Best Ring Lights for Video Conferencing

When it comes to buying photography accessories, you might be tempted to go with the cheapest option. But don't make that mistake! Ring lights are where it's at when it comes to lighting your subject in a flattering way. And while they may seem like an expensive investment up front, there are plenty of affordable options out there that offer high quality and long-lasting value. 

Table of contents

1. What makes a ring light “best” for video calls?
2. Top ring lights for video conferencing
3. How to choose the right ring light
4. Do ring lights really improve video quality?
5. Common ring light mistakes to avoid
6. Conclusion

So, what exactly is a ring light? It's basically just a light source that sits around your subject's face instead of above or below them like traditional lights do (hence the name).

The effect is more natural because there isn't any obvious shadowing or harsh shadows being cast onto your subject, and often times this can make them look better than if they were under another type of lighting altogether!

What makes a ring light “best” for video calls?

Not all ring lights are created equal, especially when it comes to professional video conferencing or content creation. The right light can mean the difference between appearing tired and shadowy or well-lit and camera-ready. Here's what to look for when choosing the best ring light for your setup:

• Brightness and colour control: The ability to adjust brightness levels and colour temperature is essential for achieving a polished, natural look on video calls. Warmer tones are often more flattering for skin, while cooler tones can mimic daylight—ideal for productivity. Look for dimmable lights with a wide Kelvin range (e.g., 3200K–6500K) so you can adapt to different times of day and room conditions.
• Mounting options: A versatile mounting system can vastly improve your setup. Tripods offer height and angle control, desk clamps free up surface space, and gooseneck arms let you fine-tune positioning with ease. If you're using multiple monitors or a small desk, flexibility here is key to ensuring the light doesn't obstruct your view or clutter your space.
• Portability: For those working remotely or on the go, portability is a big plus. USB-powered ring lights are ideal for plugging into laptops or portable chargers, while battery-powered models offer complete freedom from cables. Whether you're hopping between co-working spaces or just prefer a tidy desk, portable options keep your workspace flexible.
• Size matters: The diameter of the ring light influences both the quality and spread of light. Larger ring lights (14–18 inches) cast broader, softer illumination and are perfect for full-face lighting or group calls. Smaller options (10–12 inches) are great for single-person webcam use and tighter spaces. Think about how much light you need and how far you typically sit from the camera.

Ultimately, the best ring light for video conferencing is one that balances performance with practicality—bright enough to flatter, versatile enough to position properly, and compact enough to fit seamlessly into your work or creative space.

Top ring lights for video conferencing

If you’re short on time or simply want a quick overview before diving into detailed reviews, this section gives you a snapshot of the best ring lights available for remote meetings, online teaching, livestreaming, and everyday video calls. We’ve curated this list to cover a wide range of use cases and budgets, from compact options for casual users to professional-grade kits for creators and remote workers who rely on video daily.

Below, you’ll find a side-by-side comparison of ten popular ring light models, highlighting their size, power source, pricing tier, and best-fit scenario. Whether you're after portability, colour control, or full-body lighting, this chart will help you narrow down your choices fast.

Tip: If you're unsure what size or features to prioritise, start with a mid-range option like the Neewer 14” RGB Ring Light—it offers solid versatility without overwhelming your setup or budget.

Neewer 18-inch LED Ring Light ($139.99; amazon.com)

This excellent ring light for video calls uses 18 LEDs, which is more than any other option on our list. It's adjustable between 0 and 100% brightness, which means that you can adjust the amount of light coming out of it to suit your needs. There's also a dimmer switch included, so you can turn it down even lower if you want something more subtle (or if your eyes are sensitive).

The Neewer ring light comes with an aluminium alloy stand and tripod, as well as a battery pack for portable use.

If you're looking for something more professional-looking that doesn't need to be plugged in at all times but still has good lighting capabilities, this may be the one for you!

Elgato ring light ($79.99; elgato.com)

If you're looking for a premium lighting solution that’s purpose-built for remote professionals and content creators, the Elgato Ring Light is one of the best options available in 2025. With a diameter of 17 inches, this light delivers soft, edge-lit illumination that eliminates harsh shadows while providing consistent, flattering lighting on video calls or livestreams.

What makes the Elgato Ring Light stand out is its smart integration. You can adjust brightness and colour temperature wirelessly via Wi-Fi using the Elgato Control Center app on your computer or phone—no need to reach over mid-call. The light supports a broad colour temperature range (2900K–7000K), allowing you to match your environment or personal style with ease.

It also includes a sturdy desk clamp mount and a ball head that fits webcams, DSLRs, or smartphones, giving you flexible setup options for any workspace. With flicker-free LEDs and a high CRI rating (CRI ≥ 94), your video presence will appear clean and professional under all lighting conditions.

Perfect for: streamers, educators, virtual presenters, or anyone who wants to look their best on camera with minimal setup hassle.

Neewer Dimmable 12-inch LED Ring Light ($53.99; Neewer.com)

• Battery powered. The Neewer Dimmable 12-inch LED Ring Light is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It comes with a charger, but you can also use any USB wall adapter that outputs 5V DC and 1A (1000mA).
• Dimmable. You can adjust the brightness of this ring light in two different modes: soft white and blue light output for better skin tone or eye colour correctness when taking photos of people, and daylight white for brighter photos with more contrast.
• Adjustable light angle and distance from the subject. This ring light is adjustable to fit any size head or object up to 12 inches in diameter (30 cm), so it's not just useful for makeup tutorials!
• Great for wide-angle shots like group shots or macro photography where you want your subject's face illuminated while still illuminating the background behind them too--this makes it great for product photography as well as food photography!

Neewer 14-inch RGB Ring Light ($69.99; Neewer.com)

If you want to add some colour to your photos, the Neewer 14-inch RGB Ring Light is a good choice. It can be adjusted to any colour temperature and comes with an IR remote control for adjusting it from up to 30 feet away.

The ring light includes five interchangeable filters (white, yellow, orange, blue, and green). The base of the light has a frosted glass cover that diffuses light evenly across the entire surface of your subject's face or object. This is a good circle light for meetings.

Emart 18" inch LED Photography Lighting Kit ($59.99; Emartus.com) 

It's got a ton of features that make it stand out. First off, it has 18-inch LED bulbs that will give you nice, even lighting every time you use them.

The Emart 18" inch LED Photography Lighting Kit also comes with an AC adapter so you can plug it into your wall and get some power going to those lights! That means two full hours of continuous use without any worry about draining your battery or trying to find a place to plug into the wall.

Another thing to love about this light is that it comes with temperature adjustment as well as dimming. This can assure that you deliver light that is smooth and not too harsh on yourself when streaming.

Also, being able to control cooler or warmer ambient lighting is a great and subtle lighting effect that opens up an entire dimension of self-expression in your live streams.

Godox LR150 Ring Light with Remote Control (£69.99; godox.com)

The Godox LR150 is a versatile 18-inch LED ring light that bridges the gap between affordability and professional-grade features. With adjustable brightness and colour temperature (3000K–6000K), it provides smooth, balanced lighting suitable for both daytime calls and evening streams.

Its standout feature is a wireless remote control that makes it easy to adjust your lighting without leaving your seat—ideal for live settings or back-to-back meetings. The LR150 also boasts a CRI of 90+, ensuring natural colour tones and accurate rendering, which is especially useful for video recording, makeup tutorials, or client-facing calls.

The package includes a built-in phone holder and USB power option, making it equally suitable for desktop setups and portable use. Its minimalist design and reliable performance make it a popular choice among professionals and content creators in 2025.

Logitech Litra Glow ($69.99; logitech.com)

The Logitech Litra Glow is a compact, monitor-mounted light that's perfect for remote professionals and minimalist workspaces. While not a traditional ring light, it deserves a place on this list for its innovative TrueSoft LED technology, which delivers cinematic-quality lighting in a small, USB-powered frame.

Designed to clip onto your monitor, the Litra Glow eliminates the need for a tripod or additional desk space. It provides soft, full-spectrum lighting that flatters the subject while reducing harsh shadows and eye strain. With adjustable brightness and colour temperature (2700K–6500K), it's flexible enough to adapt to changing natural light throughout the day.

Certified as safe for all-day use and engineered with streamers in mind, it’s a perfect fit for Zoom meetings, online teaching, or video recordings where a large ring light might feel excessive.

Razer Ring Light ($79.99; razer.com)

If you're after a sleek and vibrant lighting solution tailored for livestreaming, the Razer Ring Light is a top contender in 2025. Measuring 12 inches across, it offers a compact yet powerful beam of soft, adjustable light—ideal for streaming setups, video calls, and game broadcasts.

The ring light features adjustable brightness and a colour temperature range of 3000K to 6500K, allowing you to tweak your lighting to suit your mood, brand, or ambient surroundings. It also includes a tripod stand and a phone holder, making it suitable for both mobile and desktop setups.

Although designed with gamers in mind, its simplicity and reliability have earned it a spot in many professionals’ remote work setups as well. With a plug-and-play USB interface and crisp output, it’s a stylish lighting upgrade without the complexity of studio gear.

Ubeesize 10-inch Selfie Ring Light with Tripod Stand & Cell Phone Holder ($23.23; Amazon.com)

The Ubeesize 10-inch Selfie Ring Light with Tripod Stand & Cell Phone Holder is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to get the most out of their ring light.

Thanks to its tripod stand, you can adjust this self-portrait lighting tool so that it's angled just right. It also comes with a phone holder, so you can take pictures by hand or attach your phone to use it as a selfie stick.

This product has some excellent features:

• 10 inches tall and 10 inches in diameter
• Tripod stand allows for adjustability of angle (upright position) or distance from camera/subject (on ground level)
• Phone holder lets you use your phone as a selfie stick
• LED lights provide even illumination from all sides

GVM 10" Led Video Light for Indoor Photography ($413; amazon.com)

The GVM 10" Led Video Light for Photography is a good choice if you need to shoot in low light at your desk. This light has a desk clamp mount and dimmable control, and its intensity can be adjusted between full power and half power. It's also adjustable, so it can be used either as a spotlight on the subject or to illuminate the background of your shot. Its compact size makes it a good ring light for laptop video conferencing.

The GVM 10" LED Video Light for Photography is portable and lightweight, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. Its compact size allows it to fit into almost any bag or camera case without taking up too much space. Finally, at under $150 (as of this writing), this ring light is very affordable compared with many other options on the market today.

How to choose the right ring light

With so many ring lights on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But finding the right one doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're working from home, livestreaming on Twitch, or teaching students online, the ideal ring light should match your environment, gear, and budget. Here's what to consider before clicking 'buy'.

• Corporate video conferencing: Go for mid-size lights (12–14”) with dimmable white tones. You'll want a soft, professional glow that doesn’t scream “studio.”
• Content creators and streamers: RGB lighting, large 18” rings, or kits with filters and accessories help deliver more visual impact and creative control.
• Educators or remote trainers: A reliable 10–12” light with easy mounting and USB power is great for daily use without fussing over advanced settings.

Desk size & room lighting conditions

If your workspace is compact or cluttered, a smaller ring light with a clip or desk clamp mount will save space. For darker rooms, prioritise models with higher lumen output or adjustable colour temperature to simulate natural light and reduce harsh shadows. Think about where you’ll position the light, and whether you need it to be foldable or adjustable.

Power source preferences

• USB-powered: Great for laptop setups and portability. Ideal if you work in cafés, co-working spaces, or travel often.
• Battery-powered: Offers full freedom without cables. Look for rechargeable lithium options if you shoot on location or move around during calls.
• AC mains-powered: Delivers consistent power for longer sessions—perfect for studio desks and static workstations.

Webcam, DSLR, or phone?

Make sure the ring light matches your camera setup. Most entry-level models include phone holders and tripod mounts, while professional rigs often support DSLR cameras. If you're using a webcam, check that the ring diameter aligns well with your camera angle to avoid glare or unlit zones.

Budget ranges

• Under $50: Entry-level lights (8–10") with basic brightness adjustment. Ideal for casual calls or lighting up your face during online chats.
• $50–$100: Offers better build quality, dimmable colour temperature, and more versatile mounting options. A solid range for regular video calls or beginner streaming.
• $100 and up: Professional setups with advanced controls, remote functionality, and multi-light kits. Best for creators, teachers, and remote professionals investing in long-term quality.

Pro tip: If you're unsure where to start, look for a light in the $70–$100 range with a tripod, phone mount, and dimmable settings—it’ll serve you well across multiple scenarios.

Do ring lights really improve video quality?

Absolutely—ring lights are one of the simplest and most effective upgrades you can make to instantly elevate your video presence. Even if you’re using a basic webcam, a good ring light can significantly improve how you look on screen by softening shadows, evening out your skin tone, and helping your eyes appear brighter and more engaging.

Before and after: What a ring light actually does

Imagine joining a video call in a dimly lit room. Without a ring light, your face may appear dull, shadowed, or unevenly lit. Switch on a ring light, and the difference is immediate: you’ll see softer shadows, a warm natural glow, and a sharper, more defined appearance.

It’s not just about looking good—it’s about being seen clearly. Whether you're presenting to colleagues or recording content, proper lighting ensures your expressions and gestures are easy to interpret, helping you come across more confidently and professionally.

Source: CNN

Catch lights and even illumination

Ring lights produce uniform light that surrounds the camera lens, bathing the subject in soft, balanced lighting from all angles. This eliminates harsh directional shadows that typical overhead lights or desk lamps often create.

One of the most visually pleasing results is the appearance of "catch lights"—small, circular reflections in the eyes that add depth and life to your gaze. This subtle detail helps you appear more alert, expressive, and human, perfect for connecting with viewers or colleagues through a screen.

Key visual benefits

• Even skin tone: Ring lights minimise blemishes and uneven colouring, giving your face a smoother, healthier look.
• Shadow reduction: Light surrounds your face evenly, preventing unflattering shadows under your eyes, nose, or chin.
• Improved clarity: Your facial expressions and movements appear sharper and more distinct, even on lower-resolution webcams.

Whether you're presenting on Digital Samba, livestreaming to followers, or hosting a virtual classroom, ring lights help you look your best, without requiring advanced equipment or a professional studio setup.

Common ring light mistakes to avoid

Even the best ring light won't deliver perfect results if it’s not used correctly. Avoiding these common pitfalls can help you maximise the impact of your lighting and ensure you look your best on every call or recording.

Mounting the light too high or low

Placing the ring light above or below eye level can create unwanted shadows, especially under your nose or chin. Always position the ring light at or just above eye level and directly in front of your face. This ensures balanced, flattering illumination that enhances your features without distortion.

Ignoring colour temperature settings

Many people overlook the importance of adjusting the light's warmth or coolness. Using a cold, bluish light in a warm-toned room—or vice versa—can result in unnatural-looking skin. Match the ring light’s colour temperature (measured in Kelvins) to your environment for a more natural appearance.

Overexposing your face

Cranking up brightness to the maximum might seem like a good idea, but it can lead to washed-out skin, glare on glasses, or an unnatural glow. Start with a lower brightness and adjust gradually—aim for soft, even lighting that flatters but doesn’t overpower.

Using the wrong power source

Plugging a USB-powered light into a weak power bank or an underpowered laptop port can cause flickering or reduced brightness. For consistent performance, use a wall adapter or a fully charged battery pack where possible, especially during important meetings or live recordings.

Forgetting to test before going live

Lighting may look fine at first glance, but it's always best to preview your video feed before joining a call or starting a stream. Adjusting brightness, position, and background lighting in advance ensures fewer distractions and a more polished appearance once you're live.

Remember: Even small tweaks can make a big difference. Take a few minutes to set things up properly, and you’ll look more professional and feel more confident in every virtual interaction.

Conclusion

If you're looking for a high-quality light that won't break the bank, pick up one of these ring lights today.

In the world of photo and video, ring lights are a boon to anyone who wants to take their craft to the next level. Ring lights make for excellent lighting in any situation, whether you're shooting portraits or doing makeup tutorials. And if you're still not sold on ring lights, consider this: they've been used by top photographers and videographers for years—vloggers included!

Here's why we love using ring lights:

• They produce a soft, flattering light that makes everyone look great (even if they don't think they do).
• They come in an array of sizes so you can find one that fits your needs perfectly. If you like your shots close up, choose a small one; if the distance is important for your project (like with vlogging), try something larger instead! You can even buy multiple rings and combine them for unique results!
• They allow creative freedom when lighting isn't possible due to lack of space or lack thereof power outlets nearby where needed most--not only does this mean less work involved in setting up each shot, but also less cost spent on renting equipment from places like Borrowlenses when all else fails.

Well, there you have it—our top picks for the best ring lights on the market. Are you ready to start impressing your colleagues? Then go ahead and pick up one of these fantastic lights today!

Pair your improved lighting setup with a secure, high-quality video platform like Digital Samba to truly elevate your online presence. If you're building your own video app, consider using Digital Samba’s video conferencing API and SDK for a seamless and fully embeddable experience

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What size ring light should I get for video calls?

A 10–14-inch ring light is ideal for most webcam setups. If you're further from the camera or want full upper-body coverage, go for an 18-inch light for more balanced illumination.

Can I use a ring light with my laptop or phone?

Yes, most ring lights are designed to work with laptops, smartphones, or webcams. Look for ones with USB power and universal phone mounts for maximum flexibility.

Why does my face look shiny on video, even with a ring light?

That’s usually due to overexposure or oily skin reflecting the light. Reduce brightness slightly and use a diffuser or matte powder to soften the glare.

Can I leave my ring light on all day?

Technically, yes, but it's best to switch it off when not in use to prevent overheating and extend the lifespan, especially for budget models.

Do I need a ring light if I already have a bright room?

Natural light is great, but it changes throughout the day. A ring light gives you consistent, flattering lighting no matter the time or weather.

Will a ring light work if I wear glasses?

Yes, but you may see ring-shaped reflections. To avoid glare, tilt the ring light slightly above eye level or use an anti-glare coating on your glasses.