Whether you’re posting selfies on social media or shooting videos for YouTube, you want to put your best face forward. Finding the ideal lighting can prove challenging, but there is an inexpensive way to fix the issue. A selfie light will take your shoots to the next level, delivering higher-quality images and videos.
There are several options with features to consider, but a favorite is the UBeesize Selfie Ring Light. It’s best for those who require flexibility both in rotation and height adjustment while shooting.
What to know before you buy a selfie light
Durability
Accidents sometimes can’t be avoided. From light bulbs to the tripod and everything in between, you’ll want your selfie light to be durable. Purchasing a less-sturdy light can impact your end product’s overall effectiveness and quality, so it’s something worth considering.
Size
Selfie lights come in various sizes and range from approximately 6-18 inches, with an average of 10 inches. If you are looking to illuminate a frame that contains your entire body, a larger ring works best. If you typically only shoot from the torso up, smaller rings will suffice.
Power
The majority of selfie lights are powered in one of two ways: a wall outlet or USB. Some lights offer rechargeable batteries, allowing for increased portability. Check the battery life and how long it takes to recharge, as this impacts how much flexibility it offers.
Selfie light features
Bulbs
When it comes to selfie light bulbs, the more LEDs it has, the brighter it will be. The standard number of bulbs typically is 30-40 LEDs. Selfie lights offer you two primary ways to achieve the lighting you desire. The first setting is brightness. Selfie lights typically have various brightness levels, allowing you to pick which works best. You’ll also find adjustable controls for color temperature. These color temperature modes are usually warm and cool, with daylight for a natural look.
Remote control
While some selfie lights allow you to adjust your features via a control pad, others include a remote control. A remote gives you greater flexibility and works via Bluetooth at a distance of up to 30 feet.
Mount
Two mounting methods for your selfie light are the clip and tripod. The clip is the most accessible as it simply attaches to your phone or tablet. This method works best if you seek a quick solution for selfies. The tripod mounting system is ideal if you are shooting online videos for platforms such as YouTube. Tripod options include tabletop models and floor-base models, which you can extend to your desired height.
Selfie light cost
Selfie lights on the low end hover around $15, while mid- to high-end models can cost $50. Your intended use and the number of features will dictate the cost of your selfie light.
Selfie light FAQ
Which is the best AC or USB power?
A. This depends on how you intend to use your selfie light. If you plan to use it primarily in one location, then AC power is a better bet. If you plan to be out and about, the USB option allows you to plug and play, as long as you have USB and Bluetooth accessibility.
What’s the difference in lighting modes?
A. Selfie lights give users the option to select the type of glow they want to cast. This glow comes from light temperature, which is measured in kelvins. The settings typically include warm, cool and daylight. Warm refers to light that falls under 3,000 kelvins and is similar to halogen or incandescent light, delivering a soft illumination. Cool white falls between 4,100-5,000 kelvins and is considered more of a blue light. Daylight mode shines the brightest at 6,500 kelvins and simulates sunlight.
Which selfie light should I get?
Best of the best selfie light
UBeesize Selfie Ring Light: available at Amazon
Our take: With a unique three-way tripod head, this selfie light tilts and swivels, offering incredible flexibility.
What we like: This USB-powered selfie ring light has a measurement of 10 inches and a tripod that extends from 15 to 50 inches. It features 11 brightness levels and a wireless remote.
What we dislike: Buyers report issues with longevity.
Best bang for your buck selfie light
QIAYA Selfie Ring Light: available at Amazon
Our take: Battery purchases are a thing of the past with this USB rechargeable selfie light that features a built-in battery.
What we like: An excellent option for beauty-based businesses, this light casts complimentary shadows and nuances when shooting. It has a USB cord and is easy to charge.
What we dislike: A halo effect is cast in some images.
Honorable mention selfie light
UMsky Rechargeable Selfie Light: available at Amazon
Our take: This selfie light creates beautiful pictures for indoor settings at a budget-friendly price.
What we like: With four levels of brightness and 30 LED bulbs, this selfie light creates bright, fun photos and videos with professional-looking results.
What we dislike: To maximize the results of this light, you’ll need to review the instructions carefully.
Honorable mention selfie light
UEGOGO Selfie Ring Light: available at Amazon
Our take: If you shoot on location, this is a solid choice with its stable tripod and bag for transporting.
What we like: This selfie light ring is 10.2 inches and compatible with most smartphones. It has three color temperature modes and 11 levels of brightness. It is USB powered and has a remote.
What we dislike: The light isn’t as bright as other selfie lights.
Rachel Pintarelli is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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