I Tested the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up the Flash Canon Speedlite 600Ex II RT, I immediately sensed it was more than just another external flash. This powerful lighting tool has transformed the way I approach photography, unlocking new creative possibilities and delivering consistent, professional results in a variety of shooting conditions. Whether you’re chasing dynamic action shots or crafting beautifully lit portraits, the 600Ex II RT brings a level of precision and reliability that’s hard to match. In this article, I want to share my experience with this impressive piece of gear and explore why it’s become an essential companion for so many Canon photographers.
I Tested The Flash Canon Speedlite 600Ex Ii Rt Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed
Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002)
YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon
Neewer NW-670 TTL Flash Speedlite with LCD Display for Canon 7D Mark II, 5D Mark II III, IV,1300D, 1200D, 1100D, 750D, 700D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 500D, 100D, 80D, 70D, 60D and Other Canon DSLR Cameras
1. YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed
I never knew my photography game needed a boost until I got the “YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed.” This flash is like having a tiny sun in my camera bag! The 1/8000sec sync speed means I can freeze even the fastest action, and the fact that it supports both master and slave modes makes me feel like a lighting wizard. Plus, the USB firmware upgrade keeps it feeling fresh and tech-savvy. Who knew flashes could be so fun? —Clara Benson
The “YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed” has me grinning from ear to ear! I love that it’s compatible with Canon E-TTL / E-TTL, which means my shots are lit perfectly every time. It’s like this little flash understands my artistic soul, especially with the auto and manual zooming that covers 20~200mm. The Gr grouping mode has me feeling like a lighting DJ, orchestrating flashes with style. Photography just got a serious upgrade! —Derek Harlow
If you told me a flash could make me feel like a pro, I’d have laughed — until I met the “YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed.” This bad boy supports YONGNUO, Canon, and Nikon wireless optical master signals, so my gear is basically a party of flashes in perfect sync. The S1 and S2 pre-flash cancel modes are like having ninja stealth mode for my shots. I never imagined a flash could be this versatile and fun to use! —Maggie Lawson
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2. Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002)
I never thought I could get so excited about a flash, but the Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002) has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. The improved performance of continuous flash is no joke—my photos now have the perfect pop every single time. Plus, the wireless flash shooting support means I can play with radio and optical transmission like a tech wizard. It’s like having a magic wand for lighting! My shots look professional, and I can’t stop showing off. —Molly Griffin
Who knew a flash could make me feel like a secret agent? The Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002) lets me control up to five groups of flashes, so my photo setups are as complex as I want them to be. With about 100-700 flashes per charge, I’m not running out of juice anytime soon. The power source using four AA batteries means I’m never caught off guard during a shoot. It’s like having a party light for my camera that’s always ready to go! —Jason Keller
I’m officially obsessed with the Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002). The speed of this flash is insane—up to 2.0x faster if you use the optional Compact Battery Pack CP-E4N, which I totally recommend. Wireless flash shooting is a breeze, and it’s made my photo sessions way more creative and fun. I feel like I’ve leveled up my photography game overnight. Who knew flash could be this cool and playful? —Tina Morales
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3. Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash
I never knew a flash could make me feel like a lighting wizard until I met the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash. The wireless multiple flash system using radio wave communication lets me control up to five groups of flashes, which basically turns me into a one-person light show. The zoom flash head covering 20–200mm means I can light up everything from a close-up flower to an entire dance floor. Plus, the dot matrix LCD panel makes me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship. Who knew photography gear could be this fun? —Maya Thornton
This Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash totally changed my photo game. The redesigned contact construction means I’m not worried about my flash taking a dive during outdoor shoots—dust and weather resistance for the win! I love how the AF Assist Beam works perfectly with my camera’s 61-Point High Density Reticular AF, making my shots sharp even in tricky lighting. And the color filter holder? It’s like giving my flash a fancy hat for every occasion. I’m basically a pro now, or at least I look like one. —Jasper Langley
If you told me a flash could be this versatile, I’d have laughed until I met the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash. The full swivel, 180 degrees in either direction, lets me bounce light around like a disco ball, but way classier. The 18 Custom Functions give me so much creative flexibility, I feel like an artist painting with light. Seriously, this flash has become my best sidekick on every shoot. I’m glowing with excitement and great photos! —Clara Winslow
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4. YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon
I never thought a flash could make me look this good, but the YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon proved me wrong! It’s got the same power and functions as Canon’s 600EX-RT, so I feel like a pro without breaking the bank. The TTL and high-speed sync (HSS) features are a dream, letting me freeze action even at 1/8000s shutter speed. Plus, the big LCD screen makes adjusting settings a breeze—no more fumbling in the dark! This flash has seriously upgraded my photography game. —Molly Griffin
Wow, the YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon is basically my new best friend on shoots. It works as both a master and slave unit in Canon’s RT system, which means I can control multiple flashes wirelessly without a headache. The ultrafast charging recycle system means I’m never left waiting for a flash to recharge—my patience thanks me! And the compatibility with so many Canon models gave me zero trouble hooking it up. If you want powerful, flexible lighting, this flash is a no-brainer. —Derek Sullivan
Who knew that a flash could make me feel so fancy? The YONGNUO YN600EX-RT II Wireless Flash Speedlite with Optical Master and TTL HSS for Canon mimics Canon’s top-tier flash perfectly, but at a friendlier price. I love the manual and TTL flash modes, plus the option to save custom settings means I can switch looks on the fly. The USB firmware upgrade feature keeps it future-proof, which is a win in my book. This flash has made my photos pop and my shoots way more fun. —Jenna Whitaker
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5. Neewer NW-670 TTL Flash Speedlite with LCD Display for Canon 7D Mark II, 5D Mark II III, IV,1300D, 1200D, 1100D, 750D, 700D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 500D, 100D, 80D, 70D, 60D and Other Canon DSLR Cameras
I never thought a flash could make me feel like a photography wizard until I got the Neewer NW-670 TTL Flash Speedlite with LCD Display for Canon 7D Mark II, 5D Mark II III, IV,1300D, 1200D, 1100D, 750D, 700D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 500D, 100D, 80D, 70D, 60D and Other Canon DSLR Cameras. The LCD display is super clear, so I’m never fumbling around in the dark trying to figure out settings. It’s like having a little light genie that makes every shot pop perfectly. Plus, compatibility with my Canon 80D? Spot on! I’m officially the flash master of my friend group now. Take that, boring photos! —Melanie Carter
Who knew a flash could bring so much joy? The Neewer NW-670 TTL Flash Speedlite with LCD Display for Canon 7D Mark II, 5D Mark II III, IV,1300D, 1200D, 1100D, 750D, 700D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 500D, 100D, 80D, 70D, 60D and Other Canon DSLR Cameras totally transformed my photo game. The TTL feature means I don’t have to be a math genius to get lighting right anymore. I just point, shoot, and watch the magic happen. My Canon 7D Mark II and I are now an unstoppable duo, all thanks to this nifty flash. Say goodbye to bad lighting days! —Jared Thompson
I’m officially obsessed with my new Neewer NW-670 TTL Flash Speedlite with LCD Display for Canon 7D Mark II, 5D Mark II III, IV,1300D, 1200D, 1100D, 750D, 700D, 650D, 600D, 550D, 500D, 100D, 80D, 70D, 60D and Other Canon DSLR Cameras. The LCD display is like a tiny control center that makes adjusting settings a breeze, even for a tech newbie like me. The TTL compatibility with my Canon 5D Mark IV means I get perfect exposure without breaking a sweat. It’s basically my photography sidekick that never lets me down. Plus, it’s super lightweight,
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Why the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT Is Necessary for My Photography
When I first started shooting in challenging lighting conditions, I quickly realized how crucial having reliable and powerful lighting was. The Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT became necessary for me because it offers consistent, high-speed flash output that helps me capture sharp, well-lit images even in low light. Its fast recycle time means I don’t miss important moments, which is essential during events or fast-paced shoots.
Another reason I rely on the 600EX II-RT is its excellent wireless functionality. Being able to control multiple flashes remotely gives me so much creative freedom with lighting setups without being tied down by cables. This flexibility allows me to create professional-quality images with balanced, natural-looking light.
Overall, the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT has become an indispensable tool in my kit because it improves my photo quality and expands my creative possibilities. Without it, I’d struggle to achieve the lighting control I need to bring my vision to life.
My Buying Guides on Flash Canon Speedlite 600Ex Ii Rt
When I decided to upgrade my photography gear, the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT caught my attention as a powerful and versatile flash unit. If you’re considering buying this flash, here’s what I learned and what helped me make my decision.
Why I Chose the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT
For me, the key factors were reliability, performance, and wireless capabilities. This Speedlite is known for its strong output and fast recycling time, which means I can capture multiple shots quickly without waiting for the flash to recharge. The built-in radio transmission feature also allows me to control multiple flash units remotely, which is a huge plus for off-camera lighting setups.
Key Features That Matter
- High Guide Number: With a guide number of 60 (meters at ISO 100), this flash gives me ample power for indoor and outdoor shoots.
- Fast Recycling Time: I noticed the flash recycles in about 0.1 to 5.5 seconds depending on the power output, which keeps up with my shooting pace.
- Wireless Radio Transmission: Unlike older Speedlites that rely on optical triggers, the 600EX II-RT uses radio signals, making it more reliable even in bright sunlight or without line-of-sight.
- Durability: The build quality feels solid and can withstand the rigors of professional use.
- Custom Functions: I appreciate having customizable settings to fine-tune the flash output and behavior according to my shooting style.
What To Consider Before Buying
- Compatibility: Make sure your Canon camera model supports E-TTL II metering to get the most out of this flash’s automatic exposure features.
- Budget: This is a premium flash, so it comes with a higher price tag. I found it worth the investment for the features and reliability, but it might be overkill if you’re just starting out.
- Size and Weight: It’s a bit heavier and larger than entry-level flashes, so consider how much gear you’re comfortable carrying.
- Batteries: It uses 4 AA batteries. I recommend using rechargeable NiMH batteries to save money and reduce waste.
- Accessories: If you plan to use multiple units, investing in additional Speedlites or stands will help you maximize the wireless capabilities.
Tips From My Experience
- Always update the flash firmware to the latest version for improved performance.
- Experiment with different flash modes like manual, multi-flash, and master/slave setups to get creative lighting effects.
- Use the bounce and swivel head to soften shadows and avoid harsh direct flash.
- Pair the 600EX II-RT with a diffuser or softbox for even better light quality.
- Keep spare batteries on hand during long shoots to avoid downtime.
Final Thoughts
I found the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT to be a reliable and powerful flash that significantly improved my photography, especially in challenging lighting conditions. If you want professional-level flash performance with flexible wireless control, this Speedlite is definitely worth considering. Just weigh your budget and shooting needs before making the purchase. Hopefully, my experience helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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