External flash for my Canon Powershot S5

[mailforlinde]

I am interested in buying a flash for my Canon S5....the manual says that the compatible ones are 220EX, 430EX, 580EX.
Well, my budget can only afford the 220 (which you can not bounce the flash) which I read somewhere is not even as powerful as the pop-up flash on the S5.

I was wondering if there were any alternatives. I have checked the prices of refurbished or used ones (430EX), and I may be able to swing that. I was just wondering if there was an "off-brand" that works or an older model flash that was not listed in my manual that may work.
I want to be able to bounce the light...other than that, I am not worried about the other features...I am still very new to this world of photography.

Thanks in advance,
Linde

[rklepper]

Used 420 EX? About 125-135.

[ben_r_]

Check out the Classifieds: Sell section as there is alway 430EX flashes going for $200 to $220 shipped. Personally Id go with a 430EX.

[CincyShooter]

Wouldn't Sigma work

[MT Stringer]

I bought a used Sigma EF-500 DG Super today. I put it through a good workout on my 20D and the pics look good. I also managed to get it to operate off shoe with the Skyport trigger/receiver combo. Plus with it set in "optical Slave" mode, the flash wouldn't automatically turn off (due to inactivity) which is a good thing if you are using it on a light stand off camera.

You might find one used for a good price. Sorry, mine is not for sale.
Mike