Ranking of the best flashes for cameras in 2022

Taking high-quality photos is not always easy, even with a professional lens. Properly selected lighting is the main part when working with a camera. Normal, standard shooting in low light can ruin the image. Photos will be dark. This situation will be changed by artificial illumination - a flash.
Special devices are provided for work: external 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 2022.

The meaning and types of flashes

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

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

According to professional photographers, to create spectacular light, you will need to purchase an external flash. Of course, a modern camera works without it, but it is impossible to take decent pictures, for example, in the dark, without additional light. Also, modern flash units are equipped with a mechanism for quick replacement.

There are 3 types of cameras on the market: SLR, “soap dishes” and mirrorless (removable optics). In almost all respects, mirrorless cameras win. Although in the end, which one is better to buy, there is no definite answer. Each type of camera has its own flash 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. Models are diverse, suitable for both amateurs and photo enthusiasts, professional photographers.

Next, we will analyze what types of flashes are.

Kinds

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

Specifications

The main selection criteria (in addition to choosing by price) - technical characteristics:

• Guide number

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

• Auto or manual zoom

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

• Recharge time

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

• Exposure control

The presence of several shooting modes (several types of synchronization).

• Swivel head

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

• 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 backlight (the presence of additional lamps, LEDs can be used) and trial operation.

However, even using a professional flash does not guarantee the absence of shadows or strong light. The image may be corrupted. 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 highlights.

The large diffuser area makes the lighting more even. 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.

Job Tips

For each type of shooting, separate equipment is selected. For example, if the subject is moving quickly, the flash should fire at very short intervals (with the appropriate shutter type) to avoid “blurring” the photo. Here you need a flash with a fast recycle.

In general, flashlights are used in low light. Illumination of the object from the side of the camera makes the object flat and reliefless. Moving it to different distances may also not solve the problem, deep shadows may appear that will spoil the image. To do this, use a flash with a remote control function.

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

The best manufacturers of cameras and accessories

Budget (inexpensive) companies:

• Yong Nuo.Manufacturer from China, entered the world market in 2007. Today one of the popular inexpensive manufacturers of photographic equipment.
• sunpak. Manufacturer from Japan. Available models are universal, suitable for most models.

Medium/high price:

• Sigma. Japanese company producing photographic equipment, main products: interchangeable lenses for cameras. Started operating in 1960.
• Canon. Founded in 1937. Popular and sought after manufacturer. It has established itself as reliable and modern. Manufactures equipment for SLR and mirrorless cameras.
• Nikon. 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 the appropriate price category.

It’s hard to say which company’s flashes are better, of course, Canon and Nikon are the leaders, but at the same time their price is much higher than that of Chinese companies.

Many manufacturers have a high price 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 a model with the least number of 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 flashguns in 2022

Canon Speedlite 430 EX III-RT

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

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

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

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	43
Compatibility	Canon
Cooldown (sec)	3,5
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL II, E-TTL
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/4
Dimensions	98x71x114
The weight	295 gr

Nikon Speedlight SB-700

Ranked second. Compact, easy to operate, suitable for Nikon FX and DX formats. It is possible to remotely control multiple flashes. Wide viewing angle 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;
• no information about the amount of battery charge.

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	28
Compatibility	Nikon
Cooldown (sec)	3
Swivel head	+
Mode	D-TTL, I-TTL, TTL
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/4
Dimensions	71x129x104.5
The weight	360 gr

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: ranging from 4,078 to 4,790 rubles.

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

• long recharge;
• no autofocus backlight;
• fast battery drain.

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	60
Compatibility	Canon
Cooldown (sec)	3,3
Swivel head	+
Mode	D-TTL, I-TTL, TTL
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/4
Dimensions	78x60x190
The weight	350 gr

Canon Speeglite 600 EX II-RT

Fourth place. Professional flash, there is a high-speed shooting mode in difficult conditions. Included is a reflector adapter that allows you to soften the light. High power, fast and silent recharge. The price of such equipment: 30,788 - 46,890 rubles.

• wireless controller;
• works fast;
• guide number 60;
• powerful battery ensures long shooting;
• There is dust and moisture protection.

• price.

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	60
Compatibility	Nikon
Cooldown (sec)	3,3
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL, TTL, E-TTL II
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/4
Dimensions	104x73x137
The weight	430 gr

Nikon Speedlight SB-5000

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

• powerful;
• does not overheat after long shooting.

• price.

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	55
Compatibility	Nikon
Cooldown (sec)	2
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL, TTL, E-TTL II
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/4
Dimensions	104x73x137
The weight	430 gr

YongNuo Speedlite YN 685 for Canon

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

• PC-sync connector;
• diffuser and reflector;
• hot shoe holder.

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

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	58
Compatibility	Canon
Cooldown (sec)	3
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL,TTL
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/4
Dimensions	188x62x72
The weight	430 gr

Godox V860IIF for Fuji

Suitable for Fujifilm cameras. There is an autofocus backlight, automatic and manual zoom, consumes little power. Price within: 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.

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	60
Compatibility	fujifilm
Cooldown (sec)	1,5
Swivel head	+
Mode	TTL
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/4 own battery
Dimensions	76x64x190
The weight	430 gr

Canon Speedlite 270EX II

Eighth place ranking. It can work remotely up to 5 m. It is not universal, it is compatible with Canon cameras. Compact and lightweight. The swivel head makes it possible to reflect light from the ceiling, creating 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 auto and manual zoom;
• no external power supply.

Options	Characteristic
View	ordinary
Guide number	27
Compatibility	Canon
Cooldown (sec)	3,9
Swivel head	+
Mode	E-TTL II E-TTL
Batteries/ Pieces	AA/2
Dimensions	77x66x65
The weight	General

The rating is based on the data of purchases in online stores of different companies. Popularity was determined by the number of purchases, based on the review, description, reviews of 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 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 most configurations imply the presence of a stand (with its help you can put it on any surface). It is better to look at 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 decide where to buy the model.

For beginners, ordinary flashes 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.

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

What to look out for

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

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

Tips for Choosing Common Mistakes for Beginner Photographers

Errors:

1. Do not use flash. In some moments, additional light is indispensable.
2. remote objects. Don't use the flash to take pictures of distant objects, it just won't do it. In this case, it is better to increase the sensitivity and shoot in natural light.
3. Red eye effect. Hold the model away from the lens to keep the light out of your eyes.
4. Flash position. When shooting vertically, you will most likely see a shadow in the photo. Position the flash above the level of the lens.

How to choose the best flash?

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

Choose your flash for every event (weddings, close-ups, 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 purchasing.

Modern technology contains a large number of possibilities, the presence of certain characteristics can affect the choice. Compare the characteristics with your camera, not all flashes are universal, some may simply not be suitable.

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