Godox FL RGB Mats vs the KNOWLED F Series RGB Panels

A recent addition to the Godox LED Panel collection, the new FL100R/FL200R/FL200SR RGB Flexi Panels may look identical to the KNOWLED's F Series panels (and you'd be mostly correct!), but these panels are a separate range aimed at being more budget friendly with less of the intense high-end features needed for broadcast or film production purposes.

While very similar, there are a few differences that are worth noting between the two RGB models. 

The Godox FL Series Flexi Panels (RGB)	The Godox KNOWLED F Series Flexi Panels (RGB)

See Similar (original model comparison)  |  The FL vs The F Series Flexi LED Panels - What's the Difference?

While the original models of F and FL Series panels differed in size, construction, wattage and more, the new FL Series RGB panels are much more similar to the F Series versions, most notably, using the same sizes and wattage, meaning they could well be based off the same base design. The new models match the smaller 3 of the F series versions, with a 100w 1x2' panel, and 200w 2x2' and 1x4' panels as well. This also means that both models (provided they're the same size) will be compatible with the same dedicated modifier range, encompassing grids, lantern softboxes, and inflatable softboxes too! 

Pancake Lantern	SS-FS100 Panel Skirt	Inflatable Air Softbox

Along with the design, both models also carry the same wide CCT range of 1,800K-10,000K, offering a huge selection of colour to choose between, and both have similar brightness and dimming options. 

So, What's Different?

The KNOWLED F Series Control Box with Weatherproof Rating

IP Weather Ratings 

One of the key differences between models is the presence of the IP weather rating for the KNOWLED F Series panels. 

What is an IP Weather Rating and What Does it Mean?

With a rating of IP54 for both the panel and the control box, the F Series panels show off their high-end design and suitability for more complex and unpredictable shooting conditions. This rating proves protection against dust and rain ingress, meaning you can continue shooting with these lights no matter the weather! 

The FL Series panels, on the other hand, have no confirmed IP rating so are better suited to consistent weather if shooting outdoors, or for primarily indoor studio conditions. 

New, Compact Control Box

Compared to the large, heavy duty control boxes of the KNOWLED F Series Panels (which will also be designed to be able to withstand intense wear and tear from busy production sets) the new FL Series models come with much more lightweight and compact control boxes, making them much easier for travelling with, and providing straightforward ease of use for on smaller sets. 

The New FL Series Control Box 

CRMX Control

Both models support a range of different control options, from DMX, to RDM and Bluetooth app control, however the KNOWLED F Series helps cater further to professional productions thanks to it's compatibility with CRMX/LumenRadio equipment. Increasingly becoming the standard for professional products, CRMX is the "first smart wireless system to automatically and continuously adapt to its surroundings in real time" and was specifically designed to meet the need for reliable and cost effective wireless light controlling. 

Not having CRMX likely won't put most projects at a disadvantage however, and the FL Series still supporting DMX capability and more means it's still a highly flexible panel to operate. 

Colour Ratings

The third and final notable difference between the F and FL series panels is the colour ratings. At a rating of 95+ for both CRI and TLCI, the FL Series panels are more than accurate enough for professional use with minimal grading adjustment needed. However, the F Series panels are certified with a CRI rating of 96+ and TLCI of 98+, making them a little closer to a true colour representation, and therefore more desirable for high-end productions and broadcast purposes. 

What these Differences Mean

While perhaps not major differences in the way the panels work or function, together, these differences do make a difference for Gaffers and Cinematographers working in video production. 

Catering specifically towards the professional industry, KNOWLED products are designed with specific features and ratings in mind, so these features are also reflected in the price. 

The KNOWLED F Series (800w Model) On-Set

At between £1,015.99 - £1,107.99 for the 100-200w models, the KNOWLED F Series panels may just be the light of choice for those who require a bit more precision with their lighting. At almost half the price (£446 - £595), the FL Series panels are remarkably similar, however the slightly lower ratings and lack of waterproof features are reflected in this price, making it more suitable and accessible for those looking to create independent productions or video content creation on a tighter budget. 

The KNOWLED F Series also has an expanded range above the 200w models, with 400w and 800w RGB models available for larger scale shoots and shots. 

Check out our full table comparison below for the specs for each collection, or get in touch with our advisor team at info@essentialphoto.co.uk if you've got any questions, or for a quote.