Off-Brand Flash for Canon

Does anyone have experience/advice for using brands other than Canon speedlites? I am looking at this one in particular:
https://www.bhphotovid​eo.com …reless_ttl_spee​dlite.html

Any disadvantages to using non-Canon brands? I've done some research and I just don't see the need to spend hundreds of dollars more than necessary for a Canon brand - unless I am missing something?

Thanks,

Tim

Mods pls delete - posted in wrong forum - sorry!

i think most guys would spend a couple hundred bucks for the 430 canon but there are reviews on the link you provided

I have that flash. Works well. I bought it specifically for the greater zoom range than my Canon 580EX. I've used it in the rain a few times.
I think with some 3rd party flash the focus assist is not as good as Canon, ie the red grid pattern is not quite as good as the Canon. I use mine outdoors at long range so have not checked that. You can at least search for info regarding that aspect. I like the audio indications of this particular flash better than the Canon.

It was about 1/3rd the cost of a Canon 600 and as I use it in the bush at night there is greater chance of me damaging the flash so it seemed a good choice. (A friend who is often with me has ripped the shoes off 3 of his Canon flash)

I have probably used it for several thousand shots, once it did not fire. That was one of the first few outings with it and I had probably bumped it so it was not aligned with the contacts on my Camera's hot shoe.

I've already posted this in the Canon 100-400 II thread, an example of what I use it for:

I have 4(?) yongnuo flashes and another their remote trigger, they are without a doubt an no brainer alternative to canon. They are not quite as good (not quite as even light) or quite as durable, however in any case you would actually notice the difference in a real world photo you should be using a strobe instead.

I've got a Sigma EF500 DG Super flash that I've had for going on ten years.

It's never given me any issues.

I don't know what Sigma's current model is, but I wouldn't hesitate to get another Sigma.

i use 3 YN568-EXII with YN tiggers for my product photography and portraits. Works wonderful and at a fraction of the cost.

Godox are good, and critically, the entire system 'talks' so no compatibility issues with only this trigger working with that speedlight etc.

Very helpful - thanks!

Thanks Vengeance.

Thank you!