5 Best Ring Light for Product Photography

When it comes to product photography, capturing true color in detail is an absolute must – any variation in photos versus the natural colors can lead to customer dissatisfaction. Ring lights have become increasingly popular for product photography, as they offer more diffused, soft light and accurate color rendering. Choosing a quality ring light, however, is dependent on several factors. 

The best ring light for product photography is the IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light. It offers a high Color Rendering Index (≥ 97), variable temperature control (3000-5800K), and lets you charge your phone during shooting with its USB QC3.0 port. The light also has a reasonable price point. 

The only instances in which I wouldn’t recommend the IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light are if… 

• You’re on a strict budget. Go with the PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light (available on Amazon).
• You want an RGB ring light. Instead, opt for the Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light (available on Amazon).
• You do a lot of outdoor photography. Stick with the Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light (available on Amazon).
• You want a product with a warranty. Choose the Westcott 18-inch (46 cm) LED Ring Light (available on Amazon).

In this article, I’ll walk you through what to consider when purchasing a ring light for product photography and rate each of my picks in each category. I’ll also discuss why the IVISII 19-inch Ring Light is the best choice for most product photographers and discuss alternatives for certain situations. 

Factors To Consider

When searching for a ring light for product photography, there are three primary factors to consider, including: 

• Color Rendering Index (CRI) 
• Adjustable Color Temperature 
• Cost 

I’ll explain these three factors more in-depth below: 

Color Rendering Index Comparison

Ring Light	Color Rendering Index (CRI)	Score
Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light	≥ 95+	8/10
PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light	≥ 97	9/10
Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light	≥ 97	9/10
Westcott 18-inch (46 cm)LED Ring Light	≥ 97	9/10
IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light	≥ 97	9/10

Winners: PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light, Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light, Westcott 18-inch (46 cm) LED Ring Light, IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light

The Color Rendering Index (CRI) value of a ring light indicates how accurately the light represents the colors. When searching for a quality ring light, it’s best to go with a product that offers a CRI of at least 90 – however, 95 or greater is ideal for product photography, especially if you want the most accurate colors possible. 

Products that do not list the CRI in the description or specifications likely use lower quality lighting, such as fluorescent tubes. 

The Best Lighting for CRI

For accurate, vivid, natural color rendering, LEDs are the clear winner. These bulbs offer higher CRI values than incandescent or fluorescent bulbs and create crisp, authentic colors. When it comes to product photography, fluorescent tube lighting should be avoided, as it has lower quality color rendering and is prone to flickering. 

Adjustable Color Temperature Comparison

Ring Light	Adjustable Color Temperature	Score
Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light	2500K-8500K	9/10
PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light	3000K-5800K	7/10
Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light	3200-5600K	6/10
Westcott 18-inch (46 cm)LED Ring Light	3200K-5600K	6/10
IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light	3000K-5800K	7/10

Winners: Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light

Variable color temperature can be important in product photography for setting the mood or creating a specific atmosphere around the product. Daylight color temperatures tend to be cooler (5500K), whereas tungsten temperatures (3200-4000K) are warmer. Warmer temperatures can create a “cozy” feel for your product photography. 

The Best Color Temperature Product Photography

The ideal color temperature for product photography is around 5000-5500K. This temperature provides the best color representation and light balance without washing out the product or the need for additional edits. 

However, if you’re looking to provide accurate product photographs and photographs that reflect mood or ambiance, then variable color temperature settings are important. While a color temperature that’s warmer or cooler than 5000K won’t accurately represent the product’s colors, they can create a certain “feel” for the product. 

For example, warm lighting for Christmas products might create a cozy atmosphere, whereas cooler lighting may be best for photographing a product in a snowy outdoor scene. 

No matter which color temperatures you use, always remember to also include at least one photograph of the product at the 5000-5500K temperature range for accurate representation. 

Cost Comparison

Ring Light	Average Cost	Score
Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light	$119 to $139	6/10
PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light	$75 to $85	7/10
Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light	$170 to $180	5/10
Westcott 18-inch (46 cm) LED Ring Light	$190 to $200	4/10
IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light	$85 to $95	7/10

Winners: PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light, IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light

The overall cost of your ring light is something you need to consider – and it’s not just because of the initial investment in the ring light itself. You may also need to purchase a stand, batteries, a battery charger, or even replacement parts (tripods, screws, mounts, etc.) down the line. 

If the initial cost is high, it may limit what you’re able to spend in the future – and if you’re on a budget, well, the cost is of extreme importance. 

Best Overall: IVISII 19-inch Ring Light

With a high CRI value, an adjustable temperature range, and a reasonable price point, the IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light is sure to meet most people’s product photography needs.

The reason we love it so much is because it gives you the option to charge your phone with the equipped USB QC3.0 port. That means that you don’t have to worry about your phone dying in the middle of shooting your product photographs. 

With this set, you’ll receive: 

• A ring light 
• 75-inch light stand 
• Carrying bag for the ring light 
• Carrying case for the stand 
• Plastic Diffusion Filter (White) 
• Phone holder 
• Camera mounting bracket 
• DC adapter 

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a quality ring light at a reasonable price, then I highly recommend the IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light. This ring light supports most product photography needs, especially if you use your phone for most of your pictures. 

Pros

• Phone Charging Capability. With this device, you can recharge your phone in the middle of a photography session without having to break everything down and head home to reach a power outlet – if it’s equipped with batteries (not included), you can charge your phone anywhere. 
• LED Lighting. The ring light uses quality LED lighting with over 480 LED beads. This provides accurate, high-quality color rendering for beautiful photographs. 
• Rotating Phone Mount. The phone mount holds most smartphones (Android and iPhone) from 2.5 to 3.5 inches (63.5 to 90 mm) in width. It rotates 360 degrees, making it useful for viewing photographs as you take them. 

Cons

• Basic Controls. There is only one knob on the ring light to adjust both settings, including temperature and brightness. The product would be easier to use if it included two knobs, one for each setting. 
• Limited Function. When the ring light is set to 4600 to 4800K, you cannot raise the brightness level to 100 percent. 
• Short Cord. The cord on the DC adapter is very short – if you need it to use it across a room, you may need an extension cord. Additionally, the power block is extremely close to the plug, so if your outlets are high, it may just dangle in the air, pulling on the plug. 

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Specifications

Max Illuminance	5800k, 100% Full
Color Rendering Index	≥97
Power	DC 14-18/V2A
Batteries	Li-Battery NP-F550/F570/F960/F970 (Not Included)
Weight	7.39 pounds (3.35 kg)

Best Bang for the Buck: PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light

If you’re on a strict budget, then the PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light is the best choice for you. It offers the lowest price of all the other ring lights on this list without sacrificing quality. 

It offers a CRI equal to or greater than 97 and an adjustable color temperature from 3000K to 5800K. This inexpensive ring light lets you take accurate product photographs with your phone, tablet, or DSLR.

Additionally, it comes with a Bluetooth remote, which allows you to take pictures hands-free and from afar, making product photography even more convenient.

For a reasonable price, you’ll get the following:

• 18″ (48 cm) ring light 
• 67 inches (170cm) light stand 
• Carrying bag 
• Wireless remote 
• Bluetooth remote 
• iPad holder 
• Phone holder 
• Camera mounting bracket 
• Hot shoe adapters (long/short) 
• Power adapter 
• User manual 

Bottom Line: For an inexpensive yet functional ring light that offers quality color rendering, go for the PIXEL 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light. It’s effective, affordable, and offers additional features, including a remote-controlled function and an LCD display. 

Pros

• LCD Display. The LCD display makes it easier to tell which settings you’re using for future reference. It displays light brightness and other settings in real-time.
• Wireless Remote. The 2.4 GHz wireless remote control allows you to connect to multiple ring lights at once and adjust their color temperature and brightness with the tap of a button.
• Mounting Options. This ring light kit comes with several different mounts, including for phones, iPads, and a mounting screw for DSLR cameras. 

Cons

• The Power Adapter is Large. The power brick on the DC charger is very big. Because the cords are short and the brick is large, it often pulls on the plug when it’s not in use. Because of this, we recommend investing in an alternate charger suitable for this particular ring light.
• Batteries Not Included. This ring light uses Lithium-ion batteries (NP series), but they are not included in the price. Not only would you need to purchase the batteries, but you’ll also need to pick up a charger for them as well. 

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Specifications

Max Illuminance	5500k, 100% Full
Color Rendering Index	≥95
Power	DC Charger
Batteries	Li-Battery NP-F550/F570/F960/F970 (Not Included)
Weight	2.82 lbs (1.28 kg)

Best for On-the-Go Photography: Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light

Are you a product photographer that’s always on the go? Well, then you need the Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light – it’s the best choice for photographers that move around! 

This ring light is both lightweight and portable. While the stand is 6.5 feet (1.98 meters), the average user can quickly break it down to fit snugly into the included carrying case. This makes it easy to bring it with you wherever you go. 

Additionally, the Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light comes with two batteries, a battery charger for when you’re on the go, and an AC power adapter for use when you’re in your studio or at home. 

You’ll get: 

• 18-Inch (46 cm) ring light
• AC adapter & power cord 
• 2 NP-750 batteries 
• Battery charger 
• Ring light gooseneck arm 
• Ring light swivel mount & mobile device mount 
• 6.5 Foot (1.98 m) ring light stand 
• Ring light travel case 

Bottom Line: If you’re constantly traveling to take product photographs, the Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light is the one for you! Because of the cord-free option, carrying case, and the included battery and charger, taking this light anywhere is super easy to do! 

Pros

• Batteries Included. This light comes with two NP-F750 lithium-ion batteries. They can power the ring light for 70 minutes at maximum power. In addition, it comes with an AC adapter for indoor use. 
• Adjustable. Thanks to its gooseneck arm, the ring light tilts 180 degrees and rotates 360 degrees on a swivel mount. The ring is actually removable, too, which provides the opportunity for even more creativity when shooting products. 
• Cordless Option. If you’re using the Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light with batteries, you don’t need the cords at all! That means that you can take it anywhere — from the beach to a nature preserve. 

Cons

• Materials. The stand on this ring light is made of aluminum, so it’s not as sturdy as other materials. This lack of sturdiness doesn’t really reflect the price point. The light, however, is high-quality, so you could get away with purchasing a better stand to replace the one that comes with the light kit. 
• Battery Compartment. Some reviewers claim that the battery compartment does not keep batteries secured – they may pop out with excess movement of the ring light or stand. 

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Specifications

Max Illuminance	5600K
Color Rendering Index	≥ 97
Power	AC Power Adapter
Batteries	Included Lithium-Ion NP-F750 (70 min, 100% power)
Weight	8.08 pounds (3.66 kg)

Best RGB Ring Light: Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light

Additional color options make product photography fun – and the Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light has everything you need to get started!

This product contains 352 high-CRI LED light beads that offer variable color temperatures. In addition, the light is dimmable and adjustable up to 360 degrees. 

With full-color options – even a custom RGB mode – this light allows you to place color filters on any products you want, without the need to purchase any extra accessories! 

The built-in LCD display and all-in-one knob make it easy to adjust the parameters on the ring light, and the included remote lets you change settings from afar. 

Here’s what you’ll get:

• 18″ (46 cm) ring light 
• Light stand 
• Carrying bag 
• Wireless remote 
• Bluetooth remote 
• iPad holder 
• Phone holder 
• Camera mounting bracket 
• Hot shoe adapter (long/short) 
• Power adapter 
• User manual 

Bottom Line: The Weeylite 18-inch (46 cm) RGB Ring Light is perfect for creative product photographers who like to experiment with color! It offers a range of different lighting effects, colors, and temperatures, so it can help you take things up a notch during your photography sessions. 

Pros

• Scene Mode. This light comes with 17 pre-set lighting effects in Scene Mode. These creative lighting settings allow you to play around with color during photographing – there’s no need for additional color filters. 
• Remote Control. The 2.4 GHz remote control allows you to control single or multiple lights with the push of a button – you can also download the Weeylite app and sync it to your ring light.
• Tilt. It’s not always best to shoot products straight on – but this light tilts up to 180 degrees! That makes it perfect for those unique product photography situations. 

Cons

• Batteries Not Included. Since batteries (requires NP series lithium-ion batteries), you’ll have to make an additional purchase if you want to use this ring light outside. It does, however, come with a DC adapter. 
• App Issues. Some users reported being unable to download the app for this ring light. Others said that they couldn’t sync the app with the remote control. 
• Flimsy Mounts. According to some reviewers, the iPad holder is somewhat flimsy and doesn’t seem secure enough to hold the iPad safely. 

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Specifications

Max Illuminance	8500K
Color Rendering Index	≥ 95+
Power	DC Adapter
Batteries	NP Series Li-ion Battery (Not Included)
Weight	8.38 pounds (3.8 kg)

Best for Customer Guarantee: Westcott 18-inch (46 cm) LED Ring Light

If you’re one of those people that refuses to purchase a product without a warranty, then you’re going to want the Westcott 18-inch (46 cm) LED Ring Light. This light provides high color accuracy, user-friendly controls, multiple power options, and a one-year warranty. 

There are multiple mounting options, a flexible gooseneck mount, and a swivel stand. 

Here’s what you’ll get: 

• 18” (46 cm) ring light 
• AC adapter 
• 2 batteries 
• Battery charger 
• Gooseneck arm 
• Swivel mount 
• Phone mount 
• 6.5 Foot (1.98 m) light stand 
• Travel case 

Bottom Line: The Westcott 18-inch (46 cm)LED Ring Light offers a warranty to ensure that the product meets your expectations – so if you want a product that is guaranteed to last for at least a year, then this is the ring light for you! I highly recommend it for those who use their ring lights on a daily basis. 

Pros

• Battery Level Indicator. This indicator lets you know if the battery is going to die soon, which could save you lots of headaches. You no longer have to worry about the battery dying when you’re in the middle of recording or photographing a product.
• Dimmable Lights. With dimmability, you can adjust the brightness to your preferred settings for the most accurate color rendering.
• Battery and Charger. Since the product comes with a battery and charger, you don’t have to worry about making any additional purchases to power your ring light when you’re on the go. 

Cons

• High Price Point. This ring light is the costliest on this list, and it may be out of reach for product photographers on a budget.
• Tightening Issues. Some customers complained that it was difficult to attach the ring light to the mount and that it wouldn’t tighten properly. 
• Plastic Joints and Mounts. When assembling the piece, you might notice that it contains plastic joints and mounts. For a product at this price point, you would expect higher-quality materials. 

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Product Specifications

Max Illuminance	5600K
Color Rendering Index	≥ 97
Power	AC/DC Power Adapter
Batteries	Included 2 Lithium-ion batteries (70 min, 100% power)
Weight	9.9 pounds (4.5 kg)

Key Takeaways

After considering cost, CRI, and adjustable color temperature, I’ve found that the best overall ring light for most product photographers is the IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light.

Compared to the other ring lights included in this article – as well as several others that didn’t make the cut – the IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light is the best choice, thanks to its reasonable price, high CRI, adjustable color temperature, and other features. 

Check out the IVISII 19-inch (48 cm) Ring Light on Amazon now. 

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sources

• Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute: Lighting Research Center: What is Color Rendering Index?
• SAE Institute Alumni: Product photography tips for anybody, anywhere
• Modern Soapmaking: How to Light Your Product Photos Like a Pro