Aputure MC Pro First Look

After a long development process, Aputure finally announced the long-awaited pro version of its compact MC LED panel – the MC PRO, with almost 4 times the brightness and lots of new accessories at a size that is not significantly larger than the original MC unit.

Aputure MC PRO background

Back in September 2022 we visited the Aputure booth during IBC 2022. The company was demonstrating a prototype of the MC Pro and it was scheduled for release in late 2022 or early 2023. Although it took a little longer the new compact pro light is finally here and ready for prime time.

The original MC received a lot of positive reviews (we have been using one for years despite having over 10 other mini LEDs in the studio) for its ease of use, soft light, and ease of connectivity (plus the great app of course).

Aputure MC PRO

So what does the MC PRO bring to the table over the existing Aputure MC. First, we need to address the size. While Aputure could have easily made a larger panel which will be much brighter, it was clear to the design team that the original size was good and at most the PRO version can get a little larger but not by much so that it will be possible to use or hide the light in tight places on set.

With this restriction in mind, the MC PRO measures only 10 x 7 x 2.5cm and weighs about 250g (compared to 9cm x 6x 1.5cm of the original MC although the MC was only around 130g). With only this small size increase it is amazing to see how much more powerful the PRO version is.

The Aputure MC PRO with the Sidus Link app

According to Aputure, the output of the MC PRO is rated at 1,585 lux @ 0.5m (5,600K) which is almost 4 times as bright as the MC at the same distance. The unit has an IP65 rating and is weatherproof and can charge in about 90 min via USB-C and can also be changed via special charging pins in a unique 8-unit case.

like its smaller brother the MC PRO has a 3/8″ 16 tap with a 1/4″ 20 reducer mount and magnets but there are now more accessories available. One of them is a magnet with a ballhead that can hold the MC-PRO. There are domed diffusers and flat diffusers and connecting them is done via magnets to the front of the light.

Despite the huge increase in output, the internal battery is rated at about 2 hours of runtime at full power which is extremely impressive for such a small powerful light.

The MC Pro also has many advanced software features. These include over 300 gel presets, 15 built-in effects as well as pro standard CIE1931 XY control and can change color temperatures from 2,000K to 10,000K CC. It has a new screen and a red control wheel on the side (which looks much more convenient that the basic jog wheel of the original MC.

The MC PRO supports remote control via Sidus Link Bluetooth App Control, DMX/RDM1, and LumenRadio CRMX.

The Aputure MC PRO on a magnetic ballhead with a grid

Pricing and availability

The Aputure MC PRO will start shipping in early April 2023 for just under $200 or $1900 for an 8-light kit.

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Iddo Genuth

Iddo Genuth is the founder and chief editor of LensVid.com. He has been a technology reporter working for international publications since the late 1990's and covering photography since 2009. Iddo is also a co-founder of a production company specializing in commercial food and product visual content.