Aputure’s Amaran COB 60x offers premium studio lighting at an affordable price
For creators on a budget, finding gear that delivers the best value is essential. The Aputure Amaran COB 60x is a point‑source LED light that packs professional‑grade performance into a compact package, all for just $200.
Product Overview and Pricing
The COB 60x is priced at $200 and sits among the newest releases in Aputure’s Amaran line. A slightly cheaper alternative, the COB 60d, is $170 and comes with a fixed 5600K color temperature. While the 60d offers a higher maximum brightness, the 60x’s tunable 2700K–6500K range gives creators far more flexibility for both warm and cool lighting setups.
With a 35,700‑lux output at 1 m (when set to 5600K and paired with the included reflector), the COB 60x delivers strong, evenly distributed light. Its CRI of 96 ensures colors are rendered accurately, making it ideal for video, photography, and livestreaming.
Power Options and Build Quality
The “60” in the name reflects its approximate 65 W power output. The light can be powered via the included AC adapter—sufficient for most studio setups—or via a V‑mount battery pack that uses two Sony L‑series NF‑P batteries. The battery adapter is especially handy for remote shooting or when wall outlets are scarce.
Packaging is surprisingly robust: a hard foam case with a handle and two latches keeps the light, reflector, battery adapter, and other accessories protected during transport.
Practical Benefits for Creators
Compared to on‑camera lights, the COB 60x provides a dramatic improvement in lighting quality. In side‑by‑side tests, footage shot with the COB 60x was noticeably clearer and more balanced than that taken with the smaller Aputure AL‑M9.
To maximize versatility, many creators pair the COB 60x with a C‑stand, softbox diffuser, and additional batteries. These optional upgrades can bring the total cost to around $300, but the added flexibility often justifies the investment.
Setup and Control
Mounting is straightforward thanks to the 1/4″‑20 pin and Bowens‑compatible Bowens mount. The built‑in knob allows quick adjustments of brightness and color temperature, while the Sidus Link Bluetooth app offers remote control, preset effects, and multi‑light synchronization.
Minor Drawbacks
Fan Noise
The integrated cooling fan can be audible with sensitive microphones. A high‑pass filter or a noise gate in post can mitigate the issue, but it is generally manageable.
Battery Adapter Weight
When powered by batteries, the adapter adds significant weight and can cause the light to tilt. Using a diffuser or softbox helps counterbalance this tendency.
App Usability
While the Sidus Link app connects quickly and functions well, its interface can feel cluttered for less tech‑savvy users. A more streamlined UI would improve the overall experience.
Why the COB 60x Is Worth It
Despite a few minor issues, the COB 60x delivers high‑quality lighting, extensive color control, and portability—all at a price point that is hard to beat. For creators looking to upgrade from a basic on‑camera light to a studio‑grade solution, this LED point source offers a compelling balance of performance and value.
For more gear reviews, explore:
- Can We Match a 2019 Cinema Camera to a 2012 Nikon DSLR?
- NAB 2022: Aputure’s New Full Color Point-Source 600c Pro
- How to Connect Aputure Lights to the Sidus Link App
- Versatile and Adjustable: Razer Key Light Review
- 5 Small, Budget-Friendly Lights for Any Camera Setup
Close‑up of the COB 60x’s back panel showing power and control interface.
The COB 60x in action, highlighting its impact on lighting quality.
Light tilting when powered by batteries alone.
Softbox diffuser balances battery weight for stable operation.
The COB 60x secured in its foam case, ready for transport.