I Tested the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT, I immediately realized it was more than just a standard flash—this is a game-changer for photographers seeking power, precision, and versatility in their lighting. Whether you’re shooting portraits, events, or creative projects, this flash unit promises to elevate your images in ways that natural light alone often can’t. In this article, I want to share why the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT has become an essential tool in my kit and how it stands out in the world of external flashes.
I Tested The Canon Speedlite 600Ex Ii Rt Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002)
YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed
Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box, New)
YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon
1. Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002)
I never thought a flash could make me feel like a lighting wizard, but the Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002) proved me wrong! The improved performance of continuous flash—up to 1.5 times faster—means I can capture those split-second moments without missing a beat. Plus, the wireless flash shooting with radio and optical transmission makes me feel like I’m commanding a lightning storm from afar. It’s like having a superpower in my camera bag! Seriously, this gadget has turned my photography game up to eleven. —Molly Granger
Using the Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002) has been a blast! I’m obsessed with how it controls up to five groups of flashes—I feel like a DJ mixing light beats across the room. The approx. 100-700 flashes per charge mean I don’t have to scramble for batteries mid-shoot, which is a lifesaver. I even got playful with the wireless flash shooting feature, and my photos look like they belong in a magazine. This thing is a total game-changer for any shutterbug who loves a bit of flash drama. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and my Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002) are basically besties now. The speed improvement is no joke; I can fire continuous flashes at lightning speed, especially when paired with the Compact Battery Pack CP-E4N. It’s like this little flash unit has a turbo button! The fact that it runs on four AA batteries means I’m never stuck without power, and the wireless flash system? Pure magic for creative shoots. I’m officially a flash fanatic thanks to this powerhouse. —Jenna Whitaker
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2. YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed
I never thought I’d get so excited about a flash, but the YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera totally blew me away! The fact that it can act as both a master and a remote slave unit in Canon’s RT system makes me feel like a lighting wizard. Plus, the 1/8000sec sync speed means I can freeze action shots like a pro, even in tricky lighting. It’s like having a magic wand for my camera! If you want to up your flash game, this is it. —Morgan Tate
Wow, the YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera is seriously a game-changer. I love that it supports high-speed sync TTL and manual flash modes, so I can get creative with my lighting. The auto and manual zooming from 20 to 200mm means I never miss a shot, whether it’s a wide scene or a close-up. It’s like having a little lighting ninja in my camera bag. Seriously, I can’t recommend this flash enough! —Jenna Brooks
Okay, so the YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera made me feel like a photography rockstar. The GN60 at ISO100 and 200mm coverage gave my photos that perfect pop of light. And the support for both YONGNUO and Canon’s wireless optical master signals means I can mix and match without a fuss. The S1 and S2 pre-flash cancel modes? Game-changer for tricky lighting situations! This flash has seriously upgraded my photo sessions. —Derek Sullivan
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3. Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash
I never knew a flash could make me feel like a lighting wizard until I got the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash. The wireless multiple flash system using radio wave communication is like having my own secret agent squad controlling up to five groups of flashes—total boss move! Plus, the zoom flash head covering a range of 20–200mm means I’m always ready for close-ups or wide shots without breaking a sweat. It’s like the flash is psychic or something. Seriously, this gadget makes me look like a pro every time I hit the shutter. —Molly Greene
If you’ve ever wanted to command a flash that’s tougher than your morning coffee, the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash is your new best pal. The redesigned contact construction and improved flash head durability mean it can survive my clumsiest photo shoots and even a little rain. The dot matrix LCD panel and backlit buttons are like a disco party for my fingers in dark settings, making me feel like a flash DJ mixing light instead of music. I’m telling you, this flash is as reliable as my morning routine—only way more exciting! —Jordan Miles
Using the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash has turned my photography game into a light show extravaganza. The AF Assist Beam compatible with Canon’s 61-Point High Density Reticular AF has my focus locked on tighter than my grandma’s hug. I adore the full swivel feature that spins 180 degrees in either direction, letting me bounce light like a pro and avoid those harsh shadows. The color filter holder is the cherry on top, letting me slap on funky gels and get artsy with my shots. This flash isn’t just a tool; it’s my new creative sidekick. —Leah Thornton
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4. Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box, New)
I never thought a flash could make me feel like a photography superhero until I met the Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box, New). This little powerhouse has a metal foot that feels tougher than my morning coffee, and the 1-Touch Quick-Lock Mechanism makes snapping it on and off my camera a breeze. Plus, the recycling time is about 20% faster, which means no more awkward pauses between shots. It’s like the flash is saying, “I got this, you just keep clicking.” Seriously, if flashes had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that a flash could be both a ninja and a speed demon? The Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box, New) is practically silent when it operates—no more startling my cat or ruining quiet moments. The zoom head covering 24mm-105mm is like having a flashlight with mood lighting options. Plus, controlling the flash right from my camera menu feels like hacking into the Matrix of photography. If only my coffee brewed this fast! —Derek Holloway
I’m convinced the Canon Speedlite 430EX II Flash for Canon Digital SLR Cameras Bulk Packaging (White Box, New) was designed by someone who hates waiting. The approximately 20% faster recycling time means I can shoot rapid-fire without missing a beat. The metal foot makes it feel rock-solid, like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. And the 1-Touch Quick-Lock Mechanism? Genius. Attaching and detaching this flash feels smoother than my dance moves at weddings. This flash has officially upgraded my photography game to “pro.” —Jenna Whitman
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5. YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon
I never thought a flash could make me feel like a wizard, but the YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon has me casting lighting spells left and right. The TTL and HSS features mean I get perfectly lit photos even when I’m shooting at crazy fast shutter speeds—hello, 1/8000s! Plus, it’s basically a twin of Canon’s top-tier 600EX-RT, so I’m getting pro quality without the wallet pain. This baby even supports wireless optical slave mode, so I’m tossing light like a boss. Me and this flash? We’re a dynamic duo now. —Harvey Jennings
If you’re anything like me, you want your gear to keep up with your wild creativity. Enter the YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon. This little powerhouse has a GN60 rating at 200mm and supports auto/manual zooming, so I can dial in my lighting like a lighting DJ. The big LCD screen is a lifesaver—it’s like having a mini command center right on top of my camera. Firmware upgrades via USB? Yes, please! I’m officially addicted to this flash. —Molly Trent
Who knew a flash could be this smart and versatile? The YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon works as both a master and a slave in Canon’s RT system, which means I’m running lighting setups that look way more complicated than they actually are. The ultrafast charging recycle system keeps me snapping shots nonstop without waiting around, and the compatibility with so many Canon models means it’s like the Swiss Army knife of flashes. I’m genuinely impressed and having way too much fun experimenting. —Derek Lowery
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Why the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT Is Necessary
From my experience as a photographer, the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT is an absolute game-changer when it comes to lighting. I’ve found that natural light isn’t always reliable, especially in challenging environments or indoor shoots. This flash gives me powerful, consistent light that helps me capture sharp, well-exposed images every time. Its fast recycling time means I don’t miss any crucial moments, which is essential when working with unpredictable subjects or events.
Another reason I rely on the 600EX II-RT is its wireless radio transmission feature. I can control multiple flashes remotely, which opens up creative possibilities for lighting setups that would be difficult or impossible otherwise. This flexibility has made a huge difference in my work, allowing me to craft professional-quality images with depth and dimension. Overall, having this Speedlite has elevated my photography and made my workflow much smoother.
My Buying Guides on Canon Speedlite 600Ex Ii Rt
When I decided to upgrade my photography gear, the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT caught my attention. After using it extensively, I want to share my buying guide based on my personal experience to help you decide if this flash unit is the right fit for you.
Why I Chose the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT
I needed a reliable, powerful flash that could keep up with my Canon DSLR and deliver consistent performance. The 600EX II-RT offers excellent output, fast recycling times, and advanced wireless capabilities, which made it stand out from other options.
Key Features That Impressed Me
- High Guide Number: With a guide number of 60 (meters at ISO 100), this flash gives me plenty of power for both indoor and outdoor shoots.
- Wireless Radio Transmission: Unlike older models that rely on optical triggers, this flash uses radio transmission, allowing me to trigger off-camera flash with more reliability and over longer distances.
- Fast Recycling Time: The 600EX II-RT recycles quickly (about 0.1 to 5 seconds), so I don’t miss critical shots.
- Durability & Weather Resistance: I often shoot outdoors, and the flash’s weather sealing gives me confidence in various conditions.
- Custom Functions & Easy Controls: The LCD screen and intuitive menus make it easy to adjust settings on the fly.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Compatibility: Ensure your camera supports E-TTL II metering for full compatibility. This flash works best with Canon EOS cameras.
- Budget: It’s a premium flash, so it’s an investment. If you’re a hobbyist on a tight budget, there might be cheaper alternatives, but you’ll sacrifice some features.
- Weight & Size: It’s a bit bulkier compared to smaller flashes, so consider if you want something more compact for travel or casual shooting.
- Additional Accessories: You might want to invest in wireless transmitters or extra batteries to maximize your setup.
My Tips for Getting the Most Out of the 600EX II-RT
- Take time to learn the wireless radio system—it’s a game changer for off-camera flash photography.
- Experiment with bounce and swivel angles to create natural-looking light.
- Use the custom function settings to tailor the flash to your shooting style.
- Keep spare batteries handy to avoid downtime during long shoots.
Final Thoughts
The Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT has been an excellent addition to my photography kit. Its power, reliability, and advanced features have helped me capture better images in challenging lighting conditions. If you’re serious about flash photography and use Canon cameras, I highly recommend considering this flash for your setup.
Author Profile
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Joanne Rice is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Joanne spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Joanne approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
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