Hey everyone! I'm finally ready to upgrade my flash setup and planning to take advantage of the Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales. Really interested in Canon Speedlites, particularly the 600EX series or maybe the newer 430EX models. Has anyone spotted any early deals or know which retailers typically offer the best discounts on Canon flash equipment? Also wondering if it's worth waiting until Cyber Monday or if Black Friday usually has better photography gear deals?
All Canon Flash deals now live at Amazon: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=Canon+Flash&BI=8941&KBID=10361&SID=12345&DFF=d50
My buddy told me the exact same thing last week. Guess he was right lol.
Bump - same question here
Same boat, watching this
Hey! Canon's seasonal rebates are historically the best of the year at 10-30% off, and early deals are often close to final Black Friday numbers - so honestly don't wait! I scored my 600EX II last year for around $400 during early deals. B&H Photo, Adorama, Amazon, and Best Buy are your best bets!
Hey! I'd actually suggest looking at this from a different angle - the value comparison between those specific models you mentioned.
Honestly, the 600EX vs 430EX decision is where you really need to be careful about what you actually need. The 430EX III-RT goes for around $150 refurbished, while the 600EX II-RT hits $300 refurbished - that's double the cost. The 600EX gives you more power (guide number 60 vs 43), weather sealing, and better radio control, but honestly? For most folks, the 430EX III-RT delivers 90% of the performance at half the price.
IMO, I'd also consider checking out Amazon, B&H, and Adorama as your main retailers - they typically match each other's prices and have solid return policies. eBay's got tons of used options too if you're comfortable going that route.
That said, make sure to factor in long-term costs - you'll want extra batteries, a good diffuser, and maybe a flash bracket. Those accessories can easily add another $100-150 to your total.
Based on my experience, unless you're doing professional work or need the weather sealing, the 430EX III-RT is honestly the sweet spot for value. Hope this helps!
Hey! Coming from a budget perspective here - honestly, I'd suggest looking at this differently than just timing and specific models. I actually saved about 40% on my flash setup by going the refurbished route through Canon's own refurb store during their Black Friday drops, though stock is volatile and early-bird BF refurb drops sell out in minutes.
Option A: New 600EX at full Black Friday price vs Option B: Refurb 600EX at deeper discount vs Option C: Consider older 580EX models that still perform great but cost way less. Bundles usually offer the best overall value, especially those that include official Canon batteries, memory cards.
Pros: Refurb gives you Canon warranty at serious savings. Cons: Limited stock, site can glitch during sales. Best choice? Set up price alerts now on CamelCamelCamel for your target models and check Canon refurb daily from late October. That way you're covered whether you find a killer early deal or need to wait for the main event!
Hey! I think there's one angle that hasn't been covered yet - the safety side of buying flash equipment during these big sales. I've been burned before (literally almost!) so I wanted to share what I learned.
Honestly, Canon has confirmed that there are counterfeit Speedlite 600EX-RT flash products in circulation in the market, and these products are being sold through various online marketplace websites. What really scared me was reading that if you use counterfeit batteries, chargers, camera grips, camera remotes, adapters or external flashes, there's a real risk you might hurt yourself or damage your camera, accessories or other property.
From my experience, I'd suggest sticking to Canon direct, B&H Photo, Adorama, Amazon, Best Buy for your flash purchases, especially during sales when counterfeit sellers get more aggressive. The money you save isn't worth the potential safety risks or losing your warranty coverage.
I know it's tempting when you see those "too good to be true" prices, but honestly, I'd rather pay a bit more and sleep well knowing my gear is genuine. Have you considered checking if the seller is a Canon authorized dealer? That's been my go-to safety check lately.