Taking the 2.4GHz radio transmission technology first packed into the company’s flagship 600EX-RT, Canon has just updated its mid-range flash to feature this wireless triggering capability, along with a slew of other improvements in the compact Speedlite 430EX III-RT. Much like its predecessor, this flash is designed to offer photographers a compact form factor with a guide number of 141' at ISO 100 and 105mm, and a zoom range of 24-105mm. This configuration balances size, power, and versatility for shooters who would like to carry a lighter load on their current job or trip. Additionally, the design has been updated to make both operation and handling significantly smoother.
Controls have been enhanced with a Multi Dial and dot-matrix LCD that allows users to cycle through menu settings and make adjustments quickly. The flash head also implements a built-in catchlight panel that will bounce some light forward when the unit is tilted upward. Another change is in rotation, with the Speedlite 430EX III-RT able to rotate 150° to the left and 180° to the right. And, it now comes with a Color Filter for matching tungsten light sources, and a Bounce Adapter for diffusing and softening the light.
Recycle speed sees a bump in performance with a 2.5-second recharge at full power, compared to the 3.7 seconds of its predecessor. Also, it still has access to optical transmission for remote triggering in addition to radio and offers advanced Flash Exposure Compensation and Light Distribution settings for dialing-in the ideal light. Additionally, it has high-speed, 1st, and 2nd curtain modes and runs on 4 AA batteries.
On top of this flash announcement, Canon has released for sale the RA-E3 Remote Controller Adapter, which allows cameras with the E3-type socket to connect to remote controls using the N3-type connection, such as the TC-80N3 Timer Remote Controller.