Hands-On Review: Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT

Canon’s recently introduced Speedlite 600EX-RT is the newest flagship flash unit and the successor to the popular 580EX II. This speedlight supports E-TTL II metering for an accurate, controllable flash and has a powerful zoom head that covers 20-200mm focal lengths with a guide number of 197’ (60 m) at ISO100.

This high level of output is further enhanced by the newly introduced wireless multiple flash system, which allows you to wirelessly control up to 5 groups with a total of 15 individual Speedlites. The two-way radio communication is effective for up to 98.4’ and works well even in indirect, non-visible situations where a traditional optical transmitter would falter. Among other notable improvements, the 600EX-RT is also compatible with Canon’s 61-point reticular AF system (in conjunction with the 5D Mark III and 1D X). In regard to the design, a reworked hot shoe contact construction and improved flash head durability, on par with newly introduced DSLR construction, have made this a much more rugged device than its predecessors. An integrated dot-matrix LCD has also been integrated into the design and significantly improves the efficiency and control one has over the flash. Further ease of use is aided by 18 different custom functions and 7 personal functions, allowing you to configure the flash to perfectly suit your own workflow.