What is the best external flash for Canon EOS 5D Mark IV?

Question

Ive been shooting with my 5D Mark IV for a couple years now mostly doing outdoor natural light stuff. Just booked my first indoor wedding gig in Chicago for next month and realized I seriously need a proper speedlite.

Ive looked at the Godox V1 because of that round head and the price is right, but then I see everyone online saying the Canon 600EX II-RT is way more reliable for pro work. The price jump for the Canon is pretty steep and I dont know if its actually better or just the brand name. My budget is around $400 max. Is the Godox gonna fail on me mid-reception or should I just bite the bullet on the Canon?

CloudCrafter · Accepted Answer

Ngl, the Godox V1-C Li-ion Round Head Flash is the better play for your budget. The Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT is great but overpriced. I've used Godox for years. No issues. With $400, you can get the V1 plus a backup Godox V860III-C TTL Flash. Honestly, having two flashes is much safer for a wedding than one expensive Canon unit.

BlueJay92 · Answer

Checking in... I've always been a bit cautious with new tech, so I stick to what works. I've been happy using the Godox TT685II-C TTL Flash for Canon for years without complaints.

Godox TT685II: Rock solid, uses standard batteries.

Yongnuo YN968EX-RT for Canon: Great for the price, built-in LED too. I remember my first wedding, I was so worried about gear failure but these stayed cool the whole night...

christopher.davis · Answer

Agreeing with the first guy here! Going with a lithium battery setup is honestly a total game-changer for wedding work. I think the recycle speed is way faster than those old-school AAs. IIRC, some of these newer third-party units can hit a full power refresh in like 1.5 seconds! That is fantastic for those fast-paced ceremony moments where you just cant wait around. Love it!! Not sure but I heard the heat dissipation on those specific round-head designs is actually more efficient than the traditional rectangular ones? If that is true, you will have way less chance of thermal shutdown during the heavy dancing part of the night. Definitely check the Guide Number ratings tho because even a small difference in output makes a huge impact when you are bouncing light off high venue ceilings. You are gonna do great, weddings are so much fun!