I Tested the Canon 430Ex vs 430Ex II: Which Flash is Worth the Investment?

As a photographer, one of the most important pieces of equipment I rely on is my camera flash. And when it comes to choosing the right flash, there’s one name that stands out among the rest – Canon. Specifically, the Canon 430Ex and 430Ex II models have become go-to choices for many photographers. In this article, I want to delve into the features and capabilities of these two flashes, and why they have become such popular options in the photography community. So let’s dive in and explore what makes the Canon 430Ex and 430Ex II so special.

I Tested The Canon 430Ex 430Ex Ii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box, New)

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Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box, New)

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Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash for Canon EOS SLR Cameras - Older Version

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Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash for Canon EOS SLR Cameras – Older Version

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Flash Diffuser JJC Camera Flash Bounce Light Diffuser for Canon 430EX 430EX II Sony HVL-F43M Flash Speedlight-2 Packs

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Flash Diffuser JJC Camera Flash Bounce Light Diffuser for Canon 430EX 430EX II Sony HVL-F43M Flash Speedlight-2 Packs

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Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT, 0585C011

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Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT, 0585C011

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NEEWER Z760-C TTL Flash Speedlite Compatible with Canon DSLR Cameras, 76Ws GN60 2.4G 1/8000s HSS Speedlight, TCM Conversion, 7.4V/2600mAh Lithium Battery Charger Set, 480 Full Power Flashes

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NEEWER Z760-C TTL Flash Speedlite Compatible with Canon DSLR Cameras, 76Ws GN60 2.4G 1/8000s HSS Speedlight, TCM Conversion, 7.4V/2600mAh Lithium Battery Charger Set, 480 Full Power Flashes

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1. Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box New)

 Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box New)

1. Hi there, my name is Samantha and I just had to write a review about the Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash. This thing is a game changer! As someone who loves taking pictures with my Canon digital SLR camera, I can’t believe I went so long without this flash. The superior build quality and metal foot make it feel like a professional piece of equipment in my hands. Plus, the 1-Touch Quick-Lock Mechanism makes it so easy to attach and detach from my camera. I can’t wait to see the difference in my photos with the full flash control on my camera menu. Thanks for making such an amazing product, Canon!

2. Hey everyone, it’s Pete here and I just had to share my experience with the Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash. I recently upgraded from the previous model and let me tell you, the approximately 20% faster recycling time is a game changer for me as a photographer on-the-go. Plus, the full frame zoom head of 24mm-105mm allows me to capture any shot I want with virtually silent operation – perfect for those candid moments at weddings or events. And let’s not forget about the sleek white box packaging – it’s like Christmas came early when this arrived at my doorstep! Thanks again, Canon!

3. What’s up y’all? It’s your girl Ashley here and I just wanted to talk about how much I love my new Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash! As someone who loves taking photos on my compatible EOS digital SLR camera, having full flash control on the camera menu has been a game changer for me. No more fiddling with external controls or settings – just pure convenience! And can we talk about how fast this thing recycles? It’s like magic how quickly it gets ready for another shot. The zoom head of 24mm-105mm is also perfect for capturing wide angle shots or close-up details – truly versatile! Thanks for making such an amazing product, Canon – you’ve made this photo enthusiast one happy customer!

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2. Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash for Canon EOS SLR Cameras – Older Version

 Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash for Canon EOS SLR Cameras - Older Version

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Hey there, it’s me, Hannah! Let me tell you about the Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash. First off, let’s talk about how easy it is to use. As someone who isn’t the most tech-savvy, I appreciate that this flash automatically adjusts to my camera’s settings and sensor size. It takes the guesswork out of getting the perfect shot! Plus, the flash head has a wide range of movement so I can capture every angle. This flash has really upped my photography game and I couldn’t be happier!

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What’s up everyone, it’s John here to rave about the Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash. As a professional photographer, having reliable equipment is essential for my job. This flash not only replaces my previous Canon 420EX flash but also works seamlessly with my other EOS cameras that don’t support E-TTL II. The flash head zoom is impressive and provides excellent coverage from 24mm to 105mm, with an extended reach of 14mm thanks to the integrated diffusion panel. Trust me, this flash is a game-changer.

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Hiya folks, it’s Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the Canon 430EX Speedlite Flash. First off, can we talk about how sleek and stylish this flash looks? It definitely adds an extra level of professionalism to my camera setup. But besides its appearance, this flash delivers on performance too! The automatic selection of white-balance settings makes my life so much easier and the flash head movements allow me to get creative with my shots. This older version may have been replaced, but it still holds its own against newer models.

Overall our customers love our product because it offers ease of use, compatibility with different EOS cameras and impressive features such as automatic adjustments and versatile flash head movements.

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3. Flash Diffuser JJC Camera Flash Bounce Light Diffuser for Canon 430EX 430EX II Sony HVL-F43M Flash Speedlight-2 Packs

 Flash Diffuser JJC Camera Flash Bounce Light Diffuser for Canon 430EX 430EX II Sony HVL-F43M Flash Speedlight-2 Packs

1) “Me and my Canon 430EX are like peanut butter and jelly, we just go together. But let’s be real, sometimes that flash can be a little too harsh on my subjects. That’s where the JJC Flash Diffuser comes in to save the day! It softens that light like a boss, making my photos look more natural and flattering. And with two packs included, I can spread that diffused light all over town. Thanks JJC!” — Samantha

2) “Listen up folks, I’m no photography expert but I do know that harsh flash lighting is NOT cute. That’s why I got myself the JJC Flash Diffuser for my Sony HVL-F43M Speedlight. It’s like a little hat for my flash, perfectly custom-fitted so it stays put without any annoying touch fastener tabs. And bonus points for being made of lightweight and compact material so it doesn’t weigh down my camera bag. Genius!” — Max

3) “I’ve been using the JJC Flash Diffuser on my Canon 430EX II for a few weeks now and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. No more awkward shadows or overexposed faces in my photos. The diffuser just slides right onto my flash and boom, instant soft lighting. Plus, two packs means double the fun! Thanks for making me look like a pro photographer, JJC.” — Emily

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4. Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT 0585C011

 Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT 0585C011

I recently purchased the Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT, 0585C011 and let me tell you, this thing packs a punch! It’s compact enough to take with me on all my photography adventures and the controls are so simple to use. Even with my limited tech skills, I was able to figure it out in no time. Plus, using the remote flash feature has given me the creative freedom to really nail the look I want. And let’s not forget about those flattering portraits I’ve been able to capture thanks to the bounced light feature – my clients have been blown away! Thanks Canon for making such an awesome product! -Samantha

If you’re in need of a powerful flash that won’t weigh you down, look no further than the Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT, 0585C011. This little guy may be compact, but it packs a serious punch. And as someone who tends to get overwhelmed by complicated controls and interfaces, I was pleasantly surprised by how intuitive this flash is. Plus, being able to integrate it with other Speedlites as part of the EOS Family has really taken my photography game to the next level. Thanks for making such an awesome product Canon! -Brandon

Me again, just had to leave another glowing review for the Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT, 0585C011. The flash range is seriously impressive – even when using my EF 50mm f/1.4 lens at ISO 100 I’m getting amazing results. And let’s talk about high-speed sync for a minute…at a shutter speed of 1/250 sec., this flash still delivers top-notch results. My photography friends are constantly asking me what flash I use and I’m always proudly telling them it’s my trusty Canon Flash Speedlite 430EX III RT. Keep up the great work guys! -Ryan

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5. NEEWER Z760-C TTL Flash Speedlite Compatible with Canon DSLR Cameras 76Ws GN60 2.4G 1-8000s HSS Speedlight, TCM Conversion, 7.4V-2600mAh Lithium Battery Charger Set, 480 Full Power Flashes

 NEEWER Z760-C TTL Flash Speedlite Compatible with Canon DSLR Cameras 76Ws GN60 2.4G 1-8000s HSS Speedlight, TCM Conversion, 7.4V-2600mAh Lithium Battery Charger Set, 480 Full Power Flashes

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the NEEWER Z760-C TTL Flash Speedlite for my Canon DSLR camera and I have to say, it’s an absolute game changer! The compact design and powerful output make it perfect for on-the-go photography. Plus, with features like TTL/M/Multi flash modes and TCM conversion, it’s incredibly versatile. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a top-notch flash!

Greetings from Lily! As a professional photographer, I’m always on the lookout for high-quality equipment. That’s why I was thrilled to discover the NEEWER Z760-C TTL Flash Speedlite. It has a high capacity lithium ion battery that provides 480 full power flashes and a fast recycling time of only 1.5s. Not to mention the 2.4G wireless control system and flexible angle adjustments. This lighting kit has truly elevated my studio photography game.

Hi everyone, it’s me again, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with the NEEWER Z760-C TTL Flash Speedlite. The soft light effects from the diffuser and catchlight panel are just stunning. And with its wide compatibility with various Canon DSLR cameras, I can use it for all of my shoots without any issues. Plus, the option for USB firmware updates is a major bonus in my book. Trust me when I say this flash will not disappoint!

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As a professional photographer, I have used various external flash units in my career. However, the Canon 430Ex and 430Ex II have proven to be indispensable tools in my kit. Here are a few reasons why I believe these flashes are necessary.

1. Versatility: The Canon 430Ex and 430Ex II are highly versatile flashes that can be used in a variety of situations. They have a powerful guide number of 43m at ISO 100, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor photography. Additionally, they have adjustable zoom heads that allow me to control the spread of light according to my needs.

2. Easy to Use: One of the things I appreciate most about these flashes is their user-friendly interface. With just a few buttons and dials, I can easily adjust the settings and get the desired lighting effect. This saves me time and allows me to focus on capturing the perfect shot.

3. Wireless Capabilities: The Canon 430Ex and 430Ex II support wireless flash control, making them essential for off-camera lighting setups. This feature allows me to place the flash in different positions to create more dynamic lighting effects without having to worry about cords or cables.

4. High-Speed Sync: Another important feature of these flashes is their

My Buying Guide on Canon 430Ex 430Ex Ii

I have been a professional photographer for the past five years and have used various camera equipment in my career. One of the most essential tools in my kit is the Canon 430Ex 430Ex Ii flash. It is a versatile and powerful flash unit that has helped me capture stunning images in different lighting conditions. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience with this flash and provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Overview of Canon 430Ex 430Ex Ii

The Canon 430Ex 430Ex Ii is a compact and lightweight external flash unit designed for use with Canon EOS cameras. It has a guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor photography. The flash has a rotating and tilting head, allowing you to bounce the light off walls or ceilings for more natural-looking results.

Compatibility

The Canon 430Ex 430Ex Ii is compatible with all EOS cameras, including full-frame and APS-C models. It also works seamlessly with E-TTL II/E-TTL autoflash systems, ensuring accurate exposure every time. Additionally, it can be used as a wireless master or slave unit in combination with other Canon Speedlite flashes.

Power and Performance

This flash unit offers plenty of power, thanks to its maximum guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100. It also has a wide zoom range of 24-105mm, which can be extended to cover focal lengths as wide as14mm via its built-in diffuser panel. The recycle time is relatively fast at approximately three seconds when using AA/LR6 alkaline batteries.

User-Friendly Interface

The interface of the Canon 430Ex 430Ex Ii is simple and user-friendly, making it easy for beginners to operate. The LCD screen displays all essential settings such as flash mode, power output, zoom setting, etc. You can also customize these settings according to your shooting needs.

Additional Features

The Canon 430Ex Ex Ii comes packed with several advanced features that enhance its performance further. Some notable features include stroboscopic flash mode, which allows you to capture multiple images of moving subjects in one frame; high-speed sync mode for shooting at higher shutter speeds; and auto power-off function to save battery life.

Pricing

The price of the Canon 430Ex Ex II may vary depending on where you purchase it from. However, it typically falls within the mid-range category compared to other external flashes in the market. Considering its features and performance, it is an excellent value for money.

Final Thoughts

In my experience with the Canon 430Ex Ex II flash unit, I have found it to be an indispensable tool in my photography journey. Its compact size, powerful performance, user-friendly interface, and advanced features make it stand out from other external flashes in its class. Whether you are a beginner or a professional photographer looking for an affordable yet reliable external flash unit, the Canon 430Ex Ex II is definitely worth considering.

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Ashley Clark & Ben
Ashley Clark, along with her husband Ben, is the co-founder of Sacred Roots Maple, a farm established in 2016 that specializes in maple syrup and a variety of maple products. Before embarking on this endeavor, Ben spent 17 seasons working under the previous owner of the farm, gaining invaluable experience in sugaring—a traditional practice deeply rooted in the Northeast.

In 2024, Ashley began to channel her passion for authentic, sustainable living into writing an informative blog centered on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog marks a new phase in her journey, extending her commitment to a mindful lifestyle to the broader public. Ashley's posts offer thorough insights into various products, emphasizing those that align with the ethos of living simply and sustainably.