Are you a Canon photographer looking to elevate your lighting game? The Speedlite series has long been a staple for both amateur and professional shooters, offering powerful and versatile external flash options. Two of the most popular models, the original 580EX and its successor, the 580EX II, often leave users wondering about the key differences and which one might be the better investment for their needs.
Both flashes boast impressive performance and a suite of features designed to enhance your creative control over light. However, the ‘II’ in the 580EX II signifies more than just a minor update; it represents significant improvements and refinements. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for making an informed decision.
This comparison will dive deep into the specifics, helping you decide whether the original 580EX still holds its ground or if the 580EX II is the clear winner for your photography workflow. Let’s explore what sets these two iconic speedlites apart.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Canon 580EX | 580EX II |
|---|---|---|
| Guide Number (ISO 100) | 58m / 190ft | 58m / 190ft |
| Zoom Range | 24-105mm | 24-105mm |
| Bounce Head | 90° up, 7° down | 90° up, 7° down |
| Swivel Head | 270° | 270° |
| Recycle Time (Full Power) | Approx. 3.5 seconds | Approx. 3.0 seconds |
| Power Source | 4x AA Batteries | 4x AA Batteries |
| External Power Input | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Master/Slave | Yes (Optical) | Yes (Optical & Radio) |
| Auto Zoom | Yes | Yes |
| Manual Power Control | Full to 1/128 | Full to 1/128 |
| AF Assist Beam | Yes | Yes |
| Water/Dust Resistance | No | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Build Quality & Durability
- Canon 580ex: While a capable flash, the original 580EX could be susceptible to heat damage over extended use, and its build felt less robust than later models. Its plastic construction, while light, sometimes felt less premium.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II received a significant upgrade in build quality with a metal hot shoe and improved weather sealing. This made it much more durable and reliable in challenging shooting conditions, offering greater peace of mind.
- Winner: 580ex ii
Recycle Time
- Canon 580ex: The 580EX offered decent recycle times for its era, generally around 3 seconds at full power with fresh batteries. This was adequate for many general-purpose shooting scenarios.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II boasts faster recycle times, especially when using external battery packs. Even with standard AA batteries, it offered a noticeable improvement, allowing for more rapid firing without significant pauses.
- Winner: 580ex ii
Power Output (Guide Number)
- Canon 580ex: The 580EX featured a powerful GN of 190 ft (58m) at ISO 100, which was competitive and provided ample light for most situations. Its power output was a strong suit.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II maintains the same impressive Guide Number of 190 ft (58m) at ISO 100. The power output remains a key strength, ensuring it can illuminate subjects effectively.
- Winner: Tie
E-TTL Autoflash Control
- Canon 580ex: The original 580EX introduced and refined Canon’s E-TTL (Evaluative Through-The-Lens) metering system, offering generally accurate exposure in most automatic situations. It was a significant advancement in flash automation.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II features E-TTL II, an improved version that takes into account lens focal length and distance information for more precise exposure calculations. This resulted in more consistent and reliable flash exposures, especially in complex lighting.
- Winner: 580ex ii
Wireless Control (Master/Slave)
- Canon 580ex: The 580EX offered basic optical slave functionality, allowing it to be triggered by another flash. It could also act as a master flash for compatible older slave units.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II significantly enhanced wireless capabilities with improved optical slave functionality and the addition of a 2.4 GHz radio trigger system (though this required a separate transmitter). This offered more reliable and flexible wireless control over longer distances and through obstacles.
- Winner: 580ex ii
Stroboscopic Flash (Multi-Flash)
- Canon 580ex: The 580EX included a stroboscopic mode, allowing for multiple flashes in quick succession to capture motion blur. This feature was useful for artistic effects.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II also features stroboscopic flash, offering similar capabilities for capturing motion. The underlying performance in this mode is largely comparable, providing creative opportunities.
- Winner: Tie
Zoom Head Range
- Canon 580ex: The 580EX featured a versatile zoom head ranging from 24mm to 105mm, allowing photographers to adapt the beam angle to their lens choice. This was a standard and useful feature.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II maintains the same excellent 24-105mm zoom range. This flexibility in beam coverage continues to be a valuable asset for photographers shooting with a variety of focal lengths.
- Winner: Tie
Power Source & Battery Life
- Canon 580ex: The 580EX relied on 4 AA batteries, offering a decent battery life for casual use. However, heavy use could lead to frequent battery changes.
- 580ex Ii: The 580EX II also uses 4 AA batteries but benefits from improved power management, leading to slightly better battery life. Crucially, it offers a dedicated external power port for battery packs, greatly extending shooting capacity and reducing recycle times for demanding shoots.
- Winner: 580ex ii
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | 580EX II |
| Durability & Weather Sealing | 580EX II |
| Wireless Control Options | 580EX II |
| Value for Money (New) | 580EX |
| Value for Money (Used) | Tie |
| Recycle Time | 580EX II |
| Feature Set | 580EX II |
What They Have in Common
- Guide Number: Both flashes boast an impressive guide number of 58 meters (190 feet) at ISO 100, providing ample power for a wide range of shooting situations.
- Zoom Range: The versatile 24-105mm zoom range on both the 580EX and 580EX II allows photographers to adapt their lighting coverage to suit various focal lengths and compositions.
- Bounce and Swivel Capabilities: Both units feature a fully adjustable bounce head (90° up, 7° down) and a 270° swivel range, enabling precise control over light direction for creative lighting setups.
- Manual Power Control: Photographers can fine-tune their exposure with manual power settings ranging from full power down to 1/128th, offering granular control over light output.
- Af Assist Beam: Both flashes include an AF assist beam to help your camera achieve focus in low-light conditions, ensuring sharper images.
- External Power Port: The inclusion of an external power input on both models allows for the connection of battery packs, significantly reducing recycle times and extending shooting sessions.
Canon 580Ex Vs 580Ex II Buying Guide
New vs. Used Market Considerations
When considering the Canon 580EX and 580EX II, the new market is largely dominated by the 580EX II, as the original 580EX is discontinued. This means any new purchases will likely be refurbished or remaining stock of the II. The used market, however, offers a more even playing field. You can find the original 580EX at significantly lower prices, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious photographers. Conversely, the 580EX II, even used, will command a higher price due to its improved features and durability. (See Also: Apple Iphone 14 Vs 15 )
Feature Set Prioritization
Your decision hinges on which features are essential for your photography. The 580EX II boasts a sturdier build, faster recycle times, and improved weather sealing, making it ideal for demanding professional use or shooting in less-than-ideal conditions. If you require the utmost reliability and speed, the 580EX II is the clear choice. However, if basic flash functionality, manual control, and TTL metering are sufficient for your needs, the original 580EX can still deliver excellent results without breaking the bank.
Budget and Long-Term Value
The budget is a primary driver. The original 580EX is significantly cheaper, especially on the used market. This allows photographers to acquire a powerful external flash at a fraction of the cost. However, the 580EX II, while more expensive upfront, offers enhanced durability and performance that can translate to better long-term value, especially for those who rely heavily on their flash equipment. Consider how often you’ll use the flash and the importance of its advanced features when weighing the initial investment against potential future costs.
Compatibility and Future-Proofing
Both flashes are compatible with a wide range of Canon EOS cameras, but the 580EX II benefits from being the more recent model. This means it’s more likely to be fully supported by newer camera bodies and firmware updates, offering a degree of future-proofing. While the 580EX is still functional with most DSLRs, its lack of newer features might become a limitation down the line for specific advanced shooting scenarios. If you plan to upgrade your camera system frequently, the 580EX II might be a wiser investment. (See Also: Texas Vs Wyoming Llc )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Canon 580EX If…
- You are on a tighter budget and looking for a powerful, reliable flash.
- You primarily shoot in controlled indoor environments where extreme weather sealing isn’t a concern.
- You don’t require radio-controlled flash triggering and are content with optical slave functionality.
- You are a hobbyist or enthusiast looking for a significant upgrade from on-camera flash.
Buy 580EX II If…
- You need a robust and weather-sealed flash for outdoor or demanding shooting conditions.
- You plan to use radio-controlled flash triggering for more reliable and versatile off-camera setups.
- You are a professional or semi-professional photographer who demands the highest level of reliability and performance.
- You value faster recycle times for capturing rapid sequences of shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main physical differences between the 580EX and 580EX II?
The Canon 580EX II features a more robust build with improved weather sealing, indicated by rubber gaskets around the battery compartment and flash head. It also has a redesigned flash head locking mechanism, which is more secure and less prone to accidental release compared to the 580EX’s more basic lever. The overall construction feels more solid and professional on the 580EX II, designed to withstand harsher shooting environments.
Is the recycle time significantly faster on the 580EX II?
Yes, the 580EX II offers noticeably faster recycle times, especially at full power. This is a crucial advantage for fast-paced shooting situations where you need the flash to be ready for the next shot quickly. While the original 580EX is not slow, the II’s improved internal components and power management contribute to a more responsive and efficient flash, minimizing downtime between flashes.
Can I use the 580EX II with older Canon cameras?
Generally, yes. The 580EX II is backward compatible with most Canon EOS digital SLRs and even some film SLRs that support E-TTL or E-TTL II metering. The flash’s advanced features, like E-TTL II, are designed to work seamlessly with newer camera bodies, but it will still function in basic E-TTL or manual modes with older models. Always check specific camera compatibility lists if you have a very early EOS model. (See Also: Swagbucks Vs Survey Junkie )
Which flash is better for outdoor or event photography?
For outdoor and event photography, the 580EX II is the superior choice. Its improved weather sealing provides greater protection against dust and moisture, making it more reliable in challenging conditions. The faster recycle times are also invaluable for capturing fleeting moments at events. The sturdier build contributes to its overall durability, which is essential when shooting in dynamic and unpredictable environments.
Is the original 580EX still a viable option today?
Absolutely, the original Canon 580EX remains a capable flash and is still a viable option, particularly for hobbyists or those on a tighter budget. It offers excellent TTL metering, manual control, and a powerful guide number. If you primarily shoot in controlled studio environments or don’t require the absolute fastest recycle times or the most robust weather sealing, the 580EX can still deliver fantastic results and is often available at a much lower price on the used market.
Final Verdict
The Canon 580EX II represents a significant evolution over its predecessor. While the original 580EX is a capable flash, the 580EX II’s enhanced durability, faster recycle times, and improved weather sealing make it the more professional and reliable choice for demanding photographers. For those who frequently shoot in challenging conditions or require peak performance, the investment in the 580EX II is well justified. The 580EX remains a good budget option but lacks the refinements of the II.
Winner: Canon 580EX II