Finding the right lighting has always been a hurdle when trying to elevate my creative projects, whether it’s for videos, portraits, or just setting a specific mood. Poor lighting can completely derail a vision, leading to flat images, inaccurate colors, and a general lack of polish that diminishes the quality of the final output. This constant struggle for versatile, high-quality illumination is what initially drove me to explore different lighting solutions on the market. Without addressing this fundamental issue, capturing compelling visuals remains an uphill battle, limiting potential and the overall impact of the work.
When considering adding a tube light to your creative toolkit, it’s helpful to reflect on why this type of lighting is so popular. Tube lights excel at providing soft, diffuse light that’s perfect for filling shadows, adding accent colours, or even serving as a main light source in certain scenarios. Their elongated shape makes them particularly useful for edge lighting, creating subtle gradients, or even for practical effects like light painting. The ideal candidate for a tube light is typically a photographer, videographer, streamer, or content creator who needs flexible, portable, and often colourful lighting options beyond traditional panels or strobes. They are great for adding creativity and dynamism to static shots or for mobile setups. Conversely, someone who primarily needs a simple, powerful key light for static shots in a controlled studio environment might find a large softbox or panel more straightforward and potentially more cost-effective. Those who don’t need colour capabilities or special effects might also find a dedicated bi-colour panel sufficient. Before committing, think about how you’ll power the light (especially on location), how you plan to mount it, the required brightness, colour accuracy (CRI/TLCI ratings are key), the range of colour temperature and RGB options, and whether features like waterproofing or app control are necessary for your workflow. Considering these factors ensures you choose a light that truly fits your needs and creative goals.
- 【Powerful & Versatile Lighting】The RT25 RGBWW stick light offers max 25W power, [email protected] (5600K), CRI ≥ 96, TLCI ≥ 98, 2500-10000K range, 18 light effects. Ideal for self-broadcasting,...
- 【Multiple Mounting Options】Attachment to light stands, boom arm, top handle, etc., via 1/4”-20, 3/8”-16 threaded holes, special interfaces for Nato rails, and 3/8"-16 locating pins for Arri,...
- 【Carefully Designed, IP54 Waterproof】Aluminum alloy body, PC diffuser panel, heat dissipation, and noise reduction. It supports IP54 dust and waterproofing, ideal for outdoor shoots in harsh...
Unveiling the Featured Product
Stepping into the world of professional yet accessible lighting, the SMALLRIG RT25 RGB Tube Light Stick, 25W RGBWW Led Light Wand, IP54 Waterproof Light Bar, CRI96+, TLCI98+, 2500-10000K, for Photography 4343 presents itself as a compelling option. This LED light wand promises powerful and versatile lighting capabilities in a relatively compact and durable form factor. When you purchase this specific kit (model 4343), you receive the RT25 light stick itself, a USB-C cable for power, a carrying bag, and a user manual.
This particular SmallRig tube light is designed with content creators, photographers, and videographers in mind who need flexible lighting that can be easily positioned and offers a wide range of colour options and effects. It’s particularly well-suited for shoots where portability is key or where creative accent lighting is desired. It might be less suitable for someone seeking a single, primary light source for large subjects or spaces without augmenting it with other lights or opting for a more powerful, larger fixture. Its design and features make it a strong contender in the crowded field of tube lights, leveraging SmallRig’s reputation for well-built camera accessories.
Here are some key pros and cons:
Pros:
* Excellent build quality with metal casing and durable diffuser.
* High CRI (≥96) and TLCI (≥98) ratings ensure accurate colour rendering.
* Wide CCT range (2500K-10000K) and full RGBWW capabilities offer immense creative flexibility.
* Multiple, versatile mounting options including 1/4″-20, 3/8″-16, Arri pins, and NATO rail.
* IP54 waterproof rating adds durability for outdoor use.
* Compact size and relatively light weight (534g) make it easy to carry.
* Bright output for its size ([email protected] at 5600K).
Cons:
* Does *not* include a built-in battery or the dedicated battery handle in this specific kit, requiring external power via USB-C.
* Limited to 20% power when using a non-PD USB-C source.
* User manual could be more detailed and better organized.
* No wireless control via a smartphone app.
* Accessory flap covering the USB-C port can be flimsy.
- Powerful functions, diverse colors, 21 button mode remote control, 7 kinds of lamp color change, adjustment of light brightness, automatic mode, three speed timing, etc., to meet your needs for...
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Examination of Capabilities and Advantages
Having spent a significant amount of time working with the SmallRig RT25 RGB Tube Light Stick, I can delve deeper into its specific features and the benefits they bring to a variety of shooting scenarios. This isn’t just another light; it’s a tool that offers a lot of control and flexibility, though it comes with its own set of considerations.
Exceptional Lighting Quality and Colour Control
One of the first things you notice when you turn on the RT25 tube light is the quality of the light it produces. With a maximum power output of 25W, it delivers a respectable 2350 lux at 0.5 meters when set to 5600K. This is ample brightness for accent lighting, fill light, or even a soft key light for close-up subjects. Crucially, the light boasts impressive colour accuracy metrics with a CRI (Colour Rendering Index) of ≥ 96 and a TLCI (Television Lighting Consistency Index) of ≥ 98. For creators, these numbers aren’t just jargon; they mean that the light accurately reproduces colours, which is absolutely essential for photography and videography where colour fidelity is paramount. You can trust that the colours you see on your subject will be faithfully captured by your camera sensor, reducing the need for extensive colour correction in post-production.
Beyond white light, the RT25 light stick offers full RGBWW control. This means you have access to a vast spectrum of colours, allowing you to set specific moods, match existing lighting, or create vibrant accent lighting. The colour temperature is adjustable from a warm 2500K all the way up to a cool 10000K, providing incredible flexibility to match ambient light or create dramatic shifts in colour temperature. You also get fine control over hue, saturation, and intensity in RGB mode, plus gel equivalent settings, giving you the precision needed to achieve the exact look you’re going for. The light also features a curved PC diffuser panel, which does an excellent job of spreading the light evenly, minimizing hotspots and providing a soft, pleasing quality that’s often desired for portraits and product shots. Even at low brightness levels, the diffusion remains effective.
Versatile Mounting and Design
SmallRig is known for its camera rigging and mounting solutions, and this expertise is clearly evident in the design of the RT25. The light bar offers a multitude of mounting options, making it incredibly adaptable to different setups. At one end, you’ll find a standard 1/4”-20 threaded hole, perfect for mounting on light stands, mini tripods, or grip arms. Along the back of the light, there’s a built-in NATO rail system running almost the entire length. This is a fantastic addition, allowing you to quick-release mounts anywhere along the stick. Complementing the NATO rail are two locations (one in the middle and one near the end) featuring both 1/4”-20 and 3/8”-16 threaded holes, along with 3/8″-16 locating pins compatible with ARRI-style mounts. This combination of mounting points provides exceptional flexibility, whether you’re attaching it to a stand, a boom arm, a camera cage, or integrating it into a more complex rigging setup. It genuinely makes positioning the light wand exactly where you need it remarkably easy. The light also features slots along the sides for attaching optional barndoors, allowing you to shape and control the light spill.
The physical construction is another highlight. The body is made from aluminum alloy, giving it a solid, premium feel and contributing to effective heat dissipation without requiring noisy fans – it’s completely noise-free, which is crucial for video recording. The PC diffuser panel feels robust and durable. Weighing in at 534 grams and measuring 42cm in length, it strikes a good balance between portability and usable size. SmallRig highlights a quick-install design feature, enabling easy connection of handles or other accessories, further enhancing its adaptability on set.
IP54 Waterproofing
A significant practical advantage of the RT25 light stick is its IP54 dust and waterproofing rating. While not fully submersible, this level of protection means you can confidently use the light outdoors even if the weather turns unexpectedly. It can withstand dust ingress and splashing water from any direction. This opens up creative possibilities for shooting in damp environments or under light rain without worrying about damaging your equipment. Given that good lighting is often needed regardless of location or weather, this durability feature adds considerable value and peace of mind.
Power Supply Options and Limitations
Here’s where this specific kit of the RT25 requires careful consideration. It does *not* have a built-in battery. Instead, it relies entirely on external power supplied via its USB-C port. The light supports PD (Power Delivery) fast charging, which is necessary to achieve the full 25W output. If you use a standard USB-C power source or cable that doesn’t support PD, the light is limited to approximately 20% of its maximum brightness. This is a significant constraint, especially for mobile setups where you might rely on various power banks. To get the most out of the light on location without a direct power outlet, you will need a robust power bank capable of USB-C PD, or the optional SmallRig battery handle which attaches via a proprietary bayonet fitting at the end. While using external power keeps the light body itself lighter and potentially allows for longer runtimes with large power banks (average battery life is listed as 2 hours, but this likely refers to the optional handle), it does mean you need to manage an external power source and cable, which can add clutter and complexity, especially for handheld use or when trying to maintain the IP54 rating. The fact that the optional battery handle is not included in this particular kit is a notable drawback for many users expecting a completely self-contained, portable solution out of the box.
Intuitive Controls and Special Effects
Operating the RT25 tube light is handled via three small buttons and a dial located on the back, alongside a clear 0.96″ OLED screen. The screen displays all the necessary information like colour temperature, brightness level, mode, and battery status (of the connected power source, if supported). While initially navigating the menu might take a moment to get used to, the combination of buttons and the pushable dial makes adjustments fairly intuitive once you understand the layout. You can easily switch between CCT mode, HSL/RGB mode, GEL mode, and FX mode, adjusting parameters quickly with the dial. The light also allows you to store up to 5 custom presets, which is a great time-saver for frequently used settings. There’s a physical on/off toggle switch, which is always appreciated for preventing accidental power drain. One minor frustration mentioned by some users is the lack of smartphone app control, which is becoming increasingly common for professional lighting fixtures and would make remote adjustments much easier, especially when the light is mounted in a hard-to-reach place. Despite this, the on-board controls are functional and offer precise control over the light’s output.
The FX mode provides 18 different built-in lighting effects, such as paparazzi, lightning, police car, fireworks, and more. These effects can add dynamic elements to videos or create specific atmospheric lighting for photography. Each effect often has adjustable parameters like speed, intensity, and colour, allowing for customization. While not every effect may be useful for everyone, having them built-in adds another layer of versatility for creative expression.
Feedback from Actual Users
Having explored the capabilities myself, it’s also insightful to see what other creatives are saying about their experiences with the SMALLRIG RT25 RGB Tube Light Stick. Many users praise the excellent build quality, noting the substantial feel of the metal construction and the durability of the diffuser. The brightness and quality of the light output, particularly the high CRI and TLCI ratings and the wide colour temperature range, receive frequent positive comments. The versatility offered by the multiple mounting options, including the handy NATO rail, is also highly appreciated for its flexibility in various setups. People find the colours vivid and the special effects fun to experiment with.
However, a very consistent point raised across user reviews is the lack of an internal battery and the necessity of providing external power via USB-C or the separate battery grip. While some users are prepared for this and use power banks effectively, others feel the product is incomplete without the included battery solution, limiting its portability right out of the box. The limitation to 20% power without a PD power source is also a frequently mentioned drawback. Some users also noted that the menu system, while functional, isn’t the most intuitive initially, and the included manual is basic. Despite these points, the general sentiment is that the RT25 is a very capable light, especially considering its build quality and output, provided you factor in the power requirements and the need for potential accessories.
Final Thoughts
In creative pursuits, battling inadequate lighting can severely hinder the visual quality and impact of your work, leading to bland or poorly rendered results that fail to capture your vision. This persistent challenge necessitates finding reliable and versatile lighting solutions. The SMALLRIG RT25 RGB Tube Light Stick emerges as a strong contender to tackle this problem effectively. Its high-quality light output with excellent colour accuracy, combined with a wide range of colour and effects options, provides the creative flexibility needed for diverse projects. The robust build and multiple mounting points offer practical advantages on set, adapting easily to different scenarios. While the lack of an included battery is a notable consideration, for users who can leverage USB-C PD power banks or are planning to purchase the optional battery handle, this tube light offers significant value. To explore its capabilities further and see if it fits your lighting needs, click here to check the product out.
Last update on 2025-07-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API