6 Things to Know About the Hobolite Mini
- What is Hobolite?
- What are the Specs of the Hobolite Mini?
- How Do You Control the Hobolite Mini?
- Is the Hobolite Mini Easy to Set Up?
- Are there Hobolite Mini Kits Available?
- How Much is the Hobolite Mini?
- CRI/TLCI of 96+
- Bi-color output from 2700-6500K
- Adjustable lens from 15-45 degrees, so you can use it as a spot or a flood
- NFC connectivity with mobile app control
- Integrated Li-ion rechargeable battery that runs for up to 50 minutes at full power
I recently picked up a very interesting photography light - the Hobolite Mini.
It's interesting in a variety of ways, not the least of which is the way it looks. Now, I know that how gear looks isn't as important as how it performs, but in my initial testing, Hobolite is that rare blend of form and function.
Aside from good looks and excellent performance, what else is there to know about the Hobolite Mini? Let's find out!
Table of Contents
What is Hobolite?
Hobolite is a newer company, but it's backed by AEC Lighting Solutions, which has more than 20 years of experience in the lighting industry.
The mission of Hobolite is simple - create high-quality LED lighting that offers extreme functionality for photographers, videographers, and other artists, and do so while looking good. These lights were designed by artists, for artists, which is why these lights look the way they do and have the features they have.
Ultimately, the Hobolite Mini was designed for creators who are constantly on the go. Not only does this light work as part of a smart lighting system, but it also negates the need to pack tons of tools to make them work. It's this forward thinking based on the feedback from artists that makes Hobolites unique.
What are the Specs of the Hobolite Mini?
They say that good things come in small packages, and the Hobolite Mini certainly fits the bill. Despite being just 2.56 x 3.25 x 4.1 inches in size and weighing just over one pound, the Hobolite Mini packs a mighty punch with specs like:
Likewise, the Mini has an internal dual driver that provides 20W output throughout the color spectrum. The light is extremely efficient, too, with an output up to 1600lm.
You can use multiple Hobolites at the same time, so having consistent color is crucial. Hobolite has done well in this department with a level of color temperature consistency between each light that gives you the peace of mind that when you fire up multiple lights, they'll give you the same color.
If the integrated battery isn't enough juice for your needs, you can add a V-mount battery that extends runtime to more than six hours. Combined with its small size and generous features, the Hobolite Mini is simply a fantastic option for studio and in-the-field work.
How Do You Control the Hobolite Mini?
Hobolite has designed the Mini to be ultimately simple to use...
The light has an integrated HD LED display that gives you a quick look at the light's current settings. There are two knobs next to the screen - one that powers the unit on and adjusts the color temperature, and the other that adjusts the intensity of the light. Though the knobs are small, their knurling makes adjustments quick and simple.
You can adjust the light from 0-100 percent, and Hobolite offers various fan settings and light modes so you can fine-tune the lighting for your shots. And as noted earlier, the light has an adjustable lens that ranges from 15 degrees to 45 degrees, allowing you to use the light as a spot or flood.
Of course, with the ability to control the light using your phone, you can quickly and efficiently adjust its settings. You can control individual lights, custom light effects, group scenes, and more, all from the palm of your hand.
Is the Hobolite Mini Easy to Set Up?
Setup really couldn't be any simpler...
You can quickly add the light to the app by using the NFC touch feature. Once connected, simply attach the Hobolite Mini to a tripod or light stand, and you're ready to go.
Since the Hobolite Mini is so small, you don't have to worry about lugging around big, heavy gear, either, which makes the setup process that much more streamlined. Honestly, it takes a few seconds to get things set up, making this an ideal option for quick photo or video shoots.
Are there Hobolite Mini Kits Available?
Hobolite offers two kits - a Standard Kit and a Creator Kit.
The Standard Kit Kit comes with the 20W Hobolite Mini, a set of barn doors, and a honeycomb. You get a four-pack of gels, a diffuser, and a mini Type-C cable and power adapter, too.
The Creator Kit, which is what I have, adds a few more goodies to the mix, like a V-mount cold-shoe adapter (shown above), a V-mount ballhead tripod adapter, and a desktop tripod.
How Much is the Hobolite Mini?
This image shows the Hobolite Mini with the barndoors attached. The blue gel is attached to the light with built-in magnets.
The Hobolite Mini Standard Kit is $299.00, while the Creator Kit is $399.00. Given the specs and features of the Mini and the array of accessories you get with these kits, those prices are a steal.
Combined with the superb performance of the Hobolite Mini, the ease of setup, and the intuitive controls, you begin to see why I'm so keen on these lights. Add in those rugged good looks I was talking about earlier, and you have the makings for a truly fantastic lighting setup.
I used the Hobolite Mini to cast soft light on this rose in my garden.
Budget-friendly, good-looking, high-performance...these are all very good things! But don't take my word for it. Head over to Hobolite today to get one for yourself!
