There are many different factors to consider when it comes to finding the best lighting resources for your vlogging and photography needs. You want something that will be bright enough for your shots but not too bright that it causes problems with your glare. You also want something portable and easy to use.
In this guide, we’ll compare three popular lighting options: the Lume Cube, the Elgato Key Light, and the Logitech Litra Glow. We will look at their features and discuss which one might be right for you. Additionally, we will provide a buying guide to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
~~~ Check Price: Lume Cube Broadcast Lighting Kit ~~~
~~~ Check Price: Elgato Key Light ~~~
~~~ Check Price: Logitech Litra Glow ~~~
Lume Cube Overview
The Lume Cube is a small, portable, and versatile light that advertises itself as “iPhone size.” It is used in photography, videography, and vlogging.
The powerful Lume Cube light has grown popular among content creators, which has led to increased demand. The lighting is popular because of its small size, portability, versatility, and the increasingly excellent reputation of the Lume Cube brand.
The product comes with a 12″ – 30″ adjustable tripod in addition to a simple computer mount. It contains the continuous video light function, which is great for vlogging.
Lume Cube is solidly built in a fashion that makes it both durable and lightweight. The Lume Cube allows for modulation of brightness from level 1 to level 100, and can also be adjusted with the app.
It also has a color temperature of 3200-5600K, perfect for shooting under daylight and night conditions.
Lume Cube is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery that gives you up to 120 minutes of use. In addition, the device comes with a USB charging cable that allows it to be powered by your computer’s power source. Its 96 CRI rating also means that the colors in your photos and videos will be accurately represented.
The device has Bluetooth control for iOS and Android devices. It comes with accessories like a diffuser, charging cables, the tripod, and computer suction mount.
Key features
- Highly portable
- Highly versatile
- 90+ minute battery life
- Necessary accessories included
- Bluetooth control for iOS and Android devices
Elgato Key Light Overview
The Elgato Key Light is an LED perfect for content creators and vloggers on the go. It’s also famous for streaming and recording video content on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch.
Elgato key light features an easy-to-use clip that can be attached to any object, as well as an adjustable stand so you can place it wherever you need it. The setup process and instructions are spelled out well, and fairly simple to follow.
The Elgato is thin and light, which makes it easy to carry. It has a pole mount with a clamp at the bottom so you can easily attach it to a desk. Its pole is 49 inches long when fully extended, giving you a fair amount of room to work with. At the top of the pole is a ball head that rotates up to 360 degrees.
One key point to make is that the Elgato Key Light maintains a very slim profile even though it is the largest light on our list and also has the longest pole on the list. The desk mount has a simple design and will help your setup stay clutter-free.
The lighting comes with a single button at the bottom for switching on, off, and resetting purposes. Other lighting controls are managed through the Elgato app.
Moreover, this device features a massive brightness of 2800 lumens and a color temperature ranging from 2900-7000 Kelvin. The light has a CRI of 92, which is one of the best in the market and ensures that colors are accurately represented.
The Key Light is compatible with the Stream deck. This means that you can add extra light to your live stream or even save custom light presets.
Key features
- 2800 lumens brightness
- 49-inch long extendable pole
- CRI of 92
- Rotatable ball head
- It can be controlled with the Elgato app or Stream Deck
Logitech Litra Glow Overview
Logitech has been in the game for a while now. The Logitech Litra Glow is one of their newest products, and it’s a great addition to any content creator’s toolkit.
The Logitech Litra Glow is an exceptionally lightweight and portable light efficiently carried around. It also comes with a removable clamp that can be attached to a tripod or other devices using the ¼ inch thread. The device’s mount takes a minute to get used to, but once you have the hang of it you will love the range of motion the light has.
Logitech Litra Glow has a brightness of 250 lumens and a CRI of 93, which is quite good. You also get a color temperature of 2700-6500K, giving you many options to play with.
You also get power buttons, brightness, and warmth regulators at the back with this lighting option. This makes it easy to control and adjust the light according to your needs. It also contains a USB port at the back to connect the light directly to your PC or charge it.
Lastly, you can control the light through the Logitech App and Logitech G HUB software. The software gives you the ability to switch on and off adjust brightness and warmth settings.
Key features
- Light and portable
- The brightness of 250 lumens
- CRI of 93
- The color temperature of 2700-6500K
- Compatible with Logitech App and G HUB software
- USB port for charging or connecting to PC
- 2700-6500K color temperature range
- Can be controlled through Logitech App and G Hub software
Lume Cube vs. Elgato Key Light vs. Logitech Litra Glow
These three lights are all great for content creators, but which one stands out? Below we have listed a few comparisons of the features to help you decide which might suit your needs.
1. Design
There’s no doubt that these three are unique when it comes to design. The Lume Cube and Logitech Litra Glow are smaller lights that have a space-saving design and sit atop your monitor.
Lume Cube is rectangular in shape and looks generally like a smart phone in size and shape. Litra Glow has a more square-shaped design and appears similar to a reading light. On the other hand, the Elgato Key Light is a larger, rectangular light that sits on your desk and looks so large and intimidating that it reminds me of a spotlight. However, the pole and mounting device for Elgato are still slim enough that it won’t get it your way.
The Lume Cube and Logitech Litra Glow are small enough to be easily disconnected and reconnected when needed. Their size makes them an excellent choice for content creators who are always on the go. The Elgato Key Light is the largest and most powerful of the three, making it an excellent choice for content creators who need a lot of light.
2. Battery Life
The Lume Cube has a battery life of up to two hours, but in testing it rarely gets more than a full hour on a charge. The Elgato and Litra Glow don’t have any battery, so they must be plugged in to the computer. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but having the battery on Lume Cube is beneficial to content creators who are constantly moving.
The Lume Cube is the only light of the three that does not need to be plugged in. This feature makes it a more convenient option for content creators who are always on the go.
3. Optional Software
All three lights have the option to be used with the software. The Lume Cube has an app that allows you to control the light remotely. The Elgato Key Light can be controlled with the Elgato Stream Deck. The Logitech Litra Glow can be controlled with the Logitech G HUB.
The Lume Cube is the only light of the three with a dedicated app. This factor should place Elgato and Logitech Litra Glow at an advantage as they are controlled with the already present software on users’ computers. However, Logitech (G Hub) and Elgato (Stream Deck) both function beautifully.
4. Versatility
The Lume Cube is the most versatile light of the three due to the ability to use it without a power source. The Elgato Key Light and the Lume Cube are less versatile because they can only be used as desk lights. However, the mount on Litra Glow is cleverly designed and always allows for the perfect angulation and adjustments. And even though Elgato Key Light is large and bulky, you really can’t compete with the brightness, clarity, and overall quality.
5. Price
At the time of publish, Elgato Key Light was the most expensive option on the list, by a wide margin. This is justified because Elgato is a best-in-class product that packs a punch that the other devices just can’t.
For about half the price of the Elgato Key Light, you can get the Lume Cube Broadcast Lighting Kit.
And for about half the price of the Lume Cube, you can get the Logitech Litra Glow.
Simply put, these devices have a wide discrepancy in price. Elgato is much more expensive, but it is the brightest and best light on the list. Logitech Litra Glow is an excellent product if you need something budget-friendly, and honestly feels underpriced with an MSRP ~$60.
Guide to Buying the Best Lighting
Buying lighting for your video production can be a daunting task. With so many options on the market, it’s hard to know which one is right for you. Below are some factors to consider when making your purchase.
Quality
One of the most important aspects to look for when purchasing a light is its quality. Quality aspects include brightness, color accuracy, and how long the light will last.
Thankfully, all three of these lights score well in this category. There are hundreds of low-quality knockoffs and drop-shipped video lights flooding the market, but most of them aren’t worth buying no matter how cheap they are.
These are 3 brands that you can really trust.
Durability
Another critical factor to consider is durability. Lights can take a beating on set, so it’s crucial to find one built to last.
Again, Lume Cube, Elgato, and Logitech are all pretty well regarded for durability. Even though these lights command a premium price, you do get what you pay for.
Portability
Lights also come in different sizes and shapes, so it’s essential to pick one that is portable enough for you to transport easily if you want to use it on-the-go.
On the other hand, if you have a dedicated computer setup (like most streamers and vloggers do), there is nothing wrong with getting a higher-quality and less portable video light.
Ease of Use
You’ll want to make sure the light you choose is easy to use. This will save you time and frustration in the long run. Look for features such as an adjustable stand, remote control, and app-compatibility.
All 3 of these products have well-made stands, easy setup, and are compatible with any device you will need to use them with.
Price
Of course, price is also an important consideration. Be sure to set a budget before making your purchase. Ensure that you also compare the prices of different lights to get the best deal. Getting the lights on discounts can also help save money.
Features
Before making a purchase, be sure to consider the features each light offers. Some lights have built-in diffusers, while others come with remote control. Some lights also come with optional software that allows you to control the light from your computer.
Adjusting Your Lights for Optimal Results
One of the best things about these three devices is their adjustable nature. You can tweak their brightness, color temperature, and directionality to get just the right effect for your vlogs or photographs.
- Brightness: Most high-quality lights offer a good range of brightness settings. Remember, the key isn’t to have the brightest light possible, but rather to achieve an optimal balance. Brightness should be enough to illuminate your subject without creating harsh shadows or glare. A rule of thumb is to start with a medium setting and adjust up or down based on the results.
- Color Temperature: This is measured in Kelvin (K) and affects the mood and tone of your content. Lower values (around 3000K) produce a warm, yellowish light suitable for a cozy, intimate vibe. On the other hand, higher values (above 5000K) give off a cooler, bluish light that’s perfect for a professional or energetic atmosphere. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for your content.
- Directionality: The direction from which your light hits the subject can dramatically alter the outcome. Front lighting eliminates shadows and highlights details, but can sometimes appear flat. Side lighting creates depth and texture but may cast unwanted shadows. Backlighting can create a dramatic effect, but may also lead to silhouetting. Experiment with angles and observe the results!
Final Thoughts
If you consider purchasing a light for your video production, these three lights are good options.
The Lume Cube is an excellent option. It is versatile, portable, and easy to use.
The Elgato Key Light and Logitech Litra Glow are also great choices depending on your needs. Be sure to consider all of the factors listed above before making your purchase.
If you need the best product available, choose the Elgato Key Light. If you want to find a shockingly good video light in the sub-$75 price range, the Logitech Litra Glow can’t be beat. And the Lume Cube is solid all the way around, especially if you want the ability to use it unplugged due to the built-in battery.
FAQs
How long do the batteries of these lighting devices last?
The Lume Cube has a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 120 minutes. On the other hand, the Elgato Key Light and Logitech Litra Glow are powered via a direct power source, so there’s no battery life to consider.
Do I need specific software to control these lights?
All three lights can be controlled through their respective apps. The Lume Cube has a dedicated app, while the Elgato Key Light can be controlled with the Elgato Stream Deck, and the Logitech Litra Glow through the Logitech G HUB.
Can I use these lights outdoors?
While these lights are primarily designed for indoor use, the Lume Cube is portable enough to be used outdoors, given its rechargeable battery. However, it’s always important to consider the lighting conditions of your outdoor setting and ensure the device is protected from potential damage like rain or excessive heat.
Are these lights compatible with all cameras?
Yes, these lights should work with any camera or recording device, provided that the camera is capable of adjusting to the light’s output. They are designed to provide illumination, not to interact directly with the camera’s functioning.
Which of these lights is best for a beginner vlogger?
The choice largely depends on your needs and budget. The Logitech Litra Glow offers good features at a lower cost, making it a good option for beginners. However, the Lume Cube offers portability and battery-powered operation, while the Elgato Key Light delivers high-quality light, albeit at a higher price.