Best External Flash for Canon SL1 2023 – The Ultimate Guide Review

Professional Photography has its biggest challenge in lighting. If you own a Canon SL1, getting the best flashlight can be the most effective when looking for a perfect exposure. Rooting for one flashing unit as the best for canon is not easy because of the many brands that we see in the market today.

Check what we have on this table as a list of some of the best external flash for Canon SL1. Use the details to understand each flash unit and how appropriate your choice will give satisfaction.

External Flash for Canon SL1 – Comparison

1. Opteka IF-980 Dedicated Flash

Opteka Dedicated Flash can provide a flashlight to canon DSLR or point and shoot cameras. It has an adjustable tilt head that sits in six different positions at 90 degrees. The downward tilt works best when doing a close-up shoot. When in auto mode the zoom lens will match the exact focal length to give maximum lighting. You can also use the flash to shoot at reduced shutter speeds using rear curtain synchronization.

Pros

• Supports multi-positioning
• Supports multi-zoom
• Supports low light auto focus

Cons

• Manual does not contain all instructions

2. Canon Speedlite 430EX Flash

A compact yet powerful flash unit with enough power to give the best results. This unit takes you to the next stage of lighting because of its versatility and portability. Uses radio frequency trigger making it easy to manage without the camera and open new avenues to creativity. When working in a small room with minimal lighting, this flash will make your editing work easy.

Pros

• Compact and allows for portability
• Use remote flash to create the look you want
• Shoot excellent portraits with bouncing light
• Compatible with other speed lights

Cons

• No external battery pack
• Flashing head is limited in movement
• No weather sealing

3. Altura Photo Flash Kit

Altura Photo Flash Kit is a highly professional tool for every camera operator because of the powerful manual flash that is suitable for photographers at all levels. The flash promises high performance at affordable cost. The device has a universal compatibility feature that works with digital cameras with the standard horseshoe connection. The power source depends on four lithium, Alkaline, or Ni-HM. You can even attach an external power source of power.

Pros

• All the components provided offer the best value
• Universal compatibility with horse shoe connection cameras
• High performance
• 90-day satisfaction guarantee

Cons

• Flash does not work in TTL mode
• Flash does not support rear curtain or high-speed synchronization

Also read: Best CF Card for Canon 5D Mark III: 6 Top CF Cards For Footage & Photos & 10 Best Lenses for GH4 For Shooting Videos and Photos

4. Voking VK430

Voking is compatible with all Canon digital cameras that have a standard hot shoe. Using the camera is easy because of its LCD and user-friendly settings. Flash settings can be set up using the LCD screen to control power automatically by getting into sleep mode if no one is using it.

Pros

• Overheat protection
• Automatically detects flashlight temperature
• Easy to operate making it friendly for beginners
• LCD screen enables precise controls
• Supports MULTI flash mode

Cons

• Some units stop working without notice

5. PLR Studio Series

The best way to get out of uneven and weak illuminations from the built-in flash, you need to try the PLR studio series. This flashing unit design is a fit for popular cameras such as Nikon, Sony, and Canon because of the integration of seamless operation of these cameras and the flash system. The flash accommodates cameras that use auto or manual settings. The bounce feature has been synchronized to match the camera’s zooms lens. This series has variable output settings.

Pros

• Automatic synchronization with cameras at home
• Compact design and can be placed behind the subject to eliminate shadows.
• Variable power settings allow for manipulation of the light output
• Has a pre-flash sensor to eliminate accidental triggers
• Multiple camera mounting positions

Cons

• Flash too bright
• Creates image distortion

6. Flashpoint Zoom TTL

Flashpoint Zoom is popular among photography students and experts who want to achieve specific results. The product may not be as powerful as its nearest competitors may, but for its price, you will get its worth. It uses durable, and long lasting Li-ion batteries, which is ideal for professionals working extends hours or when covering long events such as marriage. Conferences and other ceremonies.

Pros

• Has a mini stand and protective case
• Has a flashpoint 1 year warranty
• Extremely powerful flash
• Compatible with Canon system features

Cons

• Poor body construction
• Instruction manual not comprehensive

Buyers Guide: External Flash for Canon SL1

As Canon expanded its digital camera family more and a variety of flashes are in the market. You should not be running out of ideas after reading this review. The technical aspects are no longer there and we can make it even more interesting by highlighting some important decisions that you have to make.

The Brand

Apart from what your supplier is offering, you can take your time in the market identify what works for you; test it before making the purchase.

Longevity and Flash Life

The lights are coming out of bulbs within the flash and like any other electronic; they have a limit as to how long they can stay active. Look for ones that you can use and takes time before replacing them.

Flexibility

When looking for the best external flash for Canon SL1, determine how flexible the flash is in terms of placement on scene. Can it tilt in every direction or up and down?

Automated or Manual Timer

You can control the manual flash as you wish and it depends on how the light scenery looks like. The automated version calculates what the camera detects and determines the optimal amount of light you need.

Conclusion

We hope you can create your own light environment in line with your Canon SL1. The Opteka IF-980 Dedicated Flash seems to be the best in this list when it comes to shooting close ups and point to shoot scenes.