Why the Godox ML100Bi is the Smartest Lighting Choice for Creators in 2025

In an increasingly crowded market of compact LED lights, the Godox  ML100Bi quietly (and brightly) proves itself as the standout option for creators who demand performance without compromise. Whether you're a wedding filmmaker, a travel vlogger, or a content creator working out of a home studio, the ML100Bi offers a professional-grade solution in a palm-sized form. 

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the ML100Bi such an exceptional tool—and how it holds its own (and more) against competitors like the Aputure LS 60x, Amaran 100x, Zhiyun MOLUS X100, and the Harlowe Mini (formerly Hobolite). 

ML100Bi (Bi-Colour)	ML100R (RGB)

The ML100Bi and ML100R are sibling-lights, both from the same range, but with bi-colour and RGB functionality, respectively. 

Power That Punches Above Its Weight 

Despite its ultra-compact body (just 487g and roughly the size of a large lens), the ML100Bi delivers an astonishing 34,300 lux at 1 meter with its included 15° Fresnel-style lens. That’s on par with the Amaran 100x, which weighs three times more and requires a traditional power supply. 

By contrast, the ML100Bi is a true grab-and-go light. You can toss it in your backpack, power it via USB-C, AC, or even a V-mount battery grip, and start shooting anywhere. This versatility makes it ideal for travel filmmakers, documentary crews, or anyone filming on location without guaranteed access to mains power. 

Built-In Fresnel Brilliance & Practical Build Quality 

The ML100Bi includes a high-efficiency Fresnel-style spot reflector that doesn't just boost output—it provides a gorgeous, cinematic beam that’s ideal for dramatic light control, product lighting, and stylised setups. There’s also an optional 36° Fresnel lens available for wider coverage with the same beautiful fall-off. 

What’s more, the build quality is superb. It feels solid in hand, and when the Fresnel lens is attached, it naturally protects the COB LED, which is especially valuable in fast-paced environments with quick setups and breakdowns. For mobile crews and solo shooters, that peace of mind means fewer worries, less damage, and more focus on creativity. 

Designed for Creators on the Move 

Whether you're working from a hotel room, filming inside a car, or lighting a fast-moving scene outdoors, the ML100Bi shines. Its minimal footprint means it fits in most kit bags without rearranging everything else—and yet it delivers output typically expected from studio gear. 

In weddings and events, where time and space are tight, the ML100Bi sets up in seconds, works off power banks, and won’t draw attention. It’s bright enough to act as a key light, but small enough to hide and not stand out. 

Broadcast-Quality Light with Confidence 

The Godox ML100Bi boasts a CRI of 98+ and TLCI of 97+, which means you get broadcast-level colour rendering straight out of the box. For food stylists, commercial shoots, or YouTubers aiming for a consistent aesthetic, it delivers true-to-life skin tones and rich detail without the need for significant grading correction. 

Compare this to competitors like the Harlowe Mini, which, while visually impressive and featuring a zoom optical system, only manages a CRI of 94—noticeably lower and potentially problematic for professionals needing flawless colour rendering. 

Modifier Friendly – Even for Larger Setups 

Thanks to its adaptable Godox mount and optional Bowens adapter, the ML100Bi integrates beautifully into larger setups. Unlike other compact lights that are locked into proprietary modifiers, this one works with everything from small softboxes to full-sized beauty dishes. 

The light is powerful enough to punch through larger softboxes, which makes it a rare hybrid: small enough for personal vlogging, strong enough for stylised portrait or product photography. With a huge range of dedicated modifiers for the collection, including a lens reflector, softbox, lantern diffuser, and collapsible fresnel, there are a huge range of ways you can modify your light. 

App Control & Creative Lighting 

The Godox Light App lets you control brightness, colour temperature, and access 11 built-in effects, including lightning, TV flicker, and fireworks. Even more impressive: lights can be grouped, meaning the ML100Bi can form part of a professional 3-point or background lighting rig. 

You can make changes without climbing ladders or disrupting setups—ideal for overhead rigs, truss systems, or backlight positions. Just pull out your phone and tweak the whole scene. 

Simple & Intuitive Controls 

While packed with professional-grade features, the ML100Bi remains incredibly user-friendly. The physical interface is minimal, clear, and quick to navigate, with tactile dials and a bright onboard screen that make changing settings fast and frustration-free. 

Whether you're adjusting intensity on a dark set or cycling through effects during a fast-paced shoot, the ML100Bi keeps you in control. No menus buried five clicks deep, just practical, straightforward design. 

The Verdict 

The Godox ML100Bi is not just a great light for the price—it’s a great light, full stop. It brings together power, precision, and portability in a way that outclasses much of the competition. You’d expect this level of build and brightness from something three times the size. But with Godox, it’s all there, ready to go wherever the story takes you.