Picture this: you're about to start your Zoom meeting, your makeup and hair are on point, and your outfit is perfect (on top, anyway). But once you catch a glimpse of yourself on that screen, your appearance looks nothing like it did in the mirror this morning. Sound familiar? Chances are it's happened to you more than once over the past few weeks given that many of us have been working from home. This is because—regardless of how great cameras and iPhones are these days—bad lighting can totally change the way we look in photos and videos. Luckily, this is a simple fix thanks to the genius invention of ring lights, and there are tons of great options on the market right now. Ahead, we've rounded up an algorithm-approved list of the best ones you can buy, from studio-quality set-ups to clip-on styles that won't cost you more than $20. Keep scrolling to see and shop the Top 10 and amp up your video-chat game for good. Opening image: rikilovesriki.com
Did you like our 10 Best Ring Lights? Then you’ll love our top 10 beauty lists!
April 6, 2020
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Yongnuo LED Ring Light With Variable Color Temperature Output
LOVED FOR: There's a reason beauty bloggers consistently rave about this ring light. Not only is it lightweight, compact, and easy to toss in a bag when you're on-the-go, but it also comes with a manual knob that can change the color temperature and brightness level so you can get your lighting exactly how you want it.
HELPFUL TIP: The base of this ring light is flexible, so it's easy to adjust and find your most flattering angle.
Sunpak Portable Vlogging Kit For Smartphones
WHY YOU NEED IT: With a 42-inch tripod for stable filming, a built-in cold shoe that accommodates devices of varying sizes, and a portable design that's easy to move around, this is probably the closest you'll ever get to studio-quality illumination—all for under $40.
USERS SAID: "I love this! Great quality, sturdy, and lights up so well. It's great for beginners and non-beginners alike, and it's a great price too!"
Auxiwa Clip On Selfie Ring Light
BEST FOR: If you want a simple, easy-to-use option that can attach to your phone, look no further than this affordable Amazon find. It provides soft illumination without harsh light, making it perfect for flawless selfies and Zoom meetings alike.
LOVED FOR: No need to worry about batteries, either—you can charge this one with a USB cable and it will be good to go for hours of use. Ring lights really don't get any simpler than this.
Aixpi LED Ring Light 10" With Tripod Stand & Phone Holder
WHAT IT DOES: This 10-inch LED ring light comes with three different color temperature settings, 10 different brightness levels, an adjustable tripod head, and it's compatible with almost any device from iPhones to professional cameras.
LOVED FOR: Just to top it all off, it also comes with a handy Bluetooth remote that can change the color settings and snap photos even from far away.
E.l.f. Cosmetics Glow On The Go Selfie Light
BEST FOR: Makeup moguls, this one's for you. Whether you're creating content for your blog or simply touching up your look on-the-go, this selfie light will be a godsend.
WHAT IT DOES: Don't let the teeny-tiny size fool you—this baby comes with three different brightness levels and a whopping 36 bulbs for studio-quality lighting anytime and anywhere.
Riki Loves Riki Skinny Lighted Mini Vanity Mirror
LOVED FOR: Another top-notch find for the beauty guru, this device is a high-quality makeup mirror and ring light all in one. Trust us—it's worth the splurge.
USERS SAID: "This mirror is AMAZING. The lights are incredibly bright on the highest setting and make for perfect selfies, especially with the Bluetooth option! 100 times better than the Impressions Vanity brand. Definitely recommend. It is a little spendy, but worth the price!"
Qiaya Selfie Light
WHAT IT DOES: With a clip-on design that's compatible with any device, this fuss-free ring light seamlessly attaches to your phone, iPad, or laptop so you can get the best lighting in any situation. It's also super compact and lightweight, so you can toss it in your purse and take it with you on-the-go.
HELPFUL TIP: Stock up on these affordable lights and give them to your BFFs as gifts. Whether they're a beauty blogger, selfie connoisseur, or someone who has frequent video meetings, it will suit any recipient well.
UBeesize 8" Selfie Ring Light With Tripod Stand & Cell Phone Holder
BEST FOR: If you're serious about selfies, this ring light is a great choice. With three different lighting modes—white, warm yellow, and warm white—it can totally change the look and feel of an iPhone photo with the touch of a button.
USERS SAID: "I hesitated so long to buy a ring light because I thought I needed a $200 model. I am so glad I purchased this one instead! I wish I had bought it months ago. It has different color settings, is dimmable, compact, and has plenty of space for your phone. Really easy to assemble, easily portable, and makes phone selfies and videos look so much better."
Mactrem LED Ring Light 6" With Tripod Stand
WHY YOU NEED IT: With over 3,000 rave reviews on Amazon, this $20 light is seriously powerful. It also comes with a tripod and mini tripod, three different light modes, 11 brightness levels, and a remote control, making it a serious score for the money.
LOVED FOR: As detailed and powerful as it is, this ring light is still super easy to set up and operate.
Neewer Ring Light Kit
BEST FOR: Looking for the best and the biggest? Consider your search officially over. Unlike the other options out there, this top-rated ring light has a massive 18-inch diameter, which is great for large spaces and shots that need lots of light.
USERS SAID: "I was a little iffy about purchasing this due to the price, but I am so thankful I did. My selfies and videos look so much better now! It comes with two different covers to put over the ring light (warm and white), which I definitely appreciate so I can switch up my pics. It also comes with a carrying case for when you travel. If you’re a photographer, beauty blogger or just someone that loves taking bomb selfies, you should for sure get this!"
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