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SmallRig Vibe P96 Pro and P108 Pro are new compact on-camera lights. Rated at 5W, the lights offer a CCT range from 2500K to 6500K (with the P108 additionally providing full-color RGB), special effects, a status display, a quick-release adapter with a cold shoe, and diffusion plates. The lights can be pre-ordered now for $24.99 and $29.99 respectively.
When it comes to compact and affordable on-camera lights, I think the market is already quite saturated. That does not, however, prevent manufacturers from releasing new models. One of the most recent ones that we reported about is the ZHIYUN CM25. Although SmallRig also already has a few models in this category, the company recently announced new compact and very affordable on-camera lights – Vibe P96 and P108. Let’s take a quick look at what they offer.
Both models look almost identical. Perhaps the most notable design feature is the large dial on the back that enables one-handed operation of the light. In the middle of the dial, there is a status LCD screen, and we also get two (or three in the case of the P108) physical buttons on the backside.
Despite looking almost the same, there are a few differences on the inside:
In CCT mode, both lights offer light temperatures from 2500K to 6500K ( ± 200K). SmallRig claims the light quality measures at CRI over 95 and TLCI over 98. In terms of maximum light output, SmallRig claims 1150 lux (at 0.3m / 5600K). Keep in mind that these are very affordable on-camera lights rated at 5W, so their light output is only suitable for very close subjects in relatively dark environments.
At the front, there are two diffusion plates that can be stacked on one another to soften the light (but lower the maximum output). Each Vibe LED light has a built-in 1500mAh lithium battery. According to SmallRig, the light offers up to 70 minutes of operation (at maximum brightness). The light supports USB-C charging.
The SmallRig Vibe lights are really compact and lightweight, measuring 79 x 64 x 25mm / 3.11 x 2.5 x 1.0in and weighing under 120g. With the Vibe LED lights, SmallRig includes a quick-release system with one-button operation for quick mounting and removal. At the bottom of the quick-release unit, there is a cold shoe mounting adapter. Additionally, each light features a 1/4″ mounting thread on one side.
The best thing about these new mini LED lights is probably the price. The bi-color Vibe P96 sells for $24.99 (around €31 including VAT in Europe), while the full-color Vibe P108 will set you back $29.99 (around €36 including VAT in Europe). Apart from the light unit itself, you get a USB-A to USB-C charging cable as well as a user manual. The lights can be pre-ordered now, and shipping should happen soon (there is no information on when exactly).
Honestly (judging solely from the paper specs), I find it quite impressive what SmallRig has managed to incorporate into these lights at such a low price point. I’m not even sure if there’s any similarly-priced competition that offers the same value.
Do you use small on-camera lights for your work? What do you think about the new SmallRig Vibe P96 and P108 Pro mini LED lights? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section underneath the article.
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Jakub Han is a freelance filmmaker based in Vienna. He is interested in new tech and trends in filmmaking and passionate about action sports and short documentaries. Jakub has over 10 years of experience with camera work and post-production.