Having the best lighting setup for YouTube videos is essential because it’s one of the key components that will add a wow factor to your video. YouTubers have turned their rooms into full-fledged studios with tripods, lighting, and cameras.
When you’re new to the world of YouTube, you’re probably unsure of what you can do to improve the quality of your videos. Incorporating lighting equipment can step up your game. This guide will help you to find the 9 best budget lighting equipment for YouTube videos.
- Aputure 120D Mark 2 – Best Lighting For Filming YouTube Videos
- Neewer Ring Light Kit – Best Ring Light On A Budget
- Neewer RL-12 LED Ring Light 14 – Best Lighting For Filming YouTube Videos
- LimoStudio LED Ring Light- Bet Ring Light For Beginners
- Ring Light Kit, SAMTIAN 14 – Best Lightweight Ring Light Overall
- 8-inch LED Selfie Ring Light for Phone Video Shooting Makeup YouTube
- EMART 60Linco Lincostore Photo Video Portrait – Best Affordable Umbrella Kit
- Neewar Background Support System – Best All-in-One Equipment For Shoots
- Linco Lincostore Photo Video Studio
Contents
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- Which is the Best Lighting For Youtube Videos?
- Which Lighting Do Youtubers Use?
- Ring Light
- Softbox Light
- Umbrella Lights
- Types of Lighting For Recording Youtube Videos
- Artificial Light
- Factors To Consider When Buying Best Lighting for Recording Youtube Videos
- Light Beam
- Portability
- Height
- Additional Accessories
- 9 Best Budget Lighting Equipment For Youtube Videos
- 1-Aputure 120D Mark 2 – Best Lighting For Filming Youtube Videos
- Key Features
- 2-Neewer Ring Light Kit – Best Ring Light On A Budget
- Key Features
- 3-Neewer RL-12 LED Ring Light 14 – Best Lighting For Filming Youtube Videos
- Key Features
- 4- LimoStudio LED Ring Light- Bet Ring Light For Beginners
- Key Features
- 5-Ring Light Kit, SAMTIAN 14 – Best Lightweight Ring Light Overall
- Key Features
- 6- 8-inch LED Selfie Ring Light for Phone Video Shooting Makeup YouTube
- Key Features
- 7-EMART 600W Photography Photo Video Portrait – Best Affordable Umbrella Kit
- Key Features
- 8-Neewar Background Support System – Best All-in-One Equipment For Shoots
- Key Features
- 9-Linco Lincostore Photo Video Studio
- Key Features
- FAQ’S Related to Best Lighting Equipment for YouTube Videos
- Final Recommendation
- 1-Aputure 120D Mark 2 – Best Lighting For Filming Youtube Videos
Which is the Best Lighting For Youtube Videos?
For youtube videos to be of better quality, you must understand why lighting is important. When you have a good lighting setup, your objects will appear more professional. If there is a lack of balance and good lighting, the object won’t look so clear, which reduces the appeal of the content.
Lighting is a way to draw attention to something. Light can create an effect on viewers that will make them aware of subtle changes in a scene. The light will capture their attention.
Lastly, different lighting can convey different moods in a scene. Clever use of light will allow you to evoke any emotion in your viewers.
Which Lighting Do Youtubers Use?
To better understand YouTube lighting equipment, let’s examine the types of lighting used by YouTubers. Different types of videos and vlogs require different kinds of lighting, and it all depends on the setting, the number of elements in your video, and the mood you want to set.
Ring Light
Ring lights are multipurpose equipment that is ideal for a wide range of shooting environments. You can easily record vibrant YouTube videos with ring lights because they emit uniform light on subjects.
Youtubers and celebrities often use ring lights because it makes the subject appear bright and defined. Not only that, but it also eliminates shadows.
Make sure you position the ring light in front of the subject’s face so that enough light reaches the face when you are using a ring light. Avoid keeping the light too far away from the subject’s face as it wouldn’t give the intended result.
Softbox Light
The softbox can be called a natural light source that diffuses the light into a pleasing, even light. If the softbox is closer to the subject, the softer the light appears, simulating the window light.
Softboxes come in different shapes, sizes, and even colors. You’ll most often find a rectangular softbox, which is perfect for lighting. There are different setups for your softbox based on the look you want to achieve.
For balanced lighting, it’s recommended that you use two or more softboxes. You can set up two softboxes on each side while placing the subject in the center. Ensure that the light directly falls on the subject.
Umbrella Lights
The umbrella lighting is very portable and an affordable way of creating soft lighting for videographers/ YouTubers. They are perfect if you need a bit more light for a more polished appearance.
Softboxes, on the other hand, provide directional lighting, while umbrellas provide more unrestricted illumination. Reflective umbrellas and shoot-through umbrellas are the two major types.
Your videos will look more dramatic and soft if you use umbrella lights. Depending on how much light is coming from the umbrella light, a shadow may be created or eliminated on the subject’s face.
Make sure the umbrella light is facing the subject completely. By using an umbrella light, you can also reduce any shadows cast on the background by the subject.
Types of Lighting For Recording Youtube Videos
YouTubers often have large windows in their homes that they can use as light sources, so they do not have to worry about lighting.
However, the weather conditions aren’t always suitable for recording. Also, there will be days of rain or darkness. The difference in intensity of light will make your videos appear different.
Natural light is the best kind of light, but sometimes you may not always get ideal results. You can therefore use artificial light sources.
Artificial Light
Artificial light is typically created with a light bulb, a stand, and a light modifier. When using artificial lights, the main purpose is to give the setting a natural appearance.
Therefore, you can always create the look you desire, regardless of the time of day or quality of light. You can even record videos at midnight.
One such artificial light you can use to record videos is the LED light. This is a powerful lighting source; when combined with a diffuser, it creates a soft appearance. However, the bad news is that LED lights have a higher cost. So you need to check if you’ve got the budget for it.
Factors To Consider When Buying Best Lighting for Recording Youtube Videos
By learning how YouTube video sets typically use lights, you can begin looking for models that suit your requirements. Several studio lights are available on the market, so how can you make an informed decision?
When buying lighting equipment, you should look out for these features:
Light Beam
With the right equipment, you should be able to control the spread of light. Lighting one subject in a shot while keeping all the others in shadow is particularly useful in these cases. These adjustable beam lights can adjust to several settings and let you adapt to different conditions.
Portability
It depends on the type of videos you are going to create. The portability of your video equipment won’t be a problem if you shoot your videos in an appropriate studio. Still, if you have to shoot in different locations, this factor should be considered.
Height
You need to check if the stands come with adjustable height positions when purchasing lighting kits. Moreover, you should also check the durability of the stand because low-quality stands can easily cause damage to expensive lights.
Additional Accessories
In most lightning kits, you will find handy accessories that will help you achieve better results. High-quality lighting kits include diffusers, barn doors, reflectors, scrims, and mounting accessories. And if the kit does not have at least some of the accessories we mentioned here, don’t buy it.
9 Best Budget Lighting Equipment For Youtube Videos
1-Aputure 120D Mark 2 – Best Lighting For Filming Youtube Videos
The Aputure 120D M2 performs better than expected. With its high build quality and versatility, it’s a top pick for video lights. The light does everything it promises at an affordable price is a great bonus for me.
This is a significantly improved version of the first version from programming effects and yolk design. Bright, colorful, and convenient to use on sets. Not to mention, it’s portable and incredibly lightweight.
Key Features
DMX512 Capability
As an Aperture 120D M2 with DMX capability, this light offers you tons of convenience and flexibility.
In addition to the numerous lighting effects already programmed, you can add your own if you wish. Your imagination truly only limits you in terms of the effects you can create.
Brightness
A significant improvement over its predecessor is the 25 percent brightness increase in the 120d II. The 120d II is also balanced at 5500K, unlike the earlier version, which was balanced at 6000K.
While some might not think it’s significant, a slightly warmer temperature of 5500K makes a picture more vibrant and bright.
Setting
In addition to offering precision control over brightness, the C120D II also offers seamless dimming from 100% to 1%, making it an excellent light for both bright and dim settings.
Controller Power Unit
This unit includes one all-in-one power supply, probably the most noticeable change in the C120D II. By using a single unit, there is less cabling and power required so that video makers can focus on their creative process.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 19.2” L x 11.3” W x 10.1” H
- Product weight: 165.53 lbs.
- 1000 W Tungsten Light
- Wireless Remote Control
- 18 dB
- DMX Capability
Pros
- It’s light-weight
- Extremely portable
- Secure handbrake lock
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Choosing the aputure 120D Mark 2 is a good choice if you’re looking for versatile lighting equipment. With so many benefits this product offers, such as portability, ease of use, built-in lighting effects, and excellent brightness, it is a great product to own.
All in all, I would highly recommend it if you want the best lighting for recording YouTube videos.
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2-Neewer Ring Light Kit – Best Ring Light On A Budget
Neewer’s 18” Ring Light Kit is top-of-the-line lighting equipment. There’s nothing better than the quality it offers for enhancing a photo or video.
I love how this ring light can take gorgeous shots and give a ring light reflection in your eyes. This isn’t just an ordinary ring light; it’s a complete package!
Filters have been built into the product, and a bag is included for easy transportation. Moreover, it’s also compatible with both cameras and smartphones. I would recommend this product to any upcoming YouTuber or vlogger.
Key Features
Light Power
The ring light has 240 daylight (5500K) rated LEDs that are dimmable and has a 55W total power rating. The lighting comes from all directions around your camera as the ring has the effect of illuminating the entire scene. This soft yet flattering light will make your subject look exceptional.
Dim Option
The ring light has got a step-less dimmer that allows you to adjust the level of brightness ranging from 0% – 100%
Tube
This is an additional accessory that comes with the kit. It’s called a soft tube that allows you to bend and rotate the ring light in any direction. However, mounting the ring light directly on the light stand is better.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 20.0.8” x 4.33” x 24.02”
- Product weight: 9.84 lbs.
- LED Bulbs: 240 pieces
- Total Power: 55W
Kit includes holder, bag, soft tub, power adapter, orange, and white filter set, light stand, tripod shoe adapter, and dimmable Ring light.
Pros
- It’s affordable
- It’s portable
- Impressive light
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- It lacks a remote control
Even though the Neewer 18” Kit lacks the bells and whistles, it’s perfect for YouTubers and vloggers who are just getting started and want an affordable range of ring lights that do a great job.
Since it is made of plastic, the product is not as sturdy as a professional ring light, but the results it offers will not disappoint you.
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3-Neewer RL-12 LED Ring Light 14 – Best Lighting For Filming Youtube Videos
New offers a wide range of premium ring lights. This product offers excellent light results at an affordable price. The 14 inch produces the right light for YouTube videos. This ring light was pretty easy to assemble and adjust in whatever position you want.
What’s amazing about the product is it can be easily connected via Bluetooth connectivity. This means you can easily take shots or record videos with the Bluetooth remote that comes with the kit.
Key Features
Light Power
Unlike its predecessors, the Neewer RL-12 has a 55W power supply. This type of bulb has a lower light output than fluorescent bulbs. Unless you need maximum output, 55W would be sufficient for you.
You can use this ring light if you do not care about small details on objects.
Stand
This ring light provides everything you need, from the ultra-strong aluminum alloy stand to the orange and white plastic color filters.
LED Lights
Compared to other types of LEDs, these are much cooler. If you get close to the white round sun, you won’t be hurt, so taking close-up photos of it is always risk-free.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 15” x 25” x 8”
- Product weight: 5.06 lbs.
- LED Bulbs: 180 pieces
- Dimmable: Yes
- Power: 36W
- Kit includes Soft tube, charger, ring light, stand, filter set, holder, and tripod head.
Pros
- Compatible with both smartphones and cameras
- Extremely light-weight
- It’s affordable
Cons
- Not usable for close-ups with more lights
Overall, the Neewer RL-12 never ceases to impress with its outstanding features. Not only is the ring light compact, but it also consumes little power.
Your camera can even be mounted on a stand without falling. If you are a beginner who wants to record youtube videos, this ring light should be your first choice.
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4- LimoStudio LED Ring Light- Bet Ring Light For Beginners
With its 18 inch diameter, LimoStudio’s Ring Light is also a great piece of film equipment to have on hand. It’s ideal for both photography and beauty vlogging.
My favorite part about the Ring light is its sturdy light stand and quality casing. Using this, you can adjust the height to suit your needs. Carrying everything around is easier with the carry bag.
Key Features
Power
LumoStudio 18 inches Ring Light Dimmable is compatible with Color Temperatures between 5500K and less. The diffuser cover is white and is designed to produce neutral color temperatures and help spread light streams evenly.
Easy To Mount
A notable feature of the LimoStudio 18 inches Ring Light is that it is easy to set up. Mounting it to the light stand is a quick and easy task, thanks to the included bracket.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 2.7” x 1.4” x 5.7”
- Product Weight: 0.32 lbs.
- LED Bulbs: 240
- Dimmable: Yes
- Kit includes light stand, lighting kit, case, and dimmable fluorescent.
Pros
- Compatible with phones and cameras
- Durable
Cons
- Not suitable for mounting heavy cameras
LimoStudio’s 18 inches Ring Light Dimmable is an affordable option for those who want an entry-level ring light for taking pictures and recording videos. Unlike other products, the ring light is made of metal, so it is sure to last for a long time.
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5-Ring Light Kit, SAMTIAN 14 – Best Lightweight Ring Light Overall
The fifth product that I’m going to review is the SAMTIAN 14 ring light suited for photography and videography. Due to the lightweight nature of this product, I find it easier to carry it with me.
Depending on how high you want the stand to be, you can even make the perfect shot. With this filter set, you can choose between cool white and warm yellow.
Key Features
Power
With its 180 LED lights, this SAMTIAN ring light has a power output of 45W. The light could fill the space perfectly and provide continuous natural light.
Dim option
This product has excellent CRI>90 and a dimmable range of 10%-100%. The light color can easily be changed from full spectrum to warmer. It produces the brightest light. There are two types of diffusers you can pick from, which will result in amazing filter effects.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 4.5” x 18.5” x 20”
- Product Weight: 6.59 lbs.
- LED Bulbs: 180
- Dimmable: Yes
- Power: 45W
- Kit includes Ring Light, Smartphone Holder, Light Stand, remote control, shoe adapter, power adapter, bag.
Pros
- It’s extremely lightweight
- Easy to set up
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- It’ll get shaky if you mount heavy cameras
If you’re looking for a ring light that is within your budget, you definitely can’t go wrong with the SAMTIAN 14. You can control the ring light using a remote control included with the device.
This is great for those who are interested in starting their careers as fashion bloggers.
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6- 8-inch LED Selfie Ring Light for Phone Video Shooting Makeup YouTube
With an 8-inch design, it is compatible with iOS and Android, and its compact design is one of its most impressive features since you can easily place it on any tabletop.
Whether you want to take a selfie or record a video, all is possible with a single device. You can easily adjust the angle with the 180-degree rotation support.
I love how this ring light fits my budget and is super bright for filming videos and taking pictures.
Key Features
Power
With its 120 SMD LED bulbs, this SAMTIAN ring light has a power output of 24W. The light could fill the space ideally and provide enough natural light.
Dim option
The dimmable range is 1%-100% which can be adjusted using this knob on the back. There is absolutely no flickering or humming.
Table Top Support
Compact design and foldable arms allow the stand to be used and stored easily. Considering that it’s made from aluminum, it will last a long time without rusting. Moreover, it’s lightweight, so you can easily carry it around.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 16” x 8.3” x 2.9”
- Product Weight: 2.79 lbs.
- LED Bulbs: 120 pieces
- Dimmable: Yes
- Power: 24 W
- Kit includes LED Ring light, phone clip, tripod, and Power Adapter.
Pros
- It’s light-weight
- Easy to assemble
- Delivers excellent quality
Cons
- Doesn’t have an adjustable tripod
Although it doesn’t have an adjustable tripod, you can invest in a separate camera tripod so you can mount the ring light easily and adjust it according to your needs. Apart from that, the ring light works like a charm and offers the best lighting for youtube videos.
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7-EMART 600W Photography Photo Video Portrait – Best Affordable Umbrella Kit
A great starter kit for photographers or video makers, the Emart 600W Umbrella Continuous lighting kit offers up to 600W of power. However, don’t expect a pro-standard display or super bright performance.
I like this umbrella kit because it includes two different umbrellas: a black/silver reflector and a shoot-through umbrella.
Using the translucent shoot-through umbrella can provide soft lighting to the subject, whereas the black/white reflector produces a uni-directional soft-light. It’s ideal if you need to light up a small area or limit your video experience.
Key Features
Power
With a voltage of 110V, the CFL bulbs are 45W. Their combined power is approximately 600 watts. The daylight rating of this light is 5500K. You should not get any unusual color casts when mixing these lights with window light.
Reflector
White umbrellas emit a soft light that diffuses light from any flash, creating even illumination for your subject.
On the other hand, black umbrellas have a silver lining that distributes soft light evenly and adds contrast and highlights, suitable for all studio flashes.
Light stand
Light stands are constructed out of plastic, making them lightweight and easy to move around.
The umbrella lighting kit comes with two separate stands. To light the subject, you can use the tall stand, while you can use the short one for lighting the background.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 29.9” x 7.9” x 7.9”
- Product Weight: 10.83 lbs.
- CFL Bulbs: 3
- Power: 45 W
- Kit includes: bulb holders, reflectors, light stand, and carry bag.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Sturdy stands
- High-quality bulbs
Cons
- Wears and tears easily
You can’t go wrong with the umbrella lighting kit if you’re looking for affordable lighting for youtube videos. It can both be used to record professional youtube videos as well as take perfect photographs.
The only drawback is that it will wear out over time. Otherwise, it’s a great kit at an affordable price.
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8-Neewar Background Support System – Best All-in-One Equipment For Shoots
Are you thinking of starting your career as a YouTuber? No need to invest in expensive video equipment when you’ve got a Neewer Background Support System.
It’s a great starter pack for beginners who want a complete package from backdrop to umbrella kits. I like how easy it is to set up and adjust the entire system according to the size of your space.
Key Features
Backdrop
The umbrella kit features three backdrop colors, black, green, and white, along with the stand you can easily set up. However, the backdrops are see-through, so you may need to use a cloth or blanket behind the backdrop.
What’s amazing is the fact that you don’t have to buy the backdrop separately. Buying the backdrop cloth alone would cost a lot.
Softbox
The softbox is designed to be durable in the long run. You can easily adjust it according to your needs. You can vary the light settings before you film any videos.
Stand
The light stand is made from an alloy that is guaranteed to last for a long. Moreover, you can easily store and transport it wherever you wish to.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 12.6” x 12.6” x 35.83”
- Product Weight: 29.7 lbs.
- CFL Bulbs: 4
- Power: 45 W
- Kit includes light stand, headlight holder, bulb, white umbrella, softbox, backdrop, backdrop stand, and background support system.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Easy to store
- High portability
Cons
- Some users have complained that it took a while to set up
All-in-all, The Neewer Background Support System is without any doubt the best budget lighting equipment for youtube videos, photography, and live streaming.
You’re getting a complete package in one deal. I highly recommend it to beginners and professionals who want a budget-friendly kit.
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9-Linco Lincostore Photo Video Studio
Last but not least, the Linco Lincostore is another stellar product targeted at beginners who want to start photography or filming. For me, it was very easy to set up, and it took around 10 minutes to unpack.
The light stands are extremely lightweight, but it doesn’t mean they are flimsy. When I mounted the bulbs, it worked like a charm.
The kit includes a white umbrella reflector that produces soft light for the subject. Moreover, the background support system can easily be set up and mount the backdrop clothes.
Key Features
Softbox
The Linco Lincostore Video studio kit comes with a softbox reflector that eliminates any shadows in the background and gives a soft look to the photos.
Carry bag
The waterproof bag is durable, which means you can easily store the entire kit and transport it easily.
Backdrop
It features three colors, white, black, and green, that will meet your videography and photography needs.
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 32” x 9” x 7”
- Product weight: 24.1 lbs.
- CFL Bulbs: 4
- Power: 23 W
- Kit includes: softbox reflector, shape lamp holder, backdrop stand, light bulb, backdrop, soft umbrella, and carry bag.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Highly portable
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Not for professionals
The Linco Lincostore Photo Video Studio is worth the price because it has everything you need to start your filming journey.
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FAQ’S Related to Best Lighting Equipment for YouTube Videos
What’s the cost of the lighting equipment?
The best lighting for YouTube videos does not have to cost a lot of money. You can easily find it while on a budget. You can expect to spend anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Is the ring light suitable for recording videos?
Sure, as long as the subject is close to the camera.
Final Recommendation
When it comes to ring lights, the Ring Light Kit, SAMTIAN 14” is an excellent choice because it isn’t only affordable but delivers great results. With this product, you can take a perfect shot or film a youtube video.
A product you should consider getting your hands on is the Neewer 2.6M x 3M/8.5ft x 10ft Background Support System, which is perfect lighting equipment for creating your home-based studio. It has all that you need to start your career as a photographer or a filmmaker.
