Cheaper flash

[Karel Kolar]

I want to buy my first extern flash, but I haven't money for original Canon flash (my camera is Canon EOS 1000D)

What do you think is better - Nissin di622 mark ii, or Metz 44 af-1 digital? Or any other flash in this price category?

Thank you for answers.

[Ett]

I just bought two LumoPro LP160 flashes for $160 a piece. They're said to be really great flashes. Look into them

[Karel Kolar]

This flash looks nice, but I can't buy it in the Czech Republic

[inkista]

What do you want the flash for? And why can't you wait and save up for a Canon? Or look for a used 430EX or 580EX (Mark I)?

[Karel Kolar]

Actually for everything. To have the flash on the camera and also on the tripod.
That's the second option.
And do u think, that used 430ex/580 mark I is better than new Nissin or Metz?

[inkista]

The Nissin and Metz flashes are good, but they are reverse-engineering eTTL function to add it to their flashes. If Canon does anything to change that protocol (i.e., to add new features), then 3rd party flashes may no longer be 100% compatible. It's like 3rd party lenses and autofocus. Canon will give you better future compatibility.

The Metz flashes have upgradeable firmware, so they may be able to get around incompatibility issues, but with the NIssin, you might have to send the unit in or buy a new one if this happens. Now, it may not happen. It may happen in three years. This is the gamble you take with 3rd party equipment.

If you only wanted to shoot with the flash off-camera (and I'd highly recommend getting a lightstand vs. using a tripod. When lighting, you often want the light overhead, and tripods rarely reach that high), then I'd say just go manual and go supercheap (Yongnuo YN-560 goes for $65 on the USA Amazon website). But you say you want this flash to do everything, so you'll probably want eTTL and high-speed sync, and maybe even remote commanding capability. Canon flashes have the largest feature set and best compatibility with Canon cameras for on-camera usage.

So, I would say a used 430EX or 580EX might be better choices. Others would disagree. A lot of it comes down to how much you're willing to pay and what features are important to you. But if you want a flash that does everything, I still think Canon's going to be your best bet.

[Karel Kolar]

Ok, thank you for the answer.
So, I will rather try to buy used 430ex or 580 and if I couldn't find it in good condition, I will save money for 430 ex II.
One more thanx