Softboxes offer more control over the direction and spread of light, while photography umbrellas are more versatile and easier to use. Softboxes are more expensive and require more setup time, while photography umbrellas are more affordable and can be set up quickly.

Umbrellas are best for beginners or videographers who want more versatile, soft, diffused lighting to cover a large, open space. On the other hand, softboxes are best if you desire more precise, directional, and controlled lighting for more enclosed spaces.

A softbox produces soft, focused, controllable light, but it’s expensive. An umbrella diffuser spreads light in all directions, but it’s cheap, compact, compatible with many light fixtures, and a cinch to set up, transport, and store, which might be a good choice for beginners.

The softbox is the best choice when you are seeking the most control possible. It will also save you flash power so you get more shots out of each battery charge. If you are shooting outside we would recommend avoiding the umbrella at all costs due to the wind factor. There’s a far greater chance of the flash blowing over and possibly breaking.

Both softboxes and umbrellas create soft, diffused light on your set Softboxes tend to be more controlled and directional and easier to modify, while umbrella light resembles outdoor light Umbrellas are often cheaper and easier to stow and transport