Canon Speedlite 580EX II USA
- Price: $474.00
- Instant Savings: -$30.00 Offer ends MAR 3 '12
- You Pay: $444.00
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As the Canon top-of-the-line flash for the EOS-system, the Speedlite 580EX II takes the best features from existing models and adds functionality that enhances digital photography. A more powerful flash with a maximum guide number of 190' (58 m) at ISO 100 (at 105mm focal length), faster recycling, more consistent color and enhanced controls are among the improvements that all photographers, especially those who shoot digital, will find useful.
The 580EX version II offers several improvements over the original 580EX version. It has been redesigned to match with the EOS-1D Mark III in terms of improved dust- and water-resistance, body strength, and the ability to control flash functions and settings from the camera menu (EOS-1D Mark III only). Other features include improved communication reliability through its direct contacts, a metal hot shoe, and recycling time is both 20% shorter than the 580EX and is completely inaudible.
The flash supports all current versions of TTL, including evaluative E-TTL II. This is great for photographers that shoot high contrast or reflective subjects, like those encountered in wedding photography. Photographers can now capture every detail from the black of tuxedos to the white of wide smiles and wedding dresses.
- Compatibility
- The Speedlite 580EX flash is compatible with Canon's E-TTL II (Evaluative Through The Lens) auto exposure technology. When combined with a compatible Canon camera (EOS-1D/s Mark II, Mark III, D-20, Elan 7N/E, or newer models) and compatible lens, E-TTL II utilizes subject distance and other information that automatically modifies flash power, resulting in accurate flash exposure regardless of subject size, reflectance, or photographic composition.
- Multiple Flash Exposure Modes
- E-TTL II, E-TTL, TTL & Manual
- Faster Recycling Time
- Improved power supply design provides up to 25% improvement in flash recycle time
- Built-in AF-assist beam compatible with EOS multi-point AF systems including 45-point Area AF types
- Built-in catchlight reflector allows a catchlight to be added quickly and conveniently to portraits
Professional Modes
- FE Lock - Flash exposure lock
- FP Mode, or high-speed sync, allows the camera to sync with flash at higher shutter speeds
- Second-curtain sync fires the flash at the end of the exposure, allowing streak of light to flow naturally behind the movement of the subject
- Wireless TTL flash when triggered by other on-camera 580EX; or when combined with ST-E2 Transmitter & multiple 580 or 550 EX's
- Stroboscopic mode shows several minute flashes continuously to easily view flash effect
- FEB - Flash Exposure Bracketing
- 14 Custom Functions that provide maximum control over various flash functions
- Ratio flash lighting of up to 8:1 when used with ST-E2 Transmitter & multiple 550 or 580EX's
- When color temperature data is automatically transmitted from the 580EX, the camera sets the color balance for the optimal flash shot
| Mount | Shoe |
| Guide No. | 190' (57.91 m) at 105 mm position |
| Exposure Control | Manual/TTL |
| Angle of Coverage |
84° - 23.3° Wide-Angle Adapter: 114° - 23.3° |
| Vari-Power | 1/1 - 1/128 |
| TTL Dedication | Yes |
| Bounce Head | Yes |
| Swivel Head | Yes, 360° |
| Coverage | 24 mm - 105 mm (Full frame) |
| Zoom Head | Full frame: 24 mm - 105 mm |
| Off Camera Terminal | PC |
| Compensation | None |
| Wireless Communication Channels | None |
| Wireless Groups | None |
| Power Source | 4x AA Alkaline, Lithium, NiCad, Rechargeable Ni-MH Batteries |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 3.0 x 5.3 x 4.5" / 7.62 x 13.46 x 11.43 cm |
| Weight | 13.2 oz / 374 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 1848 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
99%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast recycling (1350)
- Consistent output (1287)
- Durable (1224)
- Good power output (1101)
- Easy to use (1088)
Cons
- Heavy (331)
- Heavy / bulky (186)
- Slow recycling (57)
- Pricey / poor value (31)
- Not interchangeable (16)
Best Uses
- General purpose (1405)
- Portraits (1245)
- Fill flash (1111)
- Night photography (837)
- Photojournalism (681)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro photographer (431), Photo enthusiast (362), Pro photographer (283), Enthusiast (225), Semi-professional (204)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (753), Yes (54)
Most Liked Positive Review
Nice $peedlight- big improvement but...
This is as good as it gets for Canon Speedlights. The EX II design is much improved over the EX version. I have 2 EXII's and 1 EX. The new metal hot shoe/ ...Read complete review
This is as good as it gets for Canon Speedlights. The EX II design is much improved over the EX version. I have 2 EXII's and 1 EX. The new metal hot shoe/ lever lock is a MUCH improved and great design. The new storage case is much better as well-- cordura like case as opposed to the cheesy nylon of the EX. The whole flash feels sturdier and more sleek even though it's a tiny bit larger than the EX. Also, there is no ultra high-pitched whine when it's powered on as is with the EX-- which I like. That said, Canon took away the physical Slave switch on the back, which is a drag. In order to put the EXII in slave mode you have to use the dual action mode button--not too big of a deal, but the older system was much more intuitive. As with ALL Canon user-interfaces, this one is not that great either. The dual-use buttons are mostly confusing, but if you use them a lot, it gets easier to navigate. For this kind of dough, Canon should have designed a decent Graphical User Interface and LCD screen--shame, shame-- FYI, as boring as it is, you really SHOULD read the manual from start to finish (several times if your head's as thick as mine) if you want to get the most out of this flash. I use my 580's with Radio Popper remote triggers (EX in Master mode on camera in non-firing mode, and the other EXII's in Slave mode on light stands). This is a great system as I can shoot with the flashes in Manual mode and can dial up an down the EXII's from the on camera unit. If you're a Strobist, this can save you the time of walking to each unit to adjust the output. Nice. I gave the EXII 4 stars because, like all Canon accessories, it's overpriced and not as user friendly compared to competitors-- the Nikon equivalent is more feature rich and cheaper--but I have all Canon gear so I'll deal with the shortcomings. Hope this was helpful to you.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
BIG TROUBLE IF YOU USE SLAVE FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY
See below.
Expertise: Over 150 weddings shot.
Problems Encountered: Never mind all the nice things about this flash. There is one HUGE problem with it that cause...Read complete review
See below.
Expertise: Over 150 weddings shot.
Problems Encountered: Never mind all the nice things about this flash. There is one HUGE problem with it that caused me to return it. Another photographer in our studio returned his new one for the same reason:If you use this flash as a master and another one as a slave, there is NO WAY to quickly turn off the master switch to keep the slave flash from firing. Example: Let's say you're photographing the first dance and you have the slave flash on a light stand on the other side of the room. You're fine while the couple is dancing. But let's say they do a dip. You only have a split second to turn off the master switch. Well. you can't do it on this one. Therefore, your shot comes out ruined, completely black because your slave flash fires right back into your camera. You would have had to go through the menu to get it out of master mode. Well by the time you do that, the dance is over, and the next dance is half-way over too. The first 580 flash has a switch that you can just turn off. Not this one. DO NOT BUY THIS FLASH IF YOU DO SLAVE-FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY. I am going to write to Canon about this directly.
Previous Equivalent Item Owned: 430EX, 580EX
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 1848 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Heavy
- Not Interchangeable
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I am very happy with this flash. It's definitely worth the money. The only thing I don't like is that it uses AA batteries that will die quickly. I plan on buying a battery pack for it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
This flash is great! Its very powerful! Gives off great light and really easy to change settings.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
- Night Photography
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I am a part time wedding photgrapher and use the speed lite at every wedding as a on camera flash. I have also used it as a back light with a transmitter. Both ways it is effective and looks great.
Pros
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I use this flash w/ my canon mark ii 5d. It's a great flash that can be used manual or auto. It requires 4 double AA batteries (not included). And it also has a carrying case.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I bought this flash to use with my remote system and as a fill flash. It works great after you figure out the menu. A little on the heavy side but for what all it does that makes sense.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Bulky
- Slow Recycling
Best Uses
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
The auto Flash is great, really great for portraits! Very clean looking on my camera with minimal buttons
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Bulky
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
It is really cold here so i havnt been out side much to use it but, for indoor shooting that have a nice fill light over the room its amazing, I have used it shooting indoors for home builders and that really helped balance the light evenly. Great product
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Good price value
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
- none
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I use mostly for portraits. Works every time and battery life is awesome.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
This flash is great. Good build quality. E-TTL II makes "run & gun" shots with bounced flash a breeze. However, it will take some time to learn all the nuances.
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
Cons
- Bulky
- Heavy
Best Uses
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
This was purchased at Christmas as a gift for my husband and he started using it immediately. He's thrilled with the quality, and I can see a visible difference in his digital photos.
The item arrived fast, and was very well-packaged and double-wrapped (both interior and exterior plastic wrapping on the flash and the case).
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Works perfectly with my 60D and my S5IS.
The Book that comes with the flash is a bit hard to decipher. There are some great tutorials online.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I use this every single weekend for massive music festivals and it never fails to get the job done. I can get images of 10,000 plus people nicely illuminated under extreme conditions.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Had the 430EX before this one, I really can't tell much difference except the range is more, both flashes where very good with ETTL. I personally don't like the lock for the shoe, I liked the screw better, it's a hassle to unlock the flash from the camera, also the slave function was easy on the 430ex. just flip a lever, on the 580 you have to go through a few buttons. Works great on outdoor pictures with fill flash even at 20 yards or so. expensive...
unless you need a flash for distance I'd go with the 430EX II..
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
- Go through batteries fast
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Very portable, easy to use, reliable
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I a different speedlite and just wasn't happy with it. When I used this for baby pictures it was perfect. so easy to use .
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Fast Recycle time. The ETTL is great and makes me lazy. The Slave function is optical, so your limited to the slave flash being able to see the master. Can be controlled remotely from the 7D or 60D camera menue
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I upgraded from my old 420EX to this 580EX II. I bought it for indoor and macro shooting. There are very few features missing in this one. I took a lot of pictures indoors for my son who is 4 months old. TTL is awesome. It's battery life is outstanding. Recycle time is really short. Has lots of manual controls, easy to override TTL. Well built with sturdy metal foot and nice locking mechanism.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Plenty of light for all uses.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast Recycling
Cons
- Diffuser hard to attach
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Photojournalism
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Recharge is faster, water resistant, and the batteries last longer. I used the same set of batteries I used in my 580EX and they produce many more "consistent" flash strobes on this version. The robust metal shoe gives more confidence in active situations and it locks onto the camera with a simple slide switch. (Which then locks into place.) The locking sliding battery door is a big plus, not too often talked about. The battery door does not come open accidentally. If you own a stoffen diffuser for the 580EX, it will still fit this model, but the rubber on the sides of the new flash make it difficult to attach. (Stoffen say's use the same product, but stretch it slightly to fit this version.) Everything is rubberized and looks water tight though I haven't tried it in the rain yet. Good product I'm glad I invested in.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Batteries & Power
Required item:
- Price: $13.99
- Price: $149.95
Not compatible with the optional CPM-E3 Battery Magazine
Flash Diffusers
- Price: $9.25
Reflectors
- Price: $39.95
Brackets
- Price: $34.98
Sync Cords & Flash Remotes
- Price: $69.95
- Price: $14.99
Flash Pouch
- Price: $24.99
Flash Adapters
- Price: $199.95
Flash Accessories
- Price: $99.95
What's in the Box
- Pouch
- Hot Shoe Table Stand
- 1-Year Warranty
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