Neewer CB200C LED review

The Neewer CB200C is a bicolour RGB LED light delivering 200W of power. Designed as a continuous light source, it’s ideal for video work but also a strong contender for product or portrait photographers.

Being mains-powered, it’s one for the studio rather than on-location shoots. While its light output may be lower than some others in its category, the CB200C’s raft of pro features make it a light that should not be overlooked.

CB200C build

The light enjoys an all-metal aluminium shell, so it feels solid in hand and should withstand the everyday knocks of studio life. It measures 34.5x16x12cm and weighs in at 2.2kg, which is respectable for its class.

CB200C performance and controls

Illuminance totals 23,000 lux/m, while colour accuracy is stated as CRI 97+ and TLCI 98+. Furthermore, the power adapter is built into the unit, so the supply comes from a single kettle lead – there are no bulky black boxes to deal with.

The on-board controls can be found on the back of the light and consist of analogue buttons, a clicked dial and a colour display.

Several modes can be selected using the all-round intuitive menu system. The CCT mode allows you to adjust colour temperature from 2500K-7500K, while the HSI mode offers a choice of 36,000 colours via a 360° hue angle and a range of 0-100% saturation.

CB200C gels and special effects

You can also choose from various built-in Lee and Rosco gel filters for predefined results.

Plus, there is a collection of presets for videographers that provide a total of 17 special effects. These get quite specific, ranging from candlelight and lightning through to a TV screen, an explosion and even welding. All modes offer the option to adjust brightness from 0 to 100%.

Neewer App compatibility

While the on-board controls are intuitive in use, the clicked dial can lack precision, and this is where the CB200C’s compatibility with the Neewer app comes into play. The app is simple to download and set up, and works well in practice, with touchscreen sliders allowing smooth and highly accurate adjustments.

The app also makes it possible to wirelessly control up to 255 Neewer lights at the same time, so it’s good for larger productions.

CB200C in use

When in use, a light of this power inevitably generates heat. To combat this, the CB200C has venting to enable airflow, combined with an automatic fan to control temperatures. Rest assured, the fan has a silent mode to avoid any unwanted interruptions mid-scene.

In the box, you get the light unit, a standard Bowens mount reflector, a protective cover, a diffuser sock and power cable.