Godox ES45 Key Light Review 2026: Is It Worth Buying?
Are you tired of looking like a shadow creature on your Zoom calls? Do your YouTube videos make you look like you filmed them in a dungeon? Well, grab your wallet because we need to talk about the Godox ES45 Key Light.
This little beauty has been making waves in the content creator world, and for good reason. It promises to give you that professional studio look without making your bank account cry.
In this review, we will dive deep into everything you need to know about the Godox ES45. We will look at its features, performance, and whether it truly delivers on its promises.
Key Takeaways:
- Excellent Value for Money: The Godox ES45 offers professional grade lighting at roughly half the price of competitors like the Elgato Key Light. You get bi-color capability, wireless control, and a sturdy desk stand all included in the box.
- Impressive Color Accuracy: With a CRI rating above 96 and TLCI above 97, this light produces accurate and flattering colors. Your skin tones will look natural and healthy on camera.
- Versatile Color Temperature Range: The 2800K to 6500K bi-color range lets you match any ambient lighting condition. You can create warm cozy vibes or cool professional looks with a simple adjustment.
- Multiple Control Options: You can adjust settings via the included remote control, smartphone app, or the built-in control panel. This flexibility makes it easy to fine tune your lighting during streams or recordings.
- Soft Diffused Output: The built-in diffusion panel creates soft flattering light that minimizes harsh shadows. This means you look better without needing additional modifiers or softboxes.
- Complete Kit Included: Unlike some competitors, the ES45 comes with everything you need including a desk clamp stand, remote control, and power adapter. You can start using it right out of the box.
What is the Godox ES45 Key Light?
The Godox ES45 is a professional LED video light designed for streamers, content creators, and remote workers. Godox released this light to compete directly with premium options like the Elgato Key Light. The ES45 stands for E-Sports 45 watts, which tells you exactly who Godox made this light for.
This LED panel measures 14.4 x 9.1 inches and puts out an impressive amount of light. The panel uses edge-lit LED technology to create an even spread of illumination. You get a maximum output of 1025 lux at 1 meter, which is plenty bright for most streaming setups.
The light features a bi-color system that ranges from warm tungsten at 2800K to cool daylight at 6500K. This range covers virtually every lighting situation you might encounter. The panel sits on an adjustable arm that clamps directly to your desk. This design keeps your workspace clean and positions the light exactly where you need it.
Godox has been making professional photography and video equipment since 1993. They have built a solid reputation for offering high quality gear at affordable prices. The ES45 follows this tradition perfectly. It brings features usually found in expensive lights down to a more accessible price point.
Build Quality and Design
The Godox ES45 feels solid and well made when you pick it up. The panel housing uses durable plastic that resists scratches and minor impacts. The build quality matches or exceeds lights that cost twice as much.
The included desk stand deserves special mention. It uses a sturdy metal construction that holds the light firmly in place. The clamp mechanism grips desks up to 2.5 inches thick. You can adjust the arm height and the panel angle to get your perfect positioning.
The ball head mount allows for 360 degree rotation. This means you can tilt and swivel the light in any direction. Setting up your ideal lighting angle takes just seconds.
The detachable control panel sits on the back of the light. It features physical buttons for power, brightness, and color temperature. The display shows your current settings clearly. Some users prefer this over app-only controls because it works even if your phone dies.
The overall aesthetic is clean and professional. The white panel and black housing blend nicely with most desk setups. The light looks modern without being flashy or distracting in the background of your shots.
Performance and Light Quality
The light output from the ES45 is impressive for its size and price. At full power, it produces enough light to illuminate a typical streaming setup easily. The 1025 lux output at 1 meter rivals lights costing much more.
Color accuracy is where this light really shines. The CRI rating of 96+ means colors appear true and natural. Skin tones look healthy and vibrant rather than washed out or sickly. The TLCI rating of 97+ further confirms excellent video performance.
The bi-color adjustment is smooth and consistent. Moving from warm to cool temperatures produces no flickering or color banding. This matters for video because any inconsistency shows up on camera.
The built-in diffusion panel creates beautifully soft light. Hard shadows become gentle gradients that flatter facial features. You do not need to buy additional softboxes or diffusion materials. The light works great right out of the box.
Heat management is handled well through passive cooling. The panel gets warm during extended use but never dangerously hot. There are no fans, so the light operates in complete silence. This is crucial for streamers and podcasters who need quiet equipment.
Top 3 Alternatives for Godox ES45 Key Light
Control Options and Connectivity
The Godox ES45 offers three different ways to control your light. This flexibility sets it apart from many competitors that rely on single control methods.
The physical control panel sits on the back of the light unit. It features tactile buttons for power, brightness, and color temperature. A small LCD display shows your current settings. This method works even during power outages or when your phone is unavailable.
The included 2.4G wireless remote lets you adjust settings from across the room. This is perfect for solo creators who need to tweak lighting without leaving their chair. The remote feels solid and the buttons respond instantly.
The smartphone app offers the most control options. You can save presets, adjust settings precisely, and even control multiple lights at once. The app works on both iOS and Android devices. Setup is straightforward and connection is reliable.
One limitation worth noting is the lack of Stream Deck integration. Unlike the Elgato Key Light, you cannot control the ES45 directly from Stream Deck software. This might matter to streamers who have built their workflow around Stream Deck controls.
Setting Up Your Godox ES45
Getting the ES45 up and running is surprisingly simple. The entire setup process takes about five minutes from unboxing to first use.
Start by attaching the desk clamp to your workspace. The clamp adjusts to fit desks between 0.5 and 2.5 inches thick. Make sure you tighten it securely because the light has some weight to it.
Next, extend the arm to your desired height. The arm telescopes smoothly and locks into place with a twist mechanism. Position it so the light sits slightly above your eye level for the most flattering angle.
Mount the light panel to the ball head and adjust the tilt to aim at your face. A slight downward angle of about 15 to 20 degrees usually works best. This mimics natural overhead lighting.
Connect the power adapter to the control panel and plug it in. Press the power button and you are ready to go. The light remembers your last settings, so you do not need to readjust every time.
For app control, download the Godox Photo app and follow the pairing instructions. The light uses Bluetooth for initial setup and 2.4G wireless for ongoing control. The process is straightforward and well documented.
Who Should Buy the Godox ES45?
The Godox ES45 is perfect for several types of users. Understanding who benefits most helps you decide if it fits your needs.
Streamers and gamers will love this light. The soft output flatters faces during long streaming sessions. The silent operation means no annoying background noise. The desk clamp design keeps your gaming setup clean and organized.
YouTubers and content creators benefit from the excellent color accuracy. Videos look professional without extensive color correction in post. The bi-color capability lets you match any background lighting situation.
Remote workers and professionals who take frequent video calls should consider this light. Looking good on Zoom meetings makes a real difference in how colleagues perceive you. The investment pays for itself quickly in terms of professional appearance.
Photography enthusiasts can also use this light for product shots and portraits. The high CRI makes it suitable for serious photography work. It serves double duty as both a video light and a photo light.
The ES45 is less ideal for mobile creators who need portable lighting. The AC power requirement limits you to locations with outlets. If you need battery powered lighting, look elsewhere.
Godox ES45 vs Elgato Key Light
The comparison everyone wants to know about is how the ES45 stacks up against the Elgato Key Light. Both lights target the same audience, so the comparison is fair and relevant.
Price is the biggest differentiator. The Godox ES45 costs roughly 40 to 50 percent less than the Elgato Key Light. This price gap is substantial for budget conscious creators.
In terms of light output, both perform similarly. The Elgato claims 2800 lumens while Godox rates the ES45 differently. Real world testing shows comparable brightness levels. Neither light will leave you wanting more power.
Color accuracy is excellent on both lights. The ES45 actually edges ahead slightly with its 96+ CRI versus Elgato’s 95 CRI. In practice, most users will not notice this difference.
The Elgato wins on software integration. Its deep connection with Stream Deck and other Elgato products creates a seamless ecosystem. If you already use Elgato gear, the Key Light makes sense.
The Godox wins on included accessories. You get a remote control and a more adjustable stand in the box. With Elgato, you pay extra for any accessories.
Common Issues and Solutions
Every product has potential issues, and the ES45 is no exception. Here are the most common problems and how to solve them.
Connection issues with the app sometimes occur. The solution is usually simple: make sure Bluetooth is enabled and the light is in pairing mode. Restarting your phone often fixes persistent problems.
Some users report the desk clamp leaving marks on wooden desks. Using a piece of felt or foam between the clamp and desk surface prevents this issue. It is a minor inconvenience easily solved.
The remote control uses a CR2025 battery that eventually needs replacement. Keep a spare battery on hand so you are never caught without remote functionality.
The power cable is fairly short at about 1.5 meters. If your outlet is far from your desk, you might need an extension cord. This is a design trade off for portability.
Occasional flickering can occur if the power supply is unstable. Using a surge protector usually eliminates this problem. The light itself is not faulty in these cases.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Maximize your ES45 with these practical tips from experienced users.
Position the light at a 45 degree angle to your face for the most flattering results. This classic lighting angle has been used by professionals for decades. It creates depth without harsh shadows.
Set your color temperature to match your environment. If you have warm incandescent bulbs in your room, go warmer on the ES45. If daylight floods in through windows, lean cooler.
Use the light at 70 to 80 percent brightness for most situations. Full power is rarely necessary and can cause discomfort during long sessions. Keeping some headroom also extends the lifespan of the LEDs.
Consider adding a second light for fill. The ES45 works great as a key light, but a secondary light eliminates shadows on the opposite side of your face. Another ES45 or a cheaper alternative works fine as fill.
Clean the diffusion panel regularly with a microfiber cloth. Dust accumulates over time and can reduce light output. Keeping it clean ensures consistent performance.
Final Verdict: Is the Godox ES45 Worth It?
After extensive testing and research, the answer is a resounding yes. The Godox ES45 delivers exceptional value for content creators of all levels.
The combination of quality, features, and price is hard to beat. You get professional grade lighting without the professional grade price tag. The light output rivals competitors costing twice as much.
Build quality exceeds expectations for this price range. The desk stand is sturdy and adjustable. The panel itself feels solid and well made. This is not a cheap light that will fall apart in a year.
Color accuracy is genuinely impressive. The 96+ CRI means your videos look natural and professional. Skin tones appear healthy and vibrant. You will notice the difference immediately compared to cheap ring lights.
The multiple control options add tremendous flexibility. Whether you prefer physical buttons, a remote, or an app, the ES45 has you covered. This versatility makes it useful in various situations.
The only significant drawback is the lack of Stream Deck integration. If your workflow depends on Stream Deck, the Elgato Key Light might serve you better. Otherwise, the ES45 is the smarter buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Godox ES45 good for streaming?
Yes, the Godox ES45 is excellent for streaming. It provides soft, flattering light that makes you look professional on camera. The bi-color capability lets you match any room lighting. The silent operation means no background noise in your audio. Many popular streamers use the ES45 as their primary key light.
Can I control the Godox ES45 with Stream Deck?
No, the Godox ES45 does not support Stream Deck integration directly. Unlike Elgato lights, there is no official plugin for Stream Deck control. You can control it via the smartphone app, physical controls, or the included remote. This is a limitation compared to the Elgato ecosystem.
How does the Godox ES45 compare to ring lights?
The ES45 produces much more natural looking light than ring lights. Ring lights create that distinctive circular catchlight in your eyes which some find distracting. The ES45 panel creates softer, more diffused illumination. Color accuracy is also superior on the ES45. Ring lights work for certain aesthetics, but the ES45 is better for professional looking video.
Does the Godox ES45 get hot during use?
The ES45 gets warm but not dangerously hot. During extended use, the panel reaches a comfortable warm temperature. There are no active cooling fans, so operation is completely silent. The passive cooling design handles heat effectively. You can safely touch the panel even after hours of continuous use.
What power source does the Godox ES45 use?
The Godox ES45 requires AC power through the included adapter. It does not support battery operation or USB power. This means you need access to a wall outlet to use the light. The included power cable is approximately 1.5 meters long. You may need an extension cord depending on your setup.
Can I mount the Godox ES45 on a tripod?
Yes, the ES45 panel has a standard 1/4 inch thread mount. You can remove it from the desk stand and attach it to any tripod or light stand. This adds versatility for different shooting situations. However, you will need to purchase a separate stand as only the desk clamp is included.
