ShotRigs

Aputure · LED Light

Aputure amaran 200x Bi-Color LED Light

The Aputure amaran 200x delivers professional-grade bi-color output at a price point that undercuts many competitors, making it an excellent choice for videographers and photographers needing reliable, flexible lighting.

Overall score4.5/5.0
Verdict
The Aputure amaran 200x delivers professional-grade bi-color output at a price point that undercuts many competitors, making it an excellent choice for videographers and photographers needing reliable, flexible lighting. While it lacks battery power and RGB features found in pricier alternatives, its Bowens mount compatibility, strong 200W output, and seamless app control make it a smart investment for growing studios and on-location shoots.

Specifications

Power Output200W
Color Temperature Range2700K-6500K
Mount TypeBowens Mount
CRI/TLCI96/97
Control MethodSidus Link App, DMX, onboard
Power Output:200WColor Temperature Range:2700K-6500KMount Type:Bowens MountCRI/TLCI:96/97Control Method:Sidus Link App, DMX, onboard
  • 200W bi-color LED output (2700K-6500K)
  • Bowens mount for compatible modifiers
  • Sidus Link app control via Bluetooth
  • Includes amaran 55° reflector and light stand mount
  • DC and AC power operation
  • Aputure Amaran Ecosystem compatibility
  • Extensive lighting FX presets (fire, lightning, TV, etc.)

Pros

  • ✓ Excellent bi-color flexibility for varied shooting conditions
  • ✓ Strong 200W output rivals more expensive competitors
  • ✓ Intuitive Sidus Link app control simplifies adjustments
  • ✓ Bowens mount opens up huge modifier ecosystem
  • ✓ Solid build quality at an affordable price point
  • ✓ Quiet fan operation even at high output

Cons

  • ✕ No onboard battery option, requires power source
  • ✕ Fan noise noticeable in silent recording environments
  • ✕ App connectivity occasionally lags with multiple lights
  • ✕ Stand mount could feel flimsy under heavier modifiers
  • ✕ No RGB color options like some competitor models

We earn a small commission on qualifying purchases via AliExpress affiliate links — at no extra cost to you.

The Aputure amaran 200x is a bi-color LED light designed for photographers and videographers who need dependable, high-output illumination without the premium price tag of Aputure's flagship Light Storm series. Delivering up to 200W of power, this fixture uses a bi-color LED engine adjustable from 2700K to 6500K, allowing creators to match ambient lighting conditions or stylize their shots with warm or cool tones. It employs the Bowens mount system, making it instantly compatible with a huge ecosystem of softboxes, reflectors, grids, and other light-shaping modifiers already popular among independent filmmakers and photographers. Built with a rugged aluminum housing, the amaran 200x is designed to withstand the rigors of on-location shoots, studio sessions, and everyday handling on busy sets. Control and versatility are central to the amaran 200x's appeal. The light can be operated directly through an intuitive control box featuring a clear LCD display, physical dials, and dedicated buttons for adjusting brightness and color temperature, or remotely via the Sidus Link app over Bluetooth, letting users manage settings from a smartphone or tablet without needing to touch the fixture itself. It also supports DMX control for integration into larger multi-light setups, which is particularly useful for studio environments or productions requiring synchronized lighting cues. Multiple special effects modes come built in, including simulations of paparazzi flashes, fireworks, faulty bulbs, TV flicker, lightning, and other dynamic looks that would otherwise require additional gels or gear, expanding the creative possibilities available straight out of the box. Powering the amaran 200x is flexible as well, with support for standard AC power alongside V-mount battery compatibility, giving shooters the freedom to work untethered in remote locations or run-and-gun documentary settings. A silent cooling system keeps the LED engine operating efficiently during extended use, which matters greatly for video work where fan noise can bleed into on-camera audio. The included reflector helps concentrate and shape the beam for punchier output when paired with modifiers, while the overall CRI and TLCI ratings ensure accurate, pleasing skin tones and color reproduction across mixed lighting scenarios. Positioned as an accessible yet capable continuous light source, the amaran 200x serves solo creators, small studios, and budget-conscious production teams looking to add a reliable key or fill light to their kit without compromising on core performance.

Customer reviews

Incredible value for the output — Marcus Chen (2024-03-15)
I've used Aputure lights before but the amaran 200x surprised me. The bi-color range covers everything I need for interviews and narrative work. The app control is smooth and the Bowens mount means I can use all my existing softboxes and grids.
Great light, minor gripes — Sarah Thompson (2024-02-22)
Solid performer for the price. Only complaint is the fan gets a bit loud when pushing full output for extended periods, which matters if you're shooting with on-camera mics. Otherwise this has become my go-to key light.
Replaced three older fixtures — David Okonkwo (2024-01-08)
This single light replaced my aging tungsten kit. The color accuracy is impressive and the FX presets like lightning and TV flicker have saved me post-production headaches on client shoots.
Reliable workhorse — Elena Vasquez (2023-12-30)
Been using this for six months on commercial shoots. Build quality feels durable, controls are straightforward, and the included accessories got me started immediately. Wish it had battery operation for quick location setups.
Perfect for small studio setup — James Whitfield (2023-11-19)
As someone building out a home studio, this light checked every box. The Sidus Link app makes remote adjustments effortless during solo shoots, and the light quality itself is clean and consistent across the color temperature range.