When buying LED panel lights for video, the three specs that matter most are TLCI (colour accuracy), bi-colour range (flexibility), and output wattage (coverage area). A high-TLCI bi-colour panel in the 100–200W range will handle most content creation and professional video work without compromise.
Key Specs Explained
TLCI — Television Lighting Consistency Index
TLCI (Television Lighting Consistency Index) measures how accurately a light source renders colour as captured by a camera sensor — making it a more relevant standard for video work than the older TLCI metric, which was designed for human visual perception. For video, look for a TLCI of 95 or higher. Below 90, skin tones can look flat or slightly off on camera, and post-production colour correction becomes harder. Most quality panels now advertise TLCI 95+.
Bi-Colour vs Single Colour Temperature
Single-colour panels are fixed at either daylight (5600K) or tungsten (3200K). Bi-colour panels let you dial anywhere between the two — extremely useful when you're mixing with ambient light that changes throughout the day, or when you want to match the look of a scene without gels. For most video shooters, bi-colour is worth the slight price premium.
Wattage and Coverage
LED wattage doesn't translate directly to brightness the way traditional bulbs do, but it's still a useful comparative metric within the same product category. A 100W LED panel will illuminate a single-subject interview setup in a medium room. For larger sets, product tables, or multi-person shots, step up to 200W+ or use multiple panels. Always check the lux output at 1m distance in the spec sheet.
Dimming and Control
Professional panels offer smooth, flicker-free dimming down to 0–1% without colour shift. This matters for video more than photography — if the colour temperature shifts as you dim, your footage will have inconsistent colour across takes. Check for PWM (pulse-width modulation) dimming frequency: 1000Hz or higher is safe for video; lower frequencies create flicker on camera at certain shutter angles.
LED Panel Comparison — What to Look For at Each Level
| Use Case | Recommended Wattage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vlogging / social content | 30–60W | Portable, battery option, on-camera mounting |
| Interview / talking head | 60–100W | Bi-colour, TLCI 95+, stand-mountable |
| Small studio (1–2 subjects) | 100–200W | Bi-colour, high TLCI, accurate dimming |
| Large studio / commercial | 200W+ per head | Multiple panels, DMX or app control, soft diffusion |
| Product / table-top | 40–100W | Compact, adjustable arm, consistent output |
Additional Features Worth Checking
- App or DMX control: Useful in multi-panel setups so you can adjust all lights from one device without touching each stand.
- Battery option: For on-location work without mains power, battery-compatible panels are a significant practical advantage.
- Bowens or Elinchrom mount: If you want to use softboxes and modifiers on your LED panel, check it has a standard modifier mount rather than a proprietary fitting.
- Fan noise: Panels with active cooling fans can cause problems when recording audio in the same room. Look for fanless designs or models with a silent mode for audio-sensitive environments.
Browse Dragon Image's full LED panel lighting range and broader studio lighting collection — available online and in our Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane stores.
Frequently Asked Questions
What TLCI do I need for professional video?
TLCI 95 or above for professional work. Broadcast and commercial production typically specifies TLCI 90+. Consumer-grade panels often advertise TLCI 85–90, which is acceptable for casual content but shows its limits in close-up skin tones and saturated colour scenes.
Is bi-colour worth the extra cost?
Yes, in most cases. The ability to match ambient light (daylight through windows, warm indoor practicals) without gels saves time on set and gives you more flexibility. Single-colour panels are cheaper but limiting — if you can afford bi-colour, buy it.
Can I use LED panels for photography as well as video?
Yes. High-output LED panels work well for product photography, portraiture, and any situation where you want to see the light before you shoot. For high-speed action or motion freezing in photography, flash still wins on peak output — but for most controlled studio photography, a quality LED panel is fully capable.
What's the difference between a panel and a COB LED?
Panel LEDs use an array of individual diodes spread across a flat surface, producing a soft, even output. COB (chip on board) LEDs concentrate a high-power chip in a small area, producing a harder, more directional light similar to a Fresnel — better for modifying with focusable optics. Both have their place; panels are more versatile for general video use.