Macro photographers often face a frustrating choice between compact flash units that run out of steam during focus stacking sessions and powerful strobes that add unwanted bulk to their setup. The new Godox V480 flash aims to bridge this gap by offering improved stamina and modern features in a size that sits between the compact V350 and the powerhouse V860.
Coming to you from Micael Widell, this detailed video examines the Godox V480 flash and how it performs in real-world macro photography scenarios. Widell puts the V480 through its paces alongside the smaller V350 and larger V860 to determine where this new model fits in the lineup. The flash features a color touchscreen display and USB-C charging capabilities, representing a step forward in user interface design for Godox's flash systems. What makes this particularly relevant for macro work is the V480's ability to handle longer focus stacking sequences without the frequent cooldown periods that plague many compact flash units.
The video reveals some interesting discoveries about battery compatibility and performance characteristics that could influence your purchasing decision. Widell found that the V480 and V350 appear to use nearly identical batteries, with the main difference being the USB-C port on the newer VB22 battery versus the older VB20. This interchangeability could be valuable if you already own V350 accessories or plan to use multiple flash units. The price point sits close to the V350 at around $169, making it an attractive middle-ground option compared to the more expensive V860. Testing showed that while the V480 and V350 produce similar light output, the V480 demonstrates better stamina during extended focus stacking sessions.
Key Specs
- Guide Number: 164' / 50 m
- Coverage: 24 to 105 mm with auto zoom head
- Bounce Head: -7 to +120°
- Swivel Head: 330°
- Exposure Control: Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II
- Wireless Operation: Radio (TTL) up to 328.1' / 100 m
- Flash Modes: Hi-Speed Sync, Second-Curtain Sync, Stroboscopic
- Power Range: 1/1 to 1/256
- Flash Compensation: -3 to +3 EV
- Wireless Channels: 32
- Wireless Groups: 5
- Internal Power: 1x Rechargeable Lithium (Included)
- Recycle Time: Approximately 1.7 seconds
- Weight: 12.7 oz / 361 g (with battery)
Widell's testing methodology provides practical insights that go beyond spec sheets. He compared all three models using identical macro setups and diffusers, finding that the V480 requires 1/16 power to match what the V350 produces at the same setting, while the V860 achieves similar results at 1/32 power. This translates to real-world advantages when shooting deep focus stacks of 40, 50, or more frames. The V860 remains the clear winner for unlimited shooting stamina, but the V480 offers a meaningful improvement over the V350 without the added bulk and weight. For photographers who occasionally need to push beyond 20-30 frame stacks, the V480's enhanced endurance could prevent frustrating interruptions during critical shooting sessions. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Widell.
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