Photography and cinematography is an industry that has evolved over the last few years. Illumination is one of the main components of this art. This will determine the quality of the latest output which is the main concern. For that reason, it will be essential to understand the lighting needed for any photo session.
To do this properly, one of the tools advised by experts in the light meter. Light meters are programmed to measure Light around a subject for optimal output accurately. In this article, we’ve listed the top 10 best light meters that will fit the job. We understand that the market is currently flooded with these accessories. So this can be a difficult task, especially for first-timers. Check out the short guide below before moving on to the reviews.
List of Best Light Meters in 2020
10. HOLDPEAK 881D Digital Light Meter with 270 ° Rotate Sensor Head
According to this review, this machine is in the tenth rank known as a wide range of measurements. It is designed in a versatile design that allows it to be used in schools, offices and other places where lighting is required. Accuracy for this light meter will also be guaranteed not to forget that it has a detector that rotates 270 degrees. In this package, you will find a carrying case, a manual and a screwdriver. In addition, light meters have a one-year warranty.
Features
- It has a wide range of measurements
- 270 degree rotatable detector
- This light meter is extremely accurate
- The manufacturers offer a one year warranty on this product
Reasons to Buy This
This Light meter boasts a wide range of measurements and a high level of accuracy. You can also choose if it comes with a one year warranty to cover any defective manufacturing defects.
9. LANTEX Light Meter – Calibration Certificate Included
This light meter on the side of the list, which is a comp of amazing nature, will actually fit in the pocket, allowing you to carry it everywhere. Aside from its temporary nature, you will appreciate that it is highly intuitive and usable. This device’s versatility allows it to be used in warehouses, restaurants, offices, and even art galleries with just a few names. This will be the ideal product if you want to get the best precision. Light meter with a calibration certificate.
Features
- It uses LED white light as a Light measuring source
- The light meter has a versatile design
- It comes with a calibration certificate
- This light meter is very easy to use
Reasons to Buy This
Anyone who is careful about accuracy is recommended a light meter for it. Its compact and light weight allows it to be used everywhere as it fits in the pocket.
8. Hti-Xintai Light Meter with LCD Display (One Battery Included)
This is another excellent option for those looking for a device that people can carry in their pocket. Other features include that the device is very accurate and has a wide range of measurements. You will enjoy taking readings for this device even in low-light conditions because it is made with a backlight LCD display. To ensure that the device retains power for a long time, this light meter comes with an automatic shut-off feature. Also, in this package, you will get a 9V battery and a guide manual whenever you need to solve the problem.
Features
- High accuracy and measurement range
- It comes with a backlight LCD display
- Lightweight and compact design for portability
- Comes with an understandable user manual
Reasons to Buy This
The compact and lightweight nature of this machine for whatever reason you want to buy this device, has also made it unique due to its accuracy and wide range of measurements.
7. Kenko KFM-1100 Automatic Digi Meter for Flash & Ambient Light
It is a flash meter designed for those who hate complex processes. Another great feature that makes the device stand out is its level of accuracy. On the other hand, its compact design allows you to carry it wherever you go. The manufacturer has made this light meter with a good LCD display so that you can read easily. As a bonus, the flash and ambient Light will be easily analyzed to determine the light ratio for each scene.
Features
- The device is very easy to use
- It also has an analysis function for accurate light mixing
- Facilitates cord or cordless operation
- The device is perfect and fully featured
Reasons to Buy This
It is a compact light meter that allows you to enjoy both cord and cordless design. It is rated among the most straightforward light meters to use. What’s more, its accuracy is invincible.
6. BTMETER BT-881D Light Meter with 270º Rotated Sensor
One of the popular aspects of this Light meter is its level of accuracy. You will also appreciate its quick response as it will respond less in 0.4 seconds. If you are looking to instantly measure the amount of illumination you are getting at the moment, this will be the whole product. Another advantage of this device is that it has a wide range of measurements. With a resolution of 0.01, this device differs from its competitors. The manufacturers made this device with friendly controls to ensure you have a good experience with light meters.
Features
- The light meter is extremely accurate.
- This device will respond as briefly as 0.4 seconds.
- It has a wide range of measurements.
- The device easily memorizes light readings.
Reasons to Buy This
It has a wide range of measurements which is an incredibly intuitive and easy to use light meter. What’s more, the device can memorize light text, which makes it better than others.
5. Sekonic L-308X-U Light Meter (401-305)
It is the lightest and lightest light meter ever introduced. Its pocket-sized design allows you to carry it wherever you go. You will also appreciate that it has various methods that make it ideal for so many applications. Aside from its versatility, it has been rated as the most user-friendly light meter on the market so far. This unit inherits the same accuracy as its predecessors. Experts created it to measure flash and ambient Light for convenience.
Features
- It can be used with movie-grade cameras
- The Light must be controlled using appropriate or shutter speeds to record exposure readings.
- The device has a perfect response time
- It is designed to provide easy access to the user
Reasons to Buy This
If you are looking for a light meter that can be carried in your pocket wherever you go, this would be the right choice. Another reason you might want to buy this device is its level of accuracy.
4. Extech LT300 Light Meter
According to our team of experts, in fourth place is the Estek Light Meter, which prides itself on a quality design. Manufacturers are aware of the changing times and that is why it brings significant features. For example, it is equipped with a large LCD display for easy reading. You will also appreciate this light meter for night use as it features a backlight. There are two main modes in which the light meter uses the peak and comparative methods. It has a light sensor cable that can actually extend up to 24 inches.
Features
- It has backlight features for taking the text in low light areas
- An accurate photodiode is used in the Light meter
- Featuring a large LCD display with an analog bar graph
- Relative and peak mode
3. URCERI Light Meter with a range of up to 200,000 Lux
It is another well-known brand in the lighting equipment industry. For the past years, the brand has provided the best lighting equipment to its customers. The unique functions of this Light meter and its excellent build make it suitable for its competitors. It is a handheld unit that will allow you to carry it anywhere you want. To add to this, experts in the experienced field have created the device to illuminate a place in the best way possible. The meter has a large LCD screen with four digital colors for easy viewing.
Features
- It will measure illumination up to 200,000 lux
- This device is highly accurate
- Lightweight and compact design
- It has a wide range of applications
2. Leaton Digital Luxmeter with LCD Display
According to our team of experts, Liton Light Meter is in second place. It has a great range and is made in a small size for portability purposes. If you want to get a quality light meter on an affordable budget then this is your right choice. What’s more, it produces more energy than the sun.
It is a compact unit but does a lot. For example, it has a hold function to hold the current reading space. You will further appreciate that it has detected an automatic range to detect the normality of ambient Light. What’s more, it has a low-battery indicator.
Features
- It uses a 9V battery which is not included in the package
- The device can detect low battery
- It is accurate all the way to 200,000 Lux
- Lightweight and compact design
1. Fluke 941 Illuminance Meter Tester
Finally, this review has this Fluke 941 Light meter which has a wide range. The reason why you want to get this light meter is that it has unbeatable accuracy. It therefore informs you that you will be happy with the final result. You should not hesitate to buy this device even though it is new in the market.
Another advantage of this device is that it has an automatic and manual range selection. What’s more, it has an automatic shutdown feature that allows it to store battery power. Also for portability, it comes in a compact and light weight.
Features
- Employs both manual and automatic range selection
- Lightweight and compact design for easy transportation
- Comes with an automatic shutdown feature
- It has a battery life of about 200 hours
Reasons to Buy This
It is a compact light meter which is also known for its ease of use. What’s more, it has a good display that will let you read quickly.
Light Meters Buying Guide
Materials: You should pay attention to the materials used as well as the craftsmanship. It is making the sensor will be an essential topic to look at. This is the part that indicates the output you are going to. If quality materials were used, it means you can expect the best image quality.
Ease of use: Regardless of whether you are a beginner or an expert in the field, the Light meter you choose will help you save time. If the directions are too complex, it is clear that you will waste time trying to understand them. For that reason, it is wise to choose a light meter that matches your level of experience. Also, check that the user manual is provided.
Value: Last but not least, you need to make sure that the Light meter you choose pays you for the money. These accessories come in different price ranges. So, this means that there will be a difference in the characteristics of each light meter. The most important thing for you here is to make sure that the Light meters you choose to pay you for the money.
Conclusion
Light meters play an essential role in ensuring that you get the best image when shooting. What this device does is control the amount of Light that will be used when shooting photos. There is a wide range of light meters on the market, making it a final task to select the best light meter. This was the inspiration for this article and with the list above, you are sure to find the right device for yourself. Buyers’ guides were also provided before the item to help you understand the different aspects of buying.