Five things to look for in an LED light panel
01 Colour temperature
Some panels are balanced solely for either daylight or tungsten colour temperature. Others incorporate a mix of cool white and warm white LEDs, and allow you to adjust the brightness of each.
02 Panel size
Small panels are lightweight and often have a hotshoe adaptor for clipping directly onto your camera. Tripod attachment is also possible, whereas large panels usually mount on stands.
03 Power
Small panels are often powered by AA batteries but may feature mains power adaptors and Li-ion battery packs. Large panels are usually mains-powered but often have optional battery packs.
04 Maximum output
The maximum output is generally stated in Lux (lumens per square metre) and is quoted at a distance of one metre. The strength of illumination decreases rapidly as distance increases.
05 Beam angle
The width of the beam angle is usually between 40 and 60 degrees, as featured in the light panels in this test group.
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