Canon 420EX vs. Sigma EF-500 DG Super

[Wildewinds]

Has anyone tried these two flashes? Is the Sigma worth the extra $20, or does the Canon offer something that the Sigma doesn't?

[tim]

The Sigma is more powerful and gives you more control, but the Canon is meant to be better built. The 420 will work as a slave to the more powerful Canon flashes now and in the future, whereas you can't guarantee that with the sigma. Either would be a good choice.

[Harry Settle]

I have both the 500 and 420. The 500 is more comparable to the 550 and 580 than the 420. The Sigma has multiple operating options whereas the 420 is just a basic flash unit, no manual mode. I use my 420 as a fill light most of the time.

[Redbird_xo]

I own both flashes and agree totally with Harry Settle's comments. As far as built quality, Sigma's been around for more than four decades and it's been known to make good quality product. Don't let the built quality non issue hanging over your head. Instead, check out both flashes' functions and GN for your specific need.

[Cadwell]

I have a 420EX and a 580EX. My mate has a Sigma EF 500 DG Super. I'd rather have his Sigma than my 420EX, but the 580EX is better than either of them. Is the Sigma worth the small amount extra over the 420EX? You bet your life it is.

[photo441]

I have both...put it this way I have no clue where my canon flash is right now...go with the sigma. More power, more control.

Photo441

[C.S.I.]

Go with the Sigma.....as stated before, its more on par with the 550ex.

Enjoy

[mgbeach]

Wow, I hate to be the lone dissenting voice... No I don't! The 420 was my first flash, and I still use it all the time. I say go for the 420 and get the hacked firmware that gives you FEC. Down the road, when you've learned the ins and outs of flash photography (helped out by the largely automatic 420ex) you can get one of the higher series EX speedlights and still use your trusty 420 as a wireless slave.

[C.S.I.]

You may also use the Sigma Super DG 500 as a slave with the 420, 550, 580