Canon 580 ex mk1 or 430 ex mk2?

[scottduffy]

Guy's,

I am just about to buy a flash and i was wondering which of these to go for as they seem about the same price. I know the 550 can be master/slave and this is appealing but is there anything else i should know about these two? Do they both do the same things?

I have just agreed to purchase the 580 ex mk1

 

[adsayer]

I would (for me anyway), go for the more powerful flash (550). the 430 ex II has a few more features such as On Camera Control, 1/3 stop power increments, quieter charging and I suspect a faster recycle time. But depending on your preferences it's down to you which you're going to find more beneficial

I would note that the 550 has a slightly bigger flash head and larger distance from the optical axis so in theory for closer work you get a softer (i mean softer relatively here as it'll still be quite harsh) light and a less flatter looking exposure. And of course the master mode is very useful (again preference specific), so I'm assuming you're looking to have another flash in the future or have one already. In which case if it's your first flash you may as well get the 430, and then buy a 550 down the line for master/slave fun times.

Ads

 

[Andy]

Do you mean the 580ex? The 580ex is newer, more powerful and has faster recycling times than the 550ex and its around the same price as the 430ex ii.

 

[Greywolf]

If you can afford it get the 580EX II. It depends on what sort of photography you do but in my experience it's worth having the extra power to get the shot rather than miss it.

If you you've got more power than you need, you don't have to use it. If you've got less power than you need...you're stiffed!

 

[LongLensPhotography]

If you want to do all the fancy multi-flash game, then you need at least 550ex. However 580 mk1 is only marginally more expensive, but much easier to use. 430 is fine if you won't trigger wirelessly other units, and don't need too much power.

 

[seriousrikk]

I have in the house right now my 550EX and a 430EX on loan.

I still prefer the older 550 - in the same lighting situations shot to shot feels quicker and noise wise there is nothing between the two on charging. I am currently looking to buy a second flash gun and tbh the 550 will be my choice.

 

[scottduffy]

Thanks guys,

I did mean the 550 ex to begin with as i was just about to purchase one on av forums but i managed to strike a deal on a 580 ex on here last night. Thanks for the replies and if anyone has any experience of using a 580 ex mk1 and a 430 ex mk2 could they tell me which they prefer?