The monolight is designed to provide a constant, even light source. It is used primarily by professional photographers and videographers. Monolights are generally more powerful than other types of photographic lighting and offer more control over the lighting. They are also more expensive than other types of photographic lighting. Some of the renowned brands are ADB Acute, Elinca, & Yongnuo.
Choosing the right photographic lighting monolight is difficult as there are many factors to consider such as power, features, price, and brand. To make it easier to find the exact photographic lighting monolight you’re looking for, we rounded up the best photographic lighting monolights on Amazon, according to thousands of customer reviews.
Check out our favorite photographic lighting monolights in the list below, and keep reading for our buying guide.
Our Editor’s Best Photographic Lighting Monolights Reviews
- The andoer snoot bowen snoot interfit snoot optical snoot bowens mount is designed to help you focus the light and pinpoint the product details.
- The conical optical snoot for portrait flash snoot light snoot comes with honeycomb, more convenient and accurate.
- The photography snoot speedlight snoot photographic lighting truncated cone spot diffuser bowens compatible for Bowens mount studio photography light.
- photo light snoot kit conico bowens cone photography has five color filters(Transparent, red, green, blue and yellow) create effects at different color temperatures.
- cone for spot flash snoot for bowens mount made of high quality aluminum alloy, more durable.bowers mount snoot metal conical snoot with honeycomb grid is perfect as a hair light or dramatic accent light, creates a unique portrait for you.
- 【300Ws High Power Outdoor Strobe Flash】 With a 300Ws max flash output, adjustable flash power between 1/64 and 1/1, and a stable 5600K (±200K) color temperature, this NEEWER Q300 outdoor flash ensures natural and balanced lighting effects (flash tube sold separately). Also equipped with a 13W 3050K modeling lamp and an impressive illuminance of up to 5010lux at 0.5m, perfect for portraits, product photography, and other outdoor professional photography
- 【Smartly Protected High Capacity Lithium Battery】 Upgraded with multiple battery protection mechanisms like overheating and overvoltage, this 10.8V 7800mAh lithium battery ensures intelligent safeguarding for 1000 full power flashes with 0.4~2.5s fast recycling time, and can be fully charged in just 5 hours via the included charger (US plug). The low battery alert provides timely reminders to avoid unexpected power drain
- 【Manual/Multi/S1/S2/Quick Modes】 Fully supports Manual, Multi (Stroboscopic), and Optical Triggering (S1/S2), and does not support TTL and HSS modes (with sync speed no more than 1/200s when used with Q Compact trigger). Multi mode controls the stroboscopic rate up to 20 times (20 Hz). In Quick mode, you can adjust the flash duration from 1/1000s to 1/10000s across 10 levels. The high definition display with clear buttons allows for easy and efficient adjustment
- 【Built in 2.4G Wireless Q System】 As a Slave flash in 5 wireless control groups (A/B/C/D/E), 32 channels, controlled by a Master flash like NEEWER Z1 Z2 Z760, compatible with QPRO transmitters (not included). Use the Q COMPACT single contact trigger or sync cable for other Q system flashes in 16 channels and a 98'/30m range. Compatible with Canon Nikon Panasonic Olympus Pentax Fujifilm and Sony with Mi Hot Shoe cameras. Not compatible with Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D T7/1500D 2000D T100/3000D 4000D
- 【Standard Bowens Mount & Adjustable Handle】 Features a standard Bowens mount that easily attaches to softboxes, umbrellas, reflectors, and other light modifiers, and comes with a standard reflector and an umbrella hole to expand your photography rig. The adjustable handle can be either mounted on a light stand and allows for 180°rotation, or simply handheld for the convenience of outdoor shooting
- [Interchangeable Flash Heads] Flexibly snap in the exciting Round Head(NOT Included) with superior clean light spread, the Speedlight-Styled Fresnel Head(GN52, Direct-Focused Beam) and Bare-Bulb Head (GN60, Omni-Directional Beam)
- [Large Capacity Lithium Battery] The Godox AD200 Pro offers 500 full power flashes with 0. 01 to 1. 8 sec. Recycling. Expanded manual 9 stop range of power adjusts from full to 1/256 in 1/10th stop increments
- [2.4G Control with 330Ft Range] Godox AD200Pro supports Nikon, Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, Olympus, Panasonic and Pentax TTL. With Master Slave Function, AD200Pro Can be Used in Combination with Godox TTL Camera Flashes, TTL Outdoor Flashes, etc
- [Manual/TTL/Multi flash modes] Fully support flash exposure compensation, 1/8000S high speed Sync. Manual outputs the user's choice of power, modeling light, first/second curtain sync, etc. Multi controls the stroboscopic rate up to 90 times
- [Lightweight Portable Easy to Use] Easy to use buttons command a full range of functions like reliable Channel triggering, Group mode selectivity, HSS. The LCD panel clearly displays the status of all remote Strobes, so you always have control of group lighting setup
- 【Powerful Studio Monolight Kit】 This studio speedlight kit includes two S101-300W monolight flashes, two 6.6ft light stands, two softboxes, an RT-16 transmitter, two receivers, a 5 in 1 reflector, and a big carrying bag that can store and transport the whole kit. Each monolight features 300Ws maximum power and 5600K color temperature—an ideal light source for product, portrait, still life, food, commercial, and wedding photography
- 【Excellent 150W Modeling Lamp】 Compact yet capable, the 150W modeling lamp has 9 brightness levels (L1–L9) and 7.0–10 (1/8–1/1) flash power adjustment to match actual ambient light conditions. 1/2000–1/800s flash duration and 0.4-2.5s recycling time help you capture every precious moment. The flash tube with a stable power output resists high heat, high voltage, deformation, and breakage. Memory function saves settings for use the next time
- 【S1/S2 Optical Slave & Remote Sync】 S101-300W can work as a slave unit for diverse light effects. It can be triggered by a manual master unit in the S1 mode and a TTL master unit in the S2 mode. The RT-16 trigger features 16 channels and supports quick sync up to 1/200s within 99ft/30m (outdoor) or 66ft/20m (indoor) when the transmitter and receivers are set in the same channel. The single contact hot shoe is compatible with Canon Sony Nikon Fujifilm Olympus Panasonic Pentax cameras
- 【Efficient Heat Dissipation System】 The consistent, efficient, and silent heat dissipation system adopts optimized vents and cooling fans and an enlarged air inlet area for higher fan speed and lower temperature. No overheating will occur even after 300 consecutive full power flashes—for safe use and an extended flash lifespan
- 【Universal Accessory Bowens Mount】 The standard Bowens mount and umbrella socket can work with softboxes (included), photography umbrellas, reflectors, beauty dishes, snoots, and other light shapers for creative effects. The light stand mount adapter supports 180° tilt for free angle adjustment. The 5 in 1 reflector with gold, silver, white, black, and translucent diffuser bounces lighting with different color tones
- 【IF Design Awarded 400Ws Outdoor Flash】Q4 400Ws battery powered strobe light boasts a compact rectangular design, measuring 7.28"x6.06"x8.35" and weighing just 4.94lb, suitable for both outdoor photography and studio setup. With its impressive GN72 with a high performance reflector (not included), 30W/5600K/CRI95+ LED modeling lamp, and convenient top handle, it caters to various shooting needs. Note: Do not trigger the flash without plugging in the flash tube, as it will damage the equipment.
- 【TTL/Manual/Multi Flash Modes】Three flash modes: TTL, Manual, and Multi (Stroboscopic). Fully support flash exposure compensation; 1/8000s High Speed Sync; manual power control, modeling light, first/second curtain sync, etc. Multi controls the stroboscopic rate up to 100 times (199 Hz). Support S1, S2 mode, C.Fn custom setting (UNITS/ALT: Support Masking function when using with QPRO Trigger and in manual mode), etc. Support USB Type C firmware upgrades
- 【21.6V/2800mAh Lithium Battery】Increased battery capacity provides 400 full power flashes, a recycling time of 0.01-1.2s and a flash duration of 1/209-1/10989s, perfect for capturing continuous action. Battery compartment for easy replacement of spare batteries. With a DC charging port, the flash can be powered via the included adapter and takes about 3.5 hours to fully charge
- 【QPRO-S Trigger & Built in 2.4G Q system】Works with the included QPRO-S trigger to wirelessly set off flashes up to 5 groups, 32 channels, and 01-99 IDs within 328'/100m, compatible with Sony A9 II A9 A7R V A7R IV A7 IV A7R III A7S III A7 III A7S II A7R II A7 II A7S A7 A7C A1 A6600 A6500 A6400 A6100 A6000 A99 A350 cameras. Note: Upgrade firmware when if incompatibility occurs
- 【Bowens Mount Attachment】 The widely used Bowens mount can connect the monolight to various light modifiers, such as reflectors, softboxes, snoots, and beauty dishes. The package includes 1 x Q4 Flash Strobe, 1 x QPRO-S Wireless Trigger, 1 x Standard Reflector, 1 x Lithium Battery, 1 x Handle, 1 x Power Cord (US Plug), 1 x Power Adapter, 1 x Carrying Case. Please note that you can only use the power adapter/cord included to charge the product
- 【Tripod Stand with 360° Casters】 Equipped with 360° swivel casters for convenient mobility, this rolling tripod from Neewer allows you to glide your heavy equipment on the floor without dragging and lifting. Step-on brakes lock the casters and keep the tripod stationary while in use. Rubber wheels protect the floor from scratches
- 【Solid Construction】 This durable tripod can support photographic equipment up to 66lb (30kg). Corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction withstands moisture, high temperature, and shocks, making this tripod suitable for use in different weather conditions
- 【Adjustable Height】 The 3-section telescopic tripod can extend from 4.3’ to 10’ (130 to 305cm) for a wide variety of height configurations and fold down to 3.9’ (120cm) for easy storage and carrying. The comfortable foam pad gives you a firm grip and prevents the tripod from slipping in transit
- 【Folding Legs & Buffer Spring】 Invertible tripod legs can fold up flat for space-saving storage and effortless transportation. The inbuilt spring-loaded mechanism offsets the impact of sudden drops so as to protect your devices from damages
- 【Universal Compatibility】 The universal spigot mounts strobes, monolights, ring lights, reflectors, softboxes, and others. Ideal for shooting indoors and outdoors, this rolling tripod is essential for photographers, videographers, filmmakers, and the likes
- 【200Ws Outdoor Strobe Flash with App Control】 NEEWER Q200 outdoor flash strobe light is compact and portable, and features smartphone app control for multiple flash modes, menu functions, and OTA firmware upgrades. The 200Ws studio strobe flash boasts 5600K (±100K) color temperature and a fast flash duration of up to 1/13510s, with built in cooling fans for stable performance, ideal for commercial, wedding, fashion photography, and other outdoor professional photography
- 【Professional Flash Modes】 Choose from TTL/M/MULTI modes for customized uses. TTL mode includes ±3.0 (19 levels) exposure compensation. M manual mode offers 1/256~1/1 (9 levels) power output, +0.1-0.9EV exposure compensation, and activates continuous shooting under ≤1/16 power. S1/S2 modes allow optical triggering and real time flash duration checking. MULTI mode offers 1/256~1/4 (7 levels) power output, adjustable flash times (1-100), and frequency (1-100Hz)
- 【HSS High Speed Sync & 3200mAh Lithium Battery】 The Q200 supports 1/8000s HSS high speed sync using the QPro trigger (not included) to solve background exposure issues. The strobe flash has a 2.5mm sync port for front/rear curtain sync. The 14.8V/3200mAh lithium battery offers up to 750 full power flashes, 0.01-1.5s fast recycling, and can be fully charged in about 3 hours using the included charging dock and adapter for long lasting fill light
- 【Powerful 2.4G Wireless Trigger System】 The Q200 is built with NEEWER 2.4G wireless Q system, compatible with the QPro trigger and other built in Q system speedlights like Z2/880/NW760 series (all not included) for triggering at distances up to 328ft/100m. Efficient group settings (A/B/C/D/E), channels (CH01-32), and IDs (01-99) allow for multi device management. The mask function separates the subject and background for easier post processing
- 【10W Modeling Light & All Metal Handle】 The Q200 features a 10W high-brightness modeling light with adjustable brightness (10%-100%) and color temperature (2700K-6500K, ±100K), supporting automatic brightness adjustments with the flash power changes in the PROP mode. The all metal handle has an anti twist 1/4" screw for secure flash mounting and 135° tilt adjustment. The bottom has a three way interface for flexible light stand mounting
- Upgraded LED modelling lamp：Godox MS300-V is Upgraded Verison of Godox MS300, with new LED Modeling Lamp, strong and powerful.150W power and manual light adjustment from 5% to 100%.
- Wireless remote control：The power output,modeling lamp,and the buzzer of the studio flash can be remotely controlled by Godox X2 trigger,XT 16 transmitter or XPro,X1 Trigger. 16 group, 32 channel.
- Outstanding power output stability：No more than 2% tolerance of output power when the flash works for long hours., and is More durable than MS300.
- Anti-preflash Function：The anti-preflash function guarantees the synchronisation of cameras that can trigger a preflash.
- lightweight and Compact：Length of flash with lamp cover only 28.3cm, Net Weight Approx 1.3kg. and compatible with bowens mount Accessories. [Noted]: The MS300-V does not have HSS function and please take off the Lamp Cover before using.
- 【2x 180W Studio Flash Kit】 Godox K180A 2-light studio flash kit for Photography: features 75W 3200K yellow color continous lamp and 180W 5600K white blance strobe light, built in energy save sensor and cooling fan. Flash output is adjustable from 1/8 to full stepless, flash duration: 1/2000-1/800s, GN 45. Satisfys the light requirements in different environment.
- 【Equipped Wireless Flash Trigger】Build-in light sensor allows 2 lights strobe synchronously, please set flash transmitter and receiver at the same channel and make sure master light is able to reach another lamp to realize synchronization. wireless control working distances is up to 30 meters. Godox RT-16 strobe trigger is compatible with Nikon /Canon /Fujifilm /Olympus /Pentax hot shoe.
- 【20"X28"/50x70cm Softbox】 The soft box can diffuse light and provide a soft beam to eliminate shadows and take perfect pictures. No flash, protect our eyes and create the perfect lighting for indoors shooting. Height adjustable tripod stand and angle adjusting screw gives diffrent shoot experience according to your needs.
- 【Easy to install and use】 The softbox photography strobe Kit is setting-easy with a few minute. works with various light accessories: softboxes, reflectors, umbrella, snoots, etc. It is ideal for using in studios, portrait shooting, fashion photo shoots, product photography, children's photo shoots, still life shots. Great choice for studio photography beginner, small business starter, photography beginer.
- 【Strobe photography lighting kit】 includes 2x 180W Monolights, 2x Softbox, 2x Light Stands, 2x Power cable, 1x RT-16 Trigger set. 【Product support】 we provide one year customer support, any issue please contact us via amazon message.
- Built-in Godox 2.4G wireless X system; Wireless control of the flash power ratio (needed a receiver, not included)modeling lamp and buzzer, as well as flash triggering.
- 1/2000 to 1/800 second short flash duration and 0.1-1s fast recycling with modeling lamp; Precise output control, 61 steps from 1/64 to 1/1.
- Anti-preflash function, enabling synchronization with cameras having a one-preflash firing system.
- 30W modeling lamp with adjustable light brightness; Compatible Bowens mount adds various accessories to give multiple lighting effects.
- Adjusted settings are remembered after 3 seconds and recovered after a restart.
Best Photographic Lighting Monolights Buying Guide
Before choosing the best photographic lighting monolights you should consider following options:
1. Power Source: Photographic lighting systems can be powered by three different kinds of sources: AC, DC and battery.
AC-powered units are the most common and can be plugged into a wall outlet. AC units are generally more expensive than DC models, but they’re also more versatile and safer to use.
DC units can be powered by either batteries or a power cord, and they’re generally more affordable than AC units, but they’re less versatile.
Battery-powered units are the most portable option, but they require regular battery changes and can be expensive to operate.
2. Battery Life: Battery life is determined by two main factors: the number of batteries and the power draw of the lighting system.
The number of batteries affects the runtime in two ways: First, it determines the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries. Second, it determines the length of time it takes for the batteries to discharge, known as the duty cycle.
The power draw of the lighting system determines the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries.
The higher the power draw, the shorter the runtime. For example, a lighting system that draws 6 amps will only get about 20 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries compared to a lighting system that draws 1.5 amps, which will get more than 100 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries.
3. Power Draw: The amount of power that a lighting system draws determines the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries.
For example, a lighting system that draws 6 amps will only get about 20 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries compared to a lighting system that draws 1.5 amps, which will get more than 100 flashes from a fully charged set of batteries.
4. Wattage: Wattage is the unit of measure used to rate the brightness of a lighting system. It’s calculated by multiplying the volts of the power supply by the amps of the lighting system by the number of flashes you can get from a fully charged set of batteries.
For example, a lighting system that draws 6 amps from a 12-volt power supply will have a wattage rating of 72 watts.
5. Modelling Lights: Modelling lights are used to help photographers visualize the lighting setup before taking the photo.
Modelling lights can be either incandescent or LED, and they’re generally brighter than the main light source. However, they can also be expensive and consume more power than the main light source.
6. Cost: Photographic lighting systems can be expensive, depending on the features and power draw of the lighting system.
As a general guideline, expect to pay $100 to $300 for a lighting system that draws 1.5 amps from a 12-volt power supply.
What else you should know about photographic lighting monolights
1. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for professional photographers?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the specific needs of the photographer. Some of the more popular brands of monolights among professional photographers include Profoto, Elinchrom, and Broncolor.
2. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for amateur photographers?
There are many different types of photographic lighting monolights available on the market, so it really depends on the specific needs of the amateur photographer. Some of the more popular brands include Nikon, Canon, and Sony.
3. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for low-light photography?
Some of the best photographic lighting monolights for low-light photography include the Profoto B1X, the Broncolor Siros L, and the Godox Witstro AD600B.
4. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for high-speed photography?
Some of the best photographic lighting monolights for high-speed photography are the Profoto B1X, the Broncolor Siros L, and the Elinchrom ELC Pro HD.
5. What are the best photographic lighting monolights for special effects photography?
There is no definitive answer to this question as there are a variety of monolights that can be used for special effects photography, depending on the desired effect. Some popular choices for special effects photography monolights include those with built-in color gels, diffusers, or flash heads that can be angled to create different lighting effects.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best photographic lighting monolights. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best photographic lighting monolights will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.