Best Ring Light of 2024
1. BEST OVERALL RING LIGHT
JOBY Beamo Ring Light 12″
PROS
- Very bright light output
- 3 different temperature settings
CONS
- Tripod and phone mount are sold separately
This ring light from JOBY is a powerhouse when it comes to performance. Of the five ring lights we tested, this model had the brightest light output, measuring 590 lux at two feet away from the light source. It also has three different temperature settings, ranging from 3,000 to 5,600 Kelvin, which can be accessed via the switch.
We loved the sheer brightness of this model, not only being quantitatively brighter than the others we tested, but qualitatively being noticeably brighter than these models as well. We found the quality of light flattering and liked the USB power supply which allows you to skip out on extra cables and adapters.
While we loved the mounting options as well for this ring light, being able to screw onto a tripod and attach a phone mount, we noted that the separate sale of these accessories may not make it fit for novices in the video lighting sphere.
2. BEST VALUE RING LIGHT
QIAYA Selfie Ring Light With Tripod Stand and Phone Holder
PROS
- Comes with tripod, phone holder and Bluetooth remote
- Very bright compared to other models, even more expensive ones
CONS
- Makes a humming noise while running
For the beginner just getting into video content, the QIAYA Selfie Ring Light with Tripod Stand and Phone Holder offers the most bang for your buck. This ring light comes with an attachable tripod and phone holder to get you started on your video and photo projects right out of the box. We also love the inclusion of a Bluetooth remote that can be connected to iPhone and Android devices to remotely operate your phone’s shutter for hands-free shooting.
In testing this model performed impressively, delivering 530 lux at two feet from the light source. Additionally, we were impressed with how lightweight this light is, clocking in at just 0.45 pounds (not including the tripod and phone holder), making it a great pick for the creator on the go. During testing we noticed a somewhat grating hum from the light while in use, but considering the value with respect to performance, the noise isn’t a huge concern.
3. BEST RING LIGHT FOR STREAMING
Logitech Litra Glow
PROS
- Compact design
- No ring reflection in pupils
CONS
- Not as bright as other models tested
Although technically not a “ring,” the Litra Glow packs everything you’d want in a ring light into a compact frame: a bright, diffuse light with five temperature settings spanning 3,800 Kelvin, easy-to-use temperature and dimming controls (accessed on the back of the light) and the ability to mount to a laptop via the computer mount (included) or tripod (not included). The included laptop mount features a head that can be angled and pivoted so you get light exactly where you need as you stream or partake in video conference calls.
Though not the brightest light we tested, we were wowed by the ratio of brightness to size, improving the lighting of Zoom calls and photo booth pictures substantially considering its meager 3.25-inch length and width chassis. Specifically, we liked how the design of this light eliminated the tell-tale reflection of the ring light that shows up in people’s pupils when they use one. The light itself only weighs 0.2 pounds and with the mount it clocks in at 0.35 pounds, making it perfect for traveling. We also loved that the laptop mount is easy to attach and remove, and feels stable when latched onto the screen.
4. BEST RING LIGHT FOR MAKING TIKTOKS
EMART 10” Selfie Ring Light
PROS
- Comes with large tripod, phone holder and remote shutter
- Bluetooth remote lets you control light remotely
CONS
- Cool, warm and neutral light settings look somewhat similar
If you plan on making any content where you’ll need to film yourself, EMART’s ring light has everything you need to make the process seamless. The light comes with a tripod that expands to 55″ tall and features a pivoting head so you can easily light a wide variety of content. Additionally, it comes with a phone holder, remote Bluetooth shutter for iPhone and Android devices, and Bluetooth remote for changing the light settings for a totally hands-free experience. The switch on the light operates simply yet effectively, allowing you to cycle through three color temperatures and 10 brightness levels with the click of a few buttons.
In-Lab testing showed this ring light generates up to 300 lux at two feet from the light source, and we found the quality of light particularly flattering when comparing photos taken with the different ring lights. The color temperature range left something to be desired, only ranging from 3,200 Kelvin to 5,500 Kelvin. The difference between the three temperature settings on this model weren’t as noticeable as some of the other models we tried, but given the price and other tools this light comes with, we can’t complain.
5. BEST RING LIGHT FOR TABLETOP FILMING
Pozliv Overhead Desk Ring Light with Flexible Swing Arm Stand
PROS
- Desk tripod helps illuminate overhead shots
- Gooseneck and ball and socket joints makes lighting and filming at different angles a snap
CONS
- Tripod can’t sustain very much weight
Filming overhead shots as you’re crafting, cooking or doing anything else on a tabletop can be tougher than it looks. Getting a direct light source right above your work area and keeping your filming device steadily above is deceptively tricky, which is why we love the design of this ring light from Pozliv. It comes with a tripod that clips onto the desk and additional mounting equipment for attaching your smartphone or camera. The phone/camera mount features a ball-and-socket joint and the kit comes with the addition of a gooseneck mount for the ring light, making lighting and filming even the most intricate tabletop activities a breeze.
While we didn’t get the opportunity to test this model in the Lab, we were appreciative of the robust mounting options in this ring light kit, and its design particularly for overhead shooting. We also loved that the tripod head is compatible with lots of different filming equipment thanks to its 1/4 threading. Those hoping to mount a more weighty camera may want to look elsewhere though — the tripod’s maximum bearing weight is three pounds. If you’re only in it for the ring light though and don’t mind the use of a second tripod for your camera, or if you’re using a lightweight camera or phone, this kit is perfect.
6. BEST RING LIGHT FOR PROFESSIONAL CONTENT CREATORS
LUME CUBE Cordless 18″ Ring Light
PROS
- Color rendering index of up to 97
- Fine control over brightness and color temperature
CONS
- Pricey
Lume Cube’s massive 18-inch ring light is a favorite among professional videographers for its brightness, size, and perhaps most importantly, portability. It comes with a carrying case that can fit the 6.5-foot tripod stand and mounting equipment, and the ring light is cordless and powered by two included rechargeable lithium ion batteries, obliterating the limit of needing to film near a power source.
Though we didn’t test this model, we loved how much control and accuracy this light delivers. This ring light is capable of producing light with a color rendering index (CRI, a measure of the proximity of appearance of artificial light to natural sunlight) of up to 97, meaning it’ll illuminate anything you’re filming in a natural, flattering way. We were also impressed with the dial control of both brightness and temperature, letting you very granularly choose the exact amount and color of light for your shot. While this ring light is pricier compared to some of our other picks, its pro-level control and purportedly powerful illumination make it a worthwhile splurge for those looking to take their video content to the next level.
