In-depth review
SmallRig RC 120B Review (2027)
In-depth review of the SmallRig RC 120B: bi-colour output, Bowens ecosystem, app control and value against Aputure and Godox.
SmallRig RC 120B COB Light
A 120W bi-colour COB with punchy output and SmallRig app control.
Our verdict
The RC 120B is the value bi-colour COB that embarrassed pricier rivals on output. With 2700K to 6500K in one light, huge rated lux with its reflector, and the universal Bowens mount, it solves the two-light-temperature problem in a single purchase. Aputure still leads on colour science polish and app depth; SmallRig leads on flexibility per dollar.
What we like
- 120W bi-colour COB spanning 2700K to 6500K
- High lux output with the included hyper reflector
- Bowens mount accepts the universal modifier catalogue
- SmallGoGo app plus onboard controls and quiet fan mode
What to watch out for
- App ecosystem is younger than Sidus Link
- Larger power brick adds cable management to location kits
- Colour accuracy is strong but a step behind Aputure's best SSI scores
What owners report: SmallRig RC 120B COB Light
Synthesized from recurring themes in long-term owner feedback.
Most praised
- Bi colour range from warm to daylight covers most indoor matching in one light
- Punchy output through the reflector fills a softbox for a proper key
- A quiet fan mode helps when recording dialogue near the light
Common complaints
- The app ecosystem is younger and less proven than its main rival
- A larger power brick adds cable clutter to a location kit
- Color performance is strong, though purists note it trails the very best COB models
Who it is for
Home studio and location creators who need one key light that adapts from daylight sets to tungsten rooms without gels.
Bi-colour performance
The 120W COB holds strong output across its 2700K to 6500K range, with the expected modest dip at the extremes every bi-colour design shows. In practice it matches office fluorescents, living room tungsten and daylight windows in the same day without a gel kit, which is the entire argument for bi-colour in location work.
Build and control
The body is compact for its class, the onboard LCD and dial are fast, and a quiet mode tames the fan for dialogue. The SmallGoGo app handles remote brightness and temperature competently. The external power brick is the handling tax: rig it to the stand and cable-manage once, properly.
Value position
Against the daylight-only Amaran 100d S, you trade a little colour-score polish for a temperature range and more rated output at a similar street price. Against the Godox SL100Bi you gain a more travel-friendly body and app story. For a first serious COB, that trade sheet wins many buyers, justifiably.
Key specifications
- Type
- 120W bi-colour COB point light
- Colour
- 2700K to 6500K, CRI 95+ / TLCI 96+ class maker rated
- Output
- Approx. 44,500 lux at 1 m with reflector (maker rated)
- Mount / control
- Bowens mount, onboard LCD, SmallGoGo app
- Power
- AC adapter, V-mount battery via optional cable solutions
Also consider
Aputure Amaran 100d S
The daylight COB benchmark with Sidus Link and a Bowens mount.
Why consider it: Better published colour scores and the Sidus Link ecosystem if your set is daylight controlled.
- Type: 100W daylight COB point light
- Colour: 5600K fixed, CRI 96+ / TLCI 96+ class, SSI (D56) 86 class
Godox SL100Bi
A bi-colour COB workhorse with Godox Light app and silent mode.
Why consider it: Silent mode and metal studio build if the light will live permanently in one room.
- Type: 100W bi-colour COB point light
- Colour: 2800K to 6500K, CRI 96+ / TLCI 97+ class maker rated
Research-based assessment. TrueGear has not hands-on tested this product; this evaluation synthesizes manufacturer specifications, retailer documentation, and published expert reviews.
Questions, answered
Is bi-colour output weaker than daylight only?
Slightly at the range extremes, by design physics. The RC 120B starts from a high enough output that the practical difference at interview distances is negligible for most creators.
Does it take standard softboxes?
Yes, any Bowens S-mount modifier fits. Watch total modifier weight on the mount and use a stand rated for the combined load.
Can I power it from V-mount batteries?
With the appropriate DC solution for its voltage and draw, yes. Size batteries for 120W consumption: a 99Wh battery is under an hour at full power.