Quick answer
For most video and photography work, a 19-inch RGB ring light like the Kenro Smart Lite Kit offers the best balance of coverage, color control, and portability. Smaller clip-on models from NanGuang are a budget-friendly choice for smartphone content.
Size matters: how diameter affects your light
The diameter of a ring light determines how large the catchlight appears in your subject's eyes and how soft the shadows are. A larger ring light (16–19 inches) produces softer, more even light and works well for head-and-shoulders shots or group videos. Smaller rings (6–10 inches) are more portable but create harder shadows and a smaller catchlight.
If you shoot mostly close-up portraits or makeup tutorials, a large ring light gives that signature round catchlight and wraps light around the face. For vlogging on the go, a compact model that clips to your phone is far easier to pack.
Color modes: bi-color vs. RGB
Bi-color ring lights let you adjust color temperature from warm (around 3200K) to cool (around 5600K), which is useful for matching ambient light. RGB lights add full color control, allowing you to create colored backgrounds, mood lighting, or creative effects. If you only need natural-looking skin tones, bi-color is sufficient. If you want to add colored accents or background fills, RGB gives you more creative flexibility.
Power output and dimming
Brightness is measured in lux or lumens, but for ring lights, the key spec is adjustable dimming. A light with stepless dimming (0–100%) lets you fine-tune exposure without moving the light. Higher maximum brightness is helpful when you need to overpower window light or use a larger modifier. For most home studios, a 19-inch ring light with 0–100% dimming is plenty bright.
Kit contents: what you get in the box
Some ring lights are sold as a bare light, while others include a stand, phone holder, remote, and carrying case. A complete kit saves you the hassle of buying accessories separately and ensures compatibility. If you travel frequently, a kit with a padded case and a compact stand is worth the extra cost. If you already own light stands and grips, a bare light may be more economical.
Decision rules
- 1. Define your main subject: For single-person headshots, a 16–19 inch ring light is ideal. For full-body or group shots, consider a larger ring or a softbox. For smartphone vlogging, a clip-on ring light is sufficient.
- 2. Choose your color mode: If you only need natural skin tones, pick a bi-color ring light (adjustable warm to cool). If you want colored effects or mood lighting, choose an RGB ring light.
- 3. Check the kit contents: A complete kit with stand, phone holder, and case is convenient for travel and first-time buyers. A bare light is cheaper if you already own stands and grips. A kit often saves money compared to buying each accessory separately.
- 4. Consider budget and condition: New ring lights with full warranty are best for professionals who rely on consistent performance. B-Stock models (ex-demo or with minor cosmetic marks) offer significant savings for hobbyists or backup gear.
Product facts
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Kenro Smart Lite 19" RGB Ring Light Kit: Winner of the Editor’s Choice for best LED Light in the Photography News Awards 2022. Includes everything needed to produce beautifully lit content straight out of the box. This kit saves you from buying accessories separately and its award-winning design ensures reliable, flattering light for portraits, videos, and product shots.
Kenro Smart Lite 19" RGB Ring Light Kit
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(B Stock) NanGuang CN-MP32C LED Ring Light: B-Stock clip-on ring light for smartphones or tablets, supplied with two sizes of clip and a reinforced case. At a low entry price, this is a practical choice for mobile content creators who want a ring light without investing in a full studio setup.
(B Stock) NanGuang CN-MP32C LED Ring Light
Who should buy what
Best for
- Content creators who want a complete, portable studio light with RGB color control and award-winning quality
- Smartphone vloggers and live streamers on a tight budget who need a simple, clip-on ring light
Not for
- Studio photographers who need a large, high-powered key light for group or full-body shots
- Professionals who require a full warranty and pristine packaging for client work
