A video conference light bar is a small LED light that clips to your laptop or monitor and shines soft light on your face from the front, which is usually the single biggest improvement you can make to how you look on calls. Choose one with adjustable brightness and color temperature, and a wide diffuser. For a larger, more even look, a desk-mounted key light set slightly to one side does better.
Light bars vs other options
| Type | How it mounts | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clip-on light (round or square) | Clips to the laptop lid or monitor | Cheap, portable, battery or USB powered | Small source, can create hard shadows or glare in glasses |
| Webcam light bar | Clamps on top of the monitor | Even front light, no desk space used | Light comes from directly in front, flat look |
| Key light / panel on stand | Desk clamp or stand | Large, soft, can be angled for a natural look | Takes space, costs more |
| Ring light | Stand behind the webcam | Even light | Visible ring reflections in eyes and glasses |
Note: monitor-top "screen bars" for reading (which aim down at the keyboard) are a different product. For video calls you want light aimed at your face.
What to look for
- Adjustable color temperature. About 4000-5600 K matches daylight and most offices; warmer settings suit evening light.
- Brightness control with fine steps, so you can match the room instead of blasting your face.
- A diffuser. Bigger and softer is more flattering and easier on the eyes.
- Power. USB power for a desk; battery for travel.
- A clip that fits your laptop lid or monitor thickness without blocking the webcam.
How to set one up
- Turn off or move away from any light directly behind you, like a window.
- Mount the light at or just above eye level, near the camera.
- Angle it slightly, 15-30 degrees off center, if your light allows. It adds shape to the face.
- Start dim and raise brightness until your face is a little brighter than the background.
- Set color temperature to match the room's other lights.
- If you wear glasses, raise the light or tilt it to move the reflection out of the lenses.
Laptop vs desktop monitor
- Laptop: a small clip-on light works, but battery models can run down mid-day. Check that the clip doesn't tip the lid back.
- External monitor: a monitor-top bar or a pair of small panels on either side gives even, glare-free light.
When to light the room instead
Light bars are for personal calls. In a meeting room with a video bar, light the whole table with diffused ceiling fixtures and keep the wall behind people moderately bright. See conference room lighting design and conference room lighting levels.
More on personal setups in video conference lighting, lighting kits and best video conference lighting. A better webcam helps too; see conference camera vs webcam.
Setting up a home or focus-room station? Ask us for a camera and audio recommendation.
Related guides
- Best Video Conference Lights and Light Bars
- How to Light a Conference Room for Video Calls
- Video conference lighting: how to light yourself on calls
- Conference Room Display Options: TV, Monitor, LED, Projector
- Conference Room In-Use and Occupancy Status Lights
- Conference room speakers and sound bars
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