10 best softboxes from Aliexpress

A softbox is a light shaping attachment for a light source, and one of the most sought-after equipment in studio portrait photography. The simplest light modifier is considered to be a photo umbrella. It is affordable for beginner photographers and can be used with on-camera flash. Of course, the possibilities of an umbrella are very limited. Softboxes have much better light control.Therefore, they are the most popular version of the accessory for creating lighting schemes in photography. The equipment allows you to create soft lighting as close as possible to natural light.

According to the shape of the dome, softboxes come in 3 types:

• square shape (quadroboxes);
• 6 or 8-coal (octoboxes);
• elongated shape (stripboxes).

They all work differently, because the reflector directly affects the shape of the highlight. On Aliexpress you can find all types of light modifiers. The purchase of such photo equipment in China is justified by the lower price and better choice of models. In our review, you will find high-quality light-shaping nozzles for a variety of purposes.

The best softboxes from Aliexpress for portable studios and on-site work

In portable studios and outdoor photo shoots, lightweight structures are used that are mounted either with a retainer on the flash head or on a stand using a bracket. The main condition for such equipment is mobility. Softboxes should quickly fold and unfold without deformation of elements and parts. We presented the best models that meet these requirements in the review.

4 Vanpower Flash Diffuser

For the first experiments with light, such a compact and very inexpensive softbox for an external on-camera flash is well suited. It illuminates the subject more softly and naturally, smoothes out harsh shadows and eliminates red-eye. The device is suitable for any flash, both from Canon, Nikon branded models, and for Chinese products. The accessory is installed on the head with Velcro.There are silicone inserts, due to which it keeps very well. The shape of the softbox can be chosen.

You should not expect the best result from such a small diffuser. They still need to learn how to use it. But the "masterpiece" button has not yet been invented for expensive photographic equipment. In general, the goods are worth their money. There are only complaints about the quality of tailoring of the textile component. However, customer reviews on Aliexpress are mostly positive. Yes, and they buy goods very actively.

3 PULUZ PU5145

Branded ring flash is not cheap. If you want to experiment but don't want to invest in one, buy a softbox on AliExpress that replaces the ring flash. This model is suitable for most DSLR cameras. Installs quickly and easily. When properly assembled, the camera lens will be in the center of the ring (maximum glass diameter 10 cm). The flash is inserted into a special hole on top. The fabric is good, the internal reflector has 100% fill.

The result is a lightweight design capable of providing soft light for portraits and subjects. Shadows are almost invisible, which is especially important in macro photography. Photographers appreciate this unusual softbox for the highlights of the most beautiful form in the eyes of the model. And when photographing objects and still lifes, the reflection in glass and on glossy surfaces pleases. But holding the camera in your hands for a long time with a flash and a bulky softbox is inconvenient, it is advisable to use a tripod.

2 Meking Collapsible Softbox

Assembling such a square-shaped softbox is a matter of seconds. Yes, and it practically does not take up space in a backpack. The accessory does not attract much attention, does not interfere with moving during reportage photography, and is always at hand. The model is designed for LED constant light sources such as YN600 and YN900. The weight of the product is less than 300 g. The softbox comes with Aliexpress in a case and with straps for attaching to a lamp. It is ideal for mobile and home photo studios, but can also be used for outdoor photo shoots.

The fabric is durable and diffuses light evenly. Sewing quality - the threads do not stick out, the seams are even. In the reviews, users write that this is a worthy competitor to more expensive counterparts. Given the price, we can say that the device gives the best cut-off pattern. The equipment will be useful in portrait photography, product photography and genre photography. Interesting results in the work of the photographer are guaranteed.

1 Lightpro TRIOPO 90 cm

This is the most popular octobox on Aliexpress. It comes in a carry bag. Weight is small - less than 1 kg with a cover. Complete set - body, 2 diffusers, handle and honeycomb mesh (grid for softbox). Equipment is assembled instantly, and folds even faster. The spokes go on the outside, which is a big plus for a mobile softbox. The reflector is swivel, which is important for some creative tasks. The total height of the softbox when unfolded is 43 cm, the depth of the working part is 39 cm. Not enough for studio photos, but the equipment wins in terms of mobility.

This is the best model in terms of price-quality-completeness ratio. But it is also a compromise. Orthobox has its drawbacks. First of all, they touch the ends of the fabric - the sections here are practically not processed. There are comments about the attachment of the grid and reflectors. In general, the softbox performs its task, for which it receives positive reviews on Aliexpress.

The best softboxes from Aliexpress for stationary studios

For stationary photo studios, ordinary softboxes of various shapes are suitable, which work in tandem with monoblocks. They are usually quite large. However, they can be used not only with studio lights, but also with conventional flashes for cameras through adapter holders.

3 TRIOPO KQ65

65 cm spherical softbox for creating soft light in both large studios and small rooms. The 270-degree beam angle is ideal for creating high-quality video, it is often used in streaming broadcasts. Softbox has proven itself well in photography. You can try to shoot films and reports. Moreover, it is compatible with any flash holder with a Bowens mount, including Chinese ones.

The design is simple and durable, the frame is strong and maintainable. Even a beginner can handle assembly. For advanced users, it only takes a few minutes. Therefore, the softbox is useful not only in the studio, but also in nature. And for maximum control over the flow of light, it is recommended to purchase fabric curtains on Aliexpress.They will help you forget about unpleasant glare and direct the flow of light to a specific point, if the shooting scenario provides for this.

2 CYMYE EC01

This set of lighting equipment leads in the number of sales on Aliexpress. It is available for order in two versions, which differ in the type of constant light sources. Budget equipment involves the presence of fluorescent lamps, a more expensive option - with LED lamps for the head. The set also includes two tripods, a softbox, a lamp holder. It is noteworthy that the holders are designed for a standard E27 base. You can choose the lamps of the required temperature and create lighting schemes at your discretion

The set is suitable for photos and videos. They buy both for portrait shooting in the studio and for the subject. It will also come in handy in the open air, because the set includes a convenient bag-case, where all the lighting equipment is compactly folded. The seller has a lot of real feedback from buyers: everyone praises softboxes and is unhappy with only one thing - the lack of assembly instructions.

1 Godox FW95/FW120/FW140

Octagonal light modifier with the largest reflector diameter. Comes with Aliexpress in size 95/120/140 cm. Octobox comes in a strong case and comes with a black net. Like many popular softboxes, it is designed for a standard Bowens mount for studio flashes and modifiers. So there will be no compatibility issues. In terms of quality, everything is almost perfect.Pleasing to the eye are even seams, no threads and strong knitting needles.

This model generates the softest and most beautiful light. Highlights are obtained as natural as possible, without artificial gloss and sharp transitions. The kit includes a honeycomb nozzle to limit the light flux. It is indispensable for modeling light. This softbox will be the best choice for shooting portraits in the studio. It is assembled quickly, so the equipment can be taken on trips. However, due to its impressive size, it will be difficult to install it in a limited space.

The best photo umbrellas from Aliexpress

The most accessible light modifiers in the photographer's arsenal are photo umbrellas. By installing such an accessory in front of the flash, you can get the very desired soft light, and very quickly and easily. There are two types of umbrellas sold on Aliexpress - translucent (white) and reflective (white, silver and gold). All of them give a different pattern and can be used in different situations. Umbrellas are compact, easy to carry and use. They are especially good when used with brackets and tripods.

3 KONSEEN C5068

In addition to the white and silver photo umbrellas most popular on Aliexpress, there are less common types of light modifiers. For example, here are umbrellas with a golden coating and a black back cover. The model provides a soft glow of a warm shade. The nature of the pattern of the light spot is identical to the umbrellas with a reflective silvery surface. However, the color temperature is different here. The light is warmer, with a characteristic glare.Golden umbrellas are often used for shooting "Hollywood" portraits.

The model is very easy to use. Her spokes are strong, metal, with an anti-corrosion coating. You can easily work with the equipment outside the studio. The material is not afraid of heat. Installation is the easiest. An umbrella can easily replace an expensive softbox, but you will need a tripod or the services of an assistant for installation.

2 ACEHE 33 inch

The cheapest modifier in our review, which, despite its ridiculous cost, is really capable of improving the quality of light. Used by photographers in the studio and for street photography. On Aliexpress, it is available for order in three different types. The most inexpensive is a white diffuser “through the light”. For a black umbrella with a white reflector, you will have to pay a little more. And the most expensive is a gold reflector. But even he will cost the buyer less than $ 4. Definitely a good buy.

All softboxes are 33 inches (83 cm) in diameter. When folded, their length is 57 cm. The needles are quite strong, the holder is light, made of aluminum. The umbrella folds and unfolds easily. No holders and additional fasteners are not provided in the package. The quality of tailoring is average - unpleasant surprises are possible in the form of uneven seams and protruding threads. This does not affect the functionality of the softbox.

1 NEEWER 10096227

The strongest and most functional octagonal softbox from a trusted Chinese brand. This umbrella has a diameter of 35.4 inches (90 cm) and it fully performs the functions assigned to the light modifier.The model is more expensive than its competitors, but it comes with an s-shaped bracket that fits the most popular flash models from the best manufacturers. As a result, the photographer gets a good kit for professional studio lighting.

The performance of the softbox is excellent. Light reflects the inner surface of the reflector. It turns out a wide and soft beam, which is as close as possible to natural light. Such a modifier is very good for beginners, as it allows you to make mistakes in choosing a lighting scheme almost imperceptible. In the reviews, buyers write that this is the best tool for shooting a portrait.

Popular vote - who is the best manufacturer of softboxes presented on AliExpress?
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Lightpro

Meking

PULUZ

Vanpower

NEEWER

Godox

CYMYE

TRIOPO

KONSEEN

ACEHE

Total voted: 27

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