  • Included: 1 x Carry case, 1 x reflector, 1 x diffuser
  • CCT: 5600K
  • CRI Score: CRI 97+
  • Powered: DC input
  • Weight: 5.3kg

First off, the GVM 300W light is very, very useful. In short, if you’re looking for one of the sturdiest and brightest LED video lights at a low price point, then this one is for you. It’ll do whatever you need it to do.

For instance, you could run this light for hours and touch the body anywhere without feeling any heat. The metal’s fine, the plastics fine. There’s a mesh grill on the top and bottom so the fan passes air through easily. 

Next, it also has master and slave options. If needed, you could control up to 12 lights without having to configure them all.

As a matter of fact, it not only performs very well, but when setting it up, it looks impressive to clients when filming 👍🏻

ProsCons
✔ Very Bright✘ No rosettes, more of a rubber washer mount
✔ Comes with a padded carrying case✘ No umbrella holder
✔ 360-degree rotation✘ No app control
✔ Carry case included✘ Fan is constantly on. The sound is consistent
✔ DMX interface 

9. Amaran 200x Bi-Color

  • Lights: 1 x 200W COB LED light
  • Power: 250W
  • Output: 51600 LUX
  • Included: 1 x Carrying bag, 1 x reflector, 1 x battery
  • CCT: Bi-Color (2700-6500K)
  • CRI Score: 95+
  • Powered: DC input or Battery Powered (included)
  • Weight: 4.97kg

Next, we have a budget-friendly option from Aputure called the Amaran 200x. Get this, it uses a 200W COB LED output to create an equivalent to a 750W tungsten light. However, the Amaran stays cool, no matter how long you shoot!

Without a doubt, this is one of the easiest studio LED video lights to adjust and transport. Great key light for small interview setups. In fact, it has a built-in umbrella holder for fast and easy soft light.

Lastly, with Amaran’s app, you can trigger the light effects at the exact time you want without having to wait for them to cycle through. A small touch, but a great benefit when the timing is key.

ProsCons
✔ Wireless App Control✘ Fan always on but a hard-to-hear close by
✔ Bi-Color (2700-6500K)✘ The power supply is not attached to the light
✔ 9 lighting effects that can be triggered manually 

10. Aputure LS 300x Bi-Color LED Video Light

  • Lights: 1 x 300W LED light
  • Power: 350W
  • Output: 24300 LUX
  • Included: 1 x reflector, 1 x control box
  • CCT: Bi-Color
  • CRI Score: 95+
  • Powered: DC connection or Single/Dual Battery Operation
  • Weight: 11.3kg

Now, we’ve finally arrived at our top choice for single Source LED video lights – the Aputure LS300x. This is top-of-the-line light that delivers consistency and accurate colors higher than industry standards.

More importantly, when your light measurements need to be precise, the LS300x has you covered. First, you can adjust your color temperature with +/- 50K increments. Second, you can maintain consistent exposure levels while adjusting color temps. In fact, not many LED video lights offer this feature.

Next, you can connect with a remote or have full control with the wireless app. Also, a DMX connection is available for complex shoots.

Overall, this light has excellent build quality and a stylish design. On top of having brighter than daylight values, it produces light that is warmer than typical tungsten lights. So if you can afford it then this is one of the best LED lights for filming.

Also, you can soften the light by getting yourself a large octagon dome softbox.

ProsCons
✔ Up to 56,000+ LUX with the Fresnel✘ Expensive
✔ Remote or Wireless App Control✘ Warranty may not hold up
✔ Bi-Color 2700K-6500K 
✔ Dual fan is ultra silent 
✔ DMX512 Compatible 
✔ 9 Lighting effects 
✔ 4 Dimming Curves: Linear, Exponential, Logarithmic, & S-Curve 

Best LED Video Lights – Wrapping Up

In short, our advice is to look at the type of shooting you do whether it’s short films, corporate videos, or vlogging, and work out your needs. Look at things like portability, power, color temperatures, features, and pricing.

Also, there are many accessories and light modifiers available for the ones listed above (like softboxes). So you don’t have to live with one brand for the rest of your career. Modern LED video lights make it easy to mix and match, adding to your kit as you go. 😉

We hope this helps you decide on the best LED lights for filming your next project! Do you have a favorite light? Tell us in the comments below.

Author
Marcus VanWormer
Marcus VanWormer
Marcus is a freelance director, cinematographer, and video editor based in Brooklyn. He has a diverse background in film production working with companies like ABC, CBS, Jeep, Harley Davidson, and Levi's. His passion is storytelling. Follow him on Linkedin.
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