Best Photographic Gray Cards for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: February 2nd, 2024

📸Getting perfect color accuracy in your photos can be tricky, but gray cards make it way easier by giving you a neutral reference point. These handy tools help you adjust your camera's exposure and white balance settings, so your colors look just right.

We dug into a bunch of sources and came up with a list of top-notch gray cards for 2024. Whether you’re a pro or just really into photography, we’ve got suggestions that fit different needs and budgets to help you get those perfect shots.

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Overall Best: WhiBal Gray Card

Genuine Whibal G7 Certified Neutral White Balance Pocket Card (2.1"x3.35")

The WhiBal Gray Card is our top pick, primarily for its precision and ease of use. Featuring an 18% gray surface, this card ensures accurate color balance and exposure settings, making it indispensable for high-quality photography. It stands out for its durability and compact size, easily fitting into any camera bag, thus becoming a reliable companion for photographers on the move. Plus, the WhiBal Gray Card is supported by specialized software to assist with color calibration, guaranteeing that you get the most out of every shot. This tool’s combination of accuracy, portability, and supportive software makes it our overall best recommendation.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$19.95 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Whibal G7 White Balance Card? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Does the WhiBal G7 card come with a lanyard?
Yeah, the WhiBal G7 card does come with a lanyard, which is pretty handy for photographers and videographers who need to keep it close by for color calibration. It's specifically made for setting a neutral white balance, not for exposure calibration—so it's not your typical gray card. The WhiBal G7, from Michael Tapes Design, is known for its spectral neutrality, making sure colors come out right under all sorts of lighting. Our research shows it's especially useful when you're editing with programs like [Adobe Photoshop](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dadobe%2Bphotoshop%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Lightroom](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dlightroom%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). You'd usually take a reference picture with the card under the same light as your subject, then use the eyedropper tool in the software for precise color tweaks. This method can really speed up your editing by starting with a correct white balance. It's worth mentioning that some folks find the card's small size a bit tricky to use when setting the white balance right in the camera, as you might have to move in closer than usual. Still, its small size and ease of use make it a favorite, though there are bigger versions available if you need them. A few notes suggest that while the card might not be entirely reflective-neutral, combining it with a standard exposure neutral card might give you better results. However, with its portability and accuracy, the WhiBal G7 is highly recommended for ensuring your colors are spot on, whether you’re out in different lighting or perfecting your studio shots. Having it dangling from a lanyard definitely makes it a good tool to keep in your kit.
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How accurate is the WhiBal G7 white balance card?
So, about the WhiBal G7 White Balance Card—there's a bit of a mixed bag of opinions on its accuracy. From what we've gathered, some photographers have mentioned it doesn't always stay consistent across the whole surface of the card. This means if you're using different parts of it, there might be small differences in the white balance readings, which could affect how precise your color correction turns out. On the brighter side, quite a few people think it does the job well. The manufacturer talks up its neutrality, saying each card is carefully measured to stick to strict standards. They claim an a* and b* channel variance of ±0.5 or less, which shows they're aiming for quality and reliable performance. Now, many folks seem to find that it helps capture accurate white balance in various lighting setups. That being said, if you're noticing inconsistencies, it could help to ensure you're using the card under the same lighting as your subject. There are positive vibes around it in general, but keep that lighting tip in mind to cut down on any differences. One little challenge is the card's size. It's pretty compact, so you might have to get your camera up close to use it properly, which some might find a bit of a hassle. While it's made to be neutral and precise, experiences can differ depending on how and where it's used. In the end, even though opinions vary, the WhiBal G7 is still a go-to for many photographers looking for a certified neutral option for white balancing. Just take some care with how you use it, and it should serve you well as a trusty tool in your kit.
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What size is the WhiBal G7 pocket card?
The WhiBal G7 Pocket Card is pretty handy for photographers and videographers who are always on the move. According to the manufacturer's description, it's thin—just 0.040 inches—so it fits right into your shirt pocket with ease. Perfect for when you need to pack light. It's made from a special gray material that’s both waterproof and scratch-resistant, which means you can trust it to hold up in all sorts of environments, whether you're dealing with rain or dust. From our research, folks seem to love how sturdy and reliable it is. Many have mentioned it stays accurate even in tough conditions, which can be super helpful when you're trying to nail those white balance settings for high-quality photos. Plus, it works smoothly with editing programs like [Adobe Photoshop](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dadobe%2Bphotoshop%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and [Lightroom](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dlightroom%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). So, if you're often finding yourself out in unpredictable weather and need a durable, no-fuss tool, this pocket-sized card seems like a solid choice.
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Runner-up: Lastolite Gray & White Card

The Lastolite Gray & White Card earns its runner-up status due to its versatility and robust build. It features both gray and white surfaces, making it suitable for both exposure and white balance adjustments. This dual-sided card is collapsible, allowing for easy transport and quick setup in various locations. Furthermore, its durable construction ensures reliability under different shooting conditions, making it an excellent option for photographers who need a dependable tool across diverse environments. Whether you’re adjusting settings on the go or in the studio, the Lastolite Gray & White Card won’t disappoint.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$99.88 at Adorama

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Budget Pick: Neewer Gray Card

NeewerÂŽ Large Size 2 Card Set 8" x 10" -White Balance / Exposure Card 18% Gray Card Set for Digital and Film Photography

For those mindful of their budget, the Neewer Gray Card is a solid choice that doesn’t compromise on quality. Despite its lower price point, this card performs admirably in various lighting conditions. It features both 18% gray and white sides, ideal for setting exposure and ensuring accurate color balance. Lightweight and compact, it’s a great value option for photographers who want dependable performance without breaking the bank. The Neewer Gray Card proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve professional results.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$13.57 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the "Neewer White Balance/Gray Card Set"? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How accurate is the 18% gray card in the Neewer Large Size 2 Card Set?
The Neewer Large Size 2 Card Set is meant to help photographers manage exposure and color balance thanks to its 18% gray and 90% white cards. The manufacturer says these cards are designed to give you a neutral gray balance and optimal exposure. Our research shows that experiences with the color accuracy of these cards are mixed. Some folks really like that they're durable and easy to clean. But others have noticed that the gray card's color accuracy might not match industry standards like those from [Kodak](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dkodak%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). A few people have mentioned that it looks darker than expected, which can throw off color balance in certain lighting situations. There are times when people found the cards worked well for balancing colors in video projects, suggesting they could be useful in cinematography. But because feedback varies, it seems the product's performance isn't very consistent. Some folks were disappointed because the gray card's reflectance seemed a bit off, which can make it tricky to use quickly and reliably. Also, both sides of the cards being just one color each left some feeling they had to get creative by taping more cards together to get what they needed. So, while these cards might be just fine for some photographers, they may not work for everyone. If you're really focused on precision and consistency, you might need to tweak a bit or use additional tools to get everything just right. Based on what we found, you might want to think carefully about the Neewer gray card's accuracy, especially if your work requires spot-on color correction.
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Can the Neewer gray card set be used for both digital and film photography?
Yeah, you can definitely use the Neewer Gray Card Set with both digital and film photography. It's pretty handy for both. This set comes with an 18% gray card and a white card, which help you get accurate white balance and exposure settings. According to the manufacturer, the gray card helps neutralize mixed lighting, so you can get your exposures right. From what we've found, photographers appreciate this set not just in the studio but outdoors too. It's a solid tool for color correction during editing, helping keep colors looking true to life. Some folks mentioned its usefulness in cinematography since color accuracy is pretty important there. People also talk about how tough and easy to use these cards are. They've been noted to hold up well over time, making them a good option for both new and seasoned photographers. On the flip side, there are a few who mentioned that the gray card’s color might not be spot-on compared to the exact 18% gray standard. This could be an issue if you're really picky about matching professional-level accuracy, especially in film photography. Despite these few drawbacks, a lot of folks find the Neewer Gray Card Set really useful for nailing exposure in digital photography. It's a practical and budget-friendly option if you’re looking to step up your game in terms of exposure and color consistency.
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What are the dimensions of the Neewer gray and white cards?
The Neewer Gray and White Card set has cards that measure 8 inches by 10 inches, which is quite a handy size. They're designed for both digital and film photography to help you get your exposure and color balance just right. According to the manufacturer, the set includes an 18% gray card for accurate exposure settings and color corrections, alongside one gray card and one white card. Now, from what we've gathered, people have mixed feelings about these cards when it comes to color accuracy. Many folks find them durable and effective for balancing light, achieving a neutral white balance in different lighting conditions, and overall, they seem to be well-regarded for their ease of use and sturdy build. However, there are some issues to keep in mind. A few have mentioned that sometimes the gray card doesn't quite hit the 18% reflectance mark, occasionally showing a color cast like a bluish tint. This can be a bit annoying if you're relying on it for precise white balance or exposure settings. One reviewer even mentioned it having a magenta shift compared to traditional [Kodak gray cards](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dkodak%2Bgray%2Bcards%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), which might throw off your color corrections. If you're working in a professional setting where color accuracy is critical, or if you're doing very precise work, you might want to double-check the cards' accuracy before fully relying on them. Overall, while they do a decent job for general exposure tweaks, just be aware of their limitations if you're dealing with projects where perfect color accuracy is non-negotiable.
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Specific Pick: X-Rite ColorChecker Passport

For photographers seeking a comprehensive color management tool, the X-Rite ColorChecker Passport is a standout choice. This tool not only includes a gray card but also a full-color patch and associated software for consistent color calibration from capture to screen to print. It's designed for those who require the highest level of color accuracy in their workflow. Whether you’re a studio professional or an exacting hobbyist, the X-Rite ColorChecker Passport can elevate the precision and consistency of your color management process, making it an invaluable addition to your gear.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

Specific Pick: Manfrotto EZYBalance Collapsible Gray Card

The Manfrotto EZYBalance Collapsible Gray Card is perfect for photographers needing a portable yet durable option. Its collapsible design allows for easy transportation and swift deployment in various shooting environments, making it practical for photographers on the go. Available in different sizes, it suits a wide range of applications, from portrait photography to product shoots. Known for its robust construction, this gray card can withstand frequent use, ensuring reliability and consistency for every shoot. Its combination of portability, size options, and durability makes it a versatile choice for many photography needs.

Available at Amazon
View at Amazon
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