Canon Launches Speedlite 430EX III-RT

Canon has launched a new compact flash which supports E-TTL II autoflash and integrated radio transmission wireless flash “Master” and “Slave” functions for more flexible multiple flash photography.

The Speedlite 430EX III-RT has a maximum Guide No. of 43 (meter; ISO 100; 105mm) and supports E-TTL II/E-TTL autoflash and Manual flash. Flash coverage is from 24mm to 105mm (which can be extended to 14mm with built-in wide panel) and autozoom control is supported to automatically adjust the flash coverage depending on the image sensor size.

The “Light Distribution” function inherited from the flagship Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT allows 2 settings for flash coverage, either as “Guide Number Priority” for better telephoto flash or “Even Coverage” for more even light distribution across the whole frame.

The Speedlite 430EX III-RT also boasts rapid and silent recycling and a new “Quick Flash Function”, as well as overheat protection to better prevent damage to the flash head.

The Speedlite 430EX III-RT supports bounce flash with bounce angle 90° up, 150° left and 180° right for a more refined control of the flash head angle to achieve the desired lighting results. By attaching the new “Bounce Adapter SBA-E2” that comes with the flash, the bounce flash can be spread across a larger area and shadows on the front surface of the subject can be further suppressed, bringing an even more natural bounce effect.

In addition, a new built-in “Catchlight Panel” can be used to add a sparkle of light in the eyes to help bring portraits to life. When shooting in tungsten light environment, the included orange “Color Filter SCF-E2” can be attached to optimize color temperature.

“Master” and “Slave”

Being the second model in the Speedlite family that integrates radio transmission wireless flash “Master” and “Slave” functions, first introduced in the flagship Speedlite 600EX-RT, the Speedlite 400EX III-RT can work alongside Speedlite 600EX-RT’s wireless flash system and enable users to experiment with more off-camera lighting setups.

Communicating on 2.4GHz frequencies, 15 transmission channels are available and 10,000 radio transmission IDs can be set to prevent misfiring in the event of signal interference on the same channel. It facilitates radio transmission up to 30m, among up to 5 groups with a total of 15 individual slave units for greater flexibility.

It also supports bi-directional communication between master and slave units for enhanced operational flexibility, enabling remote release of the master camera’s shutter with any slave unit from diverse angles, and with the Linked Shooting up to 15 EOS cameras can be released simultaneously to capture the decisive moment from various angles.

In addition to radio transmission, Speedlite 430EXIII-RT also supports optical transmission wireless flash “Slave” function. For cameras that feature an Integrated Speedlite Transmitter such as EOS 70D and EOS 760D, Speedlite 430EX III-RT can be used instantly as an off-camera flash with various flash settings such as output and power controllable from the camera’s menu.

New Design and Functionality

Speedlite 430EX III-RT achieves a more compact and lightweight design than its predecessor by reducing the size of flash head with improved zoom optics, the use of a smaller main capacitor and new internal construction that optimizes the placement of AF-assist beam and wireless antenna systems.

Weighing only 295g, it is easier to carry around and further reduces the burden when shooting outdoor.

In addition, the Speedlite 430EX III-RT is equipped with a dot-matrix LCD panel for easier viewing and rich information display.

The newly introduced “Select Dial” which integrates the functions of “cross key” and “Select/Set” button makes change of frequently used settings, such as flash exposure compensation, much faster.

The Speedlite 430EX III-RT also offers 10 custom functions and 8 personal functions for more personalized flash operation according to individual preference. Flash settings can also be easily controlled through the menu of compatible EOS cameras.

The Speedlite 430EX III-RT bundled with “Color Filter SCF-E2” and “Bounce Adapter SBA-E2” is now available for sale in Hong Kong. The suggested retail price is HK$2,480.