Best On-Camera Lights: LED Light Panels for Photography & Video

An on-camera light is compact and portable, which gives you instant, reliable, and flattering lighting in any environment—whether you're shooting indoors, outdoors, day or night. It helps your camera capture clearer, sharper, and more detailed footage, especially in low light where grain and motion blur are common problems. In this blog, we have picked 4 of the best on-camera lights and shared tips on how to choose one.

Compare On-Camera Lights: Key Features at a Glance

Best On-Camera Lights in 2025

1. NEEWER NL-116AI Bi-Color LED Video Panel Light

If you want to invest in a larger-sized on-camera light, the NEEWER NL-116AI Bi-Color LED Video Panel Light can meet your needs. This 9-inch LED video light is equipped with 58 warm and 58 cool LEDs, a maximum output of 10W, and a maximum illumination of 600lux/0.5m. Moreover, it can precisely adjust the color temperature and brightness, which can satisfy a variety of shooting needs.

The NEEWER NL-116AI Bi-Color LED On-Camera light has a built-in 4000mAh Li-ion battery with up to 1.5 hours of battery life. You can charge it via Type-C and USB ports, very convenient. When mounted on top of DSLR cameras and camcorders, it supports 180° forward and backward tilt to achieve your ideal shooting angle.

Pros:

• Enhanced Precision Control
• Extended Battery Life & Convenient Charging
• Flexible Mounting with Cold Shoe Adapter

2. NEEWER VL67B Bi-Color On-Camera Light

For photographers looking for portability, the NEEWER VL67B Bi-Color On-Camera Light is a better choice. With only 108g, this panel light is very lightweight. It delivers a 520lux max illuminance at 0.5m, and a 97 high CRI. When using this camera light, you can access the light source library and be able to quickly set up the light with the parameter memory function, which can effectively improve your shooting efficiency.

The NEEWER VL67B Bi-Color On-Camera Light features 12 scene effects, including lightning, candlelight, fireworks, explosions, and more, and supports custom lighting, allowing you to create a personalized light. This mini panel light will get you through up to close to 2 hours of continuous lighting and is able to charge seamlessly while in use via the Type C port, ensuring uninterrupted power throughout the day.

Pros:

• Smart APP Control & Vibrant FX Modes
• 2000mAh Rechargeable Lithium Battery
• Cold Shoe Mount & 1/4" Side Thread

3. NEEWER SL90 RGB On-Camera Light

The NEEWER SL90 is an on-camera light with 80 bi-color LEDs and 70 RGB LEDs up to 1,700 lux (0.5m). It features a high CRI and TLCI rating of 97+, delivering accurate color rendition. This LED panel light is equipped with a swivel arm that can be flipped up and down at different angles and has excellent resistance and stability to provide you with the suitable angle of light.

NEEWER SL90 on-camera light has 18 preset lighting scene modes, which can add more eye-catching elements to your video creation. Moreover, it also supports music synchronization, and the light can change according to the tone and volume, which is highly dynamic. This RGB LED light board supports OTA upgrades, allowing you to upgrade scene modes or features via the App.

Pros:

• 18 Scene Modes & Support Music Sync
• New Infinity Connection Technology
• OTA Updates Supported

4. NEEWER RGB61 Magnetic RGB Video Light

If you're looking for an affordable on-camera light, the NEEWER RGB61 Magnetic RGB Video Light will give you great value for your money. It has a variety of mounting options, either on a magnetic surface via the magnet on the back of the light body or light stands and other equipment via the cold shoe connector on the bottom, making it easy for you to take satisfying photos and videos.

The NEEWER RGB61 on-camera light has 20 scene modes, so it can meet your more diverse photographic needs and make it easier to capture creative content. When using this RGB LED video light, you can also enhance the quality of your shots by installing microphones and other accessories through its 3 cold shoe ports on the side and top.

Pros:

• Magnetic Design
• 20 Scene Modes
• Portable & Multiple Mounting Options

Tips for Choosing the Right On-Camera Lights

1. Balance Size with Output

On-camera lights are all about mobility, so size matters—but not at the expense of brightness. You want something small enough to mount directly on your camera (hot shoe or cold shoe), but strong enough to light a subject at close to medium range (within 2–5 feet). A good on-camera LED panel should offer at least 800–1000 lux at 1 meter. Look for models with step-less brightness control so you can dial in the exact output you need without blowing out highlights. Bonus: many high-end compact lights now use COB or high-density LED tech to pack more punch into smaller bodies.

2. Choose Adjustable Color Temperature for Versatility

When you’re moving between indoor and outdoor environments, color temperature flexibility becomes essential. Look for bi-color lights (usually ranging from 2700K to 6500K) so you can match existing light sources—whether it’s warm tungsten lighting at a wedding or daylight in a park. This helps your footage look natural and reduces your time spent color correcting in post. Some on-camera lights even feature RGB modes for creative effects, though those are typically more for mood or background lighting rather than key light functionality.

3. Prioritize Diffusion to Soften Your Light

Harsh light from a small source can create unflattering shadows and shiny skin—especially when it's only a few feet from your subject. Always look for on-camera lights that include a built-in diffuser or come with a clip-on softening panel. Better yet, choose a model that supports magnetic diffusion domes or mini softboxes. The goal is to spread the light across your subject’s face evenly, without sharp hotspots. This is especially important if you're filming talking heads, handheld interviews, or close-up product shots.

4. Pick a Power Option That Matches Your Workflow

A great light is only useful if it lasts through your shoot. On-camera lights typically use built-in lithium batteries, rechargeable USB-C, or external battery packs like NP-F. If you're shooting long events or all day, look for something with a runtime of 60–120 minutes at full brightness and fast recharging. Some lights also let you run off external USB power banks, which can be a lifesaver. If you’re traveling, weight and charging method (USB-C preferred) become even more important. Don’t forget to check the battery indicator—many cheaper models still don’t include one.