Godox SL60 II Review

The Godox SL60 II is one of the most popular budget LED monolights on the market, and for good reason. It offers a bright 60W output, a silent fan, and a Bowens mount at a price that is hard to beat. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to give you an honest review. Whether you are a YouTuber, streamer, or small studio owner, this light could be the workhorse you need. But it is not perfect for everyone. Let's break it down.

Design and Build Quality

The SL60 II features a compact, all-metal body with a sturdy yoke that allows for easy positioning. The control panel is on the back, with a clear LCD screen and simple buttons for power, dimming, and effects. The Bowens mount is a standout feature, giving you access to a vast range of softboxes, umbrellas, and reflectors. The light weighs about 2.2 kg, which is manageable for most light stands. The build feels solid for the price, though it is not as rugged as higher-end lights like the Aputure 120D II.

Performance and Brightness

At 60W, the SL60 II is not the brightest light on the market, but it is surprisingly punchy for its size. At 1 meter, it delivers around 4,500 lux, which is enough for a key light in a small to medium room. The dimming range is 0% to 100% in 1% increments, giving you precise control. The color temperature is fixed at 5600K, which is a cool daylight balance. The CRI and TLCI ratings are high (96 and 97 respectively), meaning colors render accurately. In real-world use, skin tones look natural, and the light is flicker-free at any shutter speed, making it safe for video.

Ease of Use

Setting up the SL60 II is straightforward. You mount it on a stand, plug it into AC power, and turn it on. The controls are intuitive: you can adjust brightness with a knob or via the buttons. There are also 8 built-in effects (such as lightning and TV simulation), though they are basic. One drawback is that there is no remote control included, but you can buy an optional RC-A6 remote if you need wireless control. The fan is quiet, but it is not completely silent. In a very quiet room, you may hear a low hum at full power, but it is unlikely to be picked up by a microphone placed a few feet away.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the SL60 II has many happy owners, there are some recurring complaints. The most common is the lack of battery power, which limits location shooting. Another is the fixed color temperature, so you cannot adjust to warm tones without using gels. Some users have noted a slight green tint when dimming below 10%, but this is minor. A few have reported that the fan becomes noisier over time, but this is not widespread. Finally, the carrying case is not included, so you will need to buy one if you travel.

Comparison with Alternatives

The SL60 II competes with lights like the Aputure Amaran 100d, the Neewer 660, and the GVM 80W. The Amaran 100d is brighter (100W) and has a similar price, but it uses a Mini Bowens mount, which is less common. The Neewer 660 is cheaper but has lower build quality and a noisier fan. The GVM 80W offers more power and a built-in remote, but it is heavier and more expensive. For most users, the SL60 II offers the best balance of price, performance, and accessory compatibility.

Value and Verdict

At its price point, the SL60 II delivers excellent value. It is a reliable, bright, and versatile light that can handle a wide range of video projects. It is not the best for professionals who need battery power or variable color, but for beginners and hobbyists, it is a fantastic choice. If you are on a budget and want a light that will last, the SL60 II is hard to beat. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Godox SL60 II with a softbox?

Yes, the Bowens mount allows you to attach any Bowens-compatible softbox, umbrella, or reflector. This makes it easy to shape light for portraits or product shots.

Is the fan noise a problem for recording audio?

In most cases, no. The fan is designed to be quiet, and at moderate brightness levels it is barely audible. If you are recording in a very quiet room, you may want to place the light further away from the microphone.

Does the SL60 II come with a carrying case?

No, it does not. You will need to purchase a separate case if you plan to transport it. Some third-party cases are available on Amazon.

Can I control the SL60 II with a smartphone app?

No, the SL60 II does not have Bluetooth or WiFi. You can only control it via the onboard controls or the optional RC-A6 remote.

Is the SL60 II good for photography?

Yes, it works well for product photography and portraits, especially with a softbox. The high CRI ensures accurate colors, and the flicker-free output is safe for video.