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COB vs Panel Lights: What’s Right for You?
LED Lighting: A Quick Evolution
Not long ago, film sets were dominated by bulky tungsten and HMI lights — powerful but hot, expensive, and unforgiving. Then came LED technology: cooler, more efficient, and way more flexible. Today, two styles dominate the scene — COB (Chip on Board) and Panel lights — and each offers distinct advantages.
COB VS PANEL — WHAT'S RIGHT FOR YOU?
What's the difference?
COB Lights
COB lights feature a single, powerful LED source that’s great for intensity and beam control. Because it’s a focused point source, it works brilliantly with modifiers like softboxes, fresnels, or barn doors — letting you shape and sculpt your light just like a traditional film light.
Panel Lights
Panel lights use an array of smaller LEDs spread across a flat surface. The result? Soft, even, broad lighting with minimal shadow. They’re quick to set up, super portable, and often offer full RGB capabilities straight out of the box.
TL;DR:
COBs are punchy and highly controllable.
Panels are softer and easier for quick setups.
A full range of Aputure COB's and Panels
How They Perform in Real Shoots
We tested both styles in five typical setups. Here’s what we found:
🎤 1. Interview Setup
COB with softbox: Rich contrast, nice wrap on the face.
Panel: Softer and flatter — might need flagging to control spill.
Takeaway: COB gives you control; Panel gets you lit faster.
🛍 2. Product Shoot / Tabletop
COB with bounce/fresnel: Strong shaping and highlights.
Panel: Great for flat lay or macro — even and fast.
Takeaway: Use COB for drama, Panel for speed.
💄 3. Beauty / Fashion
Panel: Forgiving, flattering, and large soft source.
COB: Needs a very large modifier to match panel softness.
Takeaway: Panels win for beauty — especially for skin.
🎬 4. Run-and-Gun / Solo Shoots
Panel: Lightweight, battery-friendly, no stands needed.
COB: More powerful but needs rigging and power.
Takeaway: Panels are a content creator’s best friend on the go.
🟩 5. Green Screen or Backdrop Fill
Panel: Covers evenly, no fuss.
COB: Can work, but needs diffusers or extra lights.
Takeaway: Panel wins for quick, flat background fills.
Light Modifiers Matter
COB lights come alive when paired with the right modifier — softboxes, lanterns, snoots, barn doors. You get precise control over spread, shape, and spill. Panels? What you see is what you get. Some accept snap-on grids or diffusion, but shaping options are limited.
Power, Portability & Setup Time
Panels are plug-and-play. Most run on batteries, mount quickly, and need minimal accessories.
COBs often need a stand, modifier, and AC power — but the results can be far more cinematic.
If you’re shooting solo or on location, speed matters. If you’re working with a crew or staging interviews, control is king.
So… Which One Should You Buy?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
You shoot interviews or commercial work? Go COB.
You’re a content creator or run-and-gun shooter? Panel.
You want just one light that does a bit of everything? A COB with a softbox gives you flexibility — just accept the setup time.
You shoot in small spaces? Panels save space and keep things tidy.
Are COBs better just because they’re pricier?
Not necessarily. You’re paying for power and modifier control — not ease of use.
Can I use a panel for interviews?
Absolutely. But expect softer contrast and less control.
Best light for beginners?
The one that fits your workflow — not your wishlist.
Final Thoughts
There’s no right or wrong answer here — only the tool that fits your style, space, and speed. If you’re still unsure, drop by the store, test some lights, and find what works best for you.
All the lights featured in our video are available in-store and online at Georges Cameras. Let us help you light like a pro.
