Best Detachable Camera Flashes for Perfect Photos Every Time: Our Top 26 Picks

Get ready to enhance your photography experience with detachable camera flashes that offer versatility and brilliance. In this roundup, we have compiled a selection of the best detachable camera flashes on the market, catering to your photography needs and budget.

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Reviews

Yongnuo YN690EX-RT GN60 TTL HSS Flash for Canon Cameras

The Yongnuo YN690EX-RT is a powerful, detachable flash designed for Canon cameras. With a guide number of 60, this flash provides excellent exposure control for your shots. Featuring a lithium-ion battery for efficient power, it comes with a variety of features tailored for professional use, including a bounce head with a wide range of angles. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking high-quality, Canon-compatible flash performance.

Canon DSLR Compatible Meike MK430 E-TTL Speedlite

The Meike MK430 E-TTL Speedlite is a versatile flash for Canon DSLR cameras, making it the perfect companion for photographers. Offering a range of features such as TTL, M, MULTI, S1/S2 modes, and high speed continuous shooting, this flash ensures sharp and well-lit images every time. With a guide number of 42 (ISO 100, 105mm) and various settings for power, manual zoom, and automatic zoom, this flash is truly customizable to fit your shooting needs. Powered by 4 AA batteries and including a maximum flash control of 1/128 to 1/1,220, this flash will illuminate your shots with ease, whether you’re indoors or outdoors.

Godox TT520II Wireless Camera Flash with RT Transmitter and 433MHz Wireless Connectivity

Unleash your creative potential with the versatile Godox TT520II Camera Flash Speedlite. With 433MHz wireless transmission and RT transmitter, this speedlite effortlessly integrates with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, and Pentax cameras for stunning results. Boasting 1/300s-1/20000s flash duration, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear, vivid images. Enjoy three flash modes and an adjustable 8-step flash output for complete customization. This feature-packed speedlite ensures power-saving, overheating protection, and convenient external charging, all while delivering a built-in reflection board, wide panel diffuser, and more for professional-quality illumination.

Flashpoint FlashBack Senior Detachable Camera Flash - Black

Relive photographic history with the Flashpoint FlashBack Senior On-Camera Flash, a modern twist on the 1972 classic. Designed to give your miniature camera a powerful punch of light, this compact hot shoe-mounted flash is the perfect addition to your nostalgic setup. Featuring an impressive guide number of 46’ (14m) at ISO 100, it’s versatile and compatible with various camera brands, providing accurate and rich exposure. Don’t let its small size fool you – the Flashpoint FlashBack Senior is a powerful and reliable companion for your photography adventures.

Insignia NS-DXFL2C Detachable Hot-Shoe Camera Flash

Illuminate your Canon DSLR camera with the Insignia NS-DXFL2C external flash, designed for seamless compatibility and easy usage. This hot-shoe clip-on flash boasts an automatic E-TTL mode for worry-free operation and features horizontal and vertical head-angle adjustments for customized performance. With a built-in bounce card and wide-angle lens, you can achieve optimal light diffusion and catchlight, while the focus-assist light ensures rapid focusing in dark areas.

Professional Macro Twin Lite Detachable Wireless Flash for Close-Up Photography

The Canon Macro Twin Lite MT-26EX-RT Flash showcases a remarkable level of adaptability and exceptional quality, making it an ideal choice for macro photography enthusiasts. Equipped to capture intricate details of subjects like flowers, insects, and food, this flash boasts detachable and rotatable heads that provide users with unparalleled control over lighting. Its compatibility with all EOS Digital SLR cameras makes it a versatile solution for photographers aiming to achieve professional-grade results in their macro photography endeavors. Featuring a streamlined design and thoughtfully redesigned controls, the MT-26EX-RT Flash emerges as a must-have for dedicated shutterbugs.

Godox TT350S Detachable Camera Flash for Sony Mirrorless Cameras

Experience the ultimate photography companion with the Godox TT350S TTL flash. Its compact size and smart wireless transmission capabilities make it perfect for capturing stunning shots with ease. Equipped with powerful features such as HSS, manual flash, and advanced zone control, you’ll master professional-quality lighting with this versatile device. Compatible with Sony mirrorless cameras, this detachable camera flash is ready to take your photography to the next level.

Godox TT560II Universal On Camera Flash for DSLRs

The Godox TT560II Universal on-camera flash is a versatile and powerful option for capturing stunning images. With wireless transmission and an RT transmitter, you can enjoy stable and reliable communication between your camera and the flash, without the constraints of wired triggering. The flash boasts a GN38 output for ample light, while the adjustable 16 channels ensure clear communication. This camera flash is compatible with a wide range of popular DSLR brands, making it a great choice for photographers of all levels. With its 5600K color temperature and 433MHz wireless frequency, you can trust this flash for exceptional performance in any shooting scenario.

Godox TT600 Wireless Flash for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, and Fujifilm Cameras

The Godox Thinklite TT600 is a versatile wireless flash designed for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly option. This speedlite, compatible with a wide range of cameras, features wireless X-system technology and a 2.4G wireless transmission for seamless functionality. With an impressive guide number of 60 and a short flash duration of 1/300s, you can capture high-quality shots even in challenging lighting conditions. Additionally, the built-in trigger system allows for manual output control when coupled with the X1 TTL Wireless Flash Trigger (sold separately). The TT600 comes with a protective bag, a mini stand, and a user manual for easy setup. Despite its affordable price, it offers superior performance and a satisfying user experience, making it a fantastic choice for photographers of all levels.

Godox TT600 2.4G Wireless Flash Speedlite MasterSlave Flash with Built-In Trigger System for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, and Fujifilm

Experience reliable, high-quality photography with the Godox TT600 2.4g Wireless Flash. This versatile speedlite is designed for seamless compatibility with Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, and Fujifilm cameras, ensuring you always capture the perfect shot. With a detachable design and easy-to-use manual features, this speedlite is the perfect addition to your photography kit.

Flashpoint Zoom Li-on III R2 TTL Detachable Camera Flash for Sony

The Flashpoint Zoom Li-on III R2 TTL Speedlight Flash for Sony cameras is a must-have for photographers. With a 7.2V/2600mAh Lithium-Ion battery and a USB battery charger module, you’ll never run out of power. The mini-cold shoe stand and protective case add a professional touch to your shoot. With its Quick Switch feature, flash spread, and 2W modeling lamp, this speedlight delivers stunning results every time. Compatible with the Sony system, this flash is perfect for pro or amateur photographers and provides wireless control with the R2 Family.

Panasonic Lumix DMW-FL580L Wireless External Flash

The Panasonic DMW-FL580L External Flash is a versatile and powerful accessory for capturing comfortable shooting conditions. This external flash features fast charging time, wireless control, and an LED video light function. With a powerful guide number of 190 ft. at ISO 100, it is designed to work with Micro Four Thirds lenses and has a recycle time of 1.7 seconds in full power. The LED offers good illumination of 100 lux at 3.3 ft. and can rotate 180 degrees for bouncing the flash. With wireless control for 4 channels and 3 groups, this flash greatly increases shooting possibilities. The flash head is powered by 4 AA Ni-MH or alkaline batteries and features automatic and manual wireless slave functionality along with RC and Multi modes.

Godox V1 Wireless Flash for Canon with Detachable Camera

The Godox V1 Flash is a powerful and versatile lighting solution designed specifically for Canon cameras. Featuring a robust 2600mAh lithium-ion battery, this flash provides an impressive 480 full-power shots on a single charge, ensuring you never miss a moment. With its distinct circular head, the V1 delivers soft, even light with a gradual fall off, all while accommodating magnetic accessories for quick and easy light modifier attachment.

Zeikos Canon Flash: 680EX Electronic Detachable Camera Flash with Auto Zoom

The Zeikos 680EX Electronic flash offers a seamless addition to your Canon camera setup as a reliable alternative to the brand’s standard flash. With support for all TTL & E-TTL cameras, this versatile piece of equipment features 7 levels of power ratio and a bounce & swivel head for optimal angle adjustment. Enjoy the convenience of automatic or manual zoom functionality that mimics your lens’s movements, while checking out the digital LCD display on the back. The Zeikos flash boasts a guide number of 185 at ISO 100 and comes with a soft case for hassle-free storage.

Sony HVL-F28RM Compact Detachable Camera Flash

The Sony Flash HVL-F28RM is a small, yet powerful and versatile add-on for your camera, offering an impressive GN28 despite its compact size. Equipped with a radio wave wireless communication function that achieves a remarkable transmission distance of up to 35 meters, it allows for seamless operation from the camera, while also featuring luminous control in conjunction with face detection of the camera body. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the flash is crafted to endure the elements, boasting a dust-proof and splashproof design.

Godox Thinklite Attachable Camera Flash with 433Mhz Wireless Signal

The Godox Thinklite Camera Flash TT520II delivers a versatile and easy-to-use experience for photographers. With three flash modes and a wide range of output options, this flash is compatible with multiple cameras and allows for crisp, clear images. The bounce flash feature adds a soft touch to the shots, and the built-in receiver ensures seamless wireless communication. Suitable for Canon, Nikon, Olympus, and Pentax DSLR cameras, this detachable flash is a must-have accessory in your photography kit.

Compact Detachable Flash for Sony Cyber-shot Cameras

Say goodbye to dark and lackluster photos taken with your Sony Cyber-shot, thanks to this clever, detachable flash. Designed to seamlessly sync with your camera’s internal flash, there’s no need to fumble with cumbersome cables or complex controls. This pocket-sized powerhouse even makes sense of pre-flash, ensuring your shots consistently pop with vivid detail.

Elinchrom Detachable Off-Camera Flash Dual Kit

Meet Elinchrom’s THREE, your reliable off-camera flash solution. With 261 Watts per second and an impressive 5.3 on the Elinchrom scale, you’ll capture stunning images with vibrant illumination. The 1/255s flash duration offers crisp action shots, while the 8mm dimensions ensure portability and versatility.

Canon MR-14EX TTL Macro Ring Lite Flash - Detachable Camera Flash for Precise Lighting

Upgrade your macro photography game with the Canon MR-14EX TTL Macro Ring Lite Flash. This powerful tool offers a twin-tube ring light designed specifically for close-ups, featuring E-TTL Wireless Autoflash for seamless flash performance. The flash tubes can fire together or individually, giving you control over your lighting effects. With an illuminated LCD panel, this Ring Lite makes it simple to adjust settings in any lighting condition. A great investment for any photography enthusiast, this flash delivers stunning results and versatile options.

Godox MF-R76S TTL Macro Detachable Camera Flash

Experience a new level of macro photography with the Godox MF-R76C TTL Macro Ring Flash. This versatile device allows you to capture intricate details with soft, even lighting, making it a game-changer for your close-up shots. With an impressive guide number of 45.9’ at ISO 100 and a twin-tube design, you can easily control the contrast ratio for added depth. The MF-R76C also features TTL and manual modes, HSS, first and second sync capabilities, and two focus lamps with 10 adjustable power levels. For extended use, it comes with a rechargeable lithium battery and convenient accessories like adapter rings, a charger, and a USB-C cable. Embrace the power of creativity with the Godox MF-R76C TTL Macro Ring Flash.

PLOTURE Detachable DSLR Camera Flash for Canon and Nikon

Experience top-notch photography with the PLOTURE Flash Light, designed specifically for close-distance shooting in scientific research, macro-shot photography, and personal hobbies. Featuring an LCD display and 8 mounting rings, this LED ring flash is compatible with a variety of DSLR cameras, including Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, and Panasonic. Its adjustable color filters and shooting modes allow you to enhance your shots and adapt to different lighting styles.

Godox MF-R76 Professional Macro Ring Flash for Detailed Photography

The Godox MF-R76 Macro Ring Flash brings a new level of detail and precision to your macro photography. This professional-grade ring flash has a powerful A/B flash tube setup that allows you to control brightness independently for different scenes. With precise power settings from 1/1 to 1/128 in 1/3 EV increments, you can achieve the perfect lighting for your subjects. Plus, its built-in focusing aids make capturing sharp images in dim light a breeze. The long-lasting lithium battery ensures you’re ready for action whenever inspiration strikes, and it’s compatible with a variety of lens sizes. Discover the world of tiny wonders with the Godox MF-R76 Macro Ring Flash.

Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite for Multiple DSLR Cameras

The Neewer TT560 Flash Speedlite is perfect for photographers using Canon, Nikon, Olympus, and other DSLR cameras. This versatile flash offers a variety of features, like a rotating angle of up to 90 degrees, 12 different color filters, and an IR wireless remote control for easy operation. With its compact design and a solid build, it’s ideal for beginners and professionals alike.

Yongnuo YN968EX-RT TTL LED USB Flash for Canon 5D4

The Yongnuo YN968EX-RT flash is a TTL high-speed synchronization flash perfect for capturing life’s fleeting moments. With built-in 2.4G/optical transmission and compatibility with various radio and optical flashing modes, it offers wireless flash creation fun. Designed for a wide range of photography needs, this flash will help you capture outstanding light effects in your photos.

Canon E-TTL Power Zoom Flash with Adjustable Settings

The Bower Canon E-TTL Power Zoom Flash offers photographers an impressive range of manual and auto controls for optimal lighting. With a guide number of 38 at ISO 100 for 85mm zoom-head setting, this flash is capable of bright and clear photos from a distance or indoors. Its 9-second recycle time ensures you don’t miss capturing your shot. The 270-degree swivel and adjustable tilt allow you to position the flash for just the right light. Plus, the built-in slave mode and red-eye reduction ensure fantastic-looking photos, and the multiple curtain sync modes provide the best possible image with any object in motion. It also supports 12 x batteries for extra power in any situation.

Nikon-Compatible Yao-Tek Optical Pulse Dedicated Auto-Focus Speedlight Flash with LCD Display

The Opteka IF-980 is an affordable and versatile i-TTL Dedicated Auto-Focus Speedlight Flash with LCD Display designed for Nikon cameras. With a guide number of 278’ at ISO 100, this flash supports rear curtain synchronization for shooting at slower shutter speeds, as well as auto focus assist for low-light photography. It also features a convenient HV port for connecting the flash to an external power source for extended usage and faster recycling times. The adjustable tilt head comes with six positions: -7 to 90°, allowing you to fully illuminate your subject when shooting close-up or extend the flash coverage to 18-180mm with the diffuser panel in place. Powered by four AA batteries (not included), the IF-980 offers a flash duration between 1/800 and 1/20,000 of a second.

Buyer’s Guide

A detachable camera flash is an essential tool for photographers, providing additional lighting to capture stunning images in various environments. In this buyer’s guide, we will discuss the important features, considerations, and general advice for selecting the perfect detachable camera flash for your photography needs.

Types of Detachable Camera Flashes

Detachable camera flashes come in various types, each designed to meet different photography requirements. Some of the most common types include:

1. Speedlights, 2. Strobe lights, 3. LED flashes, 4. Monolights, and 5. Continuous lighting. Consider your specific photography style and the settings in which you’ll be using the flash to choose the most suitable option.

Important Features to Consider

When purchasing a detachable camera flash, the following features should be taken into account:

1. Power source, such as battery-operated or rechargeable, 2. Guide Number, which measures the total amount of light produced, 3. Recycling time, the time it takes for the flash to recharge, 4. Manual or automatic settings, 5. Wireless capability for off-camera flash triggering, and 6. Swivel and tilt options for flexible positioning.

Considerations for Using a Detachable Camera Flash

To make the most of your detachable camera flash, consider the following points:

1. Master manual control for precise lighting adjustments, 2. Learn to use fill flash correctly to prevent overexposed images, 3. Experiment with bounce flash to soften and diffuse light, 4. Invest in a diffuser or reflector to further control the flash’s output, and 5. Continuously practice and test your setup in different scenarios and lighting conditions.

General Advice for Purchasing a Detachable Camera Flash

Here are some general tips for buying a detachable camera flash:

1. Don’t base your decision solely on price, focus on quality and features that match your needs, 2. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from fellow photographers, 3. Consider compatibility with your camera model, 4. Research the manufacturer’s warranty and customer support options, and 5. Always try before you buy, if possible, to ensure the product meets your expectations.

FAQ

What is a detachable camera flash?

A detachable camera flash is an external flash unit that can be separated from the camera and mounted onto the hot shoe or used wirelessly, if it is compatible. It helps enhance the lighting in different shooting scenarios, improves low-light or dark images, and is versatile in terms of the settings and creative controls it offers.

Detachable camera flashes are commonly used by photography enthusiasts and professionals, as they provide additional light and creative control to improve the overall image quality in various photography situations, including portraits, landscapes, and events. They are available in various models, each with its own features, power capabilities, and price range.

What are the benefits of using a detachable camera flash?

In terms of performance, a detachable camera flash provides better light coverage and higher power output compared to the built-in flash on cameras. Additionally, they offer more flexibility and creative possibilities in terms of the types of shots you can take, such as controlling the direction, intensity, and duration of the flash. These units are ideal for low-light environments, and they can also help improve colors, reduce red-eye effects, and achieve a more natural-looking flash in outdoor shots.

Detachable camera flashes are versatile, convenient to use, and are compatible with various camera brands and models. They can be attached or mounted directly to the camera, or they can be used wirelessly with dedicated radio triggers. The additional external flash can significantly improve the overall picture quality and is more portable than studio lighting equipment.

How do I choose the right detachable camera flash for my needs?

When choosing a detachable camera flash, consider factors such as the model of your camera, your desired shooting style (portraits, action, landscapes, etc. ), and the specific features you want (multi-directional head, TTL support, wireless compatibility, etc. ). Compare the price, power output, range of settings, and ease of use among different models to find the best fit.

For example, if you are interested in portrait photography, consider a model that provides accurate skin tones and has a built-in bounce or swivel head for soft, flattering lighting. For outdoor event or landscape photography, look for a flash with a high power output and a built-in diffuser to help control harsh light. Finally, for wireless control, make sure the flash is compatible with a dedicated trigger, and that the trigger is compatible with the wireless system used by your camera.

What are some popular brands for detachable camera flashes?

Popular brands for detachable camera flashes include: Nikon, Canon, Off-Brand (e. g. , Neewer, Manfrotto), Sony, and Bowens. Other brands may also offer high-quality options, depending on the specific features, power output, and compatibility requirements you desire. Some of the popular models within these brands are the Nikon SB-700, Canon 600EX, Neewer TT560, Sony HVL-F60M, and Bowens Pulsar 9600-F. However, you should do your research and consider the compatibility with your camera before purchasing any external flash unit.

Additionally, consider the warranty offered by the brand, pricing, customer reviews, and the company’s reputation for customer service and support before making a final decision. Make sure to choose a reputable brand or retailer to ensure the quality and reliability of the detachable camera flash you purchase.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when using a detachable camera flash?

To get the best results from your detachable camera flash, avoid some common mistakes such as: not pointing the flash head towards your subject, keeping the flash on all the time instead of shooting in aperture priority, not considering the distance to your subject, and over-relying on the built-in flash instead of the external unit when needed.

Ensure to direct the flash head towards the subject while shooting to ensure proper lighting. Adjust the distance between you and your subject, as well as the flash power output, according to the specific requirements of the scene. Utilize the built-in power settings or the external unit’s manual controls to achieve the desired lighting balance. Finally, take the time to experiment and learn your camera and flash settings so that you can successfully capture the perfect shot in any lighting scenario.

Do I need to learn any specific settings for using a detachable camera flash?

Yes, using a detachable camera flash involves learning some specific settings to achieve the best results. Familiarize yourself with your camera’s flash settings, such as the exposure compensations and the aperture priority mode, which allow you to set the perfect amount of flash power and light exposure for your image.

For external flashes, become acquainted with your flash model’s power control and the direction of the flash head. Learn to adjust the flash power levels, and experiment with the flash’s bounce or swivel head for more flattering and even lighting. It may also help to study the user manual of the camera and flash systems you are using to fully understand the functions and controls.

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