Best Yongnuo Flash for Canon Cameras

When buying the best Yongnuo flash for Canon, you might want to consider its power, control mode, and flexibility. Below, I’ve listed the top five products on the market based on these features. So if you want to learn why they matter, read on!

Canon is world-renowned for its high-quality cameras that can deliver impressive results. However, if you are serious about photography, it pays to invest in accessories, such as an external flash, to achieve professional-quality images.

One of the best flash brands is Yongnuo. It produces several flash units that are reasonably priced yet robust enough. So if you are still hesitant to invest in such camera gear, this manufacturer offers cheap options that you can try.

With that in mind, I came up with this article to walk you through the best Yongnuo flashes for Canon cameras. Each item will include a detailed review, specs, as well as pros and cons to help narrow down your choices.

And if you are curious which features matter to you, a handy buying guide awaits you below.

Finally, there are also brief step-by-step instructions below for those who are clueless about using an external flash.

Without any further ado, let us dive right into our top picks!

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Guide Number: 85.3′ / 26 m at ISO 100
  • Control Modes: Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II, Manual
  • Dimensions: 2.4 x 3.1 x 8.1 inches
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Guide Number: 59.06′ / 18 m at ISO 100
  • Control Modes: Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II, Manual
  • Dimensions: 6.9 x 4.1 x 6.3 inches
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Guide Number: 190.29′ / 58 m at ISO 100
  • Control Modes: Canon E-TTL / E-TTL II, Manual
  • Dimensions: 5.3 x 4.8 x 1.0 inches
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Guide Number: 190.29′ / 58 m at ISO 100
  • Control Modes: Manual
  • Dimensions: 2.4 x 7.5 x 3.1 inches
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Guide Number: 190.29′ / 58 m at ISO 100
  • Control Modes: Manual
  • Dimensions: 2.4 x 7.5 x 3.1 inches
View On Amazon →Read Our Review

5 Best Yongnuo Flashes for Canon Cameras

Below are the best Yongnuo flashes for Canon cameras. Each one offers a powerful light and a recycle speed of approximately three seconds. The former enables you to illuminate a large area, while the latter is handy for shooting fast subjects.

1. Yongnuo YN600EX-RT II ⁠– Editor’s Pick

Yongnuo YN600EX-RT II Wireless Speedlite Flash

Starting off this list is the Yongnuo YN600EX-RT II.

It offers a powerful flash light, owing to the high guide number of 197′ at ISO 100 and 200mm. So whether you need to illuminate a short distance or far away subjects, this external flash for Canon delivers impressive performance.

Plus, there is a zoom range spanning from 20 to 200mm to reach further areas. And if you wish to brighten a broad place, a wide-angle panel for 14mm coverage is also available.

Furthermore, this flash offers three control modes, namely Canon E-TTL or E-TTL II and Manual. The former automatically calculates the amount of light required in a scene. Meanwhile, the latter enables you to adjust the settings manually for complete creative control.

There is even a wireless TTL master and slave functionality. Thus, this external flash can work wirelessly and with other flashguns.

On top of all these benefits, it has a high-powered battery that is capable of a three-second recycle time. Therefore, it can flash power fast enough for action or sports scenes.

Most importantly, some reviews for this product were positive. However, a few users said that the wide-angle panel uses cheap materials, which can easily break. Some also noticed that the flash overheats when used for long periods.

The pros outweigh the cons, though.

For this reason, we deemed the YN600EX-RT II as the best Yongnuo flash for Canon.

Pros:

  • Powerful guide number
  • Three control modes with additional support for multiple trigger modes
  • Flexible and zoomable head
  • Wireless optical or radio remote trigger
  • Firmware upgrade to upgrade the flash

Cons:

  • Wide angle diffuser is made from cheap materials
  • The flash sometimes overheats

2. Yongnuo YN24EX E-TTL ⁠– Runner-Up

Yongnuo YN24EX E-TTL Macro Flash

If you want an automatic flash but also need macro photography capabilities, consider checking out the Yongnuo YN24EX E-TTL

It features a dual flash head that is attached to the front of your lens. It can offer a 90-degree tilt coverage as well as rotation of up to 60 degrees inwards and 30 degrees outwards. Thus, it enables you to control the angle of the light and how it will hit the subject. 

Plus, there is no need to worry about incompatibility. This external flash can fit 52mm, 58mm, 67mm, and 72mm filter threads, suitable for every lens type.

Moreover, the YN24EX- ETTL has a powerful guide number of 85.3′ at ISO 100 and 26m. Therefore, it can illuminate close subjects, such as food, nature, or insects, with ease.

Finally, this flash supports Canon E-TTL and E-TTL II mode. So you do not have to fully adjust the flash output manually.

It is essential to note, though, that it is only available from 1/1 to 1/128 power in 1/3-stop increments. Due to this, it can somehow limit you, especially if you plan to play around with the light. Another con is that there is no master or slave control, which does not allow you to use the flash wirelessly.

Nevertheless, the Yongnuo YN24EX E-TTL is still an excellent flash for its unique design and powerful output.

Pros:

  • Dual flash head design offers versatility
  • Compatible with different filter thread sizes
  • Powerful guide number
  • TTL control automatically calculates light

Cons:

  • Manual control is limited 
  • Wireless master and slave control is not available

3. Yongnuo YN-14EX ⁠– Best for Macro Photography

Yongnuo YN-14EX Macro Ring Flash

If you liked the previous product but did not need a dual flash head design, the Yongnuo YN-14EX might be the right item for you.

It features a similar circular LED ring from the YN24EX that can illuminate small subjects effectively. But unlike that model, this Yongnuo flash does not include another flash head to be attached to the top of your camera.

Instead, the YN-14EX comes with a controller that enables you to adjust the light output conveniently. This controller accepts four AA batteries. When fully charged, it can offer a recycle time of around 3-5 seconds.

Furthermore, this flash has a guide number of 45.9′ at ISO 100 to produce powerful light output. Plus, the twin-tube design of this Yongnuo flash allows you to set the power from low to high contrast as needed. And if that is not yet enough, there are LED lamps for AF assist, ideal for shooting in low-light situations.

Despite all these advantages, it is still essential to know its downsides. First, it only allows i-TTL control, which can significantly limit you if you need manual creative control. Second, some users said that the battery door is flimsy and prone to breaking, so you must be careful when changing batteries.

But considering its other features, we think the Yongnuo YN-14EX is among the best Yongnuo flashes for Canon. It is our top choice for close-up and macro photography.

Pros:

  • Powerful circular LED ideal for macro photography
  • TTL control with AF assist
  • Easy to adjust flash output
  • The package includes adapter rings for various lens filter threads and a carrying bag.

Cons:

  • No manual control
  • Flimsy battery door is prone to breaking

4. Yongnuo YN-560 IV ⁠– Best Manual Flash 

Yongnuo YN-560 IV Speedlite Flash

The Yongnuo YN-560 IV is another excellent flash for Canon worth considering.

It has a guide number of 190′ at ISO 100 and 105mm to ensure powerful light output. With the flexible zoom head ranging from 24 to 105mm, this Yongnuo flash can reach distant subjects up to 328′ away. But if you wish to illuminate an open area, the zoom head has a built-in wide-angle diffuser.

Additionally, this external flash offers total bounce and swivel operation, owing to the 7 to 90-degree tilt and 270-degree rotation. Plus, if you need further flexibility, the YN-560 enables you to adjust power from 1/1 to 1/128 in 1/3 and 1/2 EV steps.

What’s more, the Yongnuo manual flash for Canon supports wireless triggering flash mode. So whether you need to use another flash or two to illuminate a wider area, it allows you to do so. 

Finally, this camera flash accepts both four AA batteries and an optional battery pack to deliver a fast recycle time of around three seconds. It also makes it easier to switch power should the batteries run out.

However, there are still a few cons to this external flash. First, it does not offer automatic iTTL control. Thus, it requires you to set the flash output manually. Second, some users suggest using high-quality batteries because the unit tends to overheat. 

Nevertheless, the Yongnuo YN-560 IV is worth checking out for its manual controls and long reach. We highly recommend it to users who want total control over the flash output.

Pros:

  • Large guide number can illuminate distant areas
  • Manual control with multi-mode for stroboscopic lighting effects
  • Adjustable zoom and swiveling head
  • It runs on AA batteries or an optional battery pack
  • Built-in PC sync for instant connectivity

Cons:

  • No automatic iTTL control
  • External flash tends to overheat when used for extended periods

5. Yongnuo YN560-III ⁠– Best Budget

Yongnuo YN560-III Speedlite Flash

If you are on a budget or are still hesitant in investing in external flashes, consider checking out the Yongnuo YN560-III. At less than $100, it packs powerful features suitable for casual and professional photography.

First, it offers a guide number of 190′ at ISO 100 and 105mm to produce powerful flash output. So whether you need to illuminate a small subject or a distant one, this Yongnuo flashgun can deliver reliable performance.

Additionally, the YN560-III includes a zoomable and swiveling head. It enables you to adjust the range from 18mm to 105mm, ideal for all kinds of photography. At the same time, it allows you to position the flash to almost any angle you want.

Moreover, this Yongnuo flash for Canon has manual control. It is up to you to set the power output from low to high, depending on your needs. Plus, a multi-mode is available for stroboscopic lighting effects.

On top of all these benefits, it supports other Yongnuo wireless transmitters to give you more flexibility. These even let you operate in 16 available channels.

However, before buying this flash, it is essential to know its downsides. For one, some users said that the flash often overheats. There is also no automatic iTTL control, which might overwhelm beginners.

Nevertheless, the Yongnuo YN560-III is still among the best Yongnuo flashes for Canon, especially for its price. It is worth considering if you have a limited budget.

Pros:

  • Powerful flash output is suitable for different kinds of photography
  • Zoomable and swiveling head offers greater flexibility
  • Easy-to-use manual control with multi-mode
  • Cheap external flash

Cons:

  • No automatic iTTL control
  • Some users said the flash often overheats

How to Choose the Best Yongnuo Flash for Canon

When choosing the best Yongnuo flash for Canon, it is easy to get overwhelmed with unfamiliar features and functions.

Fortunately, we will discuss the essential factors you need to consider below. Hopefully, the following information helps you make the right purchasing decision.

Flash Power

The power output is among the first factors to consider when buying a Yongnuo flash for Canon. You must ensure that it can illuminate the area you will point it to. The best way to do this is by checking the guide number (GN) of the flashgun.

In general, the higher the GN of the flash, the brighter the light it produces. So unless you do not want the light to overpower your subject, invest in an external flash unit with a higher GN.

Control Mode

Some Yongnuo flashes offer automatic TTL control, while others only allow manual control. Choosing between two modes will depend on your needs and personal preferences.

TTL metering can automatically measure the required amount of light in the scene. So if you are a beginner, this control mode is more suitable for you.

But if you want more creative control over the lighting, you can consider investing in a manual flash instead. It enables you to adjust the flash output to low or high, depending on the scene.

Flexibility

Canon cameras usually have a built-in flash to illuminate dark areas. However, these units produce light in the same direction and intensity every time.

That is why when shopping for an external flash, it is best to invest in one with a flexible head. Doing so gives you more versatility when shooting photos and videos. For one, it allows you to bounce the light at almost any angle, which delivers a more natural-looking image.

Recycle Rate

This factor determines how long the Yongnuo flash cools down before firing again. The shorter the recycle time, the faster you can power up the unit again.

The recycle rate is essential for action and sports photographers, who often take burst images. However, if you do not need to capture fast-moving subjects, this feature might not be that important.

Durability

If you plan to shoot outdoors or in harsh conditions, it is best to shop for a durable Yongnuo flash. Check the material used in the unit. If possible, avoid cheap plastic ones as they tend to be flimsy and break down easily.

How to Use Yongnuo Flash?

If it is your first time buying and using a Yongnuo flash or any external flash, you are probably overwhelmed about getting the best lighting from this unit.

Fortunately, we will walk you through the basic ways on how to use a Yongnuo flash. Hopefully, by the end of this section, you can confidently operate it to any shoot.

Load the Batteries

The Yongnuo flash cannot run without batteries. So the first thing you must do is to load these inside the compartment.

In general, Yongnuo flashes are compatible with AA batteries. Some units also accept a separate battery pack. But to make sure, it is always best to check the manual.

Set Up the Controller

Once you inserted the battery inside the compartment, it is time to pair your Yongnuo flash with the included controller.

You can do this by pressing the Hz/FN button and selecting the mode you want to use. Scroll through the modes using the left and right buttons. Then press the select/change button to choose the right setting for your needs. 

Mount the Speedlight

After that, attach the external flash to the hot shoe located at the top of your Canon camera. The metal bottom part of the Yongnuo flash should sit comfortably in the hot shoe of your camera. Then, secure the flash by turning the small plastic wheel until you feel it is now tightened securely. 

Adjust the Flash Settings

Now that you are confident that the Yongnuo flash for Canon is secure to your camera, you can familiarize yourself with the buttons. Once done, you can now adjust the power output and other flash settings.

Below are the basic buttons you can find in a Yongnuo flash unit.

  • Backlight/Sound – This button allows you to turn on or off the LCD backlight. It can also restart the unit when you long-press it. It will then produce a brief beep sound to notify that the external flash is ready to fire.
  • Mode (M or Multi) – This button enables you to select the modes between Manual, Multi, or Off when using the TX and RX modes.
  • Trigger Mode Toggle – This is another way to choose between the different modes.
  • Flash Head Zoom – This button can adjust the zoom of the flash when using any mode except the TX mode.
  • Pilot/Test – It displays a red light when the flash light is ready to fire.
  • Signal Indicator – It blinks blue when the flash unit receives a signal.
  • Power On/Off – Click this button to turn on or off the flash. You can also press it for a longer time to wake the flash up from sleep mode after a 2 second pause.
  • Set/Selection controls – These allow you to move up, down, left, and right. The center button acts as the “OK” control to select your chosen setting.

Fire the Flash Unit

If you already know the buttons, you are all set to use the external flash to illuminate the scene. 

It is best to position the unit at an angle instead of facing it directly towards the subject. This way, you can ensure that the light does not overpower the scene. Instead, it will look soft and natural, ideal for portraits and general photography.

Conclusion

There you have it—the best Yongnuo flashes for Canon camera owners! Each product offers powerful light output to help you shoot in low-light situations.
But if you are looking for the overall best, we suggest getting the Yongnuo YN600EX-RT II. It has a powerful guide number that is capable of illuminating near and distant subjects. Additionally, it enables you to switch between three control modes with support for wireless triggering. Plus, there is a swiveling and zoom head to give you further control over the lighting.