Godox KNOWLED MG1200R vs Aputure CS15

The Godox KNOWLED MG1200R is a high-output, Full-Colour RGB LED Cine Light made to meet the demands of Professional Cinematographers, DPs, and Gaffers. With an impressive maximum 1600W of power, the MG1200R produces an immense amount of brightness with superior colour performance. 

But how does it compare to the popular Aputure Electro Storm CS15 RGB LED? Both similar RGB high-powered LEDs, we're here with a full specs breakdown to help you figure out which one is best for your studio or film set. 

Power and Brightness

With similar brightness ratings, the MG1200R beats out the CS15 just barely, with a slightly higher output of 1600w. Both options also have a 0-100% brightness setting, allowing for easy control over the unit, with matching Linear, S-curve, Exponential, Logarithmic dimming settings available.

Despite similar power outputs, however, the two lights feature different Lux ratings, with the MG1200R holding higher brightness than the CS15 without the addition of reflectors. This means despite their similar powers, you get more brightness per wattage with the Godox MG1200R. 

Colour Temperature and Ratings

Both lights also have a very similar Colour Temperature Range, with the MG1200R at 1,800-10,000K and the CS15 at 2,000-10,000K. However, the CS15 beats the MG1200R in CRI and TLCI colour accuracy, at a rating of 98 for each, compared to the MG1200R's 96 and 95 respectively. While both ratings are still very high and are more than suitable for professional working, if you're looking for super accuracy for your colour representation, the CS15 may be your option. 

Ingress Rating

Another important rating, the Ingress Rating provides a measurement for protection against dust and water ingress to the light for when out and about on location or outdoors. This rating is measured in two parts; one digit for the particle ingress protection rating, and another for the moisture ingress rating. The higher the numbers, the better the rating. 

At an IP54 rating, the MG1200R protects against:

• Partial protection against dust and other particulates, such that any ingress will not damage or impede the satisfactory performance of internal components
• Protection against splashing water from any direction, tested for a minimum of 10 minutes with an oscillating spray (limited ingress permitted with no harmful effects)

At an IP65 rating, the CS15 has a higher protection against ingress, and covers:

• Full protection against dust and other particulates, including a vacuum seal, tested against continuous airflow
• Protection against low-pressure jets (6.3mm) of directed water from any angle (limited ingress permitted with no harmful effects)

While neither are fully waterproof, both units have fair water protection in conditions such as rain or splashes, and dust or sand ingress. However, the CS15 has full particle ingress protection as well as higher water protection, including from low-pressure jets.

While both lights can be used in harsh weather without it impeding the units, if you're looking for a light that can survive more severe conditions, the CS15 may be you option. 

Modifier System

The MG1200R and the CS15 both use different modifier systems with different fittings. The Aputure model uses the universal standard Bowens S-Type fitting, which can easily be found in photo and video stores, and allows for use with existing or already owned modifier equipment you might have. The CS15 also uses the all-new electronic Aputure Mount for compatibility with their own range of sturdy modifiers.

The Godox KNOWLED model on the other hand, uses the innovative and exclusive G-Mount system. G-Mount modifiers are specifically designed for MG Model KNOWLED Lighting units, due to their large size and high power. These modifiers also feature innovative electronic smart-contact technology which allows for modifier recognition on the light, which means:

• the light will automatically adjust it's temperature for any colour shifts from the modifier
• the light will automatically turn off when a modifier is removed, to make for an easier job for lighting gaffers

While exclusive modifiers means more modifiers to purchase, the system allows for more advanced working for professional environments and ensures that you're using sturdy and suitable modifiers for your high-powered light.

The G-Mount Range now includes softboxes, lanterns, fresnels, projectors, and now also the new BeamLight Max90 Parallel Beam Cine Reflector too!

Price 

Beyond the specifications compared above, one of the biggest differences between the two brands is the price. 

At £7,192, the Aputure CS15 is much more expensive than the Godox equivalent at £4,808 at time of writing. For such a large price difference, the small technical differences between the two lights may be much less important for those looking for a sturdy RGB High-Powered LED, especially if you're looking to purchase multiple. For such a large saving over very similar specs, the Godox MG1200R also comes supplied with a custom flight case for easy and safe transporting. 

Check out our full specifications comparison table below for some more information about both brand models to help you decide which model is best for your upcoming projects.