When it comes to lighting solutions for photography and videography, Zhiyun, a respected Chinese company, is known for its high-quality accessories. Their Fiveray M20C portable studio light is an excellent example of their commitment to delivering great products that cater to both professionals and enthusiasts. Despite its “studio light” label, this compact device is highly versatile, rechargeable, and small enough to be used on the go. Here’s a deep dive into what makes the M20C a standout tool for creators.
What’s Inside the Box?
Opening the box, you’re greeted with the M20C light, a short Type-C to Type-C charging cable, a basic soft carrying pouch, and a wealth of documentation. While much of the paperwork is warranty-related, there’s a brief quick start guide to help you get the device up and running. The light itself comes with a few accessories designed to enhance its functionality:
A Diffuser – Softens the light to reduce harsh shadows.
A Honeycomb Grid – Perfect for focusing and controlling light spread.
Barn Doors – Allows further control over light direction.
These accessories attach magnetically to the light, making them easy to snap on and off. While magnets aren’t new in the world of studio lighting, they make a huge difference in terms of convenience and ease of use. The back of the light’s cage also features two built-in magnets, enabling you to attach the M20C to any magnetic surface. It can also be mounted using a standard quarter-inch tripod screw or placed directly into the hot shoe of your camera.
A Light for Both Studio and Field Use
One of the standout features of the M20C is its portability. Despite being a “studio light,” it’s small enough to fit in your pocket, making it ideal for fieldwork. Its rechargeable lithium battery, which seems to be a standard 21700 type (larger than the more common 18650), lasts for about 40-45 minutes at maximum brightness. At lower brightness settings, the battery can last up to 2 hours.
However, it’s important to note that the battery isn’t easily removable. This could be a drawback for some users who would prefer the ability to swap out batteries on the go. While the light can be charged via the Type-C port, it’s recommended to use a 2-amp power supply for the best results. If you charge it with a low-wattage charger, the device might not charge properly, and if you use an overly powerful adapter, the light could experience issues while being used.
Active Cooling and Reliable Performance
For a light that’s as compact as the M20C, Zhiyun has integrated an active cooling system to keep it at a safe temperature during use. The cooling system includes a copper heat sink and a small fan, both of which ensure the light stays cool enough to handle comfortably. The fan operates only when necessary, and it’s quiet enough not to interfere with video recordings or other audio-sensitive projects.
Physical Controls & App Integration
The M20C is controlled through two knobs that provide physical, tactile feedback—no touch screens or buttons here. To turn the light on or off, simply press and hold the left knob. This is a refreshing change, as many modern devices have shifted to touch controls, which can be unreliable or frustrating. However, while cycling through the modes, the light only allows you to go forward, meaning there’s no way to go back to a previous setting unless you cycle through all the modes again—a minor inconvenience.
For those who prefer more control, Zhiyun offers the Zu Vega app, available for smartphones. Through Bluetooth, you can control the light remotely, which is especially useful when the light is mounted in hard-to-reach places, such as on a ceiling. The app allows for full control over brightness, RGB settings, and color temperature, providing a huge range of creative possibilities. It also supports firmware updates, so your light stays up to date with the latest features.
Creative Features and Versatility
The M20C isn’t just a simple portable light; it comes with a variety of creative features perfect for video production. With support for RGB lighting and HSI (Hue, Saturation, Intensity) adjustments, you can fine-tune the light to suit the needs of any scene. The app even includes a Color Picker tool that matches the color you point your smartphone camera at, making it easier to replicate specific colors.
In addition, the M20C includes a variety of built-in effects such as:
Welding
Lightning
Candlelight
Disco lights
Police car flashes
Paparazzi flashes
Strobe effects
These features make it a highly versatile tool not only for professional shoots but also for more creative and casual projects.
Accessories: Magnetic Attachments and Performance
While I’m a big fan of the magnetic attachment system, the included diffuser isn’t my favorite. It does soften the light, but it doesn’t provide the level of diffusion that some other options might. On the other hand, the honeycomb grid is exceptional, offering great control and turning a flood light into a more focused beam, especially when paired with the barn doors.
Despite being a 20W light, the M20C holds its own and can elevate your photography or videography. It’s not limited to just photo and video work either; it can be used for DIY projects, painting exercises, or even as a party light, thanks to its music-reactive mode.
Final Thoughts
The Zhiyun Fiveray M20C portable studio light is an excellent option for creators who need a compact, versatile lighting solution. While its non-removable battery is a slight downside, the performance and portability more than make up for it. With its magnetic attachments, creative effects, and app control, it’s an excellent addition to any photographer or videographer’s toolkit. Whether you’re shooting in the studio or out in the field, the M20C is a reliable and powerful light source that gets the job done.
If you’re looking for a light that combines portability, flexibility, and professional-level performance, the M20C is definitely worth considering.