Best Flash for Sony A7riii & A7iii [Top 5 Picks In 2021]

As an enthusiast photographer, you may purchase a premium camera, like the Sony A7riii. However, without using an external flash, it is nearly impossible to enhance the professional tone of your image.

The first thing that you need to get is, the list of the best flash for Sony A7riii & A7iii camera so that you can go for the selection process by yourself.

A flash featuring a wireless remote control, a durable metal shoe, and a quick response could be the best flash for any camera.

However, I am going to make a list of some external flash, ranked top in 2021. Hopefully, it will help you enjoy the professional tone with proper lighting in your photography

Just in case if you’re in a hurry….

Just check these two best flashes of our recommendation. You won’t regret it later.

My Top Pick

Sony HVL-F45RM Compact Flash

Sony HVL-F45RM

Features:

  • Flash Duration: 1/600s
  • Recycle Time: 0.1-2.5 seconds
  • Wireless Functions: Master, Slave
  • Guide Number: 45
  • Weight: 7 Pounds

Check Price On Amazon

Runner-Up

Neewer 2.4G HSS 1/8000s TTL GN60 Flash

Neewer 2.4G

Features:

  • Flash Duration: 1/300s to 1/20000s
  • Recycle Time: 0.1 – 2.6 seconds
  • Wireless Functions: Master, Slave
  • Guide Number: 60
  • Weight: 63 Pounds

Check Price On Amazon

How Did I Pick?

In the beginning, I went through the applications of flashes that are used for the cameras so that I could focus on the relevant features. Then, I researched numerous forum posts, expert opinions, compared brands, and customer feedback, and come up with the following products.

If you read the buying guide carefully, you would know what are the features I considered as important. Read the full review of each product to get the best flash for Sony cameras.

Top 5 Best Flashes for your Sony A7riii & A7iii Camera:

The review section discusses each unit briefly. I’ve provided specifications, highlighted features, strengths, and weaknesses of every product on the list. If you find one interesting, don’t forget to check the price which is only one click away.

A Quick Overview

Features Sony HVL-F45RM Neewer GN60 Godox Ving V860II-S Sony HVLF60RM Godox V1-S  

GODOX AD200Pro

 

Godox XPro-S

Weight (Pounds) 0.7 0.63 1.19 0.93 1.76 1.3 0.22
Full Power Flashes 210 230 650 220 480 500 N/A
Guide Number 45 60 60 60 N/A 52 N/A
Recycle Time

(Seconds)

0.1-2.5 0.1 – 2.6 <1.5 seconds 0.1 – 1.7 1.5 0.01 – 1.8 N/A
Wireless Functions Master, Slave Master, Slave Master, Slave Master, Slave Master, Slave Master, Slave Master, Slave
High-Speed Sync 1/8000s 1/8000s 1/8000s No 1/8000s 1/8000s 1/8000s
FlashCoverage 24-105mm 20 – 200mm 20 – 200mm 20 – 200mm 28 -105mm N/A N/A
Dimensions

(Inches)

2.38 x 4.5 x 3.5 8.1 x 4.2 x 3.1 2.52 x 2.99 x 7.48 3.13 x 4.13 x 5.5 7.48 x 2.99 x 2.52 14.48 x 7.95 x 5.16 8.3 x 5.3 x 3

1. Best Overall: Sony HVL-F45RM Compact, Radio-Controlled Camera Flash

Sony HVL-F45RM

Key Features:

  • Flash Duration: 1/600 second at full power
  • Recycle Time: 0.1-2.5 seconds
  • Wireless Functions: Master, Slave
  • Zoom Range: 24-105mm (15mm with Panel)
  • Swivel Head: 360°
  • Exposure: Auto and Manual

Check Price On Amazon

Sony HVL-F45RM is a powerful flash featuring a compact lighting system with the utmost capacity up to GN number 45. It is genuinely the best flash for Sony A7riii & A7iii, as it is a radio-controlled GN Camera flash with an excellent 1-inch LCD.

Built-in wireless radio control

The in-built Radio Capabilities of this flash make it capable of working as a transmitter and a receiver maximum at 98 (Approx.). Either bounce lighting or a High-speed-sync (HSS); this external lighting system can ensure a proper elimination all over those.

Moreover, the radio wireless communication allows the flash to support both Multi-flash Photography and Professional Shooting as equally.

Flexible lighting

Horizontally this flash head can rotate 360° and 180° in the portrait position (i.e. both the left and right directions). The most eye-catching feature of this flash is that it can freely rotate or be positioned in any direction to meet the demand for shooting needs.

Durability

Sony HVL-F45RM is a perfect camera flash to be used outdoor. Its durable design keeps out dust and moisture from the body. It enhances the value and usability of the flash in all weather conditions.

Automatic White Balance Adjustment

With a Sony AA-size alkaline battery, it can provide lighting for a maximum of 4 hours. The Flash duration for this product is (Approx.) within 1.7 ms (1/1 MANUAL). It also can automatically adjust the white balancing using its intellectual function.

It can work in On-Camera Flash, Radio Wireless Commander, and Receiver, etc. The recycle time of this flash is 2.5 seconds (approx.). This black-colored camera flash at a time can support 15 units dividing them up to 5 groups.

Summary: Sony HVL-F45RM is a high-end camera flash for Sony A7riii & A7iii cameras. It is customizable, radio-controlled, and easy to operate. If you’re looking for a professional flash, this is the right one to choose.

👍 Pros:

  • Powerful & compact flash
  • Customizable key assignment
  • AF illuminator
  • Wireless radio control
  • Features multi/micro USB port

👎 Cons:

  • Little bit expensive

2. Best Budget: Neewer 2.4G HSS 1/8000s TTL GN60 Flash Speedlite for Sony a7RII

Neewer 2.4G

Key Features:

  • Flash Duration: 1/300s to 1/20000s
  • Recycle Time: 0.1 – 2.6 seconds
  • Wireless Functions: Master, Slave
  • Zoom Range: 20 to 200mm
  • Swivel Head: 360°
  • Exposure: Auto/Manual

Check Price On Amazon

Build an Audio-video shooting world only using this innovative NEEWAR flash Speedlite with your cameras. It is a professional and premium flashlight already been tested by several renowned Photographers, Videographers, and also some other flashlight dealers.

TTL Functions

The top-rated flash for Sony A7riii Camera can cover full TTL functions (both the auto and manual).

The light emitted from the best budget flash for Sony A7iii hence passed through the camera lens once it is measured finally delivered in a controlled way to give the user a perfect and smooth moment capture.

Additionally, it features both the Multi-flash (continuously records the motion) and the Manual Flash (Output controlling up to 8 levels).

High-Speed Sync

If you want your flash to have an HSS function, let me know that the Neewer flash is capable of giving it up to 1/8000s by sync within the 1st and 2nd curtain very efficiently. It is an excellent flash for all Sony series and particularly the best flash for Sony a7riii & A7iii.

Long-Distance Wireless Communication

A 2.4G Ultra-long-distance Wireless Remote controlling system is working in-built in this flash for the wireless transmission purpose. If you want a dedicated remote control to control the TTL function and to control the flash trigger, you have to purchase one N1S remote and one FT-16S remote additionally separately.

Moreover, these flashes featuring some other services as well. Some of them are AF Assist Beam, Custom Function Setting, and Over Temperature Protection, etc.

Summary: Neewer GN60 is the best budget flash for Sony A7iii which also incorporates numerous advanced features like HSS, TTL, wireless communication. If you’re looking for an affordable flashing device, the might be a good option.

👍 Pros:

  • New mi Hot Shoe.
  • Supports optical transmission
  • Wireless Control Port.
  • 5mm Sync Line.
  • Overheat protection

👎 Cons:

  • Flash head is stiff to rotate sometimes.
  • The transmitter is not included.

3. Best Value for Money: Godox Ving V860II-S Camera Flash for Sony A7RII

Godox Ving V860II-S

Key Features:

  • Flash Duration: 1/300s to 1/20000s
  • Recycle Time: <1.5 seconds
  • Wireless Functions: Master, Slave
  • Zoom Range: 20 to 200mm
  • Swivel Head: 180 degrees both L and R
  • Exposure: TTL & Manual

Check Price On Amazon

The Godox Ving V860II-S external flash is full with so many updated features and technology for Sony camera users.

Master & Slave Unit

When working as a Master Unit, Godox V860II can control the TTL/Multi/Off Flash mode. Same way, when working for another master unit, it can work as a slave unit for the X1T/X2T/XPRO trigger/Other Godox Flashes as well.

Stroboscopo Flash

Even in a high-speed shutter, it can cover any moment reducing the light at a larger Aperture as well. As a Stroboscope Flash; its patchwork lets the image bring a dozen overlapping onto it.

Front/ Rear Curtain Sync

The Front/Rear Curtain Sync is featuring in this flash, offer the user to enjoy a Trailing Smear Effect of their image creatively.

Adjustable Angle

Vertically this flash can adjust at a -7 to 120 whereas at the horizontal position it can fit within 0° to 330° range.

The speedlite also features a built-in 2.4Hz Wireless Radio System. This radio system has a coverage range of 328° with a remarkable ability to work with 32 channels.

Godox Ving V860 can give all support to all TTL functions (Including both the manual and auto flash TTL). The maximum recycles time of this flash is 1.5seconds with a 650 full power snaps.

The Guide Number 197 at ISO 100 and 200mm included here will ensure that you will get a perfect illumination at your targeted subject.

Summary: Godox Ving V860II-S is a very popular model of the renowned flash maker. It can be used as both master and slave units which is a big advantage for photographers.

👍 Pros:

  • Micro-USB port.
  • 5mm Sync port.
  • Flash head with full bounce.
  • 1/8000s High-Speed Sync
  • Multipurpose Buttons

👎 Cons:

  • The attached shoe is made from plastic.

4. Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control

Sony External Flash with Wireless Radio Control

Key Features:

  • Flash Duration: 2.8 ms
  • Recycle Time: 0.1-1.7 Seconds
  • Zoom Range: 20 to 200mm
  • Swivel Head: 180 degrees both L and R
  • Exposure: Auto and Manual

Check Price On Amazon

When you need a lighting system to keep up continuously with the cameras Shooting Multiple fps, a Sony external Flash is then very workable due to its high-end studio lighting capacity.

Wireless Flash Commander or Receiver

The speedy high performance of this HVL60RM can effectively go with both A7 III and A7R III to give a 10fps smoothly. You can operate this external flash as an exclusive commander or receivers using a Wireless Flash Commander incorporate along with it.

Easy Maneuverability

The Head Spin and tilt even can work downward or upward to successfully emit light and to remove any unwanted shadow. If you compare the intensity of this external light, an indoor photo is bound to defeat a flash photo taken with this flash. While you need it, you can comfortably rotate this flash head for any of your Landscape or Portrait photos.

Sony External Flash can meter any overexposes of your captured photo, thereby can low the power you need then. The memory setting of this HVL-F60 offers the user a quick recall of the set-up used a while ago.

Quick Recycle Time

It also has a quick recycling time of 1.7 seconds (single-frame shooting), 0.6 seconds (with an external FA-EBA1 battery pack).

The package content of this product comes with one connector protect cap, Mini-stand, Case, Bounce Adapter, Color filter, and a carrying pouch.

Summary: Sony HVLF60RM is a flagship flash from Sony which has to take more of a traditional approach to design. The decent GN lets the device light up the area effortlessly. The integrated radio control and heat control are big advantages of the flash. This is a professional-grade speedlite and is recommended if you need the flash frequently.

👍 Pros:

  • Dust & moist Resistant.
  • Wireless TTL control.
  • Eligible for all skill levels.
  • A metal shoe is included.
  • Built-in heat resistance.

👎 Cons:

  • A real port for Radio triggers is not included.

5. Godox V1-S Round Head Camera Speedlite Flash for Sony

Godox V1-S Round Head Camera Speedlite Flash for Sony

Key Features:

  • Flash Duration: 1/300 to 1/20000 Second
  • Recycle Time: 1.5 Seconds
  • Zoom Range: 28 to 105mm
  • Tilts: 7 to 120°, Rotates 330°
  • Flash Modes: Hi-Speed Sync, Second-Curtain Sync
  • Exposure: TTL Auto Flash, Manual Flash.

Check Price On Amazon

It is a speed light camera flash with a Zoomable head inbuilt with it the device. The Godox V1-S Round flash for your budget lens for Sony a7iiicamera, simply delivers an all-in-one function with exclusive compatibility.

Round Head

The major selling point of the Godox V1 is its round head. This is more of a traditional rectangular Fresnel head. Its advantage is that the improved lighting pattern without any hot spot in the middle.

The built-in 2.4G wireless X system presents into this external flash system to progress the lighting system in an adjustable way up to 100 meters transmission distance.

It is compatible with the modeling lamp from one to ten steps. Using this flash system enables us to enjoy an excellent light effect distributing from the center to the edge in a smoother and eventual way.

Battery Life

A Powerful and rechargeable lithium-ion battery is included with this device which can deliver 7.2/2600mAh power for a more exclusive shooting activity with your Sony Camera.

The charge is given with the included Type-C charger. I liked the LED which turns red and green to indicate charging and finished states respectively.

It has a maximum recycle time of up to 1.5secons along with 480 Full power snaps.

The horizontal angle adjustment for this product is 0° to 330° and -7° to 120° for vertical; with this angle range a stable Color Temperature Mode you can enjoy to improve the shooting performance even in a bounce flash as well.

It is featuring the TCM functions by which the user can click for the manual power reading even when it is operating the TTL mode.

Summary: Godox V1-S comes with some improvements over V860II which makes it worthy for many to purchase. It might not be the best speedlite around but simply works great in case of usability and reliability.

👍 Pros:

  • 76 w/s of power.
  • 120-Degree head rotation.
  • Applicable for modeling lighting.
  • Lithium-Ion Battery.

👎 Cons:

  • Wireless transmitter is sold separately.

6. GODOX AD200Pro500 Full Power Pocket Flash

GODOX AD200Pro Pocket Flash

Key Features:

  • Flash Duration: 1/15,380 sec
  • Recycle Time: 0.01 to 2.1 seconds
  • HSS: 1/8000
  • Transmission Range: 100m (Approx.)
  • Exposure: Manual/TTL/Multi

Check Price On Amazon

AD200Pro Pocket Flash from Godox comes with a standard flash head and a bulb head that allow you to shoot with two different types of light. The new generation speedlite offers lots of enhancement over its predecessor.

Built-In 2.4 GHz Wireless X System

Featuring a built-in wireless transmitter and receiver, Godox AD200Pro supports TTL of other cameras as well other than Sony A7riii and A7iii cameras.

Additionally, incorporating the Master & Slave function, it can be used in combination with Godox TTL Camera Flashes, TTL Outdoor Flashes, etc.

Lightweight & Portable

Godox AD200Pro weighs only 590g without battery and flash head which is very comfortable to carry in your pocket.

Moreover, the use of this device is pretty straightforward. There’s a wide range of functions such as channel triggering, group selection, HSS can be easily controlled by the buttons of the large AV panel.

The LCD shows the status of different remote strobes which allows you to control the lighting groups.

Stable Color Temperature

This is the most mentionable upgrade of the speedlite over the earlier models. This mode allows the flash to increase its color consistency within the range of 5600±100K across the entire power range.

AD200 pro offers a rechargeable 14.4V / 2900mAh battery pack which is capable of 500 full power flashes with 0.01 to 2.1-second recycling.

Summary: AD200Pro Pocket Flash is a good option for both professionals and beginners having the capability to provide flash power at both indoor and outdoor shoots. The optional flash head extension secures the body to the stand and mounts the extension head as required. It helps to protect the flash even if the stand falls. Overall, the speedlite is highly recommended.

👍 Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Wireless remote control and triggering
  • Different flash heads for different light effects
  • High-performance lithium battery
  • Stable color temperature

👎 Cons:

  • Tends to overheat while shooting in HSS

7. Godox Xpro-S for Sony TTL Wireless Flash Trigger

 Godox Xpro-S for Sony TTL Wireless Flash Trigger

Key Features:

  • HSS: 1/8000
  • Transmission Range: 100m
  • Exposure: Manual/TTL/Multi

Check Price On Amazon

Godox is one of the most well-recognized camera accessory manufacturers and no wonder there’re several products on my list. Godox Xpro-S is another high-quality flash for Sony A7iii cameras.

Strong Built

Godox XPro-S comes with a great build quality given the price range. Very often you get poor-quality plastic-made flashes at a budget range. Alternatively, this plastic-made XPro-S has a clear improvement over the X1 model in case of build quality.

Ergonomic Design

Godox comes with an ergonomic design and menu system for the XPro trigger. Most of the functions are accessed by the main buttons so your forehead doesn’t need to be adjusted when you look through the viewfinder.

Additional Features

Along with the manual and TTL controls, other settings including Stroboscopic flash and second-curtain sync are also available.

You can adjust the flash level from -3 to +3 EV and wirelessly control the light, zoom setting, and more.

To support other camera systems, there’s a 2.5mm sync port to support triggering through a wired connection. Also, there’s a Type-C port available to install updates even though the cable isn’t included with the package.

Summary: The Godox XPro-S is a great improvement over the X1 model while the price tag hasn’t changed much. It seems that the company evaluates the reviews seriously. This Godox flash for Sony is certainly a good choice for

👍 Pros:

  • Decent build quality
  • Ergonomic design
  • High-speed sync
  • Remote power control for select flashes
  • Backlit LED panel

👎 Cons:

  • Soft case not included
  • Doesn’t carry Type-C cable

Buying Guideline for Best Flash for Sony A7riii & A7iii:

Well, before I start with the detailed product review let me discuss some of the considerations which you need to follow with your full concentration. If you want to own the best flash for Sony 7riii camera, there’s no alternative to following the below-listed things.

Power

GN number is the expression of the power of the flash paired with your camera. See the GN value before you are selecting any Flash for your Sony A7riii camera. Generally, the GN number of 36m/157 ft. (at ISO 100) is compatible with all Sony A-series cameras.

The higher the GN number will be, the brighter the light will fall upon the target. So, choose wisely if you don’t want much light on your subject.

Recycle Rate

The shorter the recycle time, the sooner you can go to take another shot. You need to be strategic here as well. Think about your requirement whether you need a rapid-firing regularly or not. If so, go for the one with fast recycling time.

Durability

You should consider the ruggedness of the flash carefully. The plastic shouldn’t be cheap that breaks easily. Again, if you shoot outdoors mostly, it’d be best if the Speedlite is resistant to dust and water.

Important Flash Features

Search for the excellent TTL metering with Auto Focusing and Auto zooming capacity of your flash. The most third-party flash supplier often does not supply it with proper intensity and range.

An external flash for your Sony camera will need an autofocusing beam included in the flame. This assist beam is going to help you if you intend to capture a moment even at a zero-light setting

Also, do not forget to confirm having the Swivel and Tilt features at your flash.

Temperature Control

See the temperature controlling specifications before buying the flash. If your flame becomes hot, it will be difficult for you to hold it for a long time. Besides, getting hot of your spark indicates perhaps, it will shut down suddenly.

Price

Once you have planned to buy the best flash for Sony A7riii or A7iii camera, concentrate on your budget rather than looking here and there.

Set your budget according to your demand, taste, and desired features at your flash device. A high-tech flash usually costs more than an ordinary one, featuring more available options.

Advanced Flash Features

In all the product reviews I have enlisted in this article, many of them can join with a fixed number of other flash devices without any wire. So, they can perform as a master unit.

They can also run under in other master units, becoming a slave unit wirelessly. They are high-end flash, giving a wireless triggering at your device to intense your Sony A7riii camera.

Customer Feedback

Before purchasing a flash, if you are in a dilemma to choose the best compact flash for Sony A7iii, go through the customer reviews available. You should get a straightforward assumption about the product’s quality and service in this way.

Having an extended period of warranty along with your flash ensures you are going to enjoy a long-lasting product with a quality service.

Frequently Asked Question (FAQs):

Why I need an external flash for my Sony A7iii Camera?

Sony camera doesn’t have any in-built flashing system. And the fact is without the flashing system you cannot capture a good ISO photo against a pop-up snap! An external flash (compatible with your camera, affordable for you) can bring the right lighting solution for your camera efficiently. So, you can go for two types of flash to pairing with your camera. Number one is cheaper with average working. And number two is robust with high performance.

What is the using of a speed light flash?

When you need low lighting for a demand ISO/Aperture/Shutter speed using a speed light flash is the solution in that case.

How can I hold the flash correctly?

There are several options to hold the flash paired with your Sony A7riii. Some of them are- Man handhold. Using a Monopod Boom. Using a Tripod. (both the large & heavy weighing and the smaller with light weighing) A light stand. (Smaller or Larger) A century stands. (An old designed light stand used in the Hollywood Film Studios).

Final Word:

There are several flashes available in the market which seem compatible with Sony A7riii & A7iii camera.

So, you need to be very specific and selective before you go to buy one best external flash for your Sony camera.

I select, organize, and compile the list of the best flash for Sony A7riii camera for you. If you get benefited from this list, my effort will be successful.

Also Read:

About the author

Arif

Hi, it's Arif the publisher of CameraEvents, a positioning and branding website. We Review & Guide through various Camera Tools and Accessories to Create and Capture your Spectacular life Moments