Godox has become a leading name in photography lighting, offering a vast array of speedlights to cater to photographers of all levels and budgets. Navigating this extensive range can be daunting, especially when you’re trying to figure out which Godox flash is the right fit for your specific needs. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify your decision-making process by providing a detailed comparison of popular Godox speedlight models. Whether you’re a beginner venturing into flash photography or a seasoned professional seeking to upgrade your gear, understanding the nuances of each model will ensure you choose a Godox speedlight that perfectly complements your photographic style and requirements.
1. Godox TT350 & V350: Compact and User-Friendly Speedlites
For photographers seeking a lightweight and portable flash solution, the Godox TT350 and V350 speedlites are excellent starting points. These compact flashes are particularly well-suited for beginners due to their ease of use and comprehensive features.
The primary distinction between these two models lies in their power source. The TT350 utilizes readily available AA batteries, providing flexibility but potentially slower recycle times. In contrast, the V350 is powered by a dedicated lithium-ion rechargeable battery, offering a noticeable advantage in recycle speed and battery life. While the V350 is slightly heavier due to its battery, the faster recycle time, ranging from 0.1 to 1.7 seconds at full power, often outweighs this minor difference, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios. The TT350’s recycle time is a bit slower, ranging from 0.1 to 2.2 seconds at full power.
Both the TT350 and V350 are equipped with essential features including High-Speed Sync (HSS) up to 1/8000s, TTL (Through-The-Lens) অটো exposure, manual mode for full creative control, and multi (stroboscopic) mode for creative effects. They also incorporate a standard Optical Sensor and AF Assist Beams for enhanced functionality. Critically, both are compatible with Godox’s 2.4G X-Wireless Triggering System, allowing for seamless integration into multi-flash setups and remote control.
Being more compact, the TT350 and V350 have a slightly lower power output compared to larger models, indicated by a guide number of 36 (meters at ISO 100). Despite this, they offer ample power for various applications, particularly for on-camera flash, fill flash, and off-camera setups where extreme power isn’t paramount.
These versatile speedlites are available in versions compatible with all major camera brands, ensuring seamless integration with your existing system.
Explore the Godox TT350 Range:
- Godox TT350S for Sony
- Godox TT350O for Olympus and Panasonic
- Godox TT350P for Pentax
- Godox TT350N for Nikon
- Godox TT350C for Canon
- Godox TT350F for Fujifilm
Discover the Godox V350 Range:
- Godox V350C for Canon
- Godox V350F for Fujifilm
- Godox V350N for Nikon
- Godox V350O for Olympus
- Godox V350S for Sony
2. Godox TT600 & TT600S: Powerful Manual Flashes with HSS
Stepping up in the Godox lineup brings us to the TT600 and TT600S, robust, full-sized manual flashes offering High-Speed Sync (HSS) capabilities. These speedlites are ideal for photographers who prefer manual flash control and require higher power output.
A key characteristic of the TT600 series is their manual-only operation; they do not offer TTL functionality. This makes them perfect for users comfortable with manual flash settings or those who primarily shoot in controlled lighting environments. The TT600 is designed as a universal flash, compatible with most camera brands except Sony. The TT600S is specifically tailored for Sony cameras, ensuring hotshoe compatibility. Functionally, both models are identical.
The TT600 and TT600S feature Manual and Multi modes and seamlessly integrate with Godox’s X-Trigger System, enabling remote power control and triggering when used with X-Pro or X1 triggers. They also include a DC input port for Godox Propac external battery packs. While they still require AA batteries to operate, using a Propac significantly reduces recycle times, making them suitable for event and wedding photography where rapid shooting is essential.
- Godox TT600 Universal Flash
- Godox TT600S for Sony
3. Godox TT685 & TT685II: Versatile TTL Speedlites with Enhanced Features
The Godox TT685 and its updated version, the TT685II, represent a significant step up in versatility, offering both TTL and manual capabilities along with a range of advanced features. The TT685 series is popular for its blend of performance and user-friendliness.
The TT685II introduces several notable enhancements. A key addition is TCM Instant Conversion, which allows photographers to quickly switch from TTL to manual mode while retaining the TTL-metered exposure settings. This streamlines workflow and provides a convenient way to fine-tune exposures in manual mode after establishing a base exposure in TTL.
Ergonomically, the TT685II features a Quick-Release Lock mechanism for secure and rapid mounting and dismounting on cameras – a feature absent in the original TT685. While maintaining a similar size, the TT685II is slightly lighter. Both models offer TTL, Manual, and Multi flash modes, HSS up to 1/8000s, and creative control features like Flash Exposure Compensation (FEC), Flash Exposure Bracketing (FEB), and rear-curtain sync.
Explore the TT685 range and the TT685II range.
4. Godox V860II & V860III: Professional TTL Speedlites with Li-ion Power
The Godox V860II and the newer V860III are positioned as professional-grade TTL speedlites, distinguished by their powerful lithium-ion batteries and advanced features. They cater to demanding photographers who require reliable performance and extended shooting times.
The V860III builds upon the V860II with the addition of a modeling light feature. This allows photographers to preview the light direction and effect before taking a shot, which is particularly useful in off-camera flash setups and for portrait photography. The V860III also adopts the same high-capacity VB-26 battery as the Godox V1 series, while the V860II utilizes the VB-18 battery. Both batteries offer significantly longer run times and faster recycle times compared to AA-powered flashes.
Discover the V860II range and the V860III range.
5. Godox V1: Round Head Speedlite for Soft, Natural Light
The Godox V1 series stands out with its distinctive round flash head, departing from the traditional rectangular shape of conventional speedlites. This design is specifically engineered to produce a softer, more natural-looking light pattern, mimicking the characteristics of studio strobes.
The round head of the V1 creates more even and pleasing light falloff, reducing harsh shadows and providing a more flattering light quality, especially for portraiture. Furthermore, the V1 is compatible with a range of magnetic light modifiers from the Godox AK-R1 kit, offering unparalleled versatility in shaping and controlling the light output.
Despite its compact size, the V1 boasts a high guide number of 92 (meters at ISO 100), delivering significant power. It is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, providing approximately 480 full-power shots per charge. Charging is convenient via the included charger or a USB cable. The flash head offers a wide range of tilt and swivel motion for bounce flash techniques. Like other advanced Godox flashes, the V1 is fully compatible with the Godox X wireless system.
Explore the full Godox V1 range.
Godox AK-R1 Kit: Light Modifiers for Creative Control
The Godox AK-R1 Kit is an essential accessory package designed to expand the creative possibilities of Godox V1, AD200, and AD200 Pro flashes. This kit comprises a set of magnetic light modifiers that attach quickly and securely to the round flash head, enabling photographers to shape and direct light with precision.
The AK-R1 kit includes:
- Soft White Diffuser Dome
- Snoot
- Color Gel Kit
- Honeycomb Grid
- Barndoors
- Wide Diffuser
- Bounce Card
- Carry Pouch
These modifiers provide exceptional versatility, allowing you to control spill, create spotlight effects, add color, soften light, and more. The magnetic attachment system ensures rapid and effortless modifier changes on location.
The Godox AK-R1 Kit is a valuable addition for photographers seeking to maximize the creative potential of their compatible Godox flashes.
Godox X2T Triggers: Advanced Wireless Flash Control
The Godox X2T triggers are the updated successors to the popular X1T triggers, providing enhanced wireless control over Godox flashes. These triggers utilize a reliable 2.4GHz wireless radio system to remotely control power, modeling lights, and triggering functions of compatible Godox speedlights and strobes.
Key improvements in the X2T include dedicated group buttons on the top panel for faster group selection and adjustments. Backlit buttons enhance usability in low-light conditions. The control dial has been repositioned to minimize accidental camera interference, and the LCD screen is larger for improved visibility. A new scan setting automatically identifies the clearest wireless channel for optimal signal reliability. Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone app control via the GodoxPhoto app (iOS and Android) add further convenience.
The Godox X2T offers a 100-meter transmission range, 32 channels, 5 groups, and up to 99 wireless ID settings for minimizing interference in environments with multiple photographers. They are compatible with Canon, Nikon, and Sony cameras and can also function as a wireless shutter release.
Explore the Godox X2T range of triggers.
Godox Speedlight Comparison Table
For a quick overview, this comparison table summarizes the key specifications of the Godox speedlight models discussed:
| MODEL | TT350 | V350 | TT600 | TT685 | TT685II | V860II | V860III | V1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GUIDE NUMBER | 36 | 36 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 60 | 92 |
| TTL | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| RECYCLE TIME | 0.1-2.2s | 0.1-1.7s | 0.1-2.6s | 0.1-2.6s | 0.1-2.6s | 0.1-1.5s | 0.1-1.5s | <1.5s |
| BATTERY TYPE | 2 x AA | 1 x Li-ion | 4 x AA | 4 x AA | 4x AA | 1 x Li-ion | 1 x Li-ion | 1 x Li-ion |
| MODELLING LIGHT | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Godox Speedlight
Godox offers an impressive and diverse range of speedlights, ensuring there’s a model to match every photographer’s skill level, shooting style, and budget. From the compact and beginner-friendly TT350 and V350 to the professional-grade V1 and V860III, understanding the strengths and features of each series is crucial for making an informed decision.
Consider your primary shooting needs and priorities. For portability and ease of use, the TT350/V350 are excellent choices. If manual control and power are paramount, the TT600/TT600S are compelling options. For versatile TTL capabilities and advanced features, the TT685II and V860III stand out. And for photographers seeking soft, studio-quality light from a speedlight, the V1 is in a class of its own.
By carefully evaluating your requirements and comparing the features of each Godox speedlight, you can confidently select the perfect flash to elevate your photography.
