Canon Speedlite EL-5

Canon

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Photography

Lighting & Studio

Flashes & On-Camera Lighting

On Camera Flashes

Canon On Camera Flashes

Canon Speedlite EL-5 

Explore the Canon Speedlite EL-5: TTL, fast recycle time (0.1-1.2s), & powerful output. Wireless control & wide coverage. Shop now for perfect on-camera lighting!

The Speedlite EL-5 is a newly designed flash that receives many features from the flagship Speedlite EL-1 while also including modern features all its own. Two popular features found in the EL-5 are the modeling lamp and the use of the high-capacity LP-EL rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. The modeling lamp aids the photographer in seeing the effect of the flash's light emission, including providing an idea of how shadows will fall on a subject.With this battery pack, and firing at full 1/1 manual flash power, the Speedlite EL-5 emits a guide number of 60m/169.9ft @ 200mm (at approx. ISO 100) with the ability to recycle to full power in just 1.2 seconds, and with the potential for up to 350 full power flashes being possible on a single battery charge. To improve working with the Speedlite EL-5 the joystick and select dial from the EL-1 are featured making operation easy, so adjustments can be made quickly, while shooting. Additionally, the new Multi-function connector at the EL-5's "foot" enables advanced communication on multi-function shoe equipped cameras providing more customization and control to be shared between the flash and camera.A Performance Flash for Today's Advanced ImagemakerThe Speedlite EL-5 receives some of the best features of the flagship Speedlite EL-1 flash to improve the agility, and versatility of the working imagemaker, or advanced photographer. With the use of the Canon LP-EL rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, built-in Modeling light (LED), impressive flash output range, and in adopting updated user interface controls, and customization - the Speedlite EL-5 is the ideal tool to elevate your flash photography. High-Speed Charging and Reliable ExposuresThe high-speed charging system of the Speedlite EL-5 is truly impressive and is designed to meet the creative needs of the advanced image maker. With the use of the LP-EL rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, recycle times are greatly reduced even when compared to a Speedlite 600EX II-RT using the CP-E4N battery pack.With the ability to recharge in just 1.2 seconds during full power flash sequences in Normal flash mode, and recharging in approx. 0.1 seconds at minimum power in Normal flash mode - the Speedlite EL-5 is a high-performance flash that can deliver stable flash output even during high action situations. At full power, it can be fired up to 95 continuous times or more!Battery Pack LP-EL is charged with the same Canon LC-E6 charger that's used for the LP-E6-type batteries used in many EOS cameras.Versatile Flash OutputAny tool will only be valuable, if there are opportunities to use it to its full potential, and with the Speedlite EL-5 whether shooting indoors or out, dark situations or bright, or with a close-up or far subject - it has numerous features to handle challenging situations with ease.Whether you need the maximum flash output to capture a deep depth of field scene in a dark environment, or just a kiss of fill-light to reduce the shadows on the face of a subject - the Speedlite EL-5 has you covered with an extended flash output range of 1/1 to 1/1024th power (a three stop improvement compared to Speedlite 600EX-II RT - 1/1-1/128th), with full 1/1 manual power emitting a guide number of 60m/169.9ft @200mm (at approx. ISO 100). Working with a variety of lenses is also easy, as the Auto zoom functionality allows flash coverage from 24-200mm. The additional 14mm wide panel can also be used for wider-angle flash coverage when working beyond 24mm. With a higher-precision flash output the Speedlite EL-5 will be a trusted companion for creative flash situations.Multi-Function Shoe ConnectionThe new digital connector at the bottom of the Speedlite EL-5's Multi-function shoe "foot" allows for greater flash to camera communication. In the case of the EL-5 you get superior coordination between the camera and the flash unit compared to previous Canon Speedlites, including the "Menu direct" function, Customize button function, and Custom flash modes. Gold-plated terminals in the shoe improve connection quality, and the installation status is checked before starting communications, to ensure reliable connection to cameras such as the Canon EOS R3, R7, R10, and R6 Mark II.Custom Flash Modes C1, C2, C3Changing flash modes and settings on the fly in high-stress situations can be extremely challenging - and with the addition of Custom Flash modes, the ability to instantly switch between registered setting including E-TTL auto flash to Manual flash and individual values is now possible. This is extremely helpful in situations where ambient light changes frequently (Ex. shooting a bride and groom kissing on the alter, then switching exposure to a backlit scene as they walk out of the church.) This is also highly desirable when your priority for lighting changes from lighting a scene, to lighting only a face. This versatility can also link C1, C2, and C3 at the flash to C1, C2, and C3 at the camera on compatible cameras - allowing the recall of flash settings registered in Speedlite EL-5 using the camera's shooting mode. By registering the flash settings in-advance the flash mode is directly switched using the camera's shooting mode setting.Intuitive UI DesignSpeedlite EL-5 sports a modern and refined look, featuring the same joystick, Select dial and LCD panel as the flagship Speedlite EL-1 - creating an intuitive user interface, that enables quick adjustments while shooting. With Camera-linked functions available through use of the "Speedlite menu direct button" in compatible EOS R-series camera's "Customize Buttons" menu, the use of the joystick can easily display "Flash function settings" or even "Quick flash group control" screens on the camera LCD screen for access to quick adjustments. Additionally, with the high visibility LCD panel on the Speedlite EL-5, it's easy to check settings, and even available battery during high action situations.Modeling LampPreviewing the effect of a flash has become easier with the addition of a built-in LED Modeling lamp. Brightness level can be set at five different levels, and can be controlled either by the dedicated button, or by pressing the shutter twice. Additionally, off-camera Speedlite EL-5 Receiver unit's modeling lamps can now be activated and deactivated from a Sender Speedlite EL-5 to check its flash effect when using multiple Speedlites. Whether using the lamp for checking where your shadows will fall on a subject, or to aid AF-assist this LED light is incredibly helpful.Expanded App ControlsCanon's Camera Connect smartphone app allows users to control the wireless flash settings, shutter release, and check photo results. The user can operate and configure these settings from a smartphone without touching the camera or flash unit(s). This is particularly useful for multi-flash shooting, shooting with flash unit(s) placed in hard-to-reach spots, and shooting with a limited number of assistants. The user can choose the placement and direction of each flash unit, and then use the app to adjust the light intensity while checking the shooting results on the smartphone screen.Dust and Moisture ResistanceIn addition to the new rubber seal around the shoe locking mechanism, the EL-5 achieves dust and moisture-resistant performance equivalent to that of EOS R5. To ensure airtightness, sealing is applied to the joints of the exterior cover. Even when shooting under difficult conditions, dust and moisture is prevented from penetrating the unit body.

Great on shoe flash not so great as an off shoe remote flash, loses connection and has to be power cycled

EL-5

I love the speedlite.  I've had profoto A1, A10, godox v860iii, v1 etc and I was so surprised how soft and natural shooting bare bulb without any modifiers the EL-5 was!  I did notice the power goes way lower than 1/128 like my other speedlites but the is probably just one factor.  It is a little bit bigger than the canon 600 ex-rt's I had in the past but it's worth it!  I dont even need to slap on my magmods making it even more cumbersome.  My friend's fault for this purchase because he made me try his EL-5 and I knew I had to have it!  No regrets!

I need more of these Speedlites!

Asked Canon sales if EL-5 works with R5.  Bought it based on positive response.  It is not compatible.

Surprised that EL-5 not compatible with R5 and no adaptor available.

I bought this about 2 weeks ago, it's great. it works on my canon radio system with no issues at all.

Great Speedlight

Purchased from Canon and received my Speedlite EL-5 (refurbished) and the battery was defective.  When placed in the charger, it blinks slowly for approx. 60 seconds then blink rapidly.  I tried two separate Canon chargers several times.  Researched Canon website and verified what I was experiencing is a defective battery. I Called Canon customer service on two different occasions to get a replacement battery.  After the second call was escalated to a supervisor, he stated he would send out a replacement ASAP.  I just hope the speedlite will work and not be defective as the battery was.  Was frustrated with canon as they I was transferred back and forth between sales and technical support several times.  I do my research to verify if something is defective before calling.  Question:  when buying canon refurbished items, are they verified they are working before sending out??

defective battery in Speedlite EL-5

I purchased these flashes (3) 2 months ago. What a difference! I had been using godox analog flashed with a flash shoe converter before on my canon mirrorless. The has been ZERO interference issues!! Reliable and well made!!!

Excellent Portrait Flash

These EL-5 flashes are garbage. $10K to migrate over from Nikon only to find the the final step, the flashes do not work. I have been back and forth with Canon for over two months. Canon claims that since the link drop does not happen in their lab, my problem is not valid. I need the flashes to work in my home studio, their lab is irrelevant. Once sent back to me, they predictably failed, so I contacted Canon who finally admitted that there were others reporting the same problem. I do not know if that is true or they were blowing sunshine up my skirt. I suspect the latter since there has been no movement toward a solution. Canon told me they referred my problem to Canon Japan for a possible firmware update. That was mid October. Several lost photo shoots later, and still no answer on the horizon, I escalated this to a supervisor. She did not know anything about a firmware fix, but she offered to send me two new EL-5 flashes and let me keep the two non-performing ones that I have. I fully expect the new ones to fail as well since I seriously doubt two EL-5 flashes were coincidently defective at the same time. Meanwhile, I understand the the EL-1 and EL-5 is being recalled in Japan. The point here is that my studio is in my home, and average ranch style home. We have Wi-Fi and a handful of Bluetooth devices, nothing special. These flashes need to work EVERYWHERE, not just Canon's controlled lab and certainly in an average home with little radio interference.

GARBAGE, Drops Link Constantly

I purchased a refurbished EL-5 on Black Friday for $239.99. The next day the price dropped to $119.99, but there wasn't any stock. Two days later my unit arrived and I couldn't even test it because the battery would not charge. Called Canon support and they did they don't check the batteries on refurbished units. Then they recommended I purchase a new battery for another $109. I guess the moral of the story is don't but Canon refurbished speedlites.

Product dead on arrival. Canon support fail.

I've owned the EL-5 for about 10 months now and I love the rechargeable battery and how long I can use it before having to recharge it.  It's also a very fast flash.  Unfortunately, the compatibility of the flash is awful.  I own a RP, R6-MkII, and a R5c and this flash will only work on the R6-MkII.  The R5c has the new hot shoe used by the EL-5, but they are still not compatible.  Hopefully there will be a future firmware update that will allow the 2 to work together.

The other issue I have with the flash is that if does not come with a charger for the battery.  It's not a deal killer since it will charge on any standard canon charger made for the LP-E6 batteries, but for the price tag, it should have it's own charger.

Great Flash, Bad Compatibility

It is disappointing that Canon only allows EX series for EOS 5D Mark IV. EL-5 series didn't work with EOS 5D Mark IV at all after I purchased an EL-5. I wish Canon gives us more clear statement about what would work with EL serious on their website. I ended up getting refunded but I had to cover the ground shipping cost for return.

Not supported on EOS 5D Mark IV

I purchased 3 Canon mirrorless cameras. They have worked well with my 550EXII and 3rd party speed lights. When I saw a refurbished EL-5 for a very good price, I brought it. So far this was the speedlight Canon should have made long ago. I gave it a 4 out of five because the connectivity with the st-e10 speedlite transmitter is spotty and shuts down in the middle of a shoot. I don't know if the issue is with the speedlight or the transmitter. The  overall operation, power and ease of use is 5 stars .

Excellent with one serious flaw?

Excellent. It is big, and bigger is better. Works very well with my R7.

Go big

Lightning-fast recycle time unsurpassed. Uses a battery compatible with any Canon LP-E6 Battery Charger. I think what I like most about it is that the exposure is so dead on every time. Some users are not reading whether it's compatible with their camera and are disappointed because they didn't bother to do proper research.

Lightning, fast recycle super accurate exposure

The EL 5 is definitely a very powerful flash and is likely to become my new work horse (together with my EX-600 units). It is a bulky unit, but that comes with the power it packs. I love the dedicated rechargeable battery, but only because I had the charger already for my R5 batteries. IMHO, a charger should be in the box already. On camera, the flash recharges extremely fast and I have not experienced any overheating. The connectivity with my ST-E10 is iffy at best, which may be more of a transmitter flaw than a flash unit flaw.
Especially with the current price point (recent Canon deal), this flash is a great quality and value.

Powerful flash with minor flaws

Useless for the R5. Complete junk. Don't even bother buying it.

Junk out of the box

Very powerful and smart unit, when paired with latest Canon cameras. Some do not like the lack of charger or the new plug: it is obviously designed for newer cameras such as Canon R6 II (and the many more to follow).

Excellent flash! Pairs flawlessly with Canon R6 II.

I bought this from a vendor who has a 30 day return policy in order to see if there was a way to beat the "Canon wireless link for external flash is unreliable" issue. This is documented on the Canon forums. I had found that my former workhorse Canon 600EXR flashes were no longer able to maintain a link with the Canon STE3 (v1) trigger and got this flash thinking if all worked well, along with the new STE10 trigger, I'd switch. 

First issue: Canon remote trigger flashes do not work on the Canon R6 MkII (My camera) without the latest (third) firmware upgrade. The original firmware had a lot of bugs in it, and this was one of them. SO, a couple of upgrades later I could get the remote flash function to work. The devil of it is that the failure is inconsistent and so it looks like it could be a shoe seating issue, etc. It isn't that at all - just the firmware upgrade fixed all. 

Second Issue: Wireless remote trigger is messed up and I think it is caused by a systemic weakness in the radio system that Canon uses and therefore not fixable without blowing backwards compatibility with the rest of their system. I tested this extensively, along with others in the Canon forums, and we've found that the Canon wireless link gets killed off by some sort of wifi or other 2.4GHz interference (could be Bluetooth, other remotes, wireless telephones, microwave ovens, etc.). In any case, this flash and the STE10 perform just as poorly in this regard as the 600EXR and STE3 that I was using before. Exactly the same. I even went to far as to test it with the Westcott multi protocol (e.g. mimics Canon as well as doing their own proprietary radio link) and it failed the same way. 

The only time I could get the flash to work reliably was when mounted directly to my R6 MkII hotshot. It works great there. If that is all you do - direct mount on your hotshoe - this is a wonderful unit with all the features most of us need and more at a decent price for the output and capability. For me, remote flash placement is everything. Multiple flash units are a must (I typically use 3) and this makes this new flash no better than the old stuff I had. 

After hoping I could get this to work, but finding it failed in the same way as my old gear, I sadly returned it.

I subsequently went out and purchased some separate aftermarket flash trigger units for each of my 600EXRT and run them off the same brand's trigger controller. All works well, but it's not what I wanted to happen. I wanted this new flash to work well. If it had,  I would have bought three of them and and STE10 (over $1200 out the door total) and sold my old gear and been OK with it. 

Canon has been silent and insensitive to this issue. If you use wireless remote, I advise you to NOT buy this flash with the hope they will fix the link reliability any time soon. It's been over a year and - nothing. Of course, if you use direct mount or a WIRED remote connection, this is a good flash with a lot of features and awesome integration into the new R bodies.

Wireless remote does not work right, OK if direct mounted to R6 MkII

I just recently bought a Canon EOS R3 and found out that the hot shoe on this particular body is different from other Canon bodies and from my existing flash (600EX-RT) to work properly, I would need to purchase an adapter which has been back ordered for at least 4 months.
I found out that the Canon EL5 and EL1 were designed for this body and as I couldn't afford the EL1 (are over $1000) I did some research and found that based on me being a sports photographer and not really using flash a whole lot that the EL5 was probably what I needed..
When I was setting up the product after I had first purchased it I was dismayed to find out that it was missing a fairly essential item. 
A battery charger for the rechargeable battery.
I truly believe that a $400 flash should have this included or make it more prominently known that it doesn't included in the package.
So far the flash works fine but I'm really disappointed with Canon that is essential item is not included.

Great Flash, But...

I have a Canon EOS R3 which is a great camera but has a different hot shoe than other Canon bodies, and in order to use my existing Canon flash (600EX-RT) I need to use tan adapter which is been out of stock for at least 4 months.
I was truly disappointed after paying over $400 including tax for the item that it doesn't include a battery charger which I thought would have been included as every other Canon I product I purchased that requires a chargeable battery has come with a charger.
The flash to date has worked great but I really do believe that a battery charger should be included with the item.

Great Flash, But Missing Something Very Important

My first time using a Speedlite. Works well with my EOS R6 Mark ii and I didn't need to buy another charger because I can charge the Speedlite battery with the R6m2 charger. Easy to use and I have no complaints.

Speedlite EL-5 pairs nicely with R6m2

While this flash has some very impressive stats like sub 1 second charge times and high frame rate lossless firing, the limited number of cameras supported to use this flash lets it down. While the information on the page states that this flash will work will ALL cameras with the multi-function hot shoe, it only has compatibility with a very small and finite number of cameras that have said hot shoe. Case in point, the R5C. It being a newer camera that also sports the new multi function hotshoe, it should technically have the ability to use the flash, atleast in stills mode, but it doesn't. How is it the Canon have neglected to make a firmware update that allows for use with the only flash currently available on their website? This leaves potential customers with only 3 options. 1. Find a flash elsewhere and maybe one of a different brand. 2. Buy a different camera instead of the R5C like the cheaper R6 Mark II. 3. Just buy a different camera system from a different brand ALL together. Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, and Olympus ALL have other options on their store for cameras that are competitive with the R5C that are both cheaper and as effective. So what is to stop someone from either using a different brand or simply switching to one that has better and more options that are sometimes cheaper? So, I ask, where is the updated firmware for ALL cameras with the the updated hotshoe? Specifically, where is the firmware update for the Canon R5C that allows for full compatibility and use of this EL-5 speedlight? If this firmware update happens, I can then change this review and rating to atleast 4 stars with something much more positive to say. Currently though, because of the terrible firmware compatibility issues, I can only give this a 1 star. If I could, I'd leave it at 0 stars as this flash doesn't even work with one of the premier cameras in this sector/price range. Again, if and when they release a firmware update that allows for the R5C to use this flash, then I'll rate this flash much, much higher. But only if and when release this update.

Great features but terrible support/compatibility.

The charger your cameras came with charge the battery which is the same charger many other Canon cameras came with. I would venture to guess you have a handful of them. I would venture to guess this is it didn't come with one. I would rather have a lower price than multiple chargers.

To the Guy with the R3s....

I bought this speedlite June 14th this year and have used it on many photo shoots.  I bought it because I have the R6markii with the new shoe.  It does seem to communicate far better than my EF-1 flash, which I used all the time with my R6, but had issues when I moved to the markii.
This speedlite didn't come with the filter set, like all my other canon flashes.  I went to buy the recommended ones - Canon SCF-EL Color Filter Set (which doesn't come with the white filter) and the Vello Mini Softbox doesn't fit around the head.  I am very disappointed not to be able to find something else recommended by Canon, and really this is the only flash that works with my R6Markii so I'm left with a lot of extra editing for hot spots.

No other option for the R6Markii, no filters that fit on it

Why are the SCF-EL (Color Filter Set) and the SBA-EL (Bounce Adapter Diffuser) listed as accessories when then don't fit this Speedlite? Since these don't fit, looking further, I actually don't see color filters or a bounce diffuser that will fit. The impression given (because these accessories were listed as recommended) was that the Speedlite just didn't include them, but that they were available to purchase separately. I bought them and they definitely don't fit. In fact, I don't even see anything on the Speedlite that would allow for attachment of filters or a diffuser at all. Are filters and a diffuser not going to be available for this Speedlite and that just wasn't stated anywhere in the marketing or specifications?

Recommended Accessories Don't Fit

How do you sell a flash with a proprietary rechargeable battery but do not include a charger for it? Terrible decision Canon. I have a brand new flash that I was looking forward to testing out with my R3's. Really thinking I should just send this back and not bother with it.

Canon Speedlite EL-5

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