Godox V860III C/N/S Speedlite Camera Flash

With its potent blend of power, speed, and integrated radio transmission, the Ving V860III TTL Li-Ion Flash Kit by Godox stands out as an exceptional choice for Sony camera users.

Designed to seamlessly integrate with TTL systems, the V860III offers an array of advanced functions and capabilities.

Utilizing the Godox X wireless radio system, this flash unit enables both master and slave TTL functionality, even at significant distances.

Boasting impressive specifications, the Ving V860III delivers robust performance in various shooting scenarios.

With a formidable guide number of 197′ at ISO 100 and 200mm, coupled with a versatile zoom range spanning from 20mm to 200mm, this flash provides ample coverage and flexibility.

Moreover, its rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack ensures rapid recharging, allowing for up to 480 full-power flashes on a single charge.

Godox V860III Specifications

What is the Godox VING V860III?

The Godox VING V860III Speedlight Flash Kit stands out as a robust lighting solution tailored for mid-level photographers.

Designed with traditional aesthetics in mind, it features a direct-to-camera mount and a box-like design with integrated bounce card and diffuser, catering to the preferences of enthusiasts and semi-professionals.

Equipped with full tilt and rotation control for the head, the flash also boasts an adjustable forward-facing modeling light within its body, offering convenience during composition.

However, its brightness may not suffice for extensive video lighting purposes.

The flash encompasses various features, including wireless control options, a dedicated rechargeable battery, TTL (Through The Lens) metering, and HSS (High-Speed Sync).

It’s noteworthy that the TTL functionality is specific to the camera brand, with Godox offering versions compatible with Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Fuji, Panasonic, and Pentax cameras.

This integration allows for automatic and semi-automatic control of flash brightness and modeling lamp with compatible camera models.

An added advantage is the flash’s wireless system compatibility with the broader Godox range, enabling seamless pairing with the X1 wireless trigger system and higher-end V1 flashguns.

Notably, for professionals, the V860III can function harmoniously with the V1, offering full compatibility in communication and battery type.

Powered by a rechargeable battery, the flash boasts impressive capabilities, including rapid recycle times ranging from 0.01 to 1.5 seconds and up to 450 full-power flashes at 76Ws.

Despite its conventional appearance, the V860III incorporates robust power and advanced features, making it a compelling option for photographers seeking versatility and performance.

BUILD AND HANDLING

The build quality of the flash is commendable, featuring sturdy high-quality plastics and a robust metal hotshoe plate.

However, it lacks weather seals, which could be a concern, especially considering the proximity of the battery pack connections to the flashgun’s side panel.

The design incorporates a tunnel-like cut-out section that runs through the main body of the flashgun, allowing the battery to slot in without an additional external cover or protective door at either end.

The introduction of the new quick-release lock is a notable improvement, enhancing ease of use. The TTL/M switch simplifies operation further.

However, the interface, based on a mono LCD screen and a row of four context-sensitive pushbuttons, may feel somewhat dated compared to the latest flashguns from camera manufacturers.

Despite this, there’s an additional pushbutton for accessing the custom functions menu, which can also serve as a ‘settings lock’ button when long-pressed.

The interface, primarily relying on a row of four context-sensitive menu buttons, has a classic feel but may appear dated compared to newer flashguns on the market.

Additionally, there’s a dedicated wireless master/slave button, and the LCD backlight switches from blue to orange to indicate slave mode.

At the bottom of the control cluster, a 4-way pad allows for adjustments such as flash compensation, zoom, LED control, and flash mode selection.

This pad also functions as a rotary dial for fine-tuning settings, with a central ‘set’ button for confirmation.

Performance

The Godox VING V860III arrives in a sturdy fabric protective case, accompanied by a convenient flash stand suitable for off-camera use, featuring a standard 1/4-inch thread for easy tripod mounting.

With its familiar box-style design, the flash’s main controls and features are instantly recognizable to anyone accustomed to standard camera flashes.

The angle of the head offers ample adjustment and is of high quality overall.

When mounted onto the camera, such as a Sony A7 III in this instance, the flash’s contacts connect directly with the camera’s hotshoe data port, indicating its dedication to Sony cameras.

Once securely in place, a rotation of the lock collar ensures everything remains firmly attached, though the collar itself feels somewhat inexpensive compared to the flash’s overall build.

Activating the flash via a small slide switch on the back, the screen quickly illuminates after a brief delay.

Before delving into the settings, a simple switch on the side allows for easy toggling between manual and TTL modes.

Initially opting for TTL, a few test shots demonstrate the flash’s impressive power, particularly when tilting the head upwards to bounce light off the ceiling, effectively illuminating subjects several meters away.

The TTL function accurately exposes the subject, with satisfactory overall illumination and natural color temperature.

Further experimentation reveals the flash’s remarkable performance, notably its rapid refresh rate at moderate power levels and its use of a high-capacity battery similar to that of the Pro-level V1.

Overall, the performance rivals many mid-range models from other manufacturers at a fraction of the cost.

In TTL mode, the flash seamlessly compensates with the camera’s controls, allowing for easy adjustment of exposure compensation directly on the flash.

Activating the HSS function extends the flash’s usability beyond standard sync speeds, albeit with a slight reduction in power.

Accessing additional features such as HSS and rear curtain sync may require consulting the manual initially, but once familiarized, operation is straightforward.

Switching to manual mode grants full control over flash settings, providing ample adjustment options to suit various shooting scenarios.

The flash’s wireless control capability, demonstrated with the X1 wireless trigger, proves effective and intuitive.

Compatibility across Godox’s product range ensures seamless integration with other wireless flash triggers and units, offering expandability and versatility for users as their needs evolve.

VERDICT

The V860III emerges as a formidable TTL flashgun catering to a wide range of camera systems including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Olympus, Panasonic, and Pentax.

It not only meets but exceeds the expectations of discerning photographers with its comprehensive feature set.

From high-speed sync and programmable stroboscopic output to a built-in wireless RF transceiver and ample flash power, the V860III delivers on all fronts.

Moreover, its motorized zoom range spanning from 20mm to 200mm ensures versatility in various shooting scenarios.

Powered by a rechargeable Li-ion battery pack, this updated version also introduces a constant LED lamp, offering added utility for modeling and close-range photography and videography.

All in all, the V860III stands out as an exceptional piece of equipment, providing outstanding value for its affordable price.