Best LED Ring Lights for Makeup Photography

Review & Comparison, Last Update November 13, 2024
Every professional vlogger uses a ring flash for taking stunning and eye-catching videos and photos. This kind of flash provides ...Read more
PROS

The built-in USB port with Quick Charge 3.0 technology can quickly charge your mobile devices. The lamp can work either from an electric network (US and EU plugs included) or from batteries (sold separately).

CONS

The body heats a bit with prolonged use.

OUR VERDICT

If you are looking for a high-quality lamp that will allow you to experiment with lighting, we recommend going with this model. It comes with 4 color filters to let you create the mood you wish.

detailed parameters
Type

LED light (280 pcs)

Color Temperature

3000 - 5800 K

Color Settings

Dimmable, Color temperature control

Outer Diameter

19"

Convenience & Accessory

Light stand, Carrying bag, Wireless remote, Bluetooth remote, 4 x plastic diffusion filters (White, Blue, Red, Green), iPad holder, Phone holder, Camera mounting bracket, Universal adapter, 2 x cold shoes (long and short)

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The product is fitted with two reflective silver layers embedded around all the LEDs (outer and inner sides). Therefore, the light will stay bright yet soft even when set to the lowest brightness.

CONS

The plastic covers can be a pain to clip on perfectly.

OUR VERDICT

Made with 240 LED lamps, this light is a perfect choice for beginners and professionals alike. With it, your photos and videos will always look professional.

detailed parameters
Type

LED light (240 pcs)

Color Temperature

5500 K

Color Settings

Dimmable

Outer Diameter

18"

Convenience & Accessory

Light stand, Flexible tube, White and Orange color filter set, Tripod head hot shoe adapter, Smartphone holder, Bluetooth receiver, Carrying bag

Warranty

3 months

PROS

Featuring an ergonomic manual touch control panel, the SENSYNE 10" ring light comes equipped with a Bluetooth shutter remote with up to 30-feet operating distance.

CONS

The included tripod stand could be of better quality.

OUR VERDICT

A real find for vloggers, make-up designers and photographers, this ring light doubles as a bedside lamp. The purchase includes a handy phone holder compatible with most smartphones. Mains operated, the unit comes with an AC/DC adapter.

detailed parameters
Type

LED light

Color Temperature

3000 - 6000 K

Color Settings

Dimmable, Сolor temperature control

Outer Diameter

10"

Convenience & Accessory

Extendable tripod stand, Manual touch control panel, AC/DC adapter, Phone holder (extends up to 5.3" wide), Bluetooth remote, Carrying bag

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The stand is made of high-quality aluminum alloy and equipped with non-skid feet, so it will be stable on any horizontal surface. The stand can also act as a tripod or selfie stick.

CONS

Bluetooth remote operates withing 30 feet only.

OUR VERDICT

This mini ring light will be an ideal solution for selfie-lovers or those who are going to shoot in confined spaces. It's also good for Facebook Live and YouTube videos.

detailed parameters
Type

LED light

Color Temperature

3200 - 5500 K

Color Settings

Dimmable, Color temperature control

Outer Diameter

8"

Convenience & Accessory

Light stand, Smartphone holder, Bluetooth remote

Warranty

3 years

PROS

This model has 3 lighting modes—white, warm yellow and warm white. Each mode has 10 brightness levels. Offering a wide color temperature range (2700-7000K), the ring light will allow you to make perfect photos.

CONS

The phone holder might not work for phones in thick cases.

OUR VERDICT

The AIXPI 10" Ring Light is a compact tabletop unit that will help you with your work, studies, and creative projects. The bulbs have an impressive 25,000-hour lifespan, so you won't have to replace them soon.

detailed parameters
Type

LED light (120 pcs)

Color Temperature

2700-7000 K

Color Settings

Dimmable, Сolor temperature control

Outer Diameter

10"

Convenience & Accessory

Adjustable cell phone holder (up to 3.93"), Tripod stand, USB port, Hot shoe mount, Metal ball mount

Warranty

1 year

LED Ring Lights for Makeup Photography Ring Flashes

Four Colors to Choose From

IVISII is a professional photo accessories manufacturer that focuses on technical improvement and new technology. Its products are among the most advanced and popular photo equipment on the market. And the IR-45 19" ring light is one of them.

This light is quite big, bright, and customizable. It offers tons of configurable options allowing you to vary brightness levels, color temps, and more. The lamp consists of 280 LED pcs and is bright enough to give you (and, probably, one more person) an even light source all around your face. Additionally, it can give your photos or videos the mood you are searching for. To specify, it comes with as many as 4 color filters to help you get your creative juices going.

Besides the White softening filter, the set includes Blue, Red, and Green diffusion filters, which altogether allows you to achieve 5 different colors in total. The color temperature can be adjusted from 3000 to 5800 K, whereas the dimming range makes 0%-100%. The high color rendering delivers very natural lighting and high color reproduction.

As you see, this lamp allows you to achieve pretty much any color and intensity you need for your photo shoots or YouTube videos. The possibilities are endless.

All Included

To let you easily adjust all the settings, this ring is supplied with a handy wireless remote. It gives you complete control over the brightness level, color temperature, and channel/group, while the bright LCD screen on the stand shows all these settings. IVISII has also included a Bluetooth remote that works with both phones and DSLR cameras.

Yet, the best part is that the set comes with multiple mounts that work for DSLR cameras, mobile phones, and even tablets. Not many other brands include specific holders for tablets.

Another surprise from the company is the fact that this model can support multiple devices simultaneously. It has three fixed slots, allowing you to broadcast three gadgets at a time. And if one of them discharges, you can benefit from a USB 3.0 port that offers a quick charge.

As for the ring light itself, it supports a dual power supply - a DC adapter or rechargeable Li-ion battery (sold separately on Amazon). The DC adapter includes both US and EU plugs for multicountry use.

The bottom line, this IVISII set comes with everything you can think of. It seems to be professional equipment at an amateur photographer budget. A win-win choice on all levels.

Additional Info

User Manual

Last updated price $135.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07SW5G7XB

Improved!

The Neewer company is a trustworthy manufacturer that focuses on photography and video equipment. It never cuts corners and offers professional, premium products all over the world, for reasonable costs. So, no wonder the Neewer ring light causes ripples across the market.

For starters, we would like to emphasize that the product is equally suitable for photographers, videographers, make-up artists, hairstylists, bloggers, and simple selfie lovers. The folks behind Neewer have listened to their customers and designed the item that can really meet any need.

The professional Neewer team has redesigned this right light based on feedback and suggestion. Now, the product is fitted with two reflective silver layers around all 240 LED pcs (outer and inner sides). Thanks to this improvement, the light will stay bright yet soft even when set to the lowest brightness.

By the way, the brightness is fully adjustable - a handy dimming knob lets you easily customize it from 0 to 100%. And if you need more flexibility, you can use the lamp with either White or Orange color filter. This way, you'll be able to vary the color temperature in the range from 3200K to 5600K. With no ultraviolet/infrared light radiation and with low heat output.

For sure, the Neewer ring light can enhance your or your model's facial features. If you work in the cosmetics world, this product is a must to take beautiful pictures of your clients.

Ergonomic Design

The Neewer ring light kit is very ergonomically-designed and convenient to use. The lamp is easy to assemble and break down to place back into its carry bag. It comes with a gooseneck tube that is very strong but extremely flexible. You'll be able to twist or bend it as you like to reach the needed angles (up to 180°).

The stand itself can stretch really high. To specify, it's adjustable all the way up from 19 to 59 inches. So, it's likely to meet the height of any client.

Lastly, we would like to point out that the unit has a standard hot shoe adapter compatible with most DSLR cameras. Also, it comes with a smartphone holder that attaches to the inner base of the ring. It's compatible with most modern phones. And the best part is that you won't need to download any additional apps to pair your phone with the ring since it's shipped with a Bluetooth remote.

Overall, we really enjoy this light. It's a perfect choice for beginners and professionals alike. With it, your photos and videos will look pro.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $91.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01LXDNNBW

Spend More Time Making Videos and Less Time Editing Them

Are you looking for a bright, easy-to-use, and functional ring light for streaming, photography, or for video conferencing? Try the SENSYNE LED ring light. Mains operated and equipped with an AC/DC adapter that allows safe use of the device, this model is 50% brighter compared to most of its USB-powered competitors. The unit comes with a spring-loaded adjustable phone holder that can extend up to 5.3" wide. The phone holder is compatible with all modern smartphones, whether you use them with or without a case.

Next, the unit has a sensitive manual touch panel that will ensure easy settings adjustment. This model has 3 color settings, including a cool white (6000 K), a warm yellow (3000 K), and a daylight (4500 K) mode. Moreover, there are as many as 10 brightness modes, allowing you to get the best lighting for your needs at any time of the day. Innovative and comfortable, this control panel is more durable compared to mechanical buttons.

You will also get a remote shutter, compatible with both Android (4.2.2+) and iOS (6.0+) devices, allowing you to start and stop recording from up to 30-feet distance. In other words, you will be able to spend more time making stunning videos and less time editing them. Needless to say that this pocket-sized Bluetooth remote will also help you to take group photos and selfies.

Extendable Tripod Stand and Carrying Case Included

We would also like to add that the ring light has a rotatable design, and you can easily adjust the lighting angle. As for the phone holder, it is 360-degrees rotatable, and you can make both portrait and landscape mode pictures easily. In addition to the ring light, remote shutter, phone holder, and AC/DC adapter, you will get a tripod stand and a carrying bag. Though some users admit that the stand is on the flimsier side, it is a great addition to the purchase. The tripod stand is extendable (from 16" to up to 51" high) so it will suit both vlogging and photography needs. And a handy carrying case will allow you to bring it along wherever you go.

In a word, if you are looking for a functional and reliable ring light that comes with a stand, phone holder, and carrying case, this unit is a fantastic choice. Thanks to the included shutter remote, you will be able to activate your phone camera from up to 30-feet distance.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B08B3X7NXC

Extra Small

Your Facebook Live and YouTube videos look dark, grainy, and poorly-lit? Would you like to take your selfies to a whole new level? If so, we offer you to consider a nifty tool that can make your photos look flawless—the Ubeesize 8” Selfie Ring Light. With more than 10,000 positive reviews on Amazon, it’s currently one of the best-selling photo products on the market, with an army of customers obsessed with it. So, let’s check what's so special about it.

First off, we would like to say that this super-compact 8” ring has three lighting modes with 11 brightness levels each to make every photo and video look very professional. To specify, it offers you to choose between warm, cool, and daylight for shooting against different backgrounds and for different needs. For example, the yellow warm light is best for perfect selfie pics since it helps mask facial imperfections, hide slight wrinkles and even out your skin tone. Yet, if you want to shoot some makeup tutorials, you can pick a bright daylight setting that is capable of emphasizing every detail. No matter which mode you choose, you’re sure to improve the overall quality of your photos and videos with this magic mini ring.

Convenient to Operate

Another highlight of this ring light is that it’s super versatile. Actually, it can perform 3 different functions—act as an additional light source, phone tripod, or a selfie stick. The extendable tripod goes from 17 inches all the way up to 51 inches and is fitted with a rotatable phone holder that can help you shoot from any preferable angle. For greater convenience, the tripod comes with a Bluetooth camera phone remote that lets you control the shutter up to 30 feet away.

As for the ring light itself, it can be operated with the easily-accessible buttons on the front part. The controls include the power button, light mode, and the brightness setting button. Overall, it’s quite easy to use and can be set up in about 5 minutes. Just connect the included USB cord and plug into any USB outlet (a wall adapter, computer slot, or vehicle charger) and you're ready to go. If you need more portability, you can use a power bank. This way, you won’t be tied to the electricity supply and will be able to shoot anywhere and anytime you want. Whether you’re going to take outdoor pictures or home selfies, this ring light will help you always get pro results.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $33.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07GDC39Y2

Wide Color Temperature Range

Looking for a ring light with a wide color temperature range? Consider this functional and bright model by AIXPI. The unit uses as many as 120 bulbs and has 3 color modes (white, yellow, and warm yellow). Moreover, it offers an impressive color temperature range (2700-7000K) to perfectly suit your needs and project. For each mode, there are as many as 10 brightness levels, and you can easily adjust the item's operation depending on the ambient lighting. What is also important, the bulbs have a 25,000-hour lifespan, so you won't need to replace them soon. You can use the LED ring light for applying makeup and for making beautiful pictures and videos.

This 10" ring light comes with a handy phone holder that can be extended to 3.93 inches. The holder can be installed horizontally or vertically for portrait or landscape shooting. Note that, though the phone clip is compatible with most smartphones, it might not fit some larger phones in thicker cases. We would also like to add that the purchase includes a hot shoe mount and a metal ball mount, so you can use the ring light with your camera as well.

Along with the ring light, you will get a portable height-adjustable tripod stand for comfortable tabletop use. Thanks to the spherical joint design, you can rotate the accessory 360 degrees to get the perfect lighting and shooting angle. The ring light has a standard screw-in adapter on the bottom so you can use it with a taller tripod stand, too.

User-Friendly Design

The AIXPI LED ring light has a stylish and comfortable design. To enhance the unit's durability, the manufacturer has used high-quality materials. The unit has lasting energy-saving bulbs, a durable plastic casing, and sturdy and lightweight metal legs. Because the ring light is USB powered, you can use it anywhere you need it and charge it using a charge plug, a laptop, or a power bank. An ergonomic control panel located on the cord will make changing modes and adjusting the light intensity a snap—there are only four buttons to choose from, including an on/off button.

To put it in a nutshell, this comfy tabletop ring light by AIXPI will come in very useful for applying makeup, taking pictures, and shooting videos. The item can be used with the included tripod or mounted on a bigger one. The operation is very straightforward; you will be able to adjust the lighting mode and intensity in no time at all.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07Q3471S2

Infographics


What Is a Ring Light?

All professional photographers use certain illumination devices for taking high-quality pictures or shooting terrific videos. And ring lights are among the most popular devices used in photo studios. So, what is a ring light used for? 

As the name suggests, it's the light made in the shape of a ring, which provides even and radial illumination that minimizes shadows, conceals skin imperfections, highlights the beauty of human eyes, and so on. That's why this photo making accessory is particularly useful for portrait and close-up photography. Thanks to a ring flash, you will be able to take the best pictures ever and become a sought-after photographer! And to help you out, we have selected the best ring lights so that you can pick the perfect model for your needs.

Of course, it's impossible to practice the art of photography without a good camera. So, make sure to read our cutting-edge reviews of the best mirrorless cameras or choose decent macro lenses for Canon.

Best Ring Lights

What Features to Compare

Type

First of all, you should decide what kind of ring light you really need. Most ring lights have either fluorescent or LED lamps, and each type has its pros and cons. For example, fluorescent lamps provide a minor green shade, whereas LED lamps add a bit of pink one. Moreover, the light from LED-based lamps is more directional while fluorescent lamps emit diffused light. As for durability, LED ring lights give a head start over fluorescent ones. Therefore, if you need to take photos in different places, you should pick a LED ring light. Of course, make sure the device provides enough light for your shooting tasks.

Light Parameters

Make sure to check the light parameters of each ring light. The best of them have certain settings for the maximum functionality. For example, most ring lights are dimmable, which means you can reduce the light output and take pictures in low light conditions. Moreover, some models allow adjusting the color temperature as well. Even if you use color gels to create more fun colors with the light, sooner or later you're likely to opt for a more natural default color. Fluorescent, warm white, or stark white lighting is a much more preferable option rather than warm yellow or bright white.

Extras

Of course, you need to know how exactly you are going to use a ring light, so we recommend checking the design peculiarities of each model and what accessories it comes supplied with. Also, find out the outer diameter of a ring light. For instance, if you are going to do some macro shooting, you need a ring light with a small diameter and vice versa. If you need a decent light for portrait photography, pick a ring light with a special stand and a camera mount. This way, you will be able to arrange all the equipment properly and take amazing pictures. Also, professional photographers know one secret that makes each photo eye-catching - it's a diffuser and most ring lights include one. One more advanced feature - bendable arms. Ring lights with bendable arms can help you do different photo tricks. Meanwhile, ring lights for video conferencing and vlogging include smartphone holders or mounts for webcams.

Size

The last thing to take into account when buying a ring light is that the size really does make a difference. For example, if you want a catch light on your subject’s eyes, a much bigger ring light will do the trick. Yet, smaller ring lights might give you the same effect, provided that you do a lot of close-ups. When it comes to video shooting and conferencing, there are portable ring lights specially designed for laptops. Also, it would be great if a ring light had a dimmer so that you could adjust the power according to the distance between a ring light and a subject.

Many photographers often travel long distances to reach their shooting locations, and if that sounds like you, you'd better buy ring lights that are portable and light in weight.

Sources:

1. Ring Lights for Macro and Much More, Adorama Learning Center.

2. How to Pick the Right Photography Lighting Kit, eBay. March 3, 2016.

3. Gina Milicia A Beginners Guide to Light Modifiers, Digital Photography School.

4. Chris Lavigne Lighting on the Fly, Wistia.

5. Hazel Rigby 3 CREATIVE WAYS TO USE A RING FLASH FOR PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY, PictureCorrect.

6. Ring flash, Wikipedia. October 15, 2016.

7. 7 Creative Ways to Use A Ring Flash, Digital Photography School.

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