Frequently Asked Questions

The UltraLite is more than just a portable light - it’s a creator-designed lighting system built to work across phones, cameras, and tripods. Below you’ll find detailed answers to common questions about the UltraLite, how it works, how to use it, and why it’s different from other lights on the market.

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Last updated by Justin McClure: January 2026

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1. General Questions
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2. Product Specs & Light Quality
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3. Power, Battery, & Charging
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4. Compatibility & Mounting
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5. Using The UltraLite
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6. Troubleshooting
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7. Shipping & Fulfillment
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8. Returns & Warranty
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9. Accessories & Bundles
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10. Brand, Story, & Credibility
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11. Payments, Gifting, & Affiliates

1. General Questions

What Is The UltraLite?

The UltraLite is a portable LED creator light designed to work with phones, cameras, and tripods — all with one device. Unlike traditional ring lights or bulky LED panels, UltraLite uses a patented U-shape that follows the contours of the face while keeping your camera’s hot shoe free for microphones or accessories.

It was invented by filmmaker and YouTuber Justin McClure to solve a real problem creators face: no single light worked well across every device without compromising sound, portability, or setup speed.

Who Is The UltraLite Designed For?

UltraLite is built for creators who care about lighting quality, flexibility, and speed, including:

  • YouTubers and vloggers
  • TikTok and Instagram creators
  • Photographers and videographers
  • Makeup artists and beauty creators
  • Fitness, food, real estate, and coaching creators
  • Anyone who wants professional light without bulky gear

If you shoot content on both your phone and a camera, UltraLite is designed for you.

WhoIs The UltraLite NOT For?

UltraLite is not meant to replace large, always-on studio panels. If you need a light running 4–8 hours nonstop in a fixed location (tattoo studios, all-day podcast sets), a traditional studio light may be better.

UltraLite is optimized for shooting sessions, portability, travel, and fast setup, not permanent installations.

 

The UltraLite is the portable solution that sits between ring lights and large LEDs.

What Makes The UltraLite Different From A Ring Light?

What Makes The UltraLite Different From A Ring Light?

Traditional ring lights:

  • Are large and stationary
  • Block the camera hot shoe
  • Are designed for one device type
  • Require constant power

UltraLite:

  • Works with phones, cameras, and tripods
  • Is battery powered and travel-ready
  • Leaves room for microphones
  • Is compact, handheld, and fast to deploy

UltraLite can act like a ring light — but it does far more.

2. Product Specifications & Light Quality

How Bright Is The UltraLite Portable Light?

UltraLite outputs up to ~1700 lumens at full power. Brightness is adjustable from 5% to 100%, allowing everything from soft fill light to strong key lighting.

 

Lower brightness levels extend battery life while still delivering excellent light quality.

What Is the Color Tempertature Range?

UltraLite is fully adjustable from 3300K (warm) to 5800K (cool daylight). This allows you to match indoor lighting, natural daylight, or creative looks without gels or filters.

What Is The CRI Light Rating?

UltraLite has a CRI of 97, meaning skin tones, makeup, and product colors appear accurate and natural on camera. High CRI lighting is critical for creators, beauty professionals, and photographers.

Is The UltraLite Flicker-Free?

Yes. UltraLite is designed to be flicker-free at standard video frame rates and shutter speeds. If flicker appears under normal settings, the unit may be defective and should be reported to support.

Does The UltraLite Have A Diffuser?

Yes. UltraLite includes a built-in diffuser that softens the light for flattering results. The diffuser is removable for advanced users who want to experiment with different looks or accessories.

3. Power, Battery, & Charging

How Long Does The Battery Last?

Battery life depends on brightness:

  • ~50 minutes at 100%
  • ~1 hour 45 minutes at 50%
  • 2+ hours around 30%

UltraLite is designed for portable shooting, not all-day power.

How Long Does It Take To Charge?

UltraLite fully charges in approximately 90 minutes via USB-C - we will improve upon this in future versions, but the battery is small to keep the unit light. However, going forward, we think creators will sacrifice a tad bit more weight for a stronger and more powerful battery.

Can I Use The UltraLite While Charging?

Yes. You can use UltraLite while plugged in. At very high brightness levels, it may still drain faster than it charges, so it should not be treated as unlimited power. Try to keep it charged up.

Does The UltraLite Get Hot (generate heat)?

UltraLite may feel slightly warm during extended use, but it is engineered to stay comfortable to hold. It does not require a heavy heat sink, keeping the unit compact and lightweight.

How Long Will The Battery Last (long term)?

With normal use and proper charging habits, the internal battery is expected to last 5+ years.

4. Compatibility & Mounting

Does The UltraLite Work With Phones?

Yes. UltraLite works with all iPhone models. Most standard cases fit, though very thick or rugged cases may need to be removed.

 

You can use the UltraLite phone adapter for any phone scenario: vertical, selfie, horizontal, etc. The adapter slides to accommodate various positions.

Does It Work With Android Phones?

Yes. UltraLite works with most Android phones. Some flip-style phones may not be compatible when opened outward (because they are too big). 

Does The UltraLite Work With Cameras?

Yes. UltraLite supports:

  • DSLRs
  • Mirrorless cameras
  • Point-and-shoot cameras
  • Camcorders

The adjustable arms allow room for large lenses, including professional primes.

How Much Space & Clearance Is Between The Light Arms?

Approximately 4.7 inches, enough to accommodate large lenses like an 85mm f/1.2.

Does The UltraLite Work With Tripods?

Yes. UltraLite uses a standard 1/4”-20 thread, making it compatible with nearly all tripods and mounting systems. You can also use it with selfie sticks.

There Are Cold Shoe Mounts On The Top - Can They Be Accessorized?

Each arm includes a cold shoe mount for microphones, wireless transmitters, or other accessories — a key advantage over traditional ring lights.

5. Using The UltraLite

How Do I Turn It On and Off?

Press the small black power button above the display once to turn it on, and once again to turn it off.

How Do I Adjust The Brightness?

Press inward the toggle dial to select brightness, then rotate to adjust from 5% to 100%.

How Do I Attach To My Phone?

Use the included phone mount, adjust it to align with your phone, and tighten the screw for a secure fit. You can slide it horizontally at the base for precision adjustment.

How Do I Attach To My Camera?

Remove the phone mount on the back of the expansion plate (turn the knob), secure it to a camera, and put it back turning the knob for tightness. Adjust the arms, front or back, for lens size.

6. Troubleshooting

My UltraLite Won't Turn On

  • Plug it in for 10–15 minutes
  • Try a different USB-C cable or outlet
  • Press the power button once (no long press)

If it still doesn’t turn on, contact support with a short video.

My UltraLite Looks Dimmer Than Before

As the battery drains, brightness is gradually reduced to extend runtime. Fully recharge to restore maximum output. Fully charged at 1700 lumens, the UltraLite will last around an hour.

 

We're looking to improve battery performance for the next version of the UltraLite.

My UltraLite Started Flickering

This is not normal. Record a short clip and contact support@theultralite.com

How Do I Attach To My Camera?

Remove the phone mount on the back of the expansion plate (turn the knob), secure it to a camera, and put it back turning the knob for tightness. Adjust the arms, front or back, for lens size.

7. Shipping & Fulfillment

Where Do Orders Ship From?

All orders ship from Marietta, Georgia, directly from our family business.

How Often Do You Ship?

Orders family typically ships Tuesdays and Fridays. Tracking is emailed once shipped.

Do You Offer Free Shipping?

Yes. Free U.S. shipping on orders over $99, which means each UltraLite order is free.

Do You Ship Internationally?

Yes. International customers are responsible for shipping fees, duties and customs fees.

8. Returns & Warranty

Do I Need To Register My UltraLite?

Yes. Registration is required within 30 days of delivery to qualify for warranty coverage. 

What Does The Warranty Cover?

The warranty covers manufacturing defects such as battery, display, buttons, or internal electronics. It does not cover water or impact damage.

What Is The Return Policy?

Unused UltraLite units in original packaging may be returned within 30 days, provided they are registered.

9. Accessories & Bundles

Do You Sell Tripods?

Yes. UltraLite offers:

  • A full-size tripod (up to 81.1”)
  • A flexible tripod for travel
  • The UltraPod which is great to travel with and expands to 5 feet.

Do You Sell Microphones?

Yes. We offer:

  • Wireless lav microphones
  • Camera-mounted microphones

These pair perfectly with UltraLite’s cold shoes.

Will You Offer More Accessories and Products?

Yes. QUOS UltraLite is positioning itself as the choice for creators. We'll be offering tools, products, and services that serve content creators.

10. Brand, Story, & Credibility

Who Invented The UltraLite?

UltraLite was invented and patented by Justin McClure, a filmmaker and creator who needed a better lighting solution for real-world shooting. His family, the Mighty McClures and McClure Twins, have a large social media following. Most notably, close to 9 million total YouTube subscribers, and 5 billion total views.

Is Daymond John From Shark Tank Involved?

Yes. Daymond John invested after becoming friends with Justin and seeing early versions of the UltraLite - recognizing the demand and value. He believs in the product and the family behind it.

Why Should I Trust The UltraLite As A Portable Light Solution?

UltraLite is:

  • 2 Patented (design and utility)
  • Creator-designed to solve real problems
  • Used by creators with 9M+ subscribers and 5B+ views

Built to solve real workflow problems, not chase trends

11. Payments, Gifting, & Affiliates

Which Payments Methods Do You Accept?

We accept major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, PayPal, and Shop Pay.

Can I Buy The UltraLite As A Gift?

Absolutely. The UltraLite makes a great gift for content creators at any level.

Do You Have An Affiliate Program?

Yes. Creators can earn up to 25% commission through our affiliate program.