Canon 550ex flash or 430ex II

[barno]

I'm shopping for a new/used flash and was pretty much set to get the 430ex II but stumbled on the 550ex. I know the 550ex is older but I can get a used one for roughly the price of a new 430ex II. Most of my gear is used so not really worried about used equipment and part of my thinks the 550ex might be a better "deal". Help a brother out...thanks.

[Daniel W.]

IIRC the 430EXII will be a version of E-TTL ahead of your 10D anyway, the 550EX was the top of the line flash when the 10D was tops too. It can be used as a master flash, useful later on if you want to add another Canon flash.

[AlanU]

the 550EX has been kicking around for a while. Depending on how you'll be using the flash (needing more power) the 550EX will provide you more power. However I'd be concerned if the flash has been abused alot (full power) or being dropped. When it comes to a flash I'd buy a current model vs. older models. Older it is the likelihood of more shots fired ie "very used light bulb"

IMO buy the new 430EXII for a reliable flash consistant flash. The price of a new 580EXII is a bargain really.

[xMClass]

You can get a used 580EX for a little more than a new 430EX II

[tim]

550EX is more powerful and can take a Canon battery pack (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/498738-REG/Canon_1947B001_Compact_Battery_Pack_CP_E4.html/BI/2312/KBID/3114), but the downside is it recharges slower on 4xAA cells and you need to push two buttons to rotate the head. I would get a 430 II unless I needed the battery pack input the 550EX has. I use a 550EX on a light stand with radio triggers and a battery pack, it works great for that.