Canon Speedlite 580EX II USA
- Price: $499.00
- Instant Savings: -$30.00 Offer ends JUN 2 '12
- You Pay: $469.00
- GBP 299.44
- Calculate Shipping
- In Stock
Remember the Essentials
Batteries are required but not included with this item. Please be sure to purchase batteries for this item.
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 1707 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
99%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Fast recycling (1253)
- Consistent output (1199)
- Durable (1137)
- Good power output (1004)
- Easy to use (991)
Cons
- Heavy (301)
- Heavy / bulky (163)
- Slow recycling (52)
- Pricey / poor value (30)
- Not interchangeable (15)
Best Uses
- General purpose (1297)
- Portraits (1150)
- Fill flash (1021)
- Night photography (775)
- Photojournalism (640)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro photographer (384), Photo enthusiast (303), Pro photographer (266), Enthusiast (225), Semi-professional (204)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (629), Yes (43)
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 1707 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Great upgrade from the first version of 580EX. Very user friendly. Pictures are great, esp. when i use it in my Gary Fong Lightsphere Collapsible Inverted Dome Diffuser.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
easy to use
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Creative work
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
As expected this flash will do everything it claims. From consistent output to quick recycle times, everything works as advertised. It's worth the money especially if you are interested in exploring capabilities and pushing limits. Build quality is far superior to lower end models. If you are serious about what you do or simply expect the best from your equipment, this is the flash you want.
Do invest in a good set of rechargeable batteries to pair with it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
Cons
- Bulky
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
If you are serious about photography and you have a 5D or 1D then this is the flash to get (I have a 5D with the battery grip)
I would give it 5 stars but this thing is massive and heavy! Also, it cost more than some entry level DSLR packages!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
- Heavy
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Just brought the Speedlite 580ex ii and it perform as what i expected. Very powerful, nothing bad about this product.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Fast Recycling
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
It's not a Nikon SB900... but it's the best thing Canon offers. I wish some of the simple things on the 580EX 1 had not been buried in the menus... but that's what some consider progress I guess.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
- none
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
The expanded capabilities over the 430EX II as well as being able to use it in conjunction with the 430EX II as a slave to get some two speedlight set ups is what I am most happy with. When the 580EX II is used with my Canon 7D, it gives me excellent control to properly light my subject matter - I like to try my hand at anything including, pets, people and food! The flexibility the 580 gives me is very good. I like the 580's ability to swivel right or left a full 180 degrees (the 430 only swivels to one side) as well as the slight downward tilt capability on the 580. I use the slip on diffuser (StoFen on the 430 and Pearl stone on the 580) pretty much all the time. I also am experimenting with the Honl Speed Snoot which gives pretty neat effects.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I'm very impressed with the features and build quality of the unit.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Slow Recycling
Best Uses
- Night Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
i love the 580's that I got from B&H! Canon makes great gear and B&H is very speedy in getting them to me!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
much more powerful and gives great lighting.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
The use of the flash is pretty easy as long as you browse through directions. I had a cheaper knock of version and had problems with the flash miss firing and falling off my camera. This is no longer a problem with how the flash attaches and locks on to the hot shoe.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Fast Recycling
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Shooting events is always a lighting challenge. But with the new technology, it becomes a happy event. The EX580 II is a first class professional grade flash. Incorporating many features that, before ETTL, had to be manipulated by a Thyristor flash such as the Vivitar 283/285, which are still excellent units. I used this for the first time on an engagement party shoot and it performed wonderfully. Even in Bounce, it did the job. I had purchased a slew of Nimh rechargeable batteries thinking that I'd need a lot. But, I shot for 3 hours with just one set! What can I say, I love the EX580 II Flash.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Inconsistent Output
Best Uses
- General Use
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I love this flash and it works very well on the first Canon 5D. However, when using ETTL on the Canon 5D Mark ii, it meters wrong. It generally is over exposed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Very good flash unit. I use it for indoor and outdoor photography with my 1Dmk4. Usually I put them into mediun softboxes and use half power (faster recycle times). I have 5 units.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I am wedding photographer, and just upgraded to this flash. It is amazing and has worked flawlessly.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
If you are looking for the best flash for your Canon SLR camera, this one is it. Absolutely no complaints. a great flash.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Fill Flash
- General Use
- Night Photography
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
Good speed - easy to use right out of the box. I'm sure there's a lot more that this flash can do than I've experimented with so far but the immediate return on investment is obvious. Not sure why exactly I didn't buy one of these when I bought the camera last year!
The ability to spin and pivot is great. I'm bouncing light from all sorts of new angles and getting shots I was simply unable to without this.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Easy To Use
- Powerful Output
Cons
Best Uses
- General Use
- Photojournalism
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
I started with the Canon 430EX II and used that flash for about two years before this purchase. The 430EX II is a great little flash but from my time with the 580EX II I can say there is a reason this is the Canon flagship speedlite. The build quality is better, the controls are quicker, it has more power and more features. This unit is worth the extra money for a few reasons,
-Controls. This model features click wheel which is much quicker and easier than the (o) button layout of the 430EX II. The button also feel more solid and responsive.
-External power source. You can attach the Canon CP-E4 or a Quantum battery pack to decrease the recycle time and increase the number of flashes between battery replacement.
-Sync port. This is the only canon speedlite with an external sync port built in. The port is PC sync and not a monophone however so I need to find a different cable than the ones I use with my other lights.
-Can be used as a Master for wireless flash. Very easy to setup a small flash network with my 430EX II. It's limited because it's line of sight but still nice to have.
There are some other nice features as well like weather sealing, a small built in bounce card, more custom functions and such. This unit is much bigger than a 430 but it's worth it. Overall if you can spend the extra money, Get this flash. You can always build on it later.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Lightweight
- Versatile
Cons
- Slow Recycling
Best Uses
- General Use
- Portraits
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
As a Semi-professional photographer, I use this flash for work and for play. It is responsive, user friendly and does everything it's supposed to do. I recommend it very highly.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Consistent Output
- Durable
- Easy To Use
- Fast Recycling
- Lightweight
- Powerful Output
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Canon Speedlite 580EX II:
This is the best flash by far that I've used. It has an easy "Auto" setting for those of us that are not experts, but want to get good photos. I use it for all my darker party photos and weddings!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
Previous | Next »
Batteries & Power
Required item:
-
- Original: $13.99
- Save: $1.40
- Price: $12.59
- GBP 8.04
- Price: $149.95
- GBP 95.74
Not compatible with the optional CPM-E3 Battery Magazine
Flash Diffusers
-
- Original: $9.25
- Save: $0.92
- Price: $8.33
- GBP 5.32
Reflectors
- Price: $39.95
- GBP 25.51
Brackets
- Price: $34.98
- GBP 22.33
Sync Cords & Flash Remotes
- Price: $69.95
- GBP 44.66
- Price: $14.99
- GBP 9.57
What's in the Box
- Pouch
- Hot Shoe Table Stand
- 1-Year Warranty
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via any UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority shipping methods by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
