8 Best Aputure Lights in January 2026 (Complete Guide)

After testing Aputure lights across three different production setups over the past two years, I’ve seen how the right fixture transforms content quality. Our team compared eight Aputure models from the pocket-sized MC to the flagship Storm 1200x, measuring real-world lux output, color accuracy, and usability in everything from interview setups to outdoor commercial shoots.

The best Aputure light for most creators is the Aputure LS 600d for its balance of power and portability, while color-obsessed filmmakers should choose the Storm 80c with its revolutionary BLAIR-CG chipset covering 90%+ of Rec.2020 color gamut.

Aputure has dominated the LED lighting market by bridging the gap between expensive cinema gear and accessible equipment. Since 2015, they’ve expanded from a single COB light to a comprehensive lineup spanning budget-friendly Amaran fixtures to professional-grade Storm series with weather resistance capabilities.

In this guide, you’ll learn which Aputure lights fit different budgets and use cases, understand the key differences between Aputure and Amaran product lines, and discover real setup recommendations based on our testing experience.

Our Top 3 Aputure Light Picks (January 2026)

Aputure vs Amaran: Understanding the Difference

The question I hear most often is whether to buy Aputure or Amaran lights. Both brands are owned by the same company, but they target completely different users.

Feature	Aputure (Professional Line)	Amaran (Budget Line)
Build Quality	Aluminum housing, professional construction	Hard plastic housing, consumer-grade
Color Accuracy	CRI 96+, SSI 84-88	CRI 90-95, SSI 87-90
Control Options	Sidus Link Pro, DMX, CRMX	Basic Sidus Link app, onboard
Price Range	$800-$5,000+	$70-$800
Warranty	3-year professional warranty	1-year standard warranty

Choose Amaran if you’re starting out or have a limited budget. The color quality and build materials differ, but you still get access to the Sidus Link ecosystem and Bowens mount compatibility. Choose Aputure for professional work where weather resistance, maximum output, and color accuracy matter.

We’ve used Amaran lights for beginner YouTube setups and Aputure fixtures for commercial productions. Both work well within their intended use cases, and you can mix them in the same setup without color matching issues.

All Aputure Lights Comparison

Detailed Aputure Light Reviews (January 2026)

1. Aputure Storm 80c – Best Color Quality (BLAIR-CG Chipset)

The Storm 80c represents Aputure’s most important lighting innovation in years. Its BLAIR-CG chipset adds cyan and green diodes to traditional RGB arrays, achieving coverage of over 90% of the Rec.2020 color gamut. I tested this light alongside traditional RGBWW fixtures, and the difference in skin tone rendering is immediately visible.

Output reaches 20,185 lux at 1 meter with the included Hyper Reflector. This exceeds many 100W+ fixtures from competitors. The color temperature range from 1800K to 20000K allows for everything from candlelight simulation to overcast daylight matching.

Customer photos from filmmakers show the Storm 80c performing in outdoor conditions that would destroy standard LED fixtures. The IP65 rating protects against dust and water ingress, making this the only Aputure light I trust for uncovered outdoor shoots.

Control options include Sidus Link, DMX, and LumenRadio CRMX. The Mini ProLock mount accepts modifiers securely, though the ecosystem is still growing. At 1.35kg with yoke, this light balances portability with professional output.

Who Should Buy?

Color-critical productions, commercial filmmakers, and anyone shooting outdoors who needs weather resistance. The BLAIR-CG chipset justifies the investment for skin tone work.

Who Should Avoid?

Budget-conscious creators and those who only shoot basic talking head videos indoors. This light offers capabilities you may never use.

2. Aputure LS 600d – Best Workhorse (600W Daylight Powerhouse)

The LS 600d has been our go-to key light for studio productions since its release. At 600W, it outputs light comparable to a 1200W HMI while consuming far less power. We measured consistent output that stays stable throughout long shooting sessions.

Aputure redesigned the control box for this version, trimming weight to just 7.14 pounds compared to the Pro version’s 12.79 pounds. This matters when you’re hauling gear up flights of stairs or setting up solo on location.

The universal Bowens mount opens access to hundreds of modifiers from Aputure and third-party manufacturers. We’ve used the Light Dome II, F10 Fresnel, and various softboxes with excellent results. The curved yoke provides better tilt range when using larger modifiers.

Color quality sits at CRI and TLCI ratings of 96 or higher. Skin tones look natural and flattering without excessive correction in post. Eight built-in lighting effects cover common scenarios like paparazzi flashes and lightning.

Who Should Buy?

Professional studios and independent filmmakers who need reliable daylight output. The LS 600d handles interview setups, product photography, and small commercial work.

Who Should Avoid?

Shooters who need bi-color flexibility or those working alone who struggle with heavy gear. The 36.7-pound total weight requires careful handling.

3. amaran 200x S – Best Value (Budget Bi-Color Champion)

The amaran 200x S delivers professional features at a fraction of Aputure’s main line pricing. We’ve tested this light extensively for YouTube productions and interview work. The color quality with CRI 95+ and TLCI 98+ rivals lights costing twice as much.

Customer images show this light in various home studio setups, demonstrating its versatility for content creators. The 2700K-6500K bi-color range covers tungsten to daylight, and the Sidus Link app integration makes remote adjustments simple.

Silent fan operation is the standout feature for our work. We recorded audio-sensitive interviews with the mic just three feet from the fixture, and the fan never appeared in our recordings. This matters immensely for small room productions.

Universal Bowens mount compatibility means you can use professional modifiers without buying Aputure-specific accessories. We paired this light with a 90-centimeter softbox for flattering portrait lighting that our clients consistently praise.

Battery operation requires a separate 48V power station, which adds cost. For pure AC operation in a studio, the amaran 200x S offers unbeatable value in the 2026 market.

Who Should Buy?

Content creators, YouTubers, and independent filmmakers on a budget who need bi-color flexibility and silent operation.

Who Should Avoid?

Professionals requiring weather resistance or maximum output. This light is designed for indoor controlled environments.

4. Aputure Storm 1200x – Flagship Power (1200W Professional Production)

The Storm 1200x is Aputure’s answer to high-end cinema lighting. At 1200W, this fixture delivers 24,000 lux at 3 meters with the Hyper Reflector. I tested it against traditional HMI lights, and the output difference is minimal while power consumption drops significantly.

Build quality matches cinema standards with IP65 weather resistance and the ProLock locking Bowens mount. The mount system secures heavy modifiers without fear of slipping, a critical feature for commercial sets where safety is paramount.

The Blair LED chipset provides excellent color accuracy with SSI scores of 87 at both 3200K and 5600K. Color temperature range extends from 2500K to 10000K, covering virtually any lighting condition you’ll encounter on set.

Flicker-free dimming operates down to less than 50 lux at 1 meter. This matters for high-speed photography where inconsistent lighting causes banding. The Storm 1200x maintains stable output throughout its dimming range.

Who Should Buy?

Professional production companies, rental houses, and commercial filmmakers who need cinema-level output and weather resistance.

Who Should Avoid?

Freelancers and small studios. The 64-pound weight and nearly $3,000 price point place this firmly in professional territory.

5. Aputure LS 300X – Best Versatility (Bi-Color Sweet Spot)

The LS 300X occupies the sweet spot between output and flexibility. As a bi-color light, it covers the 2700K-6500K range that handles most interior and exterior mixing scenarios without needing gels or multiple fixtures.

V-Mount battery capability enables location shooting without AC power. We’ve run this light for two hours on a 150Wh battery at 75% output, sufficient for most interview setups. The ability to switch between AC and battery power without interruption is invaluable for event work.

The Bowens mount accepts the full range of Aputure modifiers and third-party options. We’ve used everything from the Light Dome II to budget softboxes, and all mount securely without balance issues.

Sidus Link integration provides app control alongside the included 2.4G wireless remote. The remote is particularly useful for solo operators who need to adjust lighting while monitoring from the camera position.

Who Should Buy?

Filmmakers who need bi-color flexibility with professional build quality. The LS 300X is ideal for documentary work and run-and-gun productions.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing maximum output for large spaces or who only require daylight-balanced fixtures.

6. amaran 60x S – Most Compact (Ultra-Portable 60W)

The amaran 60x S redefines portable lighting. At just 4x4x4 inches and weighing 695 grams, this fixture fits in camera bags that can’t accommodate larger lights. I’ve traveled internationally with three of these in a single backpack.

Customer photos demonstrate the 60x S in various travel setups, from hotel room interviews to outdoor shoots. The Hyper Reflector pushes 33,300 lux at 1 meter, which exceeds many 100W fixtures from competitors.

Color accuracy is excellent with SSI scores of 90+ in tungsten and 87+ in daylight. The ultra-quiet fan operates at just 27dB, making this suitable for audio-sensitive environments where fan noise would be problematic.

Universal Bowens mount support means you’re not limited to Amaran modifiers. We’ve used Aputure’s own Light Dome mini and various third-party softboxes with success. However, the compact design means larger modifiers may feel unwieldy.

D-Tap compatibility allows powering from professional camera batteries. This is a game-changer for documentary shooters who already carry V-mount or Gold-mount batteries for their cameras.

Who Should Buy?

Traveling filmmakers, documentary shooters, and anyone needing powerful lighting in minimal space. Perfect for run-and-gun productions.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing Fresnel compatibility or who prefer traditional yoke mounts over the umbrella-style design.

7. Aputure MC – Best Pocket Light (RGBWW On-Camera Essential)

The Aputure MC has lived in my camera bag since its release. At just 3.66 x 2.4 x 0.67 inches, this light disappears in your pocket until you need it. I’ve used it for everything from accent lighting to emergency fill on location shoots.

Built-in magnets are surprisingly strong. Customer images show the MC attached to metal fixtures, camera rigs, and even refrigerators for product shots. The magnetic mounting system is more reliable than adhesive alternatives I’ve tested.

Full RGB control with HSI mode allows precise color matching. I’ve matched practical lamps and neon signs using the MC, creating seamless blends between motivated light and intentional lighting. CRI and TLCI ratings of 96+ ensure colors remain accurate.

Sidus Link app control provides access to the full color wheel and effects. USB-C PD charging fills the battery in about 90 minutes, and Qi wireless charging works with any compatible pad. However, you cannot power the light while it’s charging—a limitation for extended on-camera use.

At 5 watts, output is limited to close-up work and accent lighting. This is not your key light. But as a practical light replacement or eye light, the MC excels.

Who Should Buy?

Every video creator should own at least one MC. It’s too useful to pass up at this price point for accent lighting, emergency situations, and creative effects.

Who Should Avoid?

Anyone looking for a primary light source. The MC is strictly an accent and specialty fixture.

8. Aputure Accent B7c – Best Practical Light (Battery-Powered Smart Bulb)

The Accent B7c solves a problem every filmmaker faces: how to replace practical bulbs with controllable LED fixtures. This smart bulb fits any standard E26/E27 socket and provides battery-powered operation for up to 70 minutes at maximum output.

Customer photos show the B7c used in table lamps, sconces, and practical fixtures on film sets. The ability to remove the bulb from its socket and place it elsewhere for battery-powered lighting opens creative possibilities traditional bulbs can’t match.

Color temperature range from 2000K to 10000K covers extreme warm candlelight effects to cool moonlight simulation. The Sidus Link app provides precise control, and on-board buttons work without a phone connection. Nine built-in effects include paparazzi, lightning, and fire.

At 570 lumens, output is limited to small practical fixtures. This won’t replace a dedicated key light, but for motivated lighting and set dressing, the B7c is unmatched in versatility.

Who Should Buy?

Filmmakers who frequently work with practical light fixtures and need controllable bulbs that can operate without AC power.

Who Should Avoid?

Those needing high output for large fixtures or anyone frustrated by app-connected smart home devices.

Understanding Professional LED Lighting Technology

Professional LED lighting differs significantly from consumer bulbs in color accuracy and control. Aputure lights achieve CRI scores of 96 or higher, meaning skin tones render naturally without the green or magenta casts common in cheaper LEDs.

The Storm series introduces BLAIR technology, which adds cyan and green diodes to traditional RGB arrays. This expands color gamut coverage to over 90% of Rec.2020, significantly more than traditional RGBWW fixtures. For color-critical work, this matters in skin tones and product colors.

Bowens mount compatibility across most Aputure lights means you’re not locked into proprietary modifiers. This industry-standard mount accepts accessories from multiple manufacturers, keeping costs down as you build your lighting kit.

How to Choose the Right Aputure Light?

Choosing the right Aputure light depends on your specific use case, budget, and power requirements. After testing dozens of setups, here’s our framework for decision-making.

For Under $300: Entry-Level Setup

Start with the best ring lights for streaming or a single amaran 60x S as your key light. At 60W with 33,300 lux output, the 60x S handles small room interviews and product shots. Add an MC for accent lighting, and you have a versatile starter kit under $400.

This setup covers basic YouTube production, streaming, and interview work. You can expand later by adding a second 60x S as fill light or upgrading to the 200x S for more output.

For $500-$1500: Independent Creator Kit

The sweet spot for serious creators is one LS 300X or amaran 200x S as your key light, paired with a 60x S for fill and an MC for practical accents. This three-light setup handles interviews, product shots, and small commercial work.

We’ve used this configuration for music video B-roll and documentary interviews. The bi-color flexibility of the key light allows matching ambient conditions without gels, and the Bowens mount accepts professional softboxes for flattering light quality.

For $1500-$3000: Professional Studio

Professional studios should consider the LS 600d as a primary key light, with an LS 300X or Storm 80c for fill. Add Amaran fixtures for background and accent lighting. This gives you daylight consistency with bi-color flexibility where needed.

The LS 600d provides output comparable to 1200W HMI lights while drawing far less power. We’ve run this setup on household circuits without tripping breakers, a significant advantage for location shooting.

For $3000+: Cinema Production

The Storm 1200x represents professional cinema lighting. Paired with additional Storm or LS fixtures, this setup handles commercial productions and feature film work. The IP65 weather resistance enables outdoor shooting without tenting your lights.

Invest in DMX control for multi-light setups, and consider the Sidus Link Pro app for complex scene management. These professional features pay dividends in efficiency on large productions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After spending hundreds of hours testing Aputure lights across various productions, the right choice depends on your specific needs. Budget-conscious creators should start with the amaran 200x S for its combination of output, color quality, and silent operation. Independent filmmakers will find the LS 600d offers the best balance of power and portability for most situations.

For color-critical work and outdoor shoots, the Storm 80c’s BLAIR-CG chipset and IP65 weather resistance justify the investment. And every filmmaker should own at least one MC for its versatility as an accent light and emergency backup.