Due to an increase in demand, most cameras currently come with built-in flashes, which generally get favorable reviews. However, for individuals looking to achieve improved exposure and superior lighting quality, investing in an external flash might be beneficial.
If you currently own a Sony A7RII or are looking to purchase one, this six-best flash for the Sony A7RII review would be a great place to start.
- Manufacturer: Sony
- Dimensions:25 x 3.75 x 8.25 inches
- Weight:4 lbs.
- Guide Number: 60 (105mm lens at ISO 100)
- LCD Display: Yes
- Manufacturer: Neewer
- Dimensions:11 x 4.41 x 2.4 inches
- Weight:95 lbs.
- LCD Display: No
- Color Temperature: 5600K
- Dimensions:25 x 3.75 x 8.25 inches
- Weight:4 lbs.
- LCD Display: Yes
- Color Temperature: 5600K
- Flash Mode: M/MULTI/S1/S2
Do You Need Flash For Sony A7III?
The Sony A7III is an excellent camera with tons to offer. However, if you want to achieve quality and a more professional tone in your work, you will need all the help you can get with an external flash.
So, our answer is yes – you need a flash for Sony A7III. And lucky for you, we’ve rounded up the best external flashes for A7RII and A7III, so you won’t have to spend much time finding them.
Comparison Chart:
| Best Flash for Sony A7RII | Brand | Dimensions | Color | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony HVLF60M Flash | Sony | 25 x 3.75 x 8.25 inches | Black | 4 lbs. |
| Neewer NW320 Mini Flash | Neewer | 11 x 4.41 x 2.4 inches | Black | 95 lbs. |
| YONGNUO YN560-III Speedlite Flash | YONGNUO | 25 x 3.75 x 8.25 inches | Black | 4 lbs. |
| Sony HVLF43M High Power Flash | Sony | 8 x 9.3 x 9.3 inches | Black | 1 lb. |
| Godox V860II-S Kit HSS Flash | Godox | 27 x 9.06 x 3.15 inches | Black | 2 lbs. |
| Sony HVL-F45RM Flash | Sony | 38 x 4.5 x 3.5 inches | Black | 7 lbs. |
6 Best Flash for Sony A7RII in 2022
1. Sony HVLF60M Flash – Best for Advanced Photographers
The Sony HVLF60M Flash comes with sophisticated features that make it an excellent choice for advanced photographers. You can also use an adapter to use the flash with older or legacy Sony cameras.
It has a bouncing light feature that gives you control over the light and allows you to take multiple photos at different angles. Moreover, the quick shift bounce function means you can quickly shift the camera between portrait and landscape positions while maintaining light consistency.
Additionally, the HVLF60M’s interface is quick to navigate, thus making it easy to operate. It features two ports on the right to connect an external battery and lets you use it as an off-camera flash.
Furthermore, the in-built white panel increases your shooting range. It also comes with a bouncing sheet to direct light and a light diffuser to offer shadowless and balanced light effects. Moreover, you can attach a color conversion at the front to match the color balances of the film and light source.
You can also use the wireless ratio control to manage a group of flashes via this unit. You get 350 to 400 flashes per charge and can shoot a 40-minute video at full power.
If you are a videographer, you will love the video light button. You can easily adjust the light by up to 15 levels. The 1 second recycle time is also impressive. Moreover, the HVLF60M flash has dust and moisture-resistant features if you enjoy outdoor photography.
Technical Details
- Manufacturer: Sony
- Dimensions:25 x 3.75 x 8.25 inches
- Weight:4 lbs.
- Guide Number: 60 (105mm lens at ISO 100)
- LCD Display: Yes
- Color Temperature: 5500K
- Flash Mode: TTL/M/MULTI
- Flash effective range: 90 feet (28m 105mm lens @ ISO100)
- Recycle Time: 1 second
- Power Supply: 4 AA batteries
Summary
The Sony HVLF60M flash is powerful with improved features, making it an excellent choice for advanced photographers and videographers looking for the best flash for Sony A7RII for taking photos.
2. Neewer NW320 Mini Flash – Best on a Budget
The Neewer NW320 includes a built-in LED light that offers additional lighting, perfect for shooting in multiple conditions. Also, you will love that it is compatible with various Sony cameras thanks to the multi-interface shoe.
You can rotate the flash between 60 to 90 degrees horizontally and -7 to 90 degrees vertically to provide multiple shooting angle options. In addition, the included diffuser provides shadowless and balanced light effects. It also supports TTL, manual, S1/S2, and stroboscopic modes.
Furthermore, we love the excellent versatility offered by the off-camera and on-camera triggering options. Despite the size of this flash, you can still benefit from a guide number of 32 at ISO 100, which is quite impressive.
You also won’t have to worry about overheating with the Neewer NW320. The flash goes into sleep mode automatically to save power. Lastly, you also get a flash time between 100 to 1500 times and a recycle time of around 5 seconds.
Technical Details
- Manufacturer: Neewer
- Dimensions:11 x 4.41 x 2.4 inches
- Weight:95 lbs.
- LCD Display: No
- Color Temperature: 5600K
- Flash Mode: TTL/M/MULTI/S1/S2
- Guide Number: 32 (105mm lens at ISO 100)
- Recycle Time: 5 seconds
- Power Supply: 2 AA alkaline cells or AA Ni-MH battery (required)
Summary
The Neewer NW320 flash is affordable with excellent features, thus a great pick if you would like to experiment with an external flash without spending too much.
3. YONGNUO YN560-III Speedlite Flash – Best Entry-Level
The YONGNUO YN560-III is a well-built flash at a great price. It particularly stands out because of its built-in wireless RF receiver for increased compatibility. Moreover, the metal hot shoe plate allows you to mount it on compatible cameras. With an incredible guide number of 58, you can be sure of more powerful shots than with most flashes.
Although it doesn’t have a TTL flash mode, you can comfortably use the manual, multi, and S1/S2 modes. Also, the built-in diffuser and bounce card offer controlled lighting. It also features rear curtain sync for creative control of your subject light and motion blur for creative photography.
Moreover, the YONGNUO YN560-III comes with an LCD panel that provides all the information you need for complete control. For example, you can quickly change the settings or monitor the battery level from the panel. Furthermore, the flash has a simple on and off button alongside other directional buttons, making it straightforward to use.
Additionally, the flash head turns vertically with ease and has a smooth left-to-right rotation to give you multiple shooting angles. You will also love the motorized zoom feature, which provides 100 to 1500 flashes per charge.
Lastly, the battery compartment is on the side, and you can easily open it by sliding it up – although it doesn’t come off like in most models. The other side of the flash has a PC sync port and an external power adapter ideal for professional photographers.
Technical Details
- Dimensions:25 x 3.75 x 8.25 inches
- Weight:4 lbs.
- LCD Display: Yes
- Color Temperature: 5600K
- Flash Mode: M/MULTI/S1/S2
- Guide Number: 58
- Recycle Time: 3 seconds
- Power Supply: 4 AA batteries (required)
Summary
The YONGNUO YN560-III comes at a great price giving you value for money thus perfect for entry-level photographers. It is also the best external flash for Sony A7RII for advanced photographers looking for a backup flash.
4. Sony HVLF43M High Power Flash – Best for Travel
The Sony HVLF43M is a high-power flash making it suitable for all levels of photographers.
The versatile flash allows you to rotate it 90 degrees left and right for steady horizontal light distribution even when taking vertical shots. Moreover, the innovative quick shift bounce system makes it easy to shift between the modes. It also tilts -8 degrees forward and 150 degrees backward for additional range.
Furthermore, you will love the wireless control system that lets you control up to three groups of flashes. It features an LED light with ten brightness levels that come in handy when switching between photos and videos.
Additionally, Sony HVLF43M has a recycle time of 0.1 to 5 seconds. As a result, the flash offers about 300 shots at an impressive recycle time of under one second without changing batteries.
Its plastic body makes it sturdy enough to withstand harsh conditions. The weatherproof rubber seals make it dust and water-resistant for extra protection. Additionally, the easy-to-access on and off buttons plus the simple navigation menu make it straightforward to use. It is also small and lightweight, so it is easy to carry on the go.
Technical Details
- Dimensions:8 x 9.3 x 9.3 inches
- Weight: 1 lb.
- LCD Display: Yes
- Color Temperature: 5500K
- Flash Mode: TTL/M
- Guide Number: 43 (ISO 100 at 105mm)
- Recycle Time:1 – 5 seconds
- Power Supply: 4 AA batteries (required)
Summary
The Sony HVLF43M stands out for its lightweight build, making it a perfect choice for travel photography. The weatherproof features also make it a great pick if you love nature photography.
5. Godox V860II-S Kit HSS Flash – Most Powerful
The Godox V860II-S flash is powerful with a guide number of 60 at 200 mm zoom. It also features a Godox 2.4G wireless system that provides you with all-in-one functions and an extra 100-meter transmission distance.
Moreover, the flash boasts 650 flashes at full power, which is quite impressive. You also get to enjoy a recycling time of 0.1 to 1.5 seconds and an auto or manual 20mm to 200mm zoom range. It features manual, TTL, S1/S2, and multi-flash modes. Additionally, you can use it both as a master or slave unit.
Similarly, you will love the High-Speed Sync, front and rear curtain sync, and flashlight compensation functions for creative photography. You also get to play around with up to 20 levels of brightness.
Furthermore, the flash can rotate from 0 to 270 degrees horizontally and between -7 to 90 degrees vertically to provide an array of shooting angles. The lock system screw also ensures that your flash stays put.
Additionally, the Godox V860II-S features a large LCD and multiple buttons that make it easy to operate and ensure precision. You also won’t have to worry about your flash overheating.
Lastly, the hot shoe makes it compatible with most Sony cameras. You can conveniently upgrade to the latest software with the included USB port.
Technical Details
- Dimensions:27 x 9.06 x 3.15 inches
- Weight:2 lbs.
- Zoom Range: 20 to 200mm
- LCD Display: Yes
- Color Temperature: 5600K
- Flash Mode: TTL/M/Multi/S1/S2
- Guide Number: 60 (ISO 100 at 200mm)
- Recycle Time:1 to 1.5 seconds
- Power Supply: 1 Lithium-ion battery (Included)
Summary
The Godox V860II-S is a powerful flash, with a guide number of 60 at 200mm, thus a great pick if you are looking to shoot distant objects without compromising the light exposure.
6. Sony HVL-F45RM Flash – Best for creative Shooting
The Sony HVL-F45RM flash features a guide number of 45. You will love the radio wireless technology that offers unique shooting options. When using the flash as a commander, you can pair it with other units and use it with compatible flashes and studio lights.
Moreover, it can connect with 15 off-camera flash units in five groups, making it perfect for advanced photography. Its radio capabilities also allow you to use the flash as a receiver or transmitter within 98 feet.
The HVL-F45RM flash suits different shooting situations as you can rotate its head 180 degrees to the left and right. It also tilts 150 degrees upward and 8 degrees downward. The recycle time of about 2.5 seconds enables you to take shots in quick succession.
Additionally, the quick navigation functions and control wheel make operating it a breeze. You can quickly change your shooting settings with a simple button. You will also love the customization option that lets you assign custom keys to the features you use most often for easy access. The flash also has a memory function that recalls the frequently used modes and combinations.
Lastly, you can use it for about 4 hours with AA-size batteries. The package includes a connector cap for enhanced protection, a mini stand, and a carrying case that will come in handy when on the go. We love that you can easily upgrade its software with the included micro USB port.
Technical Details
- Dimensions:38 x 4.5 x 3.5 inches
- Weight:7 lbs.
- LCD Display: Yes
- Color Temperature: 5500K
- Flash Mode: TTL/M/Multi
- Guide Number: 45 (ISO 100 at 105mm)
- Recycle Time:1 to 2.5 seconds
- Power Supply: 4 AA batteries required (included).
Summary
The Sony HVL-F45RM flash is perfect if you are an enthusiast and looking for the best flash for A7RII for creative shooting. We particularly love that you can use it with multiple flashes.
Criteria to Consider Before Buying The Best Flash for Sony A7RII
Power
Power is crucial when selecting a flash for your camera. You can confirm your flash power by the guide number (GN). Ideally, a higher guide number means brighter light for your subjects, so we recommend selecting a higher GN value.
Recycle Rate
A quick recharge speed allows you to take the next shot faster. Hence, it is crucial to select a flash with a recycling rate that suits your needs. For example, consider a recycle rate of fewer than 1.5 seconds if you want to shoot fast-moving objects.
Manual vs. Auto Control
Choosing between manual or automatic exposure settings depends heavily on your preference. Go for a manual option if you love having complete control. If not, or as a beginner, pick an automatic option for convenience.
Rotating Flash Head
One thing that sets an external flash apart from inbuilt options is the ability to rotate and shoot at different angles. This feature allows you to tilt your flash head upwards and downwards, as well as from right to left, giving you better control over your flash.
Durability
It would be best to have a solid flash to stand the weather elements so it can last a long time. We recommend selecting a flash with a strong shell and sturdy material. Moreover, you may be better off getting a dust and water-resistant model if you are into outdoor photography.
Price
Price is also crucial when purchasing a flash for your Sony A7RII. Make sure to have a budget that you are comfortable with from the start. Luckily, there are a ton of affordable flashes with excellent features on the market. So you can be sure to find one that matches your preferences and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need an external flash for my Sony A7RII?
We cannot underestimate the power of additional lighting. An external flash will offer extra illumination to ensure that you shoot better quality images and videos. You can also benefit from impressive features such as wireless control.
What is the recommended Guide Number for Sony A7RII flash?
A high guide number is always better. However, too much light can also affect your image quality. A guide number of around 36m at 100 mm should work well with a Sony A7RII.
Conclusion
As a photographer, there is a lot to admire about an external flash, from softening shadows, and brightening distance photos to unlocking impossible captures that inbuilt flashes do not offer.
If you want to upgrade your current camera lighting or are new to flash photography, we have rounded up the six best flashes for Sony A7RII for 2021 to save you time going through the tons of options.
