When it comes to light meters, photographers and filmmakers rely on accurate and reliable tools to measure the intensity of light in various environments. Two popular options in this category are the Dr.meter LX1330B and the Sekonic L-858D-U. While both devices share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Design and Build

The Dr.meter LX1330B has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around in a camera bag or pocket. It weighs approximately 6 ounces and measures 4.5 x 2.5 x 1 inches. The device features a simple and intuitive interface with a large LCD display, allowing users to easily navigate through its various functions.

In contrast, the Sekonic L-858D-U has a more robust build and a slightly larger design, weighing around 10 ounces and measuring 5.5 x 3 x 1.5 inches. Its interface is also user-friendly, but it offers more advanced features and settings, which may require some time to get familiar with.

Light Measurement Capabilities

Both devices are capable of measuring ambient light, flash light, and mixed lighting conditions. However, the Sekonic L-858D-U has a wider range of measurement capabilities, including:

• Incident light: measures the amount of light falling on a subject
• Reflected light: measures the amount of light reflected from a subject
• Flash light: measures the intensity of flash units
• Mixed lighting: measures the combined intensity of ambient and flash light

The Dr.meter LX1330B, on the other hand, focuses primarily on incident light measurement, with some limited capabilities for measuring reflected light.

Accuracy and Sensitivity

The Sekonic L-858D-U is widely regarded as one of the most accurate light meters on the market, with a sensitivity range of 0.1 to 180,000 lux (0.01 to 16,750 fc). It also features a high-resolution sensor that provides precise measurements, even in low-light conditions.

The Dr.meter LX1330B has a slightly lower sensitivity range of 0.5 to 100,000 lux (0.05 to 9,290 fc), but it still provides accurate readings and is suitable for most photography applications.

Additional Features

The Sekonic L-858D-U offers several advanced features that make it stand out from the competition, including:

• Wireless flash control: allows users to trigger and adjust flash units remotely
• Radio flash triggering: enables wireless triggering of flash units using radio signals
• Data analysis software: provides detailed analysis of light measurement data for post-processing

The Dr.meter LX1330B, on the other hand, has a more basic feature set, but it does offer some useful functions like:

• Continuous measurement mode: allows users to take multiple readings in quick succession
• Data hold function: stores the last measured value for easy reference

Price and Value

The Dr.meter LX1330B is generally priced lower than the Sekonic L-858D-U, making it a more affordable option for photographers and filmmakers on a budget. However, the Sekonic L-858D-U offers more advanced features and higher accuracy, which may justify its higher price point for professionals who require precise light measurement.

In conclusion, when choosing between the Dr.meter LX1330B and the Sekonic L-858D-U, it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for a basic, easy-to-use light meter that provides accurate readings, the Dr.meter LX1330B may be the better choice. However, if you require more advanced features, higher accuracy, and wireless flash control, the Sekonic L-858D-U is the superior option. As with any light meters, it's essential to consider your specific requirements and choose the device that best fits your workflow and budget.