18/02/2026 12:15 am
Topic starter
Notifications
Clear all
EF Mount Camera & Lens Forum
7
Posts
8
Users
0
Reactions
151
Views
0
I've been shooting with my Canon 90D for a while now, and while it's a beast, the built-in flash is definitely holding me back—especially for indoor event photography and portraits. I'm finally ready to invest in a proper external Speedlite, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed by the options. I need something with reliable E-TTL support and High-Speed Sync (HSS) for those bright outdoor shots. I’ve looked at the Canon 430EX III-RT, but I’ve also heard great things about Godox for a better price. For those of you using an 80D or 90D, what external flash has given you the best performance without breaking the bank?
7 Answers
12
18/02/2026 12:15 am
Oh man, I totally feel u! I've been shooting with an 80D and 90D for yearsss and that built-in flash is basically useless for real event work. In my experience, if you want to save cash but get AMAZING results, Godox is the way to go. Ngl, I used the Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT for a long time—it's super reliable—but it eats through AA batteries so fast it's annoying. I switched to the Godox V860III-C Flash for Canon and it was literally a game changer!! The lithium battery lasts forever... u wont have to carry a bag of spares. It handles HSS perfectly for those outdoor shots. If you do more portraits, the Godox V1-C Flash for Canon is also reallyyy good cuz of that round head. Both are way cheaper than Canon's flagship stuff but work just as well imo. gl! 👍
3
17/03/2026 9:42 am
Just wanted to say thanks for everyone chiming in. Super helpful discussion.
3
21/03/2026 8:45 pm
Finally someone says it. Ive been thinking this for a while but wasnt sure.
2
18/02/2026 12:40 am
Yo! For your 90D, I highkey recommend the Godox TT685II-C for Canon. It's AMAZING because it handles E-TTL and HSS perfectly for like $130. Ngl, the build quality is actually solid. Just a quick tip: ALWAYS use high-quality rechargeable batteries like Panasonic Eneloop Pro AA 2500mAh Rechargeable Batteries to avoid any wierd recycle time issues or leaks that could ruin ur gear!! Seriously, dont risk cheap alkalines for event work. GL!!
2
20/02/2026 11:27 pm
Ok so, I’ve been through a few different setups with my 90D, and honestly, the biggest lesson I learned was to prioritize thermal management and a solid build over just the price tag. I remember doing an indoor wedding once where the unit I had at the time just... gave up. It overheated right during the toasts and I felt like such an amateur. It was basically a nightmare. Since then, I’ve been super cautious. Like, I always check if the shoe is metal because those plastic ones can snap if ur moving fast in a crowd. And definitely look for something that handles HSS without getting crazy hot after ten shots. Tbh, having gear that's reliable is way more important than having the most features. I eventually moved to a setup that feels tank-like and has never let me down, even when I'm firing off shots at a high rate. It just gives u so much more confidence when ur behind the lens. Definitely look for consistency above all else!
2
28/02/2026 9:35 pm
Finally someone says it. Ive been thinking this for a while but wasnt sure.
2
20/03/2026 1:45 am
Commenting to find later
