Timestamp for each products: Best Light 176 (1:40), key light sample (4:10) VILTROX L116T (4:15), key light sample (8:56) NEEWER CN-160 (9:02), key light sample (11:03) GIGALUMI 228 (11:10), key light sample (12:49) YONGNUO YN300 Air (12:56), key light sample (17:06) NEEWER CN-216 (17:13), key light sample (18:43) Aputure AL-M9 (18:49), key light sample (20:29) Lovely video, Caleb. Extremely useful as I'm looking LED lights right now. I'm interested to see you make "Yongnuo LED lighting kit" video similar to "$250 LED video lighting kit"
Of course there was no way that you could know how valuable this information would be in 2020. I got the VILTROX L116T RA CRI95. I only needed a little light in front of me to balance out my well lit room. Small, affordable, and plenty bright (it only has to sit two feet from me), this thing has been a gem. I'm a music production teacher and the improvement that the light made to the look of my classes is amazing. Since the Coronavirus quarantine began, all of my classes have gone online. This was a variable I hadn't even considered before (I'm an audio guy, after all). Such a little thing a good light source, but such an important one. Many thanks!
FANTASTIC Video!! Maybe consider adding minute markers for each light in the video. Easy to go back and see each light again. ie 1st light is at 1:37 , #2 4:14
I just got YONGNUO YN300 Air. Its great. Very soft light, powerful enough, very good color rendering and lightweight. Thats all I wanted and I got it in small price. I'm very happy that I found this video and bought this LED light. Have a good day!
I came across this video in September 2019. I've only looked at about four videos on this subject. This one covered my interests the best. There was no need to look further. I too have watched this video, not 27, but a number of times. You have included a lot of useful information; all I really need for now. So, many thanks for creating and sharing the video.
I'm not a film guy, just a photo dude, but this channel is still super helpful so often. I actually switched my decision on what light to buy because of this. Was looking at the Neewer but switched to the YONGNUO YN300 Air after watching this. Haven't use it yet, as it arrives tomorrow but simply seeing it in action here definitely swayed me and I think I would have been pretty unhappy with the Neewer myself.
You are Freaking Awesome,,,!! dude.. you just saved my life,,,, I was panicking about what cheap lights to buy, oh there are so many out there,,,,,, and you just offered the very best thing ever to a confused and shattered consumer like me.
I use four CN-160 LED spotlights for my RUclips channel videos and I couldn't be happier with the result. In fact the model I have is something different from the one you show in the video, especially the part where you put the diffuser and the power regulator on the back and not on the side. The rest is the same. The good news is that in Amazon you can find a pack with two lights, two tripods and filters for about 50 dollars. Congratulations on the video, I thought it was very complete.
Very nice! Don't forget to compare the more expensive ones to these in the future for us to see which one are overpriced compared with cheaper alternatives.
DSLR Video Shooter Hello! i just bought a Yongnuo 300 air but i realized that the battery is not coming in the package. I just discover the led question yesterday so i don't all the details about using this accessory. If use an AC cable is thar enough or i am supposed to buy a NPF battery for it??? hope you'll see my message. thanks!
Lily Boo either of these solutions will work. I recommend using a high capacity NP-F battery, as it is wireless/movable and does not require a wall plug.
@@la763 It's normally stated in the ad if the battery is included or not but, at the prices he's giving, batteries are usually not included since there are different options
Dearest Caleb, All of the adjectives you used to describe the light output of the Neewer 216 were just hilarious. So thanks for that. Also thank you for the G7 guide, I appreciate it.
Please please please all the reviewers, do the comparison with a daylight near a window! For example subject sit down near the window, left side lit by window, right by the led. This is the only one cheap and good way to know how good the led lights, and how render quality is goood. For tungsten balanced lights compare in with tungsten... Thanks! PS window must be opened to avoid green shift of the glass.
I agree. The M9 is a great little light that fits anywhere. I use it to light background lamps, interior car shots, as an accent in the background, and 100 other uses. I like the small size and it goes everywhere with me taking up no room in my bag. It's just one of those lights that comes in handy and fits a situation when nothing else will.
Just bought the Aputure AL-M9. I think the smallness of the light and the rechargeable aspect are going to make this thing super useful, despite the low output.
I am new to RUclips and I'm currently working on my 2nd video. I appreciate RUclipsrs like yourself that give honest reviews on camera accessories that can help improve recordings! I look forward to my new purchase.
@@khobrian I bought a larger battery for it so it will last longer. I use it for a back light most of the time. Sometimes I use it to light my face but I'm bouncing it off a white board. It mostly just fills up my shadows. It's not really powerful enough to be a key light.
I've had the 216 for years, and yeah, that thing is nuts haha Everyone was getting the 160, and I get it....it was a little bit cheaper, but Ive been pretty happy with the output of the 216. The only problem I've had is the battery drains quickly. I remember recording RUclips vIdeos and the output difference after 20 minutes or so was pretty noticeable. If it had AC power, it would be great. But again, I get it. They were made to be on cameras.
Here's a handy dandy tip: Take notes. Jot down the make, comments, etc, and have it in front of you in a spreadsheet or whatever. Hell, put in a thumbnail of the light. Then make your own pro vs con notes. For instance, try to imagine what situations you'll get into where you will definitively need light, and what do you want to do the most of? Makes it a lot more easy to make a decision.
I was looking for video lighting and I found this video. Great info. And then I noticed how well each shot was framed. And then I noticed the flawless lighting. And then I noticed the pacing. I came looking for lighting... I left with a video masterclass. Very, very impressed.
I bought the mini aputure light and i love it. It comes with a mini case that i just clip into my belt strap and i don’t even notice it’s there. I use it all the time for my night shoots. I love neon signs but sometimes the colors mess with the skin tone and it takes forever to correct in post... if you even can... i use it as a mini key on the face to bring back their natural skin color and to get them to pop a little more
@@dslrvideoshooter I have a question ,basically I wanted a dc powered on camera light but I really liked the one with the Sony batteries and I wanna know how long does the battery last until you have to recharge?
This is the kind of review that buyers like me need. It answers the question of what's in the box and there's comparisons between each of them. Thank you!
You are THE Man! I've been building a new home studio and looking for LEDs to keep from having to use my big, hot CFL setups anymore. The tiny Aputure one looks perfect for my G7 as a webcam setup. Just picking out my 2 main key lights, though I may wait for part 2. How far are the lights from your face for the key light shots? Thanks! I had one like the Neewer 160, and trying to use AA batteries was a joke - lasted maybe 5 minutes.
Roger that. After reading a few other reviews, too, I went ahead and pulled the trigger on 2 of the BestLights for my key lights, a couple DC power adapters, and then the Aputure Amaran for my key light for webcam mode. Hyped!! The G7 handles low-light MUCH better than my T3i so this should work great.
I have 2 Viltrox L116T’s and let me just say I love them, they’re pretty bright, you can dim them, and they change color temperature. Definitely reccomend
i will only purchase 2 of those lights using your link, just because you are being dead honest about the commissions & i appreciate your bravery & i would like to support you. as always really thanks for the quality you provide.
Thank you so much for putting the camera settings on the the samples. Too many reviews never say this and give you no point of reference to help you get an idea of how bright (or dim) these are. You rock!
great review man! the fact that you bought all of them and didnt get paid by the companies means ALOT. Im looking for a better light setup for my channel and this review REALLY helps.
I'm loving these showdown type videos. I bought a small led light that came with its own battery and battery charger a while back in the $25-$30 range, but it's too bright actually and not dimmable, so I may end up passing that one to someone and grabbing either the Viltrox or Yongnuo. Have you ever done a budget external monitor breakdown before? I've been thinking of purchasing one, but I only use video as a supplement to written articles and photos on my sports sites, so it's not something I have a huge budget for at the moment. Just looking to kit out my G7 with a good light and monitor. Getting a ton of great use out of the Canon 50 FD lens you recommended in your G7 guide.
Lights are really really important and this has been a great look at the budget options. I am from India and i recently got a _Digitek Professional Photo Video Light LED D-204_ this is a great light with magnetic filters which supports Sony NP-F , DC 7-12V , dim able , battery charge indicator and brightness indicator via dual 7-segment display. Really tempted to get my hands on the YN300 Air but i will wait for your 50 to 100 video and the fun has just started.
Great review. I had a cheap,well repetitively cheap a bit over $100 LED light that I used on interviews a few years back. Which had no battery indicator. Had it go out once in the middle of an interview. Talk about being embarrassed. I thought it was fully charged. I earned my lesson, never buy an LED with out bat. life indicator. I could easily see using the Viltrox for interviews.
i have the neewer 216 and as stated it is amazingly bright, i never put it at 100%! it has 95 cri rating. i got the neewer as they are the only ones from these chinese-leds who have a website with their products. it also came with a couple of diffusers. when it comes to battery, you can get a sony to AC adapter for less than $10!
i only have the 216, have no access to the 160. there is only a difference of around 50 leds between the two, so to the naked eye they might look similar, but to a light meter no!
Hi Caleb, thank you for introducing LED headlights under $ 50. I initially bought two VILTROX L116T and I am very satisfied with them. These lamps produce a really nice and soft light, which is obviously due to the very efficient diffuser disc. This is seldom found with such small lights. I don't think the mount is that "pretty terrible". It is of course not as stable as a ball mount, but because the lamps are made entirely of plastic, you will need to be careful with them. As far as the light intensity is concerned, I have measured it and would like to politely correct your description. Both at 3,300 Kelvin and at 5,600 Kelvin, the output is weaker than at 4,500 Kelvin. At a distance of 1 meter (a little more than 3 feet) I measure approx. 85 lux at 3,300K / 5,600K, whereas at 4,500 it is approx. 145 lux. Otherwise thumbs up for your extremely informative channel and your excellent work! Greetings Andreas, Germany
The Neewer lights come with a diffuser and 3200K tungsten light filter along with an adapter to use Panasonic D16 Lithium Ion Batteries as well. This was not mentioned in the video.
Mine also has a 1/4 20 on the bottom, six red leds for the battery indicator and a better filter sled. It only cost me $20 too, same listing. Weird they made it worse and more expensive since I bought mine...
Man, we've been learning a lot thanks to filmmakers or youtubers like Peter McKinnon, Matti Haapoja etc. but honestly it's nothing like learning with YOU and a bunch of other guys like Fulltime Filmmaker and Curtis Judd etc. The way you share your experience, impressions and tests are on a whole other level! I am about to launch my video prod company and you've been such a huge source of help for both high end professional or cheap gear! Thank you so so much mate! Keep up the amazing work! x ;)
Great video. One thing a lot of people are confused about is softness versus diffusion. You keep talking about the softness of lights. What you’re actually talking about is how diffused a light is. Diffusion takes away specular highlights. Softness of light is only controlled by 2 things. Size of light and distance to the subject. So non of these lights is inherently softer than the other. It’s all about size and distance. Hope that helps. Great videos as always. Super helpful.
Wow - your channel is truly amazing. As one who does video professionally, you have helped me in a major way. Just recently subscribed - now telling all my photography buddies about you! Thanks a mil.
This video is perfect for me! I had planned to get the brighter neewer light, but after seeing the other options I'm definitely going for the Yongnuo instead, maybe the Giglumi later. I also found out afterward that the Neewer 216 is currently unavailable, so the timing is really great for me.
the Gooch there are simple Ebay ballheads that you can get for 3-5 dollars. They are metal and work well with the lights presented in this video (not with heavier 600 led ones) and the cool thing about them is that they have both a cold foot at the bottom + a screw thread inside the foot so you can get a light stand handle screwed on
Thanks for the video. I bough the Aputure M9 and Neewer CN-216 and used your links. I used the cheap Kastar Batteries NP-550 from amazon and the battery life on the CN-216 on medium setting was about 2.5 hours. I will have to try the Watson Batteries next.
Thanks for the video! I used your link to grab the Neewer CN 160 and have been extremely happy with it! I use it mostly to shoot action type videos that require a portable light source. It takes your video making abilities to a whole new level. It's an awesome buy. There's NO reason not to have one! I've had good luck with the inexpensive Neewer products. They're great entry level gear. and it WORKS! Every photographer should have/use a reflector in natural light and Neewer makes a good one for about$20. It will add a really professional look to your photos. FFS - stop using the on camera flash!!
Just a heads up for anyone watching this in late 2019 and beyond: Neewer has released a rebadge version of the Bestlight 176. It sells on Amazon for about $23 US. :)
Very good video. I wonder why I never watched it before. I have the Aputure AL-M9, my videography mentor recommended it to me just a few weeks earlier. Soon I have a shoot where I'm probably going to use it and I think I might even get a second one. It comes in a little neopren pouch with two pockets, unfortunately you didn't show it here. For run-and-gun docu work the Aputure AL-M9 is perfect.
You mentioned that there's no power jack for the CN-216, but Neewer does offer the CN-AC2 power supply adapter which plugs into the battery bay (also for the CN-160) and provides a DC jack for you to plug into. For indoor work this seems like a simpler option that fooling around with batteries.
Just HAD to pause 1/4 way through your video and say wow, what a fantastic quality review. I appreciate so much how in depth you go from using the grays and warning us about tinting, and even showing us a lighting preview. A+!!
I got a pixeltube and AsteraBox a few months ago and they're absolutely insane, I just made a video on them as well because it seems like they're so underrated, more people need to know how great they are, between the portability and effects they're a bundle of joy to say the least!
Super late to the party but we've been binge watching your channel the last few days. I think this one is going to help a TON. Most of our videos are done at night on location so having good lights are a must, we are just getting started so our budget is tiny (read not really there). We currently use the Aputure Amaran AL-528W as a main and a H198 as an on camera light but would like to add some fill and maybe even a hair... Thanks again for this review!
I use CN-160 for weddings & live events and it works great. Though he's right about the battery placement & design; it's a pain in the ass to work with. The CN-216 is too big to mount on top of a mirrorless or DSLR, unless you have a cage.
I have used the 160 for about 4~5 years and love it for the lighting for run and gun videography. I have put a mid-size battery on the back and it lasts for a LONG time. I do not think I have ran it out on a production. usually get multiple gigs on one charge. They do come with some gels that can correct the color a bit. The only thing that is not so great is the throw. From 0-10 feet it is great but after that, the falloff of the inverse square of lighting is a pain. It has been a great light I use to use an on-camera Tungston light but switched to the 160 and didn't like the falloff but now I might upgrade to the 216.
Best light 176, along with the two that follow does not come with battery or charger. It is being sold separately. for someone new to this with no battery the cost goes up to 45 to 55 to actually use it.
This video was very helpful. I've dabbled in homemade film production for some time, but with the new information this video has provided, I believe it will be much easier for me to continue.
Awesome review man thank you. Can't wait for the next price bracket review because I really wanna pull the trigger on those YN300 III that everybody seems to praise. I hope you include those in your next one!
This video was perfectly timed for us. We have four cheap LED battery lights that we've had for years. Recently we tried to use them for an interview as a little fill and back light and they worked pretty well...only they were so temperamental to keep on it was infuriating. We quickly realized how badly they were designed and why we got them so cheap. So we wondered what else was out there and POOF your video answered the question beautifully. But before I whipped out my Visa card, you teased the possibility of a follow up with reviews of slightly more expensive lights. When is that coming out? It would help a lot.
Thanks for the suggestions. Looks like others grabbed the Viltrox L116T like I did based on this video. I only got one but it turned out so nice out of the box I'm getting another--soft and diffused like you said, you don't need to modify it. It would be nice if it went down to 10% but for the price it works out well enough. I didn't even realize this video is from 2016 and it is still relevant! Thanks again.
Really helpful video! I've been making myself crazy trying to compare some of these lights through Amazon reviews, photos, etc. Seeing them compared all together was really helpful. Thanks!
On the viltrox Spinning the knob slower actually dims it faster. it only registers the turns at a certain pace ..going faster actually makes it skips some of the clicks if you go a little slower it registers every click
Ive watched part 1 and 2. I love the material and great coverage. Exactly what im looking for my channel. I support a part 3 $100-$200. Thanks for sharing. New sub!
Timestamp for each products:
Best Light 176 (1:40), key light sample (4:10)
VILTROX L116T (4:15), key light sample (8:56)
NEEWER CN-160 (9:02), key light sample (11:03)
GIGALUMI 228 (11:10), key light sample (12:49)
YONGNUO YN300 Air (12:56), key light sample (17:06)
NEEWER CN-216 (17:13), key light sample (18:43)
Aputure AL-M9 (18:49), key light sample (20:29)
Lovely video, Caleb. Extremely useful as I'm looking LED lights right now. I'm interested to see you make "Yongnuo LED lighting kit" video similar to "$250 LED video lighting kit"
praise
great job dude
@Dion Siswadi Thanks for those timestamps!
Thank you!
king
Of course there was no way that you could know how valuable this information would be in 2020.
I got the VILTROX L116T RA CRI95. I only needed a little light in front of me to balance out my well lit room.
Small, affordable, and plenty bright (it only has to sit two feet from me), this thing has been a gem.
I'm a music production teacher and the improvement that the light made to the look of my classes is amazing.
Since the Coronavirus quarantine began, all of my classes have gone online. This was a variable I hadn't even considered before (I'm an audio guy, after all). Such a little thing a good light source, but such an important one. Many thanks!
FANTASTIC Video!! Maybe consider adding minute markers for each light in the video. Easy to go back and see each light again. ie 1st light is at 1:37 , #2 4:14
I just got YONGNUO YN300 Air. Its great. Very soft light, powerful enough, very good color rendering and lightweight. Thats all I wanted and I got it in small price. I'm very happy that I found this video and bought this LED light. Have a good day!
Zalecane.pl hello what do you use for the energy please? did you buy a battery or the nfp cable is enough?
Can you mount it on a top of your camera?
Of course you can mount it on camera. It has shoe mount
Will you need to use softbox on it?
Do u use for filmmaking ?
I came across this video in September 2019. I've only looked at about four videos on this subject. This one covered my interests the best.
There was no need to look further. I too have watched this video, not 27, but a number of times. You have included a lot of useful information;
all I really need for now. So, many thanks for creating and sharing the video.
I'm not a film guy, just a photo dude, but this channel is still super helpful so often. I actually switched my decision on what light to buy because of this. Was looking at the Neewer but switched to the YONGNUO YN300 Air after watching this. Haven't use it yet, as it arrives tomorrow but simply seeing it in action here definitely swayed me and I think I would have been pretty unhappy with the Neewer myself.
You are Freaking Awesome,,,!!
dude.. you just saved my life,,,, I was panicking about what cheap lights to buy, oh there are so many out there,,,,,, and you just offered the very best thing ever to a confused and shattered consumer like me.
I use four CN-160 LED spotlights for my RUclips channel videos and I couldn't be happier with the result. In fact the model I have is something different from the one you show in the video, especially the part where you put the diffuser and the power regulator on the back and not on the side. The rest is the same. The good news is that in Amazon you can find a pack with two lights, two tripods and filters for about 50 dollars. Congratulations on the video, I thought it was very complete.
Very nice! Don't forget to compare the more expensive ones to these in the future for us to see which one are overpriced compared with cheaper alternatives.
Thanks Diogo! Great idea!
DSLR Video Shooter Hello! i just bought a Yongnuo 300 air but i realized that the battery is not coming in the package. I just discover the led question yesterday so i don't all the details about using this accessory. If use an AC cable is thar enough or i am supposed to buy a NPF battery for it??? hope you'll see my message. thanks!
Lily Boo either of these solutions will work. I recommend using a high capacity NP-F battery, as it is wireless/movable and does not require a wall plug.
@@la763 It's normally stated in the ad if the battery is included or not but, at the prices he's giving, batteries are usually not included since there are different options
Dearest Caleb,
All of the adjectives you used to describe the light output of the Neewer 216 were just hilarious. So thanks for that. Also thank you for the G7 guide, I appreciate it.
Please please please all the reviewers, do the comparison with a daylight near a window! For example subject sit down near the window, left side lit by window, right by the led. This is the only one cheap and good way to know how good the led lights, and how render quality is goood. For tungsten balanced lights compare in with tungsten... Thanks!
PS window must be opened to avoid green shift of the glass.
Agreed. This would be the most important thing to me to see.
second this one
Yep, it would even be better to make more properties quantified instead of relative: CRI, luminense, color spectrum.
AH Greed.
Good suggestion.
fantastic video. I just bought the Aputure 672 kit and the 198 on-camera light. can't wait to receive it!
I love my Aputure M9´s you can really put these things anywhere!
I agree. The M9 is a great little light that fits anywhere. I use it to light background lamps, interior car shots, as an accent in the background, and 100 other uses. I like the small size and it goes everywhere with me taking up no room in my bag. It's just one of those lights that comes in handy and fits a situation when nothing else will.
Just bought the Aputure AL-M9. I think the smallness of the light and the rechargeable aspect are going to make this thing super useful, despite the low output.
who the hell gave thumbs down....? thanks for the great review
♧hyung E Why yogisu nawa~?♧Great!!
용호수님 계시네
Honestly this is a super useful vid so everyone stop dropping thumps down 👆👎
It's the IdiotCrowd!
My thoughts exactly~
I am new to RUclips and I'm currently working on my 2nd video. I appreciate RUclipsrs like yourself that give honest reviews on camera accessories that can help improve recordings! I look forward to my new purchase.
13:22 The YN300 Air is amazing. I bought it from his recommendations and I have been happy with it ever sense.
Is it good for videography? Is there any disappointments after all the years you’ve used?
@@khobrian I bought a larger battery for it so it will last longer. I use it for a back light most of the time. Sometimes I use it to light my face but I'm bouncing it off a white board. It mostly just fills up my shadows. It's not really powerful enough to be a key light.
Hi Jason, Do you think this light would be good in the field photographing fungi as a direct source or for back lighting?
I've had the 216 for years, and yeah, that thing is nuts haha Everyone was getting the 160, and I get it....it was a little bit cheaper, but Ive been pretty happy with the output of the 216. The only problem I've had is the battery drains quickly. I remember recording RUclips vIdeos and the output difference after 20 minutes or so was pretty noticeable. If it had AC power, it would be great. But again, I get it. They were made to be on cameras.
i have watched this video no lie 27 some times trying to decide which ones to get
Andrew Craven me right now and 25 times before
Here's a handy dandy tip: Take notes. Jot down the make, comments, etc, and have it in front of you in a spreadsheet or whatever. Hell, put in a thumbnail of the light. Then make your own pro vs con notes. For instance, try to imagine what situations you'll get into where you will definitively need light, and what do you want to do the most of? Makes it a lot more easy to make a decision.
what did u buy
I think the Yongnuo YN300 is easily the best of them.
Andrew's what did you buy and are you happy with it/them?
I was looking for video lighting and I found this video. Great info. And then I noticed how well each shot was framed. And then I noticed the flawless lighting. And then I noticed the pacing.
I came looking for lighting... I left with a video masterclass. Very, very impressed.
Thanks for the info, Caleb. Big help!
You’re welcome!
(My name is Caleb)
funny seeing you here greedo
@@connorcolucci “hello there”
I bought the mini aputure light and i love it. It comes with a mini case that i just clip into my belt strap and i don’t even notice it’s there. I use it all the time for my night shoots. I love neon signs but sometimes the colors mess with the skin tone and it takes forever to correct in post... if you even can... i use it as a mini key on the face to bring back their natural skin color and to get them to pop a little more
Just letting you know, you've become my favorite DSLR youtube channel
Thanks Guil! Really means a lot to hear that. Glad you're enjoying the videos!
@@dslrvideoshooter I have a question ,basically I wanted a dc powered on camera light but I really liked the one with the Sony batteries and I wanna know how long does the battery last until you have to recharge?
This is the kind of review that buyers like me need. It answers the question of what's in the box and there's comparisons between each of them. Thank you!
You are THE Man! I've been building a new home studio and looking for LEDs to keep from having to use my big, hot CFL setups anymore. The tiny Aputure one looks perfect for my G7 as a webcam setup. Just picking out my 2 main key lights, though I may wait for part 2.
How far are the lights from your face for the key light shots? Thanks!
I had one like the Neewer 160, and trying to use AA batteries was a joke - lasted maybe 5 minutes.
Thanks EposVox! The lights were about 3 feet from with with 1 layer of diffusion.
Roger that. After reading a few other reviews, too, I went ahead and pulled the trigger on 2 of the BestLights for my key lights, a couple DC power adapters, and then the Aputure Amaran for my key light for webcam mode. Hyped!!
The G7 handles low-light MUCH better than my T3i so this should work great.
Nice man! Can't wait to see the results!
Vox... the voice... lol..watched your audio videos. Props.
Thanks!
I have 2 Viltrox L116T’s and let me just say I love them, they’re pretty bright, you can dim them, and they change color temperature. Definitely reccomend
Awesome, I need a little light like this. I'm glad your affiliate links work for Canadians. I'll buy one of them ;)
What did u get
i will only purchase 2 of those lights using your link, just because you are being dead honest about the commissions & i appreciate your bravery & i would like to support you. as always really thanks for the quality you provide.
Hi Caleb. Can you do a 2019 version of this video?
this video is still relevant, the market hasnt changed much in these price ranges
*2020
@@Jakiyyyyy 2021 same??
2022
@@ericknovamx 2023
Thank you so much for putting the camera settings on the the samples.
Too many reviews never say this and give you no point of reference to help you get an idea of how bright (or dim) these are.
You rock!
Why do you NOT have more subscribers?! Your content is top shelf...
great review man! the fact that you bought all of them and didnt get paid by the companies means ALOT. Im looking for a better light setup for my channel and this review REALLY helps.
Great video !!! Just what I needed to keep me frugal.
WORTH IT OR NOT? I
this is one of the best reviews of anything I've ever seen.
all the info we need and none of the info we don't.
Nice job, Caleb. Very comprehensive!
Thanks Ben! Hope all is well and warmer in CA!
amazing. just got the Aputure AL-M9
I'm loving these showdown type videos. I bought a small led light that came with its own battery and battery charger a while back in the $25-$30 range, but it's too bright actually and not dimmable, so I may end up passing that one to someone and grabbing either the Viltrox or Yongnuo. Have you ever done a budget external monitor breakdown before? I've been thinking of purchasing one, but I only use video as a supplement to written articles and photos on my sports sites, so it's not something I have a huge budget for at the moment. Just looking to kit out my G7 with a good light and monitor. Getting a ton of great use out of the Canon 50 FD lens you recommended in your G7 guide.
Thanks Michael!
Lights are really really important and this has been a great look at the budget options.
I am from India and i recently got a _Digitek Professional Photo Video Light LED D-204_ this is a great light with magnetic filters which supports Sony NP-F , DC 7-12V , dim able , battery charge indicator and brightness indicator via dual 7-segment display.
Really tempted to get my hands on the YN300 Air but i will wait for your 50 to 100 video and the fun has just started.
Another great review Caleb. Just what I need. I think I'll get the Aputure AL-M9 Amaran. Great video!
It's really awesome especially using outside at night... Put out a really soft light even at a distance with the lowest setting.
Cannot wait for part 2 and 3.... I'm looking to spend around $100 on a LED panel, perfect timing!
Great video thanks for buying all of those lights and sharing this info with us!
Great review. I had a cheap,well repetitively cheap a bit over $100 LED light that I used on interviews a few years back. Which had no battery indicator. Had it go out once in the middle of an interview. Talk about being embarrassed. I thought it was fully charged. I earned my lesson, never buy an LED with out bat. life indicator. I could easily see using the Viltrox for interviews.
i have the neewer 216 and as stated it is amazingly bright, i never put it at 100%! it has 95 cri rating. i got the neewer as they are the only ones from these chinese-leds who have a website with their products. it also came with a couple of diffusers. when it comes to battery, you can get a sony to AC adapter for less than $10!
Mop Krayz have you compared it to the 160, according to this video, they are almost as bright as each other, of course not by specs.
i only have the 216, have no access to the 160. there is only a difference of around 50 leds between the two, so to the naked eye they might look similar, but to a light meter no!
Hi Caleb,
thank you for introducing LED headlights under $ 50.
I initially bought two VILTROX L116T and I am very satisfied with them. These lamps produce a really nice and soft light, which is obviously due to the very efficient diffuser disc.
This is seldom found with such small lights.
I don't think the mount is that "pretty terrible". It is of course not as stable as a ball mount, but because the lamps are made entirely of plastic, you will need to be careful with them.
As far as the light intensity is concerned, I have measured it and would like to politely correct your description.
Both at 3,300 Kelvin and at 5,600 Kelvin, the output is weaker than at 4,500 Kelvin.
At a distance of 1 meter (a little more than 3 feet) I measure approx. 85 lux at 3,300K / 5,600K, whereas at 4,500 it is approx. 145 lux.
Otherwise thumbs up for your extremely informative channel and your excellent work!
Greetings Andreas, Germany
The Neewer lights come with a diffuser and 3200K tungsten light filter along with an adapter to use Panasonic D16 Lithium Ion Batteries as well. This was not mentioned in the video.
Mine also has a 1/4 20 on the bottom, six red leds for the battery indicator and a better filter sled. It only cost me $20 too, same listing. Weird they made it worse and more expensive since I bought mine...
Interface Death hey guys . Do they come with rechargeable batteries?
I just made a video on the Viltrox and they are outstanding!
Oh yeah! I remember your comment from Instagram. It is a damn good light. Glad I could join you in spreading the good Viltrox word!
I just got the Viltrox L132T and it is very good for $26!! Plan on using it on my JVC GY-HM750u cam and a Canon 5ti.
gaffer: so how many LED lights do you want in the background?
Caleb: yes
I have the Neewer 160, and I have actually used it in place of a flash when I wanted finer control in an architectural/remodel shoot.
I've always wondered how he gets perfect lighting on himself with all those LED lights turned on in the back.
Man, we've been learning a lot thanks to filmmakers or youtubers like Peter McKinnon, Matti Haapoja etc. but honestly it's nothing like learning with YOU and a bunch of other guys like Fulltime Filmmaker and Curtis Judd etc. The way you share your experience, impressions and tests are on a whole other level! I am about to launch my video prod company and you've been such a huge source of help for both high end professional or cheap gear! Thank you so so much mate! Keep up the amazing work! x ;)
Just bought the Viltrox! Fantastic!! That with my Neewer NL 660s, I’m set to finally shoot my first RUclips Video! Thanx for the advise!!!
Incredible effort you put into your videos. Great job!
Thank you for the encouragement Tomas! These due take time, but I'm lucky to have such awesome viewers to create for!
Great video. One thing a lot of people are confused about is softness versus diffusion. You keep talking about the softness of lights. What you’re actually talking about is how diffused a light is. Diffusion takes away specular highlights. Softness of light is only controlled by 2 things. Size of light and distance to the subject. So non of these lights is inherently softer than the other. It’s all about size and distance. Hope that helps.
Great videos as always. Super helpful.
Wow - your channel is truly amazing. As one who does video professionally, you have helped me in a major way. Just recently subscribed - now telling all my photography buddies about you! Thanks a mil.
can you please release part 2 soon?
Thanks to you bought VILTROX L116T today. Keep up the excellent work so that we can give you credit and be precise in our decisions. You are great!
Another great video. So, which one are you going to hack?
Haha! Thanks Scott. Of course I actually considered removing the built on diffusion for the YN300 Air... Might still do it. You know me well!
Did you ever end up removing the diffusion? if so how did it turn out?
Thank you DSLR Video Shooter. Your roundup is just what I needed to make a start with my new GoPro Hero 5 - of course I have subscribed!
excellent Video! Very helpful! Thanks for your help!
This video is perfect for me! I had planned to get the brighter neewer light, but after seeing the other options I'm definitely going for the Yongnuo instead, maybe the Giglumi later. I also found out afterward that the Neewer 216 is currently unavailable, so the timing is really great for me.
Can you suggest good ball mounts to connect light to the camera or light stand via hotshoe?
the Gooch there are simple Ebay ballheads that you can get for 3-5 dollars. They are metal and work well with the lights presented in this video (not with heavier 600 led ones) and the cool thing about them is that they have both a cold foot at the bottom + a screw thread inside the foot so you can get a light stand handle screwed on
Thanks for the video. I bough the Aputure M9 and Neewer CN-216 and used your links. I used the cheap Kastar Batteries NP-550 from amazon and the battery life on the CN-216 on medium setting was about 2.5 hours. I will have to try the Watson Batteries next.
Fantastic review Caleb.
Thank you sir Greg!
Thanks for the video! I used your link to grab the Neewer CN 160 and have been extremely happy with it!
I use it mostly to shoot action type videos that require a portable light source. It takes your video making abilities to a whole new level.
It's an awesome buy. There's NO reason not to have one!
I've had good luck with the inexpensive Neewer products. They're great entry level gear. and it WORKS!
Every photographer should have/use a reflector in natural light and Neewer makes a good one for about$20.
It will add a really professional look to your photos. FFS - stop using the on camera flash!!
Really helpful again, nice work!
Thank you Brandon!
Just a heads up for anyone watching this in late 2019 and beyond: Neewer has released a rebadge version of the Bestlight 176. It sells on Amazon for about $23 US. :)
Very good video. I wonder why I never watched it before. I have the Aputure AL-M9, my videography mentor recommended it to me just a few weeks earlier. Soon I have a shoot where I'm probably going to use it and I think I might even get a second one. It comes in a little neopren pouch with two pockets, unfortunately you didn't show it here. For run-and-gun docu work the Aputure AL-M9 is perfect.
Excellent one stop explanation & guide to great value lights. Just what I’m looking for. Thank you & well done.
HA! Hey, I've had one of those cheapo BestLight lights for EVER now. It's pretty great! Bought it May 19, 2016 and it's still rocking!
that last one is PERFECT for car cockpit shots.
Thank you so much for helping this overwhelming artist narrow down the insanity of choices. I really appreciate it.
You mentioned that there's no power jack for the CN-216, but Neewer does offer the CN-AC2 power supply adapter which plugs into the battery bay (also for the CN-160) and provides a DC jack for you to plug into. For indoor work this seems like a simpler option that fooling around with batteries.
Very informative and pleasant video to watch because of your calm demeanor.
Great video, took your advice and purchased a Viltrox for my first event video shoot.
Just HAD to pause 1/4 way through your video and say wow, what a fantastic quality review. I appreciate so much how in depth you go from using the grays and warning us about tinting, and even showing us a lighting preview. A+!!
"If you're just looking for stupid amounts of light..." That made me laugh out loud. Great video, man. Thanks.
I got a pixeltube and AsteraBox a few months ago and they're absolutely insane, I just made a video on them as well because it seems like they're so underrated, more people need to know how great they are, between the portability and effects they're a bundle of joy to say the least!
Super late to the party but we've been binge watching your channel the last few days. I think this one is going to help a TON. Most of our videos are done at night on location so having good lights are a must, we are just getting started so our budget is tiny (read not really there).
We currently use the Aputure Amaran AL-528W as a main and a H198 as an on camera light but would like to add some fill and maybe even a hair... Thanks again for this review!
I use CN-160 for weddings & live events and it works great. Though he's right about the battery placement & design; it's a pain in the ass to work with. The CN-216 is too big to mount on top of a mirrorless or DSLR, unless you have a cage.
Thanks for the backup! Such a shame about the battery plate.
I want part two! I'm looking in the $100 range and can't find exactly what I'm looking for, but this video is EXCELLENT
This is great! We've all wondered how all those cheap amazon lights performed. Thanks for doing the hard work for us.
Helpful. Thanks i didnt know lights could be this complicated. Great reference.
I have used the 160 for about 4~5 years and love it for the lighting for run and gun videography. I have put a mid-size battery on the back and it lasts for a LONG time. I do not think I have ran it out on a production. usually get multiple gigs on one charge. They do come with some gels that can correct the color a bit. The only thing that is not so great is the throw. From 0-10 feet it is great but after that, the falloff of the inverse square of lighting is a pain. It has been a great light I use to use an on-camera Tungston light but switched to the 160 and didn't like the falloff but now I might upgrade to the 216.
Best light 176, along with the two that follow does not come with battery or charger. It is being sold separately. for someone new to this with no battery the cost goes up to 45 to 55 to actually use it.
This video was very helpful. I've dabbled in homemade film production for some time, but with the new information this video has provided, I believe it will be much easier for me to continue.
Thank you for this super helpful video. We went with 2 of the 216 neewers as they were down to under £20 (no battery) and a Viltrox.
really useful as I move from studio set up to 'on the move' Thanks very much!
Awesome review man thank you. Can't wait for the next price bracket review because I really wanna pull the trigger on those YN300 III that everybody seems to praise. I hope you include those in your next one!
Thank you so much for this review, it was exactly what I needed. I decided to buy the YONGNUO YN300 Air through your link. Cheers!
This video was perfectly timed for us. We have four cheap LED battery lights that we've had for years. Recently we tried to use them for an interview as a little fill and back light and they worked pretty well...only they were so temperamental to keep on it was infuriating. We quickly realized how badly they were designed and why we got them so cheap. So we wondered what else was out there and POOF your video answered the question beautifully. But before I whipped out my Visa card, you teased the possibility of a follow up with reviews of slightly more expensive lights. When is that coming out? It would help a lot.
Thanks for the suggestions. Looks like others grabbed the Viltrox L116T like I did based on this video. I only got one but it turned out so nice out of the box I'm getting another--soft and diffused like you said, you don't need to modify it. It would be nice if it went down to 10% but for the price it works out well enough. I didn't even realize this video is from 2016 and it is still relevant! Thanks again.
Very helpful, having a play with our lighting now!
I think I'll get the Cn 216, plan to use it for photos at night and in shade, maybe bounce it off a reflector since I can't afford a rotolight
Really helpful video! I've been making myself crazy trying to compare some of these lights through Amazon reviews, photos, etc. Seeing them compared all together was really helpful. Thanks!
These reviews were super helpful. Thank you for showing examples of them as key lights.
Thank you for your help, I could order right LED lights as per my requirement. I hope i will get it soon and will be nice!
On the viltrox Spinning the knob slower actually dims it faster. it only registers the turns at a certain pace ..going faster actually makes it skips some of the clicks if you go a little slower it registers every click
Ive watched part 1 and 2. I love the material and great coverage. Exactly what im looking for my channel. I support a part 3 $100-$200. Thanks for sharing. New sub!
Detailed, informative and short enough. Thank you.
Just bought 3 VILTROX L116T lights, cheers mate and thanks for help about choosing right ones mate :)