Further development of Canon's flagship Speedlite has led to the production of the 580 EX II. This is the premier Speedlite for all photographers, including professionals. Newly designed to match with the EOS-1D Mark III in terms of improved dust- and water-resistance, body strength, and the ability to control flash functions and settings from the camera menu (EOS-1D Mark III only). Other features include improved communication reliability through its direct contacts, and recycling time is both 20% shorter than the 580EX and is completely inaudible.
Compatibility
Compatible Camera Model(s): EOS Digital SLR Cameras Digital Cameras: PowerShot G2 PowerShot G3 PowerShot G5 PowerShot G6 PowerShot Pro1 35mm SLR Cameras: T90 EOS-1v EOS-3 EOS Elan 7N series EOS Elan 7 series EOS Elan II series EOS Rebel T2 EOS Rebel Ti EOS Rebel K2 EOS Rebel G2 EOS Rebel G
Flash Mode: TTL, E-TTL
Performance
Guide Number: 58 m/190 ft at ISO 100 (105 mm Zoom-head Setting)
Flash Recycle Time: 100 ms to 6 Second - with fresh AA-size alkaline batteries
Battery Life: 100 to 700 Flash Maximum - with fresh AA-size alkaline batteries
Physical Specifications
Dimensions: 3" x 5.30" x 4.50"
Weight: 13.20 oz - without batteries
More Info
URL: Manufacturer Link
General
Dimensions: 3" x 5.30" x 4.50"
Weight: 13.20 oz - without batteries
URL: Manufacturer Link
Additional Specifications
Frequency Band: Full swivel, 180 in either direction Fourteen Speedlite Custom Functions built-in; set on Speedlite's LCD panel Superior build quality, including a metal foot for higher rigidity Auto conversion of flash coverage with compatible digital SLR cameras White Balance info communicated instantly to compatible digital SLR cameras AF-assist beam, compatible with all AiAF points on every EOS SLR Dust- and water- resistance to match the EOS-1D Mark III
Flash Range: 98 ft
Mount Type: Shoe Mount
Autofocus Assist: AF Assist Beam
Number of Batteries Support: 12
Battery Model Supported: CP-E3
Minimum Flash Recycle Time: 100 ms
Maximum Flash Recycle Time: 6 Second
Canon Speedlite 580EX II
Strengths: Canon's best flash for your DSLR!!!
Weakness: A little bit bulky and heavy.
This flash is much better than the built in one from my DSLR. My camera automatically detected this flash and adjusted to the flash without any problems. You might want to get a diffuser as well. It uses 4 AA batteries and comes with a paded case. This flash upgrade is definitely worth it. Highly recommended.