The Hobolite Mini Review: Beauty, Brains, and Brawn in a Compact Light

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They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and if lights could be beautiful, the Hobolite Mini would fit the bill perfectly…

This versatile and functional light not only looks stunning but also delivers exceptional performance whether you’re in the studio or in the field.

Speaking of which, as someone who has been using the Hobolite Mini for over a couple of months for my photography and videography projects, I can confidently say that it is the whole package.

Let’s dive in and explore a few features that speak to the quality of the Hobolite Mini.

Table of Contents

Basic Specs of the Hobolite Mini

Let's start by going through the key specifications of the Hobolite Mini:

  • It’s just 2.56 x 3.25 x 4.1 inches and weighs just over one pound, making it ideal for on-the-go shooting.
  • CRI/TLCI 96+ rating for clean and beautiful lighting.
  • Bi-color output ranging from 2700-6500K, allowing for easy adjustment of the scene's color temperature.
  • Adjustable lens with a range of 15-45 degrees, enabling spot or flood lighting.
  • NFC connectivity with mobile app control, making it incredibly user-friendly, especially for solo shooters.
  • Integrated lithium-ion rechargeable battery offering up to 50 minutes of full power.
  • Internal dual driver providing 20W output across the color spectrum.
  • Highly efficient and bright light with an output of up to 1600 lumens.
  • Multiple lights can be used simultaneously with consistent color temperature.
  • Optional V-mount battery is available for extended runtime of over six hours.
  • A wide range of accessories are available to enhance versatility.

This little light packs a powerful punch, offering an array of features right out of the box. But do all these features translate into a light that is easy to use and effective? Let's explore further!

Hobolite Mini Review: This Light is SMALL But MIGHTY

One of the standout features of the Hobolite Mini is its compact size…

Being palm-sized, it fits perfectly in my bag for shooting videos in the field. Its small form factor is a blessing when space is limited and lugging around bulky lighting equipment is not feasible.

In other words, the Hobolite Mini's portability is a game-changer, enabling me to shoot with ease and flexibility no matter where I need to go or the content I need to create.

Hobolite Mini Review: There are SO Many Accessories

Hobolite has done an excellent job creating a comprehensive ecosystem of lightweight and functional accessories for the Mini.

With the Hobolite Mini Creator Kit, I have everything I need, including barn doors, a honeycomb, a diffuser, gels, a V-mount cold-shoe adapter, a V-mount ball head tripod adapter, and a desktop tripod. All of this fits neatly into the included case, which is about the size of a toiletry kit. This means I can easily carry a complete lighting setup without the bulk and weight associated with traditional lighting equipment.

And, if you don’t need all of those accessories, Hobolite offers a Standard Kit that comes with the Mini light, a honeycomb, a set of barn doors, gels, a diffuser, and a mini Type-C cable with a power adapter.

Hobolite Mini Review: It Couldn’t Be Easier to Use

In terms of usability, the Hobolite Mini is a winner. Equipped with an integrated HD LED display, it provides clear visibility of the current settings.

Two knobs control power, color temperature, and light intensity, allowing for quick adjustments from 0-100 percent. The light also features various lighting modes and fan settings, catering to your specific needs.

The adjustable lens is designed with convenience in mind, enabling swift adjustments on the go. NFC connectivity and smartphone control further enhance the ease of use, making it a breeze to set up and operate this light within seconds.

Hobolite Mini Review: This Thing is an Eye-Catcher

The Hobolite Mini not only performs exceptionally but also boasts an eye-catching design. Its aesthetics inspire creativity, making you want to pick up your camera and start shooting!

Furthermore, this light is impressively well-constructed, proving its durability and reliability in various conditions and applications, whether it's for still imagery, portraits, or as a spotlight or fill light.

And despite its high-end appearance, the Hobolite Mini is surprisingly budget-friendly. The Standard Kit is priced at just $299, while the Creator Kit is priced at $399. These affordable prices make the Hobolite Mini an excellent investment for those seeking crisp, clean, and beautiful lighting on the go without breaking your budget.

Final Thoughts

The Hobolite Mini is a true gem in the world of lighting equipment. It combines beauty, brains, and brawn, offering outstanding performance in a compact and portable package.

With its exceptional features, ease of use, extensive accessory options, and budget-friendly prices, the Hobolite Mini is a must-have for photographers and videographers looking to elevate their lighting game.

So, I think it’s safe to say that my Hobolite Mini review is a very positive one!

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