Who It’s For:
This is Canon’s second best professional Speedlight, which is for anyone who needs a (comparably) light weight, powerful flash. It’s a little big on top of a camera, but it’s definitely worth the extra heft because this is a very versatile flash. This particular flash has been replaced by the newer 430EX II, but this flash is still useful and can be found for a lot less than the newer model.
What We Like:
Cost: It’s cheaper than the 580EX, and for may uses this is all you need so it’s a good value.
Size: This flash is much smaller than the giant 580EX, so if size matters, this is a great flash.
Optimum White Balance: This flash communicates with your camera to develop an optimum white balance for the situation.
What We Don’t:
Lack Of Commander Mode: This flash lacks the ability to control other flashes and can only work in slave mode.
Power: The 580EX and EX II have a considerable power advantage
Not Weather Sealed: The newer 580EX II is weather sealed which depending on the work you’re doing, can be very important.