Rode Wireless Pro 2 Kit – Review
October 24, 2024
Category: Lighting Equipment
The Aputure 300d Mark II is a high-output LED light designed for filmmakers, photographers, and video creators who need professional-grade lighting without the bulk of traditional fixtures. As the successor to the original 300d, this model features a 30% increase in brightness, a more efficient power system, and redesigned controls that make it one of the most versatile and sought-after lights in the industry.
With its Bowens mount compatibility, dual power options (AC or battery), and a silent fan system, the 300d Mark II has become a go-to light for commercial shoots, documentaries, and run-and-gun filmmaking. Whether you’re setting up a key light for an interview, crafting a dramatic scene with cinematic shadows, or needing a powerful daylight source on location, this fixture delivers.
Aputure has always focused on creating professional lighting solutions with a user-friendly design, and the 300d Mark II is no exception. The first thing you’ll notice is its rugged aluminum construction, which gives it a premium feel while remaining lightweight enough for transport.
One of the standout design improvements is the redesigned control box. Unlike the original 300d, which had a separate ballast and power adapter, the Mark II integrates everything into one streamlined unit. This means fewer cables to manage and a more efficient setup.
The included handbrake-style yoke is another great upgrade. It allows for easier angle adjustments and ensures the light stays in place without sagging. This is especially useful when mounting it on a C-stand at extreme angles or when using heavier modifiers like the Aputure Light Dome II.
The Aputure 300d Mark II is a beast when it comes to output. With a 5500K daylight-balanced beam, it delivers more than 80,000 lux at 1 meter when paired with the Aputure Fresnel 2X. This makes it a powerful alternative to traditional HMI lights but with the benefits of LED efficiency.
During a documentary shoot in a low-light interior, the 300d Mark II easily became the key light, producing soft yet directional light when paired with a softbox. Unlike some high-powered LEDs that produce a green or magenta color cast, this light maintains a high color accuracy (CRI/TLCI 96+) that ensures natural-looking skin tones.
One of the biggest selling points of the 300d Mark II is its flexible power options. It can run on AC power for studio setups, but more importantly, it supports dual V-mount or Gold Mount battery operation.
On a remote outdoor shoot, I tested the battery-powered option using two 14.4V V-mount batteries. While they provided enough runtime for a short session, it’s worth noting that higher-wattage batteries (26V) are needed for full output. This is a crucial consideration for those planning to use it on location without mains power.
For independent filmmakers or one-person crews, the ability to move quickly between battery and AC power without downtime is a significant advantage.
Another major advantage is its smooth dimming curve. You can adjust the brightness from 0% to 100% with no flicker, making it a versatile choice for slow-motion shooting or subtle light adjustments in sensitive scenes. The built-in FX modes (such as lightning, TV flicker, and explosion effects) also add creative possibilities for filmmakers who need practical lighting solutions.
The Aputure 300d Mark II sits in a competitive space, where both high-end cinema lights and affordable LED panels exist. Here’s how it stacks up against alternatives:
Aputure 120d Mark II
•The 120d Mark II is a great alternative for those who need a lighter, lower-power option.
•It’s ideal for interviews, portrait photography, and scenes that don’t require extreme brightness.
•However, it lacks the sheer power of the 300d Mark II and isn’t ideal for larger sets.
Aputure 600d
•If you need even more power, the 600d offers nearly twice the output of the 300d Mark II.
• However, it’s significantly heavier and more expensive, making it less ideal for solo operators.
Nanlite Forza 300
• The Nanlite Forza 300 is a strong competitor, offering similar power and color accuracy.
•It’s slightly more compact and lightweight, but the Aputure 300d Mark II has a more robust ecosystem of modifiers and accessories.
Godox VL300
• A more budget-friendly option, the Godox VL300 offers similar power output but lacks advanced features like FX modes and the robust build quality of the Aputure.
•It’s a good alternative for those looking to save money, but long-term reliability might be a concern.
During a short film shoot in a dimly lit warehouse, I used the 300d Mark II as a hard key light to create a high-contrast, dramatic effect. The precise light control allowed for fine-tuning shadows and highlights without overexposing the scene.
In another scenario, while filming an interview for a corporate documentary, I paired the 300d Mark II with a Light Dome II softbox. The result was beautiful, natural-looking soft light that gave the subject a professional and flattering look.
For run-and-gun documentary work, its battery-powered capabilities proved invaluable when shooting on location with no access to electricity.
✅ Incredible brightness for its size and power class
✅ High color accuracy (CRI 96+ and TLCI 96+)
✅ Dual power options (AC & battery-powered) for flexibility
✅ Quiet fan operation for noise-sensitive environments
✅ Wireless control via the Sidus Link app
✅ Rugged and professional build quality
❌ Requires high-wattage V-mount batteries for full output
❌ No built-in soft diffusion (requires accessories)
❌ Not as compact as some competitors (Nanlite Forza 300)
At its price point, the Aputure 300d Mark II provides exceptional value for professionals who need reliable, high-quality lighting. While there are cheaper alternatives, they often lack the build quality, ecosystem, and advanced features that Aputure offers.
If you’re a serious filmmaker, commercial shooter, or documentary creator, this light is a smart investment that will pay off in quality and efficiency.
The Aputure 300d Mark II is one of the best all-around LED lights for filmmakers. It combines power, flexibility, and reliability, making it a go-to tool for professionals. While not the cheapest option, it delivers long-term value through its durability and superior performance.
•Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)
• Who it’s best for: Filmmakers, photographers, and commercial shooters who need high-quality daylight-balanced lighting.
• Would I recommend it? Absolutely—especially for those who need powerful, portable, and high-quality light.
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