Recommend a high-quality external flash for Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras.

Question

I’ve recently switched to a Nikon Z6II and need a high-quality external flash for wedding receptions. I’m looking for something with reliable TTL and fast recycle times. I'm debating between the Nikon SB-5000 and the Godox V1. Does anyone have experience with how these balance on the mirrorless bodies? What’s your go-to flash for the Z series?

ZenZacharie · Accepted Answer

Honestly, I’m still pretty new to the whole flash game, but I’ve been using the Godox V1-N on my Z6II and it’s been a total game changer. Like, the recycle time is sooo fast because of that lithium battery - way better than messing with a bunch of AAs in the Nikon SB-5000. But the V1 is definitely a bit chunky on the mirrorless bodies. It basically makes the whole setup feel a little top-heavy since the Z6II is so slim - though you get used to it pretty quick. One thing I noticed is that the Nikon SB-5000 has that fancy internal cooling system, which is supposed to be great for burst shooting, but does it really matter if you aren't firing like a machine gun? I haven't had the V1 overheat on me yet, and the light from the round head is reallyyy smooth. I'm still wondering if the Nikon TTL is actually more accurate though, because sometimes my Godox feels just a tiny bit off? Definitely go for something with a Li-ion battery if you can!

CockyMors · Answer

Just saw this pop up. I spent over a decade lugging around the old SB-910s for wedding work before finally making the leap to the Z series. To add to the point above: the weight distribution is definitely different on mirrorless. When I first got my Z6II, I picked up a Nikon SB-5000 AF Speedlight thinking native was the only way to go for professional reliability. It works well and the radio control is rock solid, but I eventually got tired of the AA battery life. My journey eventually led me to the Godox ecosystem, and I havent looked back since.

The Godox V1-N Flash for Nikon has a much more pleasing light falloff thanks to that round head.

If you find the V1 too bulky, the Godox V860III-N Flash for Nikon uses the same Li-ion battery but has a traditional shape that feels slightly more balanced.

The Godox XProII-N TTL Wireless Flash Trigger is a must-have if you want to take that flash off-camera during the reception. Honestly, I am very satisfied with the V1 these days. The slight top-heaviness is a fair trade for never having to swap batteries in the middle of a ceremony... that recycle time is just too good to ignore.