The latest release from Godox, the KNOWLED AM800R, is an innovative 800W full-color LED inflatable mat light with a 4’×4′ (1.2 x 1.2m) surface. It features a broad color temperature range from 1,800K to 10,000K and comes with an IP65 weather-resistance rating, applicable to both the light unit and its controller. Unveiled initially at NAB 2026, this fixture inflates to 8 PSI in just about a minute and is available for pre-order at a price of $3,990.
The AM800R marks a significant addition to Godox’s evolving product lineup. Previously, the company launched larger inflatable mat lights in 4’×8′ and 8’×8′ sizes. With continuous expansion of their KNOWLED series, including products like the D, the B, and the newly released s, Godox now introduces the AM800R in a 4’×4′ size. This format is often favored by lighting professionals for use in interviews, commercials, and medium-scale narrative productions.
Innovative Inflatable Design
Like its larger counterpart, the AM1600R, this light utilizes a pressurized inflatable frame instead of traditional rigid setups. The AM800R inflates to 8 PSI in about a minute, and Godox claims it can maintain its structure for up to 15 days, allowing crews to keep it set up across multiple days without needing to inflate it again. The light body measures 120 x 120 cm (4 x 4 ft) without the airframe and weighs 4.95 kg (10.9 lb). Meanwhile, its controller weighs 6.40 kg (14.1 lb) and measures 31.5 x 18 x 14 cm (12.4 x 7.1 x 5.5 in).
Godox has reinforced the AM800R for production use. Its carbon fiber backplate supports the flexible PCB to minimize deformation, and the airframe fabric is engineered to resist scratches and abrasions. These features address practical concerns about inflatable gear on busy sets. In the event of a puncture, an airframe repair kit is included, and the LED modules are replaceable, helping to keep long-term maintenance costs low, especially for rental companies.
Dynamic Full-Color Lighting
The AM800R follows the established color programming of the KNOWLED series. It offers a CCT range from 1,800K to 10,000K with green/magenta adjustments from -100 to +100. It features multiple modes, including CCT, HSI, RGBW, GEL, X-Y, and FX, with 12 pre-installed effects. Godox rates its CRI at around 96, TLCI at approximately 98, and TM-30 Rf near 96, though these numbers should be independently tested. The light allows dimming from 0 to 100% with four curve options: linear, S-curve, exponential, and logarithmic.
The light’s versatility is enhanced by interchangeable microstructure diffusion fabrics, available in three variants (D11-32, D11-32+, and D13-30+) for different softness levels. A honeycomb grid (model AF44G) helps manage spill and direct the beam, making it particularly beneficial when keeping light focused on the subject and away from the background.
Flexible Rigging and Enhanced Weather Resistance
Due to its lightweight design, the AM800R can be rigged without a truss, supporting more conventional floor-mounted or boom-arm setups. A foldable U-bracket allows a 300° adjustment range, and high-strength D-rings enable the connection of multiple units to create larger lighting surfaces. The 4’×4′ can be combined to form a 4’×8′ source or a large 8’×8′ wall, mimicking the fixed sizes of the AM1600R.
Highlighting its IP65 rating, both the light and controller are protected, which marks an improvement from the AM1600R’s IP54 rating. This fully sealed system eliminates the need for rain covers, simplifying outdoor shoots in wet conditions. Its operating temperature range is -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F), and it functions on 110-240V AC at 800W, with an 8m (26.2ft) DC cable integrated into the light body to keep the controller out of the frame.
Advanced Control and Connectivity
The AM800R supports multiple professional protocols, including wired DMX/RDM, wireless CRMX, and Ethernet with Art-Net and sACN for extensive light networks. Bluetooth control via the Godox KNOWLED app works up to 60m (197ft), while the onboard controller provides direct management. A USB-A port facilitates firmware updates and acts as a 5V power supply.
The AM800R 44K kit includes the light body with a built-in DC cable, controller, folding yoke, grid, diffusion fabrics, air pump, repair kit, AC power cable, and a custom flight case. Everything fits into the case, making transportation much simpler compared to a standard 4’×4′ frame with separate accessories.
As Godox continues to stake its claim in professional lighting, particularly with our discussion at IBC 2025 about their s model, the AM800R represents their ongoing innovation in soft light solutions, where inflatable setups offer a unique alternative.
The Godox KNOWLED AM800R is now available for pre-order at $3,990. Regional prices may vary due to VAT and local taxes. For more information, visit their website.
Could the innovative 4’×4′ inflatable light replace your traditional frame setups, or do you prefer the tried-and-true rigid designs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
