The Best Ring Lights for Cameras in 2024 (2024)

Updated on September 18, 2023

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This versatile ring light kit from Neewer is an excellent fit for most users and comes with everything you need to create great lighting in your photos and videos. It's a little pricier, but quite a few things are in the box. This kit includes the 18-inch ring light, an orange and white filter (to create warmer and more diffuse light), a smartphone holder, a hot shoe adapter for cameras, and a Bluetooth receiver to remotely control the camera shutter.

The 18-inch size makes this a large ring light, and it may take up too much space on your desk if you only want something to use for video calls. But if you're taking product photos or creating content for social media, the adjustable tripod and two different mounts make this a super versatile option. The light is dimmable, and the two filters let you choose between cooler and warmer light, from 3200K to 5500K.

The included phone holder rotates 360 degrees and has a clamp design that easily adjusts for different phone sizes. The standard quarter-inch thread ball head fits any camera with a standard tripod mount, so you can easily switch from recording social media posts to taking professional-quality product photos. If you have a cumbersome camera, the tripod might need to be more sturdy to support it securely, especially when extended to its full length.

_{Diameter: 18 inches | Color Temperature: 3200K to 5500K | Total Power: 55W | Connectivity: Bluetooth}

This 14-inch ring light from Neewer is a more portable alternative to the large 18-inch model. It has the same included accessories:a white and orange filter, phone holder, camera mount, Bluetooth receiver for remote shutter control, and an adjustable tripod that extends up to 61 inches. But this tripod folds to 29.5 inches, and the kit has a carrying case for easy transport.

This light has 36W of power compared to the 55W of the larger model, but that’s still plenty of brightness for most people’s needs. Like the 18-inch version, this ring light is dimmable and has white and orange filters that allow you to adjust the light temperature. The added benefit is the ability to break this ring light into a bag whenever you want to take it on the go or store it away.

_{Diameter: 14 inches | Color Temperature: 5500K | Total Power: 36W | Connectivity: Bluetooth}

This clip-on ring light from Auxiwa is an inexpensive solution that provides even lighting for your phone or laptop camera. And there’s no setup required; clip it to the top of your phone or computer and switch it on. The clip is also padded to prevent scratches on your device.

This ring light has 36 LEDs adjustable to three levels of brightness. You can quickly recharge the battery with the included USB cable when it dies. You can also use it with either the back or front-facing camera but note that the 3W of power means it doesn’t throw light very far and is optimal for close-up photos. The low-profile design makes it super portable but also means it won’t fit over bulky phone cases.

_{Diameter: 3 inches | Color Temperature: 5600K | Total Power: 3W | Connectivity: N/A}

Ring lights can be handy in macro photography, providing even light for close-up subjects. The YN-14EX by YONGNUO is a lens-mounted ring flash specifically designed for Canon DSLRs. It attaches to a camera's hot shoe adapter and can be fitted to the lens using the included 52-, 58-, 67-, and 72-millimeter lens adapters.

You can control the two halves of the ring light separately using the LCD screen on the back. On compatible Canons, these settings are accessible through the camera's menu. Use both sides of the ring for direct light, or set them at different strengths to create a directional flash.

The AA battery-powered YN-14EX has a few other features that one would typically expect from a more expensive ring flash, including support for standard PC Sync, which helps trigger the flash when you press the shutter. You also get an external power socket for a shorter recycling time (how long it takes for the flash to power up again).

_{Diameter: Fits 52mm, 58mm, 67mm, 72mm Canon lenses | Color Temperature: 5600K | Total Power: N/A | Connectivity: PC synchronous line}

This premium ring light from Savage is large, adjustable, and silent, making it well-suited to video studios. The 18-inch diameter can provide even light from a distance. Videographers can shoot from the 11.5-inch opening in the center of the ring for direct lighting on their subject. The light can also be adjusted for a variety of different situations.

A convenient LCD readout on the back lets you read and manage the settings at a glance, and you can also change the settings using the included remote control. This feature is beneficial if you’re filming or photographing yourself. This light doesn't come with a stand, so you must purchase a tripod separately.

_{Diameter: 17.5 inches | Color Temperature: 3200K to 5500K | Total Power: 96W | Connectivity: Remote control}

FAQ

• What size ring light is best?

  The size of the ring light you need depends on your usage. If you need a professional setup for a studio, an 18-inch ring light can serve you well. For a more portable option, a 14-inch ring light still offers plenty of light for your shooting and videography needs. There are simple phone and camera-mounted options if you have only a phone.

• How do I set up a ring light?

  If your ring light comes with a stand, adjust and position it to your liking, or set up a tripod. Then, place the ring light on the stand or tripod. Depending on the type of ring light you choose, you can also mount your camera or smartphone on the ring light stand. If your ring light is compatible with a camera lens, laptop, or mobile device, you must clip on the light according to the manufacturer's instructions. A final step will be activating Bluetooth on your phone if your ring light has a Bluetooth remote.

• How do I turn on a ring light?

  Plug in your ring light to a power source. If your ring light runs on batteries and requires charging, take care of that first. Many ring lights use a switch or a button to control power. This same control may also help you adjust dimming and lighting settings.

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