Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash with Guide Number 141 Feet / 43m at ISO 100 - Refurbished

2015-04-30T20:00:00

Just purchased Canon 430 EX flash. Did some initial tests and found it perfect for my needs. It's compact and light and throws enough light to light a room at an ISC 400.

Abbey

Originally posted at

2014-12-05T19:00:00

Bought the flash about a month ago. So far has been very positive as a general flash. Lacks certain features, cannot be used as a master flash, only as a slave, no PC socket, makes it more difficult to use off camera, without additional accessories, and No support for HV external battery packs. Does have some good manual features such as power ratios, although would have preferred to have ½ settings instead of ? setting, exposure compensation (+- 2 stops. Auto settings get good results and custom setting on flash are good. Unit is quiet, recycles fairly fast with rechargeable batteries and easy to use once you learn how to use. Since I am not using this flash for professional reasons, the few features it lacks, was not important enough for me to buy the more expensive 600ex. For what I use it for, it meets my needs.

Stevo

Originally posted at

2014-10-10T20:00:00

This is a wonderful all around flash. I carry this flash around with me all the time as it works great in most situations where I suddenly find myself needing the help of a flash. For the price point, it's the flash I have for general use.

Aliya

Originally posted at

2014-01-22T19:00:00

I have used the 430 EX for a few years now, and have never found myself in a situation where I would need the much more expensive 580 or 600. I only use this indoors when shooting portraits, and even with my 135mm, I get plenty of light from this flash. The recycle rate works just fine, and this unit really stretches battery life. If you cannot justify spending the extra money for the larger flash, then don't. It is likely this will cover most of your wants and needs. In addition, the size makes for stuffing it in your day bag much easier and practical.

AlexOK

Originally posted at

2013-11-04T19:00:00

Bought this as my first flash unit, not knowing a lot about flashes but knowing I probably wouldn't be happy with a generic off-brand unit. For a first go-round, I've been pretty happy with this flash. It does exactly as advertised and while the bigger ones may have more power and more features, I find this one gets everything done that I can reasonably expect. The controls, like most Canon controls, take a little time to learn. Once there though, it's pretty literal. Pretty much set it to ETTL and your camera will control it just fine. I've started using it for High School Football games and this is where I immediately found it's shortcomings... The unit just doesn't have quite enough power to be used at the distances I'm pushing it to. It also uses battery power at an exorbitant rate when pushed to it's maximum. I also found that it does not have provisions to use an external power supply which I find to be very disappointing. I'm forced to use batteries the entire time... Another piece I find missing for the heavier use is the ability to run a sync cord. All functions must be done either through the hot shoe or wirelessly. If I want to move the flash off camera, even incrementally, it must be done wirelessly. While the average person taking photos likely would not worry so much about what I cite as shortcomings, I wish I would have known ahead of time. Understandably, there is no list of what it doesn't have or do - one must compare and contrast ad nauseum in order to discover it all. Again, over-all this is a great little flash. I've just worked into heavier needs and this one is going to demote to a slave function...

Curt

Originally posted at

2013-04-01T21:00:00

product seems ok, documentation could be better

tee

2012-11-13T19:00:00

I discovered years ago that in order to improve my pictures, artificial lighting was essential, Most shots do not turn out as you envision them without the proper lighting. You can achieve excellent lighting in a studio atmosphere but when taking shots on the fly indoors/outdoors the natural light in a scene doesn't always cut it. The 430 EX II is easy to use for a beginner and has the features someone with more experience would like. It has great bounce capabilities at shorter ranges and it is quiet. It doesn't flash multiple times like some units to set the exposure. I find those types extremely annoying. And if you ever want to upgrade your lighting system or use it in a studio it makes a great slave unit. Nice unit for the price.

Still F.

Originally posted at

2012-09-08T20:00:00

This is way past simple in ETTL mode. Makes pictures perfect at even 1/30 sec at ISO 200 hand held to freeze action of water droplets. Rapid fire keeps up also. Have not tried other features yet but WOW.

Slowpoke

Originally posted at

2012-06-16T20:00:00

With my new 5D Mark III, I still have to go to ASA 800 or above to get acceptable bounce flash result in the 10 to 15 foot distance range. Controls are overly complex and except in direct flash with no defuser this flash is simply under powered. I will exchange for a more powerful flash from either Cannon or third party equipment.

WhiteFang

Originally posted at

2012-06-04T20:00:00

I looked at several flash units before making my purchase. I got the T3i 3 months ago, and was looking for an external flash for pictures at night. I looked at the smaller units but wanted more range. I'm not a professional photographer, just a person who takes lots of pictures of my family and friends. This flash has good range, can be used as a slave and adds life to pictures. It was so easy to set up off the camera in remote fashion. I learned to use the remote funtion from the manual and it was really easy .. especially since it was the first time I've ever used more than one flash at once .. I can now zoom, it has a built in light diffuser, it turns to bounce light and will get you good pictures. For a starter like me, you can't go wrong. It's pricey, but I would recommend this flash.

bigron452

Originally posted at

2011-11-30T19:00:00

I use a Canon EOS 60D, I'm an enthusiast and part time wedding photographer. This is a decent flash at it's price. It also makes a really good slave flash, when I use the 580 EX II as my master. But, if you need a strong flash and a big softbox to fill, this flash dissapoints me. The power is not enough for a 80x80 softbox, around 5-10 metres away from the subject. I recommend the 580 EX II if you just want one flash to take with you. Otherwise, this flash is just good for a slave flash. I regret not getting two 580 EX IIs after getting this flash. But for an enthusiast and my budget, this flash is good enough for travelling (lightweight and simple portraiture. This is not at all recommended for studio photography, as it's too weak. Other than the weather sealing, bad buttons( i love the dial on the 580 EX II ) and the weak power, I have nothing to complain about.

lee

Originally posted at

2011-11-27T19:00:00

I was getting ready to give a very special party for a dear friend of mine which would be inside. I have the Canon EOS 60 d with the built-flash. After reading everything I could get my hands on along with talking to some 'real photographers', I knew I wanted this flash. While I am very new to all things Canon, I have to say I am very impressed with the pix I took recently with this flash. I can't believe the clear, clean and perfect pix it takes without washing my subject out. I take this flash wherever I go, just in case a photo opt comes along. I am very new to the Canon products, I am now a big fan. I love every pix I take. Years of taking pixs, oh how I wish I had had a "real" camera and the right equipment, well I have it now and I would never go back to the old point and shoot. You will not be sorry you purchased this flash!

Camera C.

Originally posted at

2011-10-03T20:00:00

I consider myself a "natural light" photographer. I have always avoided flash photography because most of my photos turn out too bright with an unnatural look and feel to them. One of my friends has hired me to shoot her son's birthday party which will be in the evening in November. In Colorado, this translates to an indoor party. I was horrified, but accepted the job even though I knew I would have to swallow my pride and begin exploring flash photography. I attached the flash to my 7D and started shooting. The results are unbelievable! My photos turned out beautiful and I am now a flash convert! I am so excited to explore the 430EX II and I can tell you right now, I am going to have so much fun with this flash. I HIGHLY recommend it to anyone in the market for a high quality, sturdy and versatile flash.

Michele

Originally posted at

2011-09-14T20:00:00

This flash performs extremely well, recycles fast and lasts for hundreds of shots on good rechargeable batteries (those nice white ones). E-TTL works very well and usually exposes adequately, though I often have to compensate +1 or +2 when using bounce in larger spaces. I'm sure others have commented on the wide diffuser, which works nicely. Make sure you READ THE MANUAL, because there are features you will miss otherwise. The only obvious flaw on this flash is the center "Set" button, which is not so user-friendly because it is too recessed and hard to press if you have large hands. I often have to use a fingernail to get it to work. An easy solution would be to just make it bigger. One features they should have added, given its price tag, is a BATTERY INDICATOR.

Greengecko

Originally posted at

2011-07-16T21:00:00

[...] I've only recently received it and am now reading the manual. Even though it is refurbished it seems brand new and I look forward to using it.

JOANNE D.

2011-07-09T21:00:00

This flash perfectly suited my needs at the time I ordered it. I use this flash for portraits, fill on sunny days, and to even out odd, poor quality lighting indoors on location. Yes, the 580 has more features, and I look forward to getting one later and using them in tandem. I love how I just attached it to my camera and got passable results immediately using raw. I'm also very impressed by how solid it feels, having a good weight while not being unnecessarily heavy. I would recommend this item to someone who just needs a little more versatility in their gear, wants to improve their photos, and would like to get more use out of their camera.

EMILY K.

2011-06-15T20:00:00

Great flash. Very easy to use and pictures come out great.

Mom t.

Originally posted at

2011-06-12T21:00:00

A GREAT flash with a GREAT value.

C R.

2011-04-30T21:00:00

Just perfect when I need a small(ish) flash.Very consistent output,a great allround unit.

JOHN O.

2011-04-18T21:00:00

I own three other brand flash unit's and nonehave the ease of use of the 430ex, very dependablehave not had any problems whatso-ever with thisrefurbished unit.Was a great buy through Adoramawould recommend this flash unit for any one whorequire's a quality- dependable unit.

JAMES H.

2011-04-10T21:00:00

I was shopping for a reliable, powerful compatible flash for my Canon Eos 1ds Mark II, but didn't wanna break the bank. I'm taking a lot of photojournalistic shots, so I'm really not relying on the flash too heavily. But when I need one, I wanted something that would utilize the ETTL and also have the flexibility for more advanced lighting techniques. This flash filled all my needs.

Lauren F.

2011-03-28T20:00:00

very nice speedlite, no complain. but this speedlite can upgrade to weather sealing like the 580 ex ii. it is very good as a slave flash too.

JIN

Originally posted at

2011-03-26T21:00:00

the ability to bounce the flash has improved my shots.

Shir

2011-03-20T20:00:00

Just bought this a couple of weeks ago and love it. Did quite a bit of research and ended up with this one and glad I did. Love the rotating head which offers tons of flexibility and the ability to capture shots with very soft light/exposure. Also happy with the ability to adjust the flash output based on needs. Fires very quietly and recharges quickly so you can still burst of you need to. Had read that it was too feature laden and it is but if you read the manual, you can learn how to operate it. Only beef would be the fact that it's a little heavy; may need a monopod/tripod for longer shoots. Buy a diffuser at the same time; you'll need it. Great first flash!

Big J.

Originally posted at

2011-03-19T21:00:00

[...] It is a very high quality and versatile flash. I added this to my 580ex and have been very happy with the photos I can take now. Endless possibilities.

JENNIFER H.

2011-03-10T19:00:00

Bought mine from Penn Camera in VA for my Canon G7. Liked the output and communication for exposure with my G. Did test shots in the store and that was the deal clincher. Does a great job but almost is too tall and heavy to use on a G series camera. So I use a 3rd party hot-shoe to flash cable and a great Manfrotto L-bracket for "my rig". Am looking to buy a used G10 or new G12 - I'll be able to use this tool with that camera, too!

MikeBinDG

Originally posted at

2011-03-03T19:00:00

Very happy with my flash. It is easy to use and works flawlessly with my Canon XTi.

Preacher

Originally posted at

2011-02-02T19:00:00

Want portable lighting that doesn't cause your subject to look washed out? Then start off here. The fact you will be able to rotate the head will be a major improvement over any P&S flash you may have used. It also recycles quick so if you set your camera to continuous fire, the flash will keep up. Fiddling around with ETTL and Manual Modes will also help you grasp lighting and how you can use it to help your images and enhance other lighting, especially if indoors. It is strong, however, so your subjects will have shiny spots of light mostly in the forehead and nose. You may want to use the rotatable head or put the power down when using it or buy a diffuser. Although the light source is bigger, it is not a giant softbox so don't expect everything to be right the first time. Experiment like mad.

RDRA

Originally posted at

2011-01-29T19:00:00

Have had this flash for few months now. It takes great pictures they come out wonderful when it works. I am unsure as to why, but there is a bad connection with the canon camera. Even when the flash is fully charged and ready it will not always flash. Ive read other reviews and talked to others with the same results. I also found the recycling time really slow nothing like asking everyone to wait while it charges after one picture with new batteries. Otherwise when it works the pictures come out great.

Roro

Originally posted at

2010-11-28T19:00:00

For an $100 difference, it's so worth getting the 550. If it weren't for one particular problem (which I explain below), I'd say just get the 430 (unless you need to be in massive rooms and need the full power of the 550). Anyway, because of the problem, I absolutely recommend getting the 550. The entire purpose of having an external flash is to have the control to bounce it diagonally backwards at the white walls and ceilings so that you get a diffused light coming from that desired diagonal angle. But the 430 doesn't go backwards to the right, it only goes backwards to the left! You have to either rotate it straight back or to the right. Neither of which are useful for creating that desired modeling along the face. Straight back gives you head-on lighting and to the right doesn't really reach the subject if you're not right up against it. And if it does reach the subject, then you're getting very intense side-lighting, which is a very specific effect that shouldn't be the only option. In addition to the backwards to the right problem, there's more about the rotation problem--there are not many options as to where to point it, just a few, and that feels so limiting when trying to shoot an event and bounce the flash at the correct spot--whereas the 550 has many nuanced options. I regret not getting the 550.

Madeline

Originally posted at