The company that in the last decade has given established lighting brands a run for their money, has launched a new entry-level speedlight – the Godox TT520III. With a 16-channel wireless receiver built into it, an adjustable flash head with an integrated diffuser, and the capability to use Godox’s magnetic accessories and more, it might just be the perfect product for those seeking to take their first steps in flash photography.
I find that Godox has steadily climbed its way up to become the brand of choice for lighting accessories these days. Until about three years ago, I observed budget-conscious photographers opting for Godox products, owing to their low price point and ability to consistently deliver results. Lately, I have found that even professional photographers, enamored by their product lineup and quality of goods, are opting for Godox over other pricier but time-tested brands. Here in the USA, they are rebranded as Flashpoint, a brand you would have spotted on Adorama often.
The latest entry into their speedlight series is the Godox TT520III. This very light, entry-level flash should help people averse to flash photography try and take a leap into this amazing genre (natural light photographers, we’re looking at you). The new model is the updated edition of their TT520II model which was released sometime in the last decade. So, does the Godox TT520III have all the requisite bells and whistles that a new photographer to flash photography would need? Let’s look at the three main features.
Precise Power Control
Unlike its predecessor, the Godox TT520III can increase or decrease flash power (from 1/128 to 1/1) in fine 1/3 stops. This gives you a more precise way of adjusting your flash power, a feature often found in more premium speedlight models.
Adjustable Flash Head With Accessory Compatibility
Aside from the fact that this flash can adjusts horizontally from 0° to 330° and vertically from –7° to 120°, the head is also compatible with a range of accessories from Godox and beyond. You can attach any of the Godox AK-R1 magnetic accessories directly to the head of the Godox TT520III, but the good news doesn’t stop there. This model can also use the optional Godox S/S2 flash bracket.
This allows you to attach any Bowens-mount modifier—softboxes, reflectors, snoots – enabling you to experiment with and create endless lighting effects.
Built-in Wireless Capability
If you want to experiment with off-camera flash using this speedlight, you’re in for a treat. The TT520III speedlight has an integrated 16-channel 433MHz receiver, so you won’t need a separate receiver to trigger it remotely.
Other important features of the Godox TT520III speedlight are:
- Compatibility with Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, Olympus, and more
- Godox says it’s powered by 4 AA NiMH batteries, although I’m fairly certain you can use non-rechargeable ones too
- The PB960 power box (sold separately) can be used to shorten recycle times and increase flash counts.
- Guide Number of 33(ISO 100, in meters)
- Up to 400 full-power flashes on NiMH batteries with a recycle time of about 1.8 seconds
- Flash duration spans from 1/510 to 1/31000 seconds
Technical Specs
Speedlight:
| Model | TT520III |
| GN | Approx. 33 (ISO 100, in meters) |
| Photocell | S1/S2 |
| Vertically Rotatable Flash Angle | -7°~120° |
| Horizontally Rotatable Flash Angle | 0°~330° |
| Battery | Four AA NIMH batteries (recommended)/LR6 alkaline batteries |
| Flash Duration (t0.1) | 1/510s~1/31000s |
| Time of Flashes (1/1 step) | Approx. 400 ( NIMH batteries) |
| Recycle Time (1/1 step) | Approx. 1.8s( NIMH batteries) |
| Channel | 16 groups |
| Wireless Frequency | 433MHz |
| Wireless Transmission Distance (Max.) | Approx. 15m |
| Dimension | 7.17″×2.91″×2.83″ |
| Net Weight | Approx. 304g |
RT Transmitter (included in the box)
| Model | RT-16 |
| Power Source | 23A(12V )Li-ion battery |
| Wireless Transmission Distance (Max.) | Approx. 20m(indoor)/Approx. 30m (outdoor) |
| Wireless Frequency | 433MHz |
| Dimension | 2.36″×1.65″×1.18″ |
| Net Weight | Approx. 31g |
Who Is The Godox TT520III speedlight for?
Godox is targeting amateur photographers, especially those with limited to no knowledge about flashes and speedlights. By keeping it cost-effective, they hope to entice those still shy about using flash photography to create beautiful images and take a leap into this genre without worrying about burning too much money. If you’re just starting out and looking to try to balance ambient and artificial light in your photos, the TT520III looks like a very affordable but capable option.
Images used in this article were provided for use by our Godox reps.
