Need advice on Canon speedlight 420EX

[chouglez]

Hi All,

A buddy of mine is selling his around 18 months old (sparingly used) Canon speedlight 420EX as he wants to move to 580EX. He quoted a price of 100 quids. I was wondering if anyone of you guys have owned this model or are unhappy/happy with it or shall I take the dip and go for the 580EX?

Any advice is highly appreciated.

Regards,
Chouglez

 

[Jonnyreb]

You dont mention the 430EX which you can pick up new for £160 - £180 now, making it very attractive.

Personally, I'd consider the 420 as part of a multi flash set up, but probably not as my sole device given the cost, availability, recycle times and extra reach of the 430.

Can't see the need for a 580 in my kit bag, but I'm sure some owners on here can point out the error of my ways?

 

[chouglez]

Thanks Jon for your advice. Haven't owned a flash unit B4 so have no idea hence asking for advice. :shake: :shake: :shake:

 

[dazzajl]

Hi there,

The 420 is a perfectly good little flash. If you don't need more power then there is only one real drawback. The newer models use a different wireless system for linking a master and slave units. If you're likely to be using multiple units in the future, then you'll need to find yourself used items. Which aren't always available when you need them.

 

[EOS_JD]

You can buy a Sigma EF500 DG Super for around that price. More akin to a 550EX. It has more power than the 420EX, and is much more controlable. Many more features too - like manual control, high speed mode (very handy) strobe mode (interesting effects), wouks as a master/slave for wirelessly tripping another strobe and it's ETTL II as well.

420 is ok but there are better flash guns about.

 

[chouglez]

Thanks Eos_JD for your sigma tip. Appreciate it.