Ranking of the best camera flashes in 2020

Taking high-quality photos is not always easy, even with a professional lens. Correct lighting is essential when working with a camera. Normal, standard low-light photography can ruin the image. Photos will be dark. This situation will be changed by artificial illumination - a flash.
For work, special devices are provided: external photo flashes, diffusers, reflectors, they help to make a photo of high quality, without excess light, glare or shadows. Below we will talk about the best flash units for 2020.

The meaning and types of flash units

Many cameras have built-in flashes, they have their own system of settings, but they have many disadvantages:

• the position is fixed;
• low power (enough only to illuminate the foreground of the frame, while the background remains without light);
• does not have its own battery (consumes the power of the camera, which reduces shooting time).

According to professional photographers, an external flash unit will need to be purchased to create an effective light. Of course, a modern camera works without it, but decent quality pictures, for example, in the dark, without additional light is impossible. Also, modern flash units are equipped with a quick-change mechanism.

There are 3 types of cameras on the market: SLR, “soap dish” and mirrorless (removable optics). In almost all respects, mirrorless cameras benefit. Although according to the results, which one is better to buy, there is no definite answer. Each type of camera has its own flash unit for different situations.

The modern photography industry allows you to choose the best quality camera equipment, and with different characteristics: with a rotary head, for Canon, for Nikon, with compatibility for all cameras, and much more. The models are varied, suitable for both amateurs and photo enthusiasts, professional photographers.

Next, we will analyze what types of flash units are.

Kinds

• budget (they do not have a swivel head, the price is many times different from the professional one), semi-professional and professional (advanced settings);
• external (connected to the camera through a hole in the upper part of the body), internal, and retractable (a kind of internal, built into the camera, but move forward during operation);
• ring (allows you to get close to the object, with a minimal risk of having a shadow) and hammer (eliminates various troubles, wedding photographers like to work with it);
• photoflash for digital cameras, for underwater photography, etc .;
• one-lamp, two-lamp;
• slave (waiting for a signal) and master (giving a signal).

Specifications

The main selection criteria (in addition to price selection) are technical characteristics:

• Leading number

It is a key indicator. It is the interval at which high-quality illumination of the image will be achieved, with the desired sensitivity and aperture number 1. The power indicator of the equipment is measured in meters.

• TTL

The indicator measures power automatically using a built-in sensor. The camera itself measures the exposure of the frame and adjusts the required power.

• Auto or manual zoom

Moving the diffuser lens in front of the lamp automatically or manually.

• Recharge time

Technical time to recharge equipment between shots. If used for sequential shooting, long recharging can ruin everything. It also depends on the power of the batteries or accumulators, and the flash power.

• Exposure control

Availability of several shooting modes (several types of synchronization).

• Swivel head

Changes the direction of the light beam, achieving a suitable flux.

• Batteries

Usually they take AA batteries, if the equipment is used often, then it is recommended to take batteries.

In addition to these basic characteristics, there is also an autofocus illumination (the presence of additional lamps, LEDs can be used) and test operation.

However, even using a professional flash does not guarantee that there will be no shadows or glare. The image may be damaged. To improve the quality, on-camera light is used, and reflectors and diffusers are used to reflect light from the surface. Then the picture is bright, without unnecessary shadows and glare.

A large diffuser area makes illumination smoother. Such diffusers include an umbrella-reflector, softbox, stripboxes, octobox. The reflector can be made independently by fixing a regular sheet of paper or cardboard on top of the equipment with an elastic band.

Work tips

Separate equipment is selected for each type of survey. For example, if the subject is moving quickly, the flash should be fired at very short intervals (with the appropriate shutter type) to avoid blurring the photo. Here you need a flash with a quick recharge.

Basically, flash units are used in low light conditions. Illuminating the subject from the camera side makes the subject flat and unrefined. Moving it to different distances may also not solve the problem, deep shadows may appear, which will ruin the image. To do this, use a flash with a remote control function.

When working outdoors, shadows may appear, the flash can smooth out this effect. Against a bright background (shooting in the sun) illuminates the front frame.

The best manufacturers of cameras and accessories

Low-cost (low-cost) companies:

• YongNuo. The manufacturer from China entered the world market in 2007. Today one of the most popular inexpensive manufacturers of photographic equipment.
• Sunpak. Manufacturer from Japan. The produced models are universal, suitable for most models.

Medium / high price:

• Sigma. Japanese photography equipment company, main product: interchangeable camera lenses. Started in 1960.
• Canon. Founded in 1937. Popular and demanded manufacturer. Has established itself as reliable and modern. Manufactures equipment for SLR cameras and mirrorless cameras.
• Nikon. A Japanese company, one of the leaders in the production of optical glass. Started working in 1917.
• Sony. Japanese company founded in 1946. Produces professional and home electronics.
• Godox. The Chinese company, founded in 1993, produces high quality products with an appropriate price category.

It is difficult to say which flash unit is better, of course the leadership belongs to Canon and Nikon, but at the same time their price is much higher than companies from China.

Many manufacturers have high prices for accessories, and a beginner may not need high-end equipment. For beginners, you can choose a company from China, save on the purchase.It is better to choose the model with the fewest features, because the presence of additional features doubles the purchase price.

Next, consider the popular models that are included in the rating of high-quality and reliable flashes.

8 best flash units in 2020

Canon Speedlite 430 EX III-RT

It occupies a leading position in the rating. More suitable for amateurs, has a small power. Easy to operate, compact. Quality material. Price range: from 14,300 to 23,990 rubles.

• simple control;
• the presence of a wireless control system by radio channel;
• compact.

• • guide number - 43;
  • no dust and moisture protection;
  • heats up quickly;
  • there is no possibility of connecting an external power supply.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	43
Compatibility	Canon
Reload (sec)	3,5
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL II, E-TTL
Batteries / pieces	AA / 4
Dimensions	98x71x114
Weight	295 g

Nikon Speedlight SB -700

Ranked second. Compact, easy to operate, fits Nikon FX and DX formats. It is possible to remotely control multiple flashes. Wide angle of view 24-120mm. Convenient LCD screen. The price ranges from 13,090 to 19,990 rubles

• 3 lighting modes;
• wireless control;
• master and slave flash mode;
• small size.

• guide number - 38;
• there is no information about the amount of battery charge.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	28
Compatibility	Nikon
Reload (sec)	3
Swivel head	+
Mode	D-TTL, I-TTL, TTL
Batteries / pieces	AA / 4
Dimensions	71x129x104.5
Weight	360 g

YongNuo Speedlite YN-560 IV

It is in third place in the ranking. Suitable for most cameras for Canon and Nikon, is universal. Convenient display, swivel head, battery powered. The extended package also includes a cover and a stand. Not too expensive price: in the range from 4 078 to 4 790 rubles.

• versatility;
• power;
• built-in radio transmitter;
• good build quality.

• long recharge;
• no autofocus illumination;
• fast battery discharge.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	60
Compatibility	Canon
Reload (sec)	3,3
Swivel head	+
Mode	D-TTL, I-TTL, TTL
Batteries / pieces	AA / 4
Dimensions	78x60x190
Weight	350 g

Canon Speeglite 600 EX II-RT

Fourth place. Professional flash, there is a high-speed shooting mode in difficult conditions. Comes with a reflector adapter to soften the light. High power, fast and quiet recharging. The price of such equipment: 30 788 - 46 890 rubles.

• wireless controller;
• works quickly;
• guide number 60;
• powerful battery ensures long-term shooting;
• there is dust and moisture protection.

• price.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	60
Compatibility	Nikon
Reload (sec)	3,3
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL, TTL, E -TTL II
Batteries / pieces	AA / 4
Dimensions	104x73x137
Weight	430 g

Nikon Speedlight SB-5000

Fifth place in the rating. Versatile, reliable, fast, with a radio channel range of 30 m. Lightweight and compact, with simple control. It is possible to control multiple flashes at the same time.
The average price of such a model is 28,900 rubles.

• powerful;
• does not overheat after long-term shooting.

• price.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	55
Compatibility	Nikon
Reload (sec)	2
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL, TTL, E -TTL II
Batteries / pieces	AA / 4
Dimensions	104x73x137
Weight	430 g

YongNuo Speedlite YN 685 for Canon

It takes 6th position in the rating. For remote shooting, you can use the transmitter on the camera, there is a screen backlight, automatic zoom, second-curtain sync. Can be used as a slave with another radio system of this company. The price is worthy: from 6,700 to 7,800 rubles.

• PC sync connector;
• diffuser and reflector;
• hot shoe lock.

• no master flash function;
• there is no possibility of synchronization via an optical channel;
• no USB connector.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	58
Compatibility	Canon
Reload (sec)	3
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL, TTL
Batteries / pieces	AA / 4
Dimensions	188x62x72
Weight	430 g

Godox V860IIF for Fuji

Suitable for Fujifilm cameras. There is an autofocus illumination, automatic and manual zoom, consumes little power. Price within the range: 12,500-14,000 rubles.

• has its own replaceable lithium-ion battery;
• automatically updates the firmware when connected to a USB port;
• guide number 60;
• connector for external trigger FT-16S.

• heats up quickly.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	60
Compatibility	Fujifilm
Reload (sec)	1,5
Swivel head	+
Mode	TTL
Batteries / pieces	AA / 4 own battery
Dimensions	76x64x190
Weight	430 g

Canon Speedlite 270EX II

Eighth place in the rating. Can work remotely up to 5 m. Is not universal, compatible with Canon cameras. Compact and lightweight. The swivel head makes it possible to reflect light from the ceiling, create soft lighting. Price: from 11,500 to 13,000 rubles.

• fast and silent reloading;
• compact and lightweight.

• guide number - 27;
• no system of color temperature compensators;
• no automatic and manual zoom;
• no external power supply.

Parameters	Characteristic
View	common
Leading number	27
Compatibility	Canon
Reload (sec)	3,9
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL II E-TTL
Batteries / pieces	AA / 2
Dimensions	77x66x65
Weight	General

The rating is compiled according to the data of purchases in online stores of different companies. Popularity was determined by the number of purchases, based on the review, description, feedback from people when working with a particular flash. According to buyers, they are the most reliable.

The price largely depends not only on the manufacturer, but also on the online store, often they offer profitable promotions for the goods with a price reduction, or a bonus, for example, a suitcase for photographic equipment (or the presence of a wardrobe trunk). You can order the selected item online.

Probably, you will need additional brackets and stands, although in most configurations the presence of a stand is implied (with its help you can put it on any surface). It is better to look through several options, choose the best and most suitable for you in terms of parameters, determine their functionality, read the recommendations of experts and consumers, see how much it costs on different sites, some will have additional discounts. And only then it is already decided where to buy the model.

For beginners, ordinary flash units are suitable, without additional functions for professional photographers

You need to decide where to buy after comparing several stores and choosing the best one. Pay attention to how much the same product costs in different stores.

The equipment can be purchased not only in the store, but also on the official website.
For many, the option of buying used equipment from hands is suitable.

What to look for

For a successful purchase, you need to remember a few tips for checking equipment in order to avoid mistakes when choosing:

1. External condition - inspect the item for chips, scuffs and other defects. The head must also be intact.
2. Check at all powers - start with low power, but be sure to take a photo at high power.
3. Recharge speed - if the recharge is long, then either there are defects or the batteries are discharged (take new batteries with you for testing).
4. Availability of TTL mode - take your camera with you and check it on it.
5. Check the operation of the zoom (if, of course, provided).
6. Warranty number and serial number match.

Tips for choosing common mistakes aspiring photographers

Errors:

1. Do not use flash. In some moments, additional light is irreplaceable.
2. Deleted objects. Do not use the flash to shoot distant objects, it simply will not "finish off".In this case, it is better to increase the sensitivity and shoot in natural light.
3. Red eye effect. Keep the subject away from the lens to keep the light out of sight.
4. Flash position. When shooting vertically, a shadow is likely to be visible in the photo. Position the flash above the level of the lens.

How do I choose the optimal flash?

To do this, it is important to understand what exactly you will be shooting. If you shoot slowly, a manual technique will do. Such equipment is cheaper and makes it possible to understand the art of photography in detail.

Choose your flash for every event (for weddings, macro photography, serious reporting, etc.). To achieve the maximum effect, it is possible to use diffusers and reflectors, which are not difficult to choose today. Please read the instructions before buying.

Modern technology contains a large number of possibilities, the presence of certain characteristics can affect the choice. Compare the specs to your camera, not all flash units are universal, some may simply not work.

Remember to follow safety rules when working with devices. Electronics love a good attitude, do not take more than 20 shots in a row (it may burn out due to the load), shoot from a shorter distance. Use only new rechargeable batteries, batteries, do not let the lamp overheat. With good use, such a tool will work for a long time.