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Best Ring Lights for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: April 5th, 2024

💡Whether you're a professional photographer, a social media influencer, or just love capturing beautiful photos, a ring light can be a game-changer for your images. These handy tools provide even lighting, which helps get rid of shadows and brings out key features. We've dug deep and found the top ring lights for 2024 to help you pick the perfect one for your needs.

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Overall Best: Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light

Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light Kit for Makeup YouTube Video Blogger Salon - Adjustable Color Temperature with Battery or DC Power Option, Battery, Charger, AC Adapter, Phone Clamp and Stand Included

The Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light is our top pick for 2024 due to its impressive blend of quality, versatility, and affordability. Featuring 176 white and 176 yellow LEDs, you can easily shift the color temperature from a warm 3,200K to a cooler 5,600K, making it adaptable to different lighting scenarios. The robust tripod ensures stability, and it comes with a convenient phone clamp. Whether you're filming content, taking photographs, or streaming, this ring light's superior light quality and extensive adjustability set it apart. According to user reviews, its durability and performance make it well worth the investment.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$184.18 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light Kit? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Can the Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light be used without batteries?

Yep, you can definitely use the Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light without batteries. It's got two power options: you can plug it right into an outlet with the included DC adapter, or go wireless with [NP-F550](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DNP-F550%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20)/[F970 Li-ion batteries](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DF970%2BLi-ion%2Bbatteries%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). So it's pretty handy for both indoor and outdoor setups. From what the manufacturer says, if you run it on batteries, it'll last around 48 minutes on a full charge. You might notice the brightness dips a bit when using battery power compared to when it's plugged in, though. Not usually a big deal, just something to keep in mind if you need the full brightness. Based on our research, a lot of people like having the choice between plugging it in and going wireless, which is super useful if you can’t always reach an outlet. Perfect for shooting on location or moving between spots where power might be scarce. Just be aware that batteries can sometimes dim the light or cause it to turn off if they're not fully charged or have issues. If you want the best consistency, especially for longer sessions or professional shoots, sticking with the direct power supply is usually the way to go. It's less hassle and gives you steady brightness. But in a studio or an area with available outlets, using the direct power source makes things easier and keeps the lighting steady. In the end, whether you're snapping pics, creating content, or just experimenting with lighting, the Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light provides some nice flexibility. Just take care of your batteries if you're planning to use it wirelessly often.

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How long does the Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light typically last before failing?

Hey! So, about how long the Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light will last before it gives up on you — let's break it down. First, the light can be powered by plugging it into an outlet using a DC adapter or by using the [Sony NP-F550/F970 replacement Li-ion batteries](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DSony%2BNP-F550%2FF970%2Breplacement%2BLi-ion%2Bbatteries%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) that come with it. The manufacturer describes this setup as portable for things like outdoor shoots. However, keep in mind that using the batteries can cause the light to be a bit dimmer, by about 10 watts, compared to when it's plugged in. If you're running on battery, expect a full charge to last around 48 minutes, which might be a bit short for longer sessions without nearby outlets. From what we've gathered, some folks have noted that when using the batteries, the brightness isn't quite as intense as when it's plugged in, which can be a downside if you need consistent lighting for photos or videos. Also, it's worth mentioning that, according to our research, once the batteries run out, the light might not continue working even if you plug it in, because the adapter doesn't charge the batteries. Overall, while having both power options is nice for portability, the DC adapter is probably the way to go if steady and reliable lighting is a bigger priority for you. It seems to help avoid any dips in brightness, which is especially useful in professional settings. Now, for how long the light itself might last before it fails: like many LED products, it should be good for several years if taken care of, particularly if you're mostly using it with the AC power source. Just stick to the recommended usage tips, and you should be golden!

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How bright is the Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light?

The Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light really knows how to light up a room. From what we've gathered, it offers pretty solid brightness, especially given its versatile power options. You can either pop in the included Li-ion batteries for when you're on the go, or plug it into an outlet with a DC adapter when you have access to one. The manufacturer notes that it comes with two NP-F550/970 replacement Li-ion batteries, which is super handy for shoots where you might not find a power outlet, like outdoors. Just make sure those batteries are fully charged to get the light shining at its best. Our research suggests that partially charged batteries can lead to issues, like the light not turning on or flickering. There is a bit of a catch, though. You can't charge the batteries and use the light at the same time. So, if you run out of juice mid-shoot, you'll have to pause to recharge. Some folks have mentioned wanting clearer instructions or a faster way to recharge the batteries, which seems fair. If you do have access to an outlet, the ring light's at its brightest and most stable when plugged in. Our data shows that many people find it performs more reliably this way, giving you steady lighting without worrying about the battery dying, which is great for longer sessions. So, if you need brightness that doesn't quit, sticking with the DC adapter is the way to go. But the option to use batteries is fantastic for when you're moving around or shooting in places without power. Just keep an eye on your power source to make the most out of this ring light's capabilities.

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Runner-up: Aureday 14'' Selfie Ring Light

Aureday 14'' Selfie Ring Light with 62'' Tripod Stand and Phone Holder, Dimmable LED Phone Ringlight for Makeup/Video Recording/Photography, Circle Lighting for All Cell Phones&Lightweight Cameras 14in+62in BLACK

Our runner-up, the Aureday 14'' Selfie Ring Light, stands out for its versatility and user-friendly design. It offers multiple brightness levels and five distinct color modes, making it adaptable to various lighting conditions. Despite its shorter cord, its lightweight and flexible design make it perfect for fashion photography and video content creation. Users have praised its ability to provide well-balanced lighting without harsh shadows, making it a reliable companion for any creative project.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$36.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Qiaya Selfie Ring Light

Selfie Ring Light, QIAYA Portable Clip Selfie Light with 36 LED for Smart Phone Photography, Camera Video

If you're on a budget, the Qiaya Selfie Ring Light is an excellent choice. Priced under $50, it still offers significant value with adjustable color temperatures up to 6,000K, multiple brightness levels, and a sturdy stand. It's ideal for casual photographers and content creators alike, featuring a USB power source and an included phone holder for added convenience. While it may not match the versatility of high-end models, it’s an exceptional option for enhancing your lighting setup without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$9.99 at Amazon

Best for Professional Use: Westcott 18” Bi-Color LED Ring Light

Westcott 18-inch Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit with Batteries and Stand

For professionals demanding high-quality lighting for commercial photography or sophisticated video production, the Westcott 18” Bi-Color LED Ring Light is unparalleled. It offers a wide color temperature range of 3200-5600K and adjustable brightness from 0-100%, allowing complete control over your lighting environment. Accompanying a durable 6.5' light stand, its exceptional build quality meets the rigorous demands of professional settings. According to our research, photographers and videographers highly recommend it for its reliability and performance.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$179.90 at Amazon

Best for Streaming: Elgato Ring Light

Elgato Ring Light - Premium 2500 lumens Desktop Ring Light with USB Connectivity for Streaming, TikTok, Instagram, Home Office, and Video Conferencing

Streamers and online content creators will find the Elgato Ring Light to be an excellent investment. With up to 2,500 lumens and a color temperature range of 2,900–7,000K, it delivers optimal lighting for diverse streaming environments. The diffusion layers provide soft, flattering light, while its app integration allows for easy adjustments directly from your smartphone or computer. This feature is particularly useful for making live adjustments during streams, adding convenience and enhancing your broadcasting experience.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$99.99 at Amazon

Best for Macro Photography: Yongnuo YN-14EX

YONGNUO YN-14EX YN14EX TTL Macro Ring Flash, LED Flash Light with Adapter Ring for Canon EOS DSLR Cameras, as Canon MR-14EX

For macro photography enthusiasts, the Yongnuo YN-14EX is the go-to choice. Designed as a ring flash light, it supports exposure compensation and rear-curtain sync, offering precise and controlled lighting for intricate close-ups. Its compact design ensures it can be easily mounted to the camera lens, making it essential for achieving sharp and well-lit macro shots. According to our findings, its performance in delivering detailed and high-quality macro photography is consistently praised by users.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$115.00 at Amazon

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