I’ve been a big fan of the Zhiyun lighting for a little while now, I adore the Molus G200 as a studio light and the Molus X100 for product lighting. But what if you are looking for something that can literally fit in your pocket? The fabulous people at Zhiyun have you covered for that too, with the Fiveray M20C.

Out of the box, it’s pretty simple to use. It comes with a few cool accessories and they are all magnetic…yes magnetic. It’s only 20W, but when you can pop it in your pocket, on your camera hotshoe and more, this little light can be VEERY versatile. Let’s have a closer look!

Note: Zhiyun sent the Fiveray M20C kit to review and keep. However, this is a completely independent review. All thoughts about this light are my own.

It is worth noting that there is a Fiveray M20 and a Fiveray M20C version…I am reviewing the Fiveray M20C version. You can find a comparison chart here

Pros

  • Runs on batteries and is very small
  • Variable controls for power and color temp (2700K — 6500K)
  • Minimalist design, Small and lightweight, easily to clip to light stands, your camera and more
  • Intelligent cooling with heat sink and fan
  • The fan is whisper quiet, great for video
  • Easy to turn dials for power and temperature, and simple on/off switch
  • All accessories, the diffuser, the grid, and barn doors are all magnetic.

Cons

  • The battery is built-in, would be handy to swap batteries in and out
  • Battery (on full power) only last 40mins, which can be a pain on a day trip and you can’t swap out the batteries

Zhiyun Riveray M20C — Technical specifications

All of the technical specifications are from their website/marketing material.

  • Output Power (Max): 20W
  • Color Temperature Range: 2500K~10,000K
  • Peak Illuminance: 1950 Lux
  • RGB/HSI : Yes (M20C model only)
  • Lighting effects: 16 (M20 has 10)
  • Magnetic Property: Yes
  • Cooling Method: Fan
  • Expansion Accessories: Yes (on the M20C model only)
  • App Control: Yes (on the M20C model only)
  • Battery run time: 40 mins on full power
  • Dimensions: 110x110x40 (WxHxD) mm (without accessories)
  • Net Weight: 220grams (without accessories)

Zhiyun Riveray M20C — Versatility

You can adjust the light intensity and the color, I like it set to 5600k. But that is really just a personal choice. You can change the colour temperature, so it’s effectively adding gels, which could be handy in certain circumstances.

Ergonomics are great. It does have a fan, which is fairly quiet. The diffuser and grid work quite well to soften and direct the light, espeically when placed on top of the camera.

Build quality

Small and sturdy, dials are firm and stable but easily turned. The accessories are all magnetic, making it a breeze to add and remove.

Out of the box

It comes in a handy carry pouch with the light and adapter, power cable (USB C-type), diffuser, grid, barn doors and Quick Start guide.

Zhiyun Riveray M20C — Power in your pocket

Thanks to some innovative technology this little light might just change the way you see LED lights (if my other reviews haven’t already). Small and compact but powerful enough for macro, a fill light for video and for so many other uses – like watercolor painting. Versatile and adaptable to whatever you want to use it for. And the best part, simple to use.

Mounting

I mounted mine on a (mini) light stand, for general lighting, or even just on my desk. For macro and product photography (with small objects) I mounted it on the camera. There is an adapter which has multiple mounting options. And don’t forget it’s magnetic.

Setup

It’s so simple to use. However, first use I pressed the power button and a little message appeared. To turn the M20C on one quick press and then a longer one. This is handy so you’re not wasting the battery accidentally pressing the power on in your pocket. Adjust the dials for power and color temp. Add the diffuser, grid or barn doors and you’re ready to shoot. It’s that simple. I used it for some macro in the backyard on an extrememly overcast day, early evening. It gave beautiful soft and natural-looking light.

Zhiyun Riveray M20C — A terrific lighting addition to your kit

I actually use this in the studio for my painting (I bet you didn’t know I paint too, right?), as well as popping on the camera for macro photography. It’s a terrific little light and very handy. The fact that it is so small, lightweight and easy to use is a big plus for me. Especially when it’s dark and gloomy, late in the afternoon or during stormy weather, this little light really does do the trick.

Available from Zhiyun or Amazon.