What's the Difference Between the Godox SL300Bi II vs the M300Bi COB LEDs?

At differing price points despite their similar features on the surface, the Godox COB LEDs; the SL300Bi MKII and the KNOWLED M300Bi are more different than you might think. If you're looking for a 300w LED head for videography or even photography work, find out what sets these two light options apart in this blog.

As part of the main Godox LED Range, the SL300Bi II is a Bi-Colour LED head with a Bowens S-Type modifier fitting, and is well suited to a range of different applications for photo and video work. Reaching up to 320w, the SL300Bi has a bi-colour temperature range of 2800K and 6500K.

Godox SL300Bi LED	KNOWLED M300Bi LED

The M300Bi, on the other hand, is part of the new and innovative Godox KNOWLED Range which comprises of professional and broadcast-grade LED Lighting equipment that's built with television and film crew in mind. At up to 330w, the M300Bi, much like the SL300Bi has a bi-colour temperature range of 2800K and 6500K, plus a Bowens S-Type fitting. 

Build Quality and Design Differences

One of the primary differences between the two LEDs, therefore, is the build-quality itself. Being part of the standard LED head range, the SL300Bi is sturdy and well-built, but isn't designed for the rigor of intensive professional shoots in broadcast studios and film sets. This is where the M300Bi excels, thanks to it's sturdy and highly robust metal construction. This light is designed to withstand regular use and transporting between shoots and sets without taking damage.  

Control Options

For on-board controls, the SL300Bi uses built-in settings on the head for control, whereas the M300Bi utilises a separate control box from the main unit, further setting it apart as a studio light thanks to it's control options even when mounted high up on a stand or in a rig, or in a tight space without having to lower the light. 

While both do have remote control options, the SL300Bi is much more limited in comparison, with only RC-A6 Remote Control compatibility, while the M300Bi offers RC-A6 Remote support, DMX512 support, CRMX Support with the TimoLink Receiver, as well as Godox Light App and KNOWLED App control support.  

Power Options

Differing also between power options, the M300Bi, while primarily mains powered, also has the option to be powered with V-Lock batteries. With two V-Lock mount plates built into the control box, this offers the option for powering on the go such as on a location shoot or in an area with minimal mains power support.

Light Dimming

The KNOWLED M300Bi LED gives you the option of four dimming curves, enabling you to adjust your lighting just the way you like. You can select between Linear, an S-Curve, an Exponential Curve, or a Logarithmic Curve, rendering the best lighting effects, in the shortest amount of time, while the SL300 only offers basic 0-100% dimming controls. 

Which Should You Buy?

Built for professional studios and broadcasters, the KNOWLEDs are designed with video in mind, for everything from brightening scenes for location work to lighting built sets solely with artificial lighting to control the light entirely. For this reason, if you're in this industry, the M300Bi will likely be your best option due to it's build quality and the extra features it offers, as well as the battery compatibility. 

For something more suitable for multiple applications like photography and videography, especially for studio owners or filmmakers on a tighter budget perhaps, the SL300Bi is a great option at a lower price point with lots of the same important features.

Still need assistance? Drop our team an email at info@essentialphoto.co.uk for some advice about the equipment from our experienced advisors.