The Aputure P300c, officially known as the Nova P300c, is a 300W tunable-color soft panel light designed for professional filmmakers, cinematographers, and studio creators.
As the first model in Aputure’s Nova professional LED panel series, it combines high output, wide color temperature range, and excellent color fidelity in a soft light form factor. This complete guide covers its features, performance, real-world applications, and whether it remains a strong choice in 2026.
What Is the Aputure P300c?
The Aputure P300c is a 300W RGBWW LED soft panel that uses a combination of warm white, cool white, and RGB LEDs. This chipset improves output, skin-tone accuracy, and color variety compared with standard RGB or RGBW fixtures. It delivers soft, even illumination with a native 120° beam angle, making it ideal for fill light, soft key light, or colorful backdrop effects. With a built-in power supply and extendable control box, the P300c prioritizes both performance and practical on-set usability.
Key Features of the Aputure Nova P300c
- 300W RGBWW light engine
- CCT range of 2,000K–10,000K with green-magenta adjustment
- Output exceeding 9,000 lux at 1 meter (5,500K)
- CRI and TLCI of 95+ across most of the range
- SSI scores of 85 (tungsten) and 74 (D55)
- Full color control via HSI, RGB, and XY modes
- More than 90% coverage of the Rec.2020 color space
- Built-in library of over 300 industry-standard gels
- 15 lighting effects (Fireworks, Lightning, TV, Candle, etc.)
- Sidus Link app control and 5-pin DMX512
- 24V–48V DC battery input range
- Compatible with dedicated softbox, barn doors, and third-party modifiers
These features position the Aputure P300c as a versatile soft light rather than a simple bi-color panel.
Technical Specifications & Photometrics
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Power | 300W (360W max input) |
| CCT Range | 2,000K – 10,000K |
| CRI / TLCI | 95+ |
| SSI (Tungsten / D55) | 85 / 74 |
| Native Beam Angle | 120° |
| Max Output (approx.) | >9,000 lux @ 1m (5,500K) |
| Color Modes | HSI, RGB, XY, Gels |
| Control | On-board, Sidus Link, 5-pin DMX512 |
| Power Options | AC 100–240V + DC 24–48V |
| Weight (Light) | 10.35 kg / 22.82 lbs |
| Panel Surface | 39.9 × 27.1 cm |
| Accessory Mount | Drop-in accessory slot |
Photometric Overview (approximate lux values):
| CCT | 1m | 3m | 5m |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2700K | 7,450 | 890 | 350 |
| 3200K | 8,200 | 960 | 370 |
| 5500K | 9,000 | 1,100 | 430 |
| 6500K | 8,550 | 1,020 | 400 |
The wide beam and solid output allow the light to fill larger areas effectively while remaining soft.
Color Performance & Control Options
Color quality is one of the strongest aspects of the Aputure P300c. The RGBWW engine produces more accurate skin tones and richer colors than many competing RGB panels of its era. Users can work in HSI, RGB, or industry-standard XY coordinates, and the built-in gel library speeds up matching common gels without physical filters.
Control is flexible. The extendable handheld control box features an OLED display and three knobs for precise adjustments. Four preset buttons allow quick recall of saved settings. For larger productions, 5-pin DMX512 and Sidus Link (Sidus Mesh) enable wireless or wired control of multiple units.
Design, Build Quality & Power Solutions
The fixture uses a lightweight aluminum shell and a dual junior/baby pin mount for broad stand compatibility. The control box can be mounted directly on the rear of the light for compact setups or extended via a longer cable when the panel is rigged high.
Power flexibility is another practical advantage. In addition to standard AC power, the P300c accepts a wide 24V–48V DC input, making it compatible with various block batteries and power stations such as the Aputure 2-Bay Battery Power Station. This expands its usefulness for location work.
Best Uses for the Aputure P300c
- Soft key or fill light for interviews and narrative scenes
- Large-area ambient lighting thanks to the wide 120° beam
- Colorful backdrop or accent lighting using full RGB modes
- Product and commercial photography where even soft light is preferred
- Situations requiring gel matching or precise color control
The soft quality reduces the need for heavy diffusion in many cases, while the high output still provides useful intensity.
Compatible Accessories
Dedicated accessories include the Nova P300c Softbox (50×70 cm), barn doors, and a rolling hard case with custom foam. The drop-in accessory slot also works with third-party modifiers from brands such as DoPchoice, Chimera, and Honeycrates. Additional useful items are the Aputure Quick Release Clamp and Neutrik PowerCon cables.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent color fidelity and wide CCT range
- Strong output for a soft panel
- Flexible control (app + DMX)
- Wide DC voltage range for battery operation
- Good accessory ecosystem
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at over 10 kg
- Active cooling produces some fan noise
- Newer NOVA II panels offer updated performance and features
Who Should Buy the Aputure P300c?
The Aputure P300c remains a solid choice for filmmakers and studios that need a reliable, high-quality soft panel with strong color performance. It is particularly suitable for users who value the Sidus Link ecosystem, need battery flexibility, or already own compatible modifiers. Those seeking the absolute latest output efficiency or lighter weight may prefer newer NOVA II models, but the P300c still delivers professional results.
FAQ
Is the Aputure P300c still worth buying in 2026?
Yes, for users who prioritize proven color quality, soft output, and ecosystem compatibility at a potentially lower price than the newest panels.
How bright is the Aputure P300c?
It produces over 9,000 lux at 1 meter at 5,500K, which is strong for a soft 300W panel with a wide beam.
Can the Aputure P300c run on batteries?
Yes. It accepts 24V–48V DC input, making it compatible with a range of professional battery solutions.
Does it support wireless control?
Yes, via the Sidus Link app using Sidus Mesh technology, in addition to DMX.
What is the difference between the P300c and newer NOVA panels?
Newer NOVA II models generally offer higher efficiency, updated light engines, and refined form factors, while the P300c remains strong in color quality and versatility.
The Aputure P300c (Nova P300c) established a high standard for tunable-color soft panel lights when it launched and continues to serve professional productions effectively. Its combination of output, color accuracy, control options, and power flexibility makes it a capable tool for both studio and location work. When choosing a soft panel, matching the P300c’s strengths to your specific lighting requirements will determine whether it is the right fit for your kit.