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Best External Flash For Canon (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to enhance your Canon camera's lighting capabilities, you might want to consider investing in an external flash. An external flash can significantly improve the quality of your photos, especially in low-light conditions, making them look more professional and polished. However, before buying one, there are a few important factors you need to consider to ensure you make the right choice.

Firstly, you need to determine the type of flash that is compatible with your Canon camera model. As there are different flash systems available, it's vital to choose one that works seamlessly with your camera. Secondly, consider the power and performance of the flash. The strength of the flash can have a significant impact on your photos, so be sure to invest in something that provides you with ample lighting. Lastly, think about the portability and ease of use of the external flash you're considering.

Before making a purchase, you might want to ask yourself a few questions. Do you frequently shoot in low-light environments? Do you want to improve the overall look and quality of your photos? Are you looking for a portable and user-friendly external flash? By answering these questions, you'll be able to narrow your options down to find the best external flash for your Canon camera – one that will help take your photography skills to the next level.

10 Best External Flash For Canon

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for adding an external flash with LCD display to DSLR and mirrorless cameras from various brands.
2
Ideal for Canon EOS cameras, providing high-speed sync, fast recycle times, and color filter options for improved flash photography.
3
Ideal for photography enthusiasts using Canon, Nikon, Sony, and other SLR digital cameras with a single-contact hot shoe.
4
Ideal for macro photography with Canon DSLR cameras, providing balanced illumination and color temperature control.
5
This product is ideal for DSLR camera users who need an external flash with remote control and diffuser for optimal lighting.
6
This product is ideal for professional photographers who want a wireless flash unit compatible with various DSLR camera brands.
7
This product is ideal for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, providing a powerful flash with a manual trigger and 2.4GHz TTL technology.
8
The product is ideal for improving the quality of flash photography and can be used with various digital camera brands.
9
This product is ideal for DSLR cameras made by Canon and provides a powerful camera speedlite flash with TTL compatibility.
10
The flash speedlite is ideal for DSLR and mirrorless cameras with standard hot shoe from various brands.
This product is ideal for adding an external flash with LCD display to DSLR and mirrorless cameras from various brands.
Ideal for Canon EOS cameras, providing high-speed sync, fast recycle times, and color filter options for improved flash photography.
Ideal for photography enthusiasts using Canon, Nikon, Sony, and other SLR digital cameras with a single-contact hot shoe.
Ideal for macro photography with Canon DSLR cameras, providing balanced illumination and color temperature control.
This product is ideal for DSLR camera users who need an external flash with remote control and diffuser for optimal lighting.
This product is ideal for professional photographers who want a wireless flash unit compatible with various DSLR camera brands.
This product is ideal for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, providing a powerful flash with a manual trigger and 2.4GHz TTL technology.
The product is ideal for improving the quality of flash photography and can be used with various digital camera brands.
This product is ideal for DSLR cameras made by Canon and provides a powerful camera speedlite flash with TTL compatibility.
The flash speedlite is ideal for DSLR and mirrorless cameras with standard hot shoe from various brands.

1. Lcd Camera Flash: Universal External Hot Shoe

The Altura Photo Universal Speedlite Flash (AP-UNV2) is an ideal choice for photographers of all levels. This flash is a powerful manual flash that can be used directly on your camera hot flashes-shoe or as an off-camera flash for portraits. The high-performance flash is perfect for those who want to capture stunning pictures at a lower cost.

Please note that the flash does not work on TTL mode. It is compatible with Nikon flash with Nikon D3500 D3400 D3300 D3000 D5600 D5500 D7500 D7200 D7100 D750 D780 D850 D810 D610 D500 D60 D5 Z6 Z7. It is also compatible with Canon flash with Canon EOS Rebel T7i T6 T6i T6s T5 T5i T4 T4i T3 T3i T2i Sl2 M50 70D 80D 90D 77D 6D 6D Mark II 5D 5D Mark II 5D Mark IV EOS R EOS RP M100 M6 1D. However, it is not compatible with T7 and SL3. Moreover, this flash is compatible with Sony flash with Sony Alpha A6000 A6100 A6300 A6400 A6500 A6600 A5100 A68 A9 A9II A7 A7II A7III A7RII A7RIII A7RIV A7S A7SII RX100III RX100IV RX100V RX100VI RX100VII.

The Altura Photo Universal Speedlite Flash (AP-UNV2) is backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee. So, if you are not satisfied with the product, you can return it within 90 days of purchase.

Pros

  • Powerful flash suitable for photographers of all levels
  • Can be used directly on camera hot flashes-shoe or as an off-camera flash
  • Compatible with Nikon, Canon, and Sony flash
  • High performance at a low cost
  • Backed by a 90-day satisfaction guarantee

Cons

  • – The flash does not work on TTL mode
  • – Not compatible with T7 and SL3

2. Godox Canon Flash With High-Speed Sync

The Godox V860II-C is a powerful and convenient flash that is perfect for Canon EOS cameras. It features a high power rechargeable 2000mAh Li-ion Polymer Battery that ensures better shooting performance, with a maximum recycle time of 1.5 seconds and 650 full power pops. The build-in Godox 2.4G Wireless X System offers all-in-one functions and 100 meters further transmission distance. The optical transmission provides even illumination and stable output.

This flash fully supports TTL functions and is compatible with E-TTL II autoflash. Its functions include TTL autoflash, manual flash, 1/8000s High-speed sync, flash exposure compensation, flash exposure lock, second curtain sync, modeling flash, and more. Additionally, the Godox V860II-C can be used as a master flash to trigger Canon speedlites (e.g. 600EX-RT, 580EX II) in TTL or manual mode. It can also be used as a slave flash to receive signals of Canon speedlites and wireless commanders of pop-up flash on Canon 7D, 60D, or 600D, among others.

This flash also boasts advanced functions such as GN60 (m ISO 100 @ 200mm) and 22 steps of power output (1/1-1/128). It also allows for USB firmware updates and has overheating protection. If you encounter any problems or need support, the manufacturer offers excellent customer service and is always ready to provide assistance.

Pros

  • High power rechargeable 2000mAh Li-ion Polymer Battery for better shooting performance
  • Build-in Godox 2.4G Wireless X System offers all-in-one functions and 100 meters further transmission distance
  • Fully supports TTL functions and compatible with E-TTL II autoflash
  • Can be used as a master flash to trigger Canon speedlites in TTL or manual mode
  • Advanced functions such as GN60 and 22 steps of power output
  • Allows for USB firmware updates and has overheating protection
  • Excellent customer service and support

3. Universal Flash For Slr And Digital Cameras

The Photoolex M500 speedlite is a high-performance flash unit that can be used as a continuous light as well. It has a guide number of 35 (ISO 100/1m) and can output a total of 150 Lux (Max. 0.5m), making it a versatile tool for photography enthusiasts. The flash unit supports manual mode and S1 and S2 wireless flash trigger modes, which can be easily adjusted according to the user's needs.

The M500 speedlite features a metal hot shoe that ensures stability and durability. It has a flash recycle time of 2.8 seconds and a power saving automatic shutdown function that helps to conserve battery life. Additionally, it has an automatic save function that remembers the last settings used.

To test the flash unit, users can press the test button to fire a test flash with the current settings or to wake the flash from sleep mode. The flash can also be reset by pressing and holding the [Mode] and [Test] buttons simultaneously.

The power control feature of the flash unit allows users to adjust the power output with 8 steps of control. This is indicated by 8 pieces of LED lamp for different levels.

The M500 speedlite comes with a protective pouch, stand, and instruction manual for easy use and storage.

Pros

  • High-performance flash unit with a guide number of 35 (ISO 100/1m)
  • Can be used as a continuous light and output a total of 150 Lux (Max. 0.5m)
  • Supports manual mode and S1 and S2 wireless flash trigger modes
  • Metal hot shoe for stability and durability
  • Power control feature with 8 steps of control

Cons

  • – Flash recycle time of 2.8 seconds may be slow for some users

4. Yongnuo Macro Ring Flash For Canon Dslr.

The High GN Macro Ring Flash is a versatile and powerful tool for macro photography. With a GN of 18 and support for M, TTL flash ratio setting, and adjusting flash ratio of flash tube A and B, it can produce sculptural effects and shadows on the subject. The ring type double lamp design is lightweight and flexible for fill-light, making it ideal for shooting plants, insects, jewelry, and oral cavities without worrying about vignetting or shadows. The flash comes equipped with adapter rings of 52mm, 58mm, 67mm, and 72mm, and four color temperature filters: white, red, fluorescent green, and warm yellow. The magnetic drawing method for filters makes them easy to use. The flash also offers additional functions, such as exposure compensation, FEB, rear-curtain sync, FE lock, Fn custom settings, menu access for Canon camera, and a large-size LCD display. The LED AF Assist Lamp, standard 2.5mm PC synchronous interface, sound prompt system, external power socket, and auto-save setting support custom settings.

Pros

  • High GN of 18 for powerful and versatile macro photography
  • Supports M, TTL flash ratio setting, and adjusting flash ratio of flash tube A and B
  • Ring type double lamp design for flexible fill-light without vignetting or shadows
  • Equipped with adapter rings and color temperature filters for multiple filter sizes
  • Additional functions such as exposure compensation, FEB, rear-curtain sync, FE lock, and more
  • Large-size LCD display, LED AF Assist Lamp, standard 2.5mm PC synchronous interface, sound prompt system, and external power socket

5. Flash Master Kit: Perfect For Dslr Cameras

The Neewer TT560 Photo Flash is a powerful and versatile manual flash that is compatible with Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Sony cameras with Mi Hot Shoe. It can be used with a range of cameras, including the a9, a7, a7II, a7III, a7R III, a7RII, a7SII, a6000, a6300, and a6500 (please note that it is not compatible with Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D, Rebel T7/1500D 2000D, Rebel T100/3000D 4000D). It has a high guide number of 38(m) /108(ft), which makes it perfect for a variety of different lighting situations. The package includes the Neewer TT560 Photo Flash, Flash Stand, Softbox Flash Diffuser, and Remote Control, so you have everything you need to get started.

The Neewer TT560 Photo Flash features a built-in flip down wide angle flash diffuser and reflection panel, which helps to provide even lighting across your subject. It also has a Wireless Remote Control that is ideal for subjects that are difficult to approach, self-portraits, or any instances where camera vibration is a concern. Please note that this flash does not support TTL or the camera menu setting function.

Overall, the Neewer TT560 Photo Flash is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile manual flash that is easy to use and compatible with a wide range of cameras.

Pros

  • Compatible with Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Sony cameras with Mi Hot Shoe
  • High guide number of 38(m) /108(ft)
  • Comes with Flash Stand, Softbox Flash Diffuser, and Remote Control
  • Built-in flip down wide angle flash diffuser and reflection panel
  • Wireless Remote Control is included

Cons

  • – Does not support TTL or the camera menu setting function
  • – Not compatible with certain Canon cameras

6. Flashmaster Kit: Wireless Speedlite + Extras

The Godox TT520II Flash Speedlite is a highly versatile and functional flash that is designed to cater to the needs of photographers. The flash boasts of 433MHz wireless transmission and an RT transmitter, which makes it easy to trigger remotely. It has 16 channels that ensure smooth and uninterrupted transmission. Moreover, the flash duration of 1/300s-1/20000s ensures that the images captured are crystal clear and vivid.

The Godox TT520II Flash Speedlite comes with 3 flash modes: M, S1, and S2, which offer better versatility and usability. The M mode allows for manual adjustment of the flash output, while the S1 and S2 modes enable the flash to synchronize with the camera's pre-flash. This ensures that the flash illuminates the subject at the right time and results in perfect shots.

The Godox TT520II Flash Speedlite also features 8 variable flash outputs that range from 1/128 to full, meeting diverse flash demands. This feature enables users to adjust the flash output according to the environmental conditions and the subject, thus resulting in better quality images. The flash is compatible with Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax, and Fuji DSLR cameras, making it an ideal choice for photographers across different brands.

The Godox TT520II Flash Speedlite is designed with multiple auto-self protections that help in power saving and prevent overheating. This feature ensures that the flash is durable and long-lasting, even with extended use. Overall, the Godox TT520II Flash Speedlite is an excellent investment for photographers looking to enhance their photography skills and produce professional-quality shots.

Pros

  • Offers 433MHz wireless transmission and an RT transmitter for remote triggering
  • Features 16 channels for uninterrupted and smooth transmission
  • Provides clear and vivid images with a flash duration of 1/300s-1/20000s
  • Comes with 3 flash modes: M, S1, and S2 for better versatility and usability
  • Has 8 variable flash outputs for diverse flash demands
  • Compatible with Canon, Nikon, Olympus, Pentax, and Fuji DSLR cameras
  • Designed with multiple auto-self protections for power saving and overheating prevention
  • Ideal choice for photographers looking to produce professional-quality shots

Cons

  • – May be expensive for beginners or hobbyists

7. Canon Camera Flash With Manual Trigger – Alturaphoto

The AP-305C Speedlite Canon flash for Camera is a lightweight and compact flash that offers professional performance for DSLR, mirrorless, and off-camera photography. It has a guide number of 36m/118ft at ISO 100, making it easy to achieve the desired lighting for any shot. With TTL, Manual (M), and Multi (Stroboscopic) modes, photographers can easily adjust the flash exposure even in changing light environments.

Thanks to the incorporated 2.4GHz, advanced wireless multiple flash lighting is easy to achieve with the AP-305C. It allows multi-angle and multi-directional photography setups without the need for visual proximity between flash units. The RT-305 manual Flash trigger enables wireless transmission with a manual set-up, with 16 channels for communication. However, it does not support HSS and TTL modes when used with the AP-305 flash, and flash sync speed is limited to 1/250s.

The AP-305C Speedlite Canon flash for Camera comes with one RT-305 Manual Wireless Trigger, a mini stand, and a protective pouch. It is compatible with all Canon cameras, including Canon EOS Rebel T7i, T6i, T6, T6s, T5i, T5, T4i, T3i, SL2, SL1, 90D, 80D, 77D, 70D, 700D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 7D Mark II, 6D Mark II, 5DS, 5D, 1D Mark II, M3, M5, M6, M10, M50, M100, M200, R, and RP.

Pros

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Versatile TTL, Manual (M), and Multi (Stroboscopic) modes for adjusting flash exposure
  • Incorporated 2.4GHz for advanced wireless multiple flash lighting
  • Easy to set up multi-angle and multi-directional photography
  • Comes with a mini stand and protective pouch
  • Compatible with all Canon cameras

Cons

  • – The RT-305 manual Flash trigger does not support HSS and TTL modes when used with the AP-305 flash
  • – Flash sync speed is limited to 1/250s when using the RT-305 manual Flash trigger with the AP-305 hot flash

8. Yongnuo Flash System: Master-Slave Wireless Speedlite

The YN-560 IV is a versatile flash unit that combines the features of the YN560III and YN560-TX. It offers a wireless master function that allows the user to control three independent groups of flashes remotely. This feature lets you control the flash mode, output, and focal length of both YN-560 IV and YN-560 III models. The flash can be triggered through the camera-mounted flash, 2.4G wireless system, S1 and S2 pre-flash cancel modes. It also supports setting save automatically, custom settings (fn), and has an optical 16-channel system.

In addition, the YN-560 IV can receive wireless signals from YN560 IV, YN560-TX, RF-603 II, and RF-602 models, making it a versatile option. When used as a transmitter, it allows for remote control and parameter settings. With a GN58@ISO100, 105mm (M/Multi mode), this flash unit offers an ultra-fast charging recycle system and external power supply for convenience.

Pros

  • Wireless master function allows remote control of flash mode, output, and focal length
  • Optical 16-channel system provides versatility
  • GN58@ISO100, 105mm (M/Multi mode) offers powerful lighting
  • Ultra-fast charging recycle system for convenience
  • External power supply option available

9. Canon-Compatible Voking Ttl Camera Flash

The External Flash is a great addition to any photographer's kit, especially when shooting in low-light conditions. This flash is compatible with a range of DSLR cameras, including EOS 5DS, 5DSR, 5S Mark IV, 5D Mark III, 6D, 6D Mark II, 7D, 70D, 77D, 80D, Rebel T5, Rebel T5i, Rebel T6, Rebel T6i, Rebel T6s, Rebel SL1, Rebel SL2 and more. The flash offers multiple modes including TTL, M, Multi, S1, and S2, giving photographers the versatility they need to capture the perfect shot.

The External Flash is built to last, with excellent dust and water resistance, making it perfect for outdoor shoots. It supports front and rear curtain sync and has a vertical rotation angle of 0-90 degrees and a horizontal rotation angle of 0-270 degrees, allowing photographers to control the direction of the light. The fast recycle time and accurate brightness control ensures photographers never miss an opportunity to capture the perfect shot.

The External Flash also comes with additional features including FEC, AEB, manual and auto zoom, and a PC port. These features help photographers to fine-tune the lighting and capture stunning images with ease. Overall, this External Flash is a must-have for any photographer looking to take their photography to the next level.

Pros

  • Compatible with a range of DSLR cameras
  • Multiple flash modes for versatility
  • Excellent dust and water resistance
  • Supports front and rear curtain sync
  • Fast recycle time and accurate brightness control
  • Additional features including FEC, AEB, manual and auto zoom, and a PC port

10. Universal Speedlite For Dslr And Mirrorless Cameras

The Powerful Flash with High Guide No.38 (ISO 100, 35mm) is a versatile and efficient flash that supports M/MULTI/S1/S2 flash modes. It has a super speed charging recycle of 0.1-5s, making it a reliable choice for photographers who need quick and consistent performance. This flash is compatible with Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, Olympus, Pentax, Fijifilm, and Sony with Mi Hot Shoe cameras, such as a9, a7, a7II, a7III, a7R III, a7RII, a7SII, a6000, a6300, and a6500. Please note that it is NOT compatible with Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D, Rebel T7/1500D 2000D, Rebel T100/3000D 4000D. The flash has a lighting time of 100-1500 times and a flash time of 1/200s-1/20000s.

The flash control of this product offers 8 levels of output control (1/128-1/1), allowing for precise adjustments to the intensity of the flash. It also has a fixed zoom, and the vertical rotation angle ranges from -7 to 90 degrees, while the horizontal rotation angle ranges from 0 to 180 degrees. The flash also offers additional functions, including PC synchronous, power-saving mode, and over-temperature protection. With all these features, this flash is a reliable and efficient tool for photographers who need quick and consistent performance.

Pros

  • Super speed charging recycle of 0.1-5s for quick and consistent performance
  • Compatible with various camera brands, including Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, Olympus, Pentax, Fijifilm, and Sony with Mi Hot Shoe cameras
  • Offers 8 levels of output control for precise adjustments
  • Fixed zoom and versatile rotation angles for flexibility and convenience
  • Additional functions including PC synchronous, power-saving mode, and over-temperature protection

Cons

  • – Does not support TTL and camera menu setting function
  • – Not compatible with certain Canon EOS Rebel models

Best External Flash For Canon FAQs

Can I use third-party external flashes with my Canon camera?

Yes, you can use third-party external flashes with your Canon camera. Third-party external flashes are available in the market and are compatible with most Canon cameras. However, it is essential to ensure that the flash you choose is compatible with your specific camera model. It is also crucial to check the features and functions of the external flash before purchasing it to ensure that it meets your requirements.

Using third-party external flashes can be beneficial as they are often cheaper than the branded ones. They also provide additional features and functions that may not be available in branded flashes. However, it is important to note that some third-party flashes may not be as reliable as the branded ones, and their quality may vary.

Before purchasing a third-party external flash, it is recommended to do some research and read reviews from other photographers who have used the same flash. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the right flash that meets your needs and budget.

How do I connect an external flash to my Canon camera?

Connecting an external flash to your Canon camera is a simple process that can greatly enhance the quality of your photos. First, you will need to purchase a compatible flash unit that is designed for use with your specific Canon camera model. Once you have the flash unit, you can attach it to your camera by inserting the hot shoe attachment into the camera's hot shoe mount. Make sure that the flash unit is securely attached and that the contacts on the bottom of the flash unit are lined up with the contacts on the camera's hot shoe mount. Once the flash is attached, turn on your camera and the flash unit. You may need to adjust the flash settings on your camera to ensure that the flash is properly synced and set to the correct mode. With the flash unit attached, you can now take stunning photos with added lighting and greater control over exposure.

How does using an external flash improve my photography with a Canon camera?

Using an external flash with your Canon camera can greatly enhance your photography in various ways. Firstly, an external flash provides a more powerful and adjustable light source than the built-in flash, allowing you to add more light to your subjects and create more depth and contrast in your photos. It also helps to eliminate harsh shadows and improve the overall quality of your images.

Moreover, using an external flash enables you to position the flash in different angles and directions, giving you more control over the direction and intensity of the light. This can help you achieve a more natural and flattering lighting effect in your photos, especially when shooting portraits or other close-up shots.

Another advantage of using an external flash is that it allows you to shoot in low light situations without having to increase your ISO or shutter speed, which can result in noisy or blurry images. With an external flash, you can maintain a low ISO and slower shutter speed while still getting a well-exposed photo with crisp details.

Overall, using an external flash with your Canon camera can significantly improve the quality and versatility of your photography, giving you more creative control and better results in a variety of lighting conditions.

What are the best external flash options for Canon cameras?

When it comes to external flash options for Canon cameras, there are several good choices available. One popular option is the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT, which is a powerful and versatile flash that is compatible with a wide range of Canon cameras. This flash offers high-speed sync, wireless control, and a range of advanced features that make it ideal for professional photographers.

Another great option is the Yongnuo YN560-IV, which is a budget-friendly flash that offers excellent performance and reliability. This flash is easy to use and comes with a range of advanced features, including wireless control and high-speed sync.

For those looking for a more compact option, the Canon Speedlite 270EX II is a great choice. This flash is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around, and it offers TTL metering and a range of other features that make it ideal for on-the-go photography.

Ultimately, the best external flash option for your Canon camera will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, any of these options would be a great choice for photographers looking to improve their lighting capabilities.

What features should I look for when choosing an external flash for my Canon camera?

When choosing an external flash for your Canon camera, there are several features to consider that will help you to take better photographs in different lighting conditions. First, you should look for a flash with a high guide number (GN). This indicates the flash's power and ability to illuminate your subject from a distance. A flash with a GN of 60 or higher is ideal for outdoor shooting, while a GN of 30-40 is sufficient for indoor photography.

Another important feature to consider is the flash's tilt and swivel capabilities. This will allow you to adjust the angle of the flash to bounce off walls or ceilings, which can create softer and more natural-looking lighting. Additionally, you should look for a flash that supports TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering. This feature allows the camera to automatically adjust the flash's output based on the ambient light in the scene.

Finally, you should consider the flash's compatibility with your Canon camera model. Some flashes are designed specifically for certain camera models, while others are more universal. Make sure to check the compatibility list before making a purchase to ensure that the flash will work seamlessly with your camera.

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