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10 Best Camera Flashes 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Profoto B10X Plus Off-Camera Flash and Continuous Light

The Profoto B10X Plus Off-Camera Flash and Continuous Light is a solid choice for photographers seeking a versatile lighting solution. With a high Guide Number, it delivers impressive power, making it suitable for various settings, from portraits to events. The quick Recycle Time and Flash Duration ensure that you can capture moments without missing a beat, which is a crucial feature for dynamic shooting situations.

TTL (Through-The-Lens) metering is included, allowing for accurate exposure adjustments automatically. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners and those who prefer a hassle-free setup. The Swivel and Tilt capabilities give you flexibility in directing the light, helping you achieve the desired effects in your shots.

In terms of compatibility, the B10X Plus works seamlessly with the Profoto A series, offering a streamlined experience for users of other Profoto gear. The wireless control option adds convenience, enabling you to manage your flash settings from a distance, which can be a game-changer during shoots. However, it’s important to note that the B10X Plus is a bit on the heavier side, weighing 8.33 pounds, which may be cumbersome for outdoor shoots or long sessions. Additionally, it carries a higher price tag compared to more budget-friendly options, which might be a consideration for hobbyists or those just starting out.

#2

Profoto B10X Off-Camera Flash and Continuous Light Duo Kit

The Profoto B10X Off-Camera Flash and Continuous Light Duo Kit stands out as a versatile lighting solution for photographers looking for both flash and continuous light options. One of its strengths is its high compatibility with Profoto mounts, making it a great addition for users already invested in the Profoto ecosystem. The flash sync speed of 1/250 or higher is decent, ensuring good performance in most shooting conditions.

The built-in camera flash feature adds convenience, and the inclusion of a lithium-ion battery is a plus for extended usability. The product’s dimensions and weight suggest it is somewhat bulky, which might be a drawback for those needing more portable solutions. This kit is likely best suited for studio photographers or those who prioritize high-quality, continuous lighting but might not be ideal for on-the-go or lightweight needs.

#3

Godox V860III-S Flash for Sony Camera Flash Speedlite 7.2V/2600mAh Li-ion Battery, 2.4G Wireless HSS 1/8000 1.5s Recycle Time 10 Levels LED Modeling Light for Sony Cameras (Upgraded V860II-S)

Rating
9.8
Guide Number
Compatibility
Wireless Control

Most important from
836 reviews

Guide Number
Delivers excellent shadow fill outdoors even in bright sunlight, making it ideal for portraits without needing excessive power.
Compatibility
Solid build quality with secure hot shoe locking ensures dependable operation and easy mounting on Sony cameras.
Wireless Control
Offers comprehensive shooting modes including wireless master and slave functions, suitable for portraits, macro, and creative lighting techniques.

The Godox V860III-S is a solid choice for Sony camera users needing a versatile and powerful speedlight. It features a strong 7.2V/2600mAh lithium-ion battery that supports up to 480 full-power flashes with a fast recycle time of about 1.5 seconds, which means less waiting between shots. Its 1/8000 second flash sync speed and full TTL metering support help deliver well-exposed photos even in tricky lighting conditions.

The built-in 2.4G wireless system allows for flexible off-camera flash setups without extra gear, and the flash head can swivel and tilt, giving you creative control over light direction. The added modeling light with adjustable brightness is useful for previewing the effect before shooting. Compatibility is clear—this flash is designed specifically for Sony cameras, ensuring smooth operation and easy mounting with the quick release lock.

Some users might find the flash a bit bulky at just over 2 pounds, and while the battery life is excellent, replacements may add some cost down the line. It effectively balances power, speed, and wireless control, making it a practical upgrade for enthusiasts who want better lighting without a steep learning curve.

Rating
9.8
Guide Number
Compatibility
Wireless Control

Most important from
836 reviews

Guide Number
Delivers excellent shadow fill outdoors even in bright sunlight, making it ideal for portraits without needing excessive power.
Compatibility
Solid build quality with secure hot shoe locking ensures dependable operation and easy mounting on Sony cameras.
Wireless Control
Offers comprehensive shooting modes including wireless master and slave functions, suitable for portraits, macro, and creative lighting techniques.

Buying Guide for the Best Camera Flashes

Choosing the right camera flash can significantly enhance your photography by providing better lighting, reducing shadows, and allowing for more creative shots. When selecting a camera flash, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and complements your camera and shooting style.
Guide NumberThe guide number (GN) indicates the power of the flash. It is a measure of the maximum distance the flash can effectively illuminate a subject. A higher guide number means a more powerful flash that can light up subjects farther away. For general photography, a GN of around 20-30 is usually sufficient. For more demanding situations, such as outdoor or large venue photography, a GN of 40 or higher may be necessary. Choose a guide number based on the typical distance between you and your subjects.
Recycle TimeRecycle time is the duration it takes for the flash to recharge and be ready to fire again after a shot. This is important for continuous shooting and capturing fast-moving subjects. Shorter recycle times (1-2 seconds) are ideal for action photography and events where you need to take multiple shots in quick succession. Longer recycle times (3-5 seconds) may be acceptable for more controlled environments like studio photography. Consider your shooting pace and the type of events you cover when evaluating recycle time.
Flash DurationFlash duration refers to the length of time the flash emits light. Shorter flash durations (1/1000 to 1/20000 of a second) are better for freezing fast-moving subjects, making them ideal for sports or wildlife photography. Longer durations (1/200 to 1/1000 of a second) are suitable for general use and portrait photography. Think about the types of subjects you photograph most often to determine the appropriate flash duration.
TTL (Through-The-Lens) MeteringTTL metering is a feature that allows the camera to automatically adjust the flash output based on the exposure settings and the amount of light passing through the lens. This is important for achieving well-balanced exposures without manual adjustments. If you prefer a more hands-off approach or shoot in varying lighting conditions, a flash with TTL metering is highly beneficial. For those who like to have full control over their lighting, manual flashes without TTL can be a good choice.
Swivel and TiltSwivel and tilt capabilities allow the flash head to be adjusted in different directions. This is crucial for bouncing light off walls or ceilings to create softer, more diffused lighting. A flash that can swivel 180 degrees and tilt up to 90 degrees offers the most flexibility. If you often shoot indoors or in situations where you need to manipulate the direction of light, a flash with good swivel and tilt range is essential. For straightforward, direct lighting, these features may be less critical.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the flash can work seamlessly with your camera model and brand. This is important to ensure all features, such as TTL metering and wireless control, function correctly. Check the manufacturer's specifications to confirm compatibility with your camera. If you use multiple camera brands or plan to upgrade in the future, consider a flash with broader compatibility or one that supports firmware updates.
Wireless ControlWireless control allows you to trigger the flash remotely, which is useful for off-camera lighting setups. This is important for creative lighting techniques and more complex setups. Look for flashes with built-in wireless capabilities or those that can be paired with wireless triggers. If you frequently use multiple flashes or need to position your flash away from the camera, wireless control is a valuable feature. For simpler setups, this may not be as necessary.

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