Every Ants on a Melon kit is built around the same brain: the RGB Critter BT, a programmable, app-controlled light that powers whips, sabers, staffs, tubes, and more. That is great news for your wallet (one light, many tools), but it does raise a fair question: where should I start? This guide walks you to the right kit based on what you actually want to do.
Start with one question: spin or shoot?
Almost everyone falls into one of two camps:
- Flow artists spin, dance, and perform with the light in motion (whips, sabers, staffs).
- Light painting photographers use long camera exposures to "paint" with light in still images (tubes, blades, writers).
The Critter does both, so if you want to try everything, start with the standalone light and add tools later. If you already know your lane, jump to the matching section below.
The core: just the RGB Critter BT
If you want the most flexible starting point, buy the light by itself. The RGB Critter BT ($129.95) works on its own as a color-changing flashlight and is the foundation every accessory attaches to. Best for: tinkerers, people who already own props, or anyone who wants to add tools one at a time. Pair it with our accessory guide to plan your build.
For light painting photographers
Three tiers, depending on how deep you want to go:
- Light Painting Photography Kit for Beginners ($189.95) — the easiest on-ramp. Everything you need to take your first real light painting shots without overbuying. Best for: first-timers and gift buyers.
- Light Painting Starter Kit ($384.95) — a broader set of light-shaping tools for someone ready to develop a real body of work. Best for: hobbyists getting serious.
- Light Painting Pro Kit ($899.95) — the complete photographer's arsenal: the widest range of tubes, shapers, and tools in one box. Best for: working artists and anyone who wants it all up front.
New to the craft? Read our full RGB Critter BT guide and the advanced techniques post before you choose.
For flow artists
Pick by the tool you want to spin:
- BitWhip Fiber Optic Whip (from $149.95) — the flagship whip and our most popular flow tool. Bright fiber trails, performance-grade build. Best for: most flow artists starting out.
- Sol Saber Kit ($189.95) — a diffusing tube saber for smooth, even trails. Best for: dancers and saber spinners. (Patterned sabers — Honeycomb, Hive, Butterfly, Stellar — are also available at the same tier.)
- LED Staff Kit ($299.95) — a full-length contact and spinning staff lit end to end. Best for: staff spinners.
- Jupiter Rope Kit ($159.95) — flexible rope-dart-style flow. Best for: rope and fluid-motion artists.
- Double BitWhip Kit (from $309.95) — two whips for symmetrical, dual-handed spinning. Best for: performers ready to level up.
For costumes and wearables
The Fiber Optic Costume Kit (from $179.95) turns the Critter's light into a glowing, app-controlled wearable — perfect for festival outfits, performances, and dramatic portraits.
Quick picker
- "I just want to try it cheaply." RGB Critter BT ($129.95) or the Beginner Photography Kit ($189.95).
- "I want to spin." BitWhip (from $149.95) or a Sol Saber ($189.95).
- "I'm a serious photographer." Starter Kit ($384.95), then the Pro Kit ($899.95) when you outgrow it.
- "Buy me the best of everything." Light Painting Pro Kit ($899.95) plus a BitWhip.
- "It's a gift." Beginner Photography Kit or a single BitWhip — both are self-contained and easy to start with. See our gift guide.
One smart add-on
Whatever you choose, consider the Lifetime Warranty Protection ($19.95). These tools take real-world abuse; the lifetime upgrade covers the light for as long as you own it.
Kit chooser FAQ
Can I add tools to a kit later?
Yes — that is the whole point. Every tool runs on the same RGB Critter BT and the same app, so you can start small and expand without rebuying the light.
Do I need a different light for whips vs. photography?
No. The same Critter powers both. Only the attachment changes.
What if I want to spin AND shoot photos?
Start with the standalone Critter or a BitWhip, then add light-painting shapers as you go.
Which kit is the best value?
For most newcomers, the Beginner Photography Kit or a single BitWhip gives the most fun per dollar. The Pro Kit is the best value only if you genuinely want the full range up front.
