5 Things to Keep in Mind Before Buying a Portable LED Light Online

Selecting the best lighting for your photography or videography setup can be ... complicated, especially as most of your lighting options are conveniently available online. However, believe us when we say investing in the best portable LED light is important, not just for lighting your very important shot, but also making your creative process easier!

But with LED camera lights out there, how do you pick the one that suits your needs best? It’s easy to get lost in the specs, features, and models. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to help you narrow it down. Here are five key things you should keep in mind before you hit "buy"—so you can pick the best fit for your projects. Let’s dive into what matters most, with a look at some of Digitek's top portable lighting solutions that cater to both pros and beginners alike.

1. Light Output and Brightness

The first thing you want to consider when it comes to LED camera light is the light output, or brightness. Depending on your lighting set-up, you may need a bright light or not so bright light to capture that great shot. Whether shooting indoors, in a studio, or outdoors, the strength of your light will make a big difference in the final image quality.

For example, Digitek makes the DCL-150WBC Combo Bi-Color continuous Light, which is ideal for photographing small productions. From powerful output and energy efficiency to saving production time and resources, there are a variety of reasons for choosing constant lights over traditional lights. Another option Digitek has available is the very compact Digitek (DCL-60W RGB), with output up to 60W, now you have the power without the excess size, so you can use it for smaller, or more intimate setups, or take it portable.

Tip: Always check the light’s luminosity (measured in lux) to understand how bright it is. A higher lux rating indicates a more powerful light.

2. Color Temperature and Adjustment Options

Color Temperature significantly affects the mood for your shoot. These LED camera light usually have a range of color temperatures from warm (2700K) to cool (6500K). You have more control over how your images or video will look if you have a light that is more adjustable with color temperature in whatever environment.

For example, Digitek’s DFFL 4060 Flexible Fabric LED Light offers a range of 2700K to 6500K, allowing you to create the perfect lighting setup regardless of the time of day. The DCL-60W RGB also provides customizable settings, including 20 special effects like firework or paparazzi, which is perfect for creative shoots.

Tip: Look for lights that offer dimmable features and bi-color or RGB modes, so you can adjust both brightness and color temperature to suit your needs.

3. Portability and Power Source

When you are considering a portable LED camera light, think about the use and environment. If you are always on-the-go, these portable light are the best buy you can ever have. LEDs provide flexibility and freedom since you can take it whenever you need, you will not have to look for a source of power.

The Digitek (DCL-60W RGB) comes with an in-built 14.8V Li-ion battery, allowing for easy portability without needing to worry about constant charging. Similarly, the Digitek DPB-20000 PD QC Power Bank ensures you never run out of battery while on the go, offering a reliable power source for longer shoots.

Tip: Always check the battery life and charging options (such as Type-C or DC charging) before making a purchase. Also, look for power bank compatibility if you need extended shooting hours.

4. Build Quality and Durability

The build quality of a portable LED light determines how long it will last and whether it can withstand the rigors of travel, outdoor shoots, and studio use. Look for durable materials like high-strength aluminum alloy or engineering plastic, as these materials ensure that the light can withstand everyday wear and tear.

The Digitek (DCL-60W RGB) is an example of robust construction, combining a strong aluminum alloy and durable engineering plastic to create a rugged exterior. Even the DFFL 6090 Flexible Fabric LED Light, which is much lighter in construction, comes with a metal frame, diffuser, honeycomb grid to hold up for everyday use.

Tip: Don’t compromise on quality—durable materials not only ensure longer life but also contribute to better heat dissipation, keeping your light cool and functional over time.

5. Special Features and Customization

Beyond the basic functionality of an LED light, there are lots of lights with extra benefits that enhance your shooting experience. Look for lights with modes you can customize, smartphone app control, or special effects that give you even more flexibility and control creatively.

For example, the Digitek (DCL-60W RGB) offers FX Mode, which includes special effects like thunder, TV flashes, and SOS lights, giving you a wide range of creative lighting possibilities. The Digitek (DRL-18 RGB) offers RGB modes, making it ideal for vlogs, makeup tutorials, and live streams.

Also, app control is increasingly becoming an essential feature. In this case, you have app control with the Digitek (DFFL 6090) which allows you to adjust your lighting setup from a distance, especially useful when working with multiple lights during a shoot.

Tip: Check for features like smart controls, special effects, and remote or app-based adjustments that give you more flexibility when shooting in dynamic environments.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right LED camera light or LED light for photography is essential for taking your final results to the next level. Whether you need a bi-color option for indoor shoots, a flexible fabric light for versatility, or a portable ring light for live streaming, Digitek has a wide range of options to cater to every need.

When you are ready to buy, think about factors like the intensity and quantity of light produced, color temperature, size, build quality, and the features you want or care about to make sure you choose the best LED light for photography and videography.