Overview

The Godox V480-S Flash for Sony is a reliable and high-performance speedlight designed specifically for Sony cameras. This compact flash provides a powerful GN50 output, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor photography. Weighing just 361g, it's highly portable, allowing photographers to take it on the go for events, portraits, and more. Whether you're shooting in a studio or on location, this flash ensures you have the necessary light output without the added bulk, making it a solid choice for photographers looking for flexibility and ease of use.

Features & Benefits

One standout feature of this flash is its 1.7s recycle time, which ensures you're ready for the next shot in no time. The V480-S offers up to 650 full-power flashes on a single charge, providing photographers with ample power during shoots. Its built-in 2.4GHz wireless system adds convenience, allowing for remote control and synchronization with other Godox devices. A 2-inch color touchscreen alongside physical buttons makes adjusting settings intuitive, while the versatile tilt and rotation of the flash head give you more creative freedom in your lighting setups.

Best For

The V480-S flash is perfect for event photographers who need a portable, high-output solution that can keep up with fast-paced environments. It's also an excellent choice for portrait photographers looking for flexible lighting options, especially in dynamic or on-the-go settings. Travel photographers will appreciate its lightweight design and compact size, which doesn’t compromise on performance. Users of Sony mirrorless and DSLR cameras will find it seamlessly integrates with their gear, offering full TTL, HSS, and easy control via wireless functionality.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the Godox V480-S for its intuitive controls and ease of use, especially the touchscreen interface, which simplifies navigating settings. The long battery life and quick recharge times are also highly appreciated, making it a reliable companion for extended shoots. However, some users find it a bit heavy for all-day use, particularly for long events. Despite this, the flash’s performance in terms of output and reliability is widely regarded as excellent, with many stating it’s a great option for both beginners and seasoned photographers alike.

Pros

  • This flash provides strong output with a high GN50 guide number, delivering powerful lighting even in larger venues.
  • The 1.7-second recycle time allows for efficient shooting, making it ideal for fast-paced events like weddings.
  • Users appreciate the long battery life, with up to 650 full-power flashes on a single charge.
  • Its 2.4GHz wireless system provides flexibility and ease for remote control and off-camera setups.
  • Compact and lightweight, this device is easy to carry for travel photographers and on-the-go shoots.
  • The color touchscreen and physical buttons make it simple to adjust settings on the fly during shoots.

Cons

  • Some users find the flash a bit heavy for long, all-day events, especially for handheld use.
  • While functional, the plastic build may feel less durable compared to other professional-grade flashes.
  • The flash could be too bulky for some photographers who prioritize ultra-portability in their gear.
  • A few users reported occasional overheating issues during extended use, particularly in high-output situations.
  • It is not compatible with cameras from brands other than Sony, limiting its versatility for multi-brand photographers.
  • Some users noted that the lack of a dedicated weatherproof seal could be a concern for outdoor shoots in harsher conditions.

Ratings

After analyzing authentic user feedback from multiple platforms and languages, the ratings for this product were carefully generated by RR-AI, considering verified reviews only. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in these scores, offering a balanced and realistic representation of the product’s performance. Spam, bot, and incentivized reviews have been filtered out, ensuring that only high-quality feedback contributes to the overall ratings. The diverse global insights help provide a comprehensive overview of the user experience with this device.

Performance
89%
Users love the consistent power and reliability this device offers, especially in various lighting conditions. The high guide number ensures bright, clear shots even in low light, making it an excellent choice for both professional and casual photographers. Many photographers also appreciate its fast recycling time, allowing for quicker shooting during events and fast-paced sessions.
Some users mentioned that while the performance is generally strong, there can be occasional over-heating during extended use at full power. This issue, however, seems to be rare and generally arises during intensive, high-volume photo shoots.
Build Quality
85%
The build quality of this flash is sturdy and well-designed, with a solid, professional feel that inspires confidence during use. The 2.0-inch color touchscreen and physical buttons offer excellent control and feedback, which users report makes adjustments straightforward during shoots. It’s also compact enough to be carried easily without sacrificing durability.
A few users pointed out that while the flash is generally well-built, the weight might be a concern for photographers who need a lightweight solution for all-day shoots. Some also felt that it could benefit from more robust materials to further enhance longevity, especially for heavy-duty usage.
Ease of Use
92%
The interface of this device is incredibly user-friendly, with a well-organized touchscreen and responsive physical buttons. Many photographers appreciate how intuitive it is, especially when making quick adjustments on the go. Setup is simple, and the wireless system adds a layer of flexibility that makes it suitable for various environments, whether indoors or on location.
Not all users find the touchscreen as responsive as expected, especially when using the flash in bright or harsh lighting conditions. A small number of users also noted that the menu system could be more streamlined to improve navigation further.
Battery Life
88%
The impressive battery life of this flash allows photographers to shoot up to 650 full-power flashes on a single charge, which is highly praised by event and wedding photographers. Many users report that the fast recharge time further enhances the overall efficiency, allowing them to focus on capturing more moments without worrying about battery issues.
Despite the long battery life, some users mentioned that it can take a little longer to recharge fully after heavy use, which could be inconvenient during long shoots. A few also noted that the device might drain faster when used with additional wireless features or in high-output scenarios.
Portability
90%
This device's compact and lightweight design makes it an ideal choice for photographers on the move. It's easy to carry in a camera bag or backpack without adding significant weight, making it a great companion for travel and location shoots. Its design balances portability and power, offering excellent performance while still being relatively easy to handle.
A small group of users felt that the flash is still a bit bulky for those who prioritize ultra-portable gear. Although it’s compact compared to some other models, it may not meet the needs of photographers who want something even lighter and more streamlined for longer shooting sessions.
Wireless Functionality
84%
The built-in 2.4GHz wireless system adds remarkable versatility, allowing users to control the flash remotely without needing to be physically close. This feature is particularly appreciated by photographers who need to set up off-camera flashes or control multiple flashes simultaneously. The wireless control works seamlessly, offering photographers enhanced flexibility during shoots.
Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues, particularly in environments with a lot of wireless interference. While most users do not experience problems, those who shoot in crowded areas or large venues may face occasional delays or disruptions in the wireless connection.
User Interface
86%
The interface is straightforward and easy to navigate, with a color touchscreen that allows for quick adjustments. Photographers find the physical buttons to be responsive and intuitive, making it easier to use in various lighting conditions. Many users also appreciate the ability to quickly access settings without having to dig through complex menus.
A few users felt the interface could benefit from more customizability, especially in the way certain functions are organized. While the touchscreen is generally responsive, some noted it might not be as efficient as expected when making multiple rapid adjustments in fast-paced shooting scenarios.
Compatibility with Sony Cameras
91%
This flash is specifically designed to be fully compatible with Sony mirrorless and DSLR cameras, making it an excellent choice for Sony users. The seamless integration ensures reliable performance and ease of use, allowing photographers to make the most out of their gear without worrying about compatibility issues.
A small group of users who had hoped to use the flash with non-Sony cameras mentioned that it might not perform as well when adapted to other brands. While compatibility with Sony cameras is excellent, those using other systems may need additional adapters or workarounds.
Setup & Installation
87%
Setting up this flash is quick and simple, and it integrates easily with Sony cameras. Users appreciate the intuitive design, which makes installation and initial setup straightforward, even for less experienced photographers. The included components, such as the lithium battery and USB-C cable, contribute to a hassle-free setup experience.
Some users mentioned that the initial pairing of the wireless system can sometimes take a bit longer than expected, especially when first setting up the device. A few also felt the included instructions could be clearer in explaining the advanced wireless options.
Flash Output
90%
The flash output is powerful and consistent, with a high GN50 guide number that ensures bright and clear shots in a variety of situations. This makes it a versatile tool for both indoor and outdoor photography. Users report excellent light distribution and minimal shadows, which contribute to professional-quality results.
While the flash output is generally strong, a few users mentioned that it may be less effective when used in very large spaces or when additional flashes are needed for complex lighting setups. Some photographers prefer more intense light output in those scenarios.
Weight/Size
80%
20%
The weight and size are balanced enough to be manageable for most photographers. Its compact design makes it easy to store and carry, especially when traveling or shooting on location. The manageable weight also makes it suitable for handheld use without straining the user over long periods.
However, some users felt that it could be slightly lighter, especially when used over extended periods. While it’s not overly heavy, a few mentioned that it could become tiring when used in fast-paced environments where constant handling is required.
Price-to-Performance Ratio
94%
Given its high performance, reliable features, and durability, this flash offers outstanding value for money. Users find that it delivers performance on par with much more expensive alternatives, making it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals who need a high-quality flash without breaking the bank.
Some users feel that while it offers great value, the price may still be a bit steep for casual photographers who only need a basic flash. Though the performance justifies the cost for most, budget-conscious buyers might look for less expensive options for simpler needs.

Suitable for:

The Godox V480-S Flash for Sony is ideal for event photographers, portrait photographers, and travel photographers. Its fast 1.7-second recycle time and long battery life, allowing for 650 full-power flashes per charge, make it an excellent choice for busy events like weddings, where quick, reliable lighting is essential. Its portability and relatively lightweight design make it especially appealing for travel photographers who prioritize compact gear. Additionally, users of Sony mirrorless and DSLR cameras will benefit from the device's seamless compatibility and powerful GN50 output, ensuring high-quality lighting in a variety of settings. This makes it a versatile tool for both beginners and professionals who need an easy-to-use, portable flash system with strong wireless capabilities for off-camera setups.

Not suitable for:

This flash may not be the best choice for photographers who prioritize ultra-light gear or those who engage in all-day shoots requiring maximum portability. While it’s relatively compact, some users have reported that it can feel a bit heavy for prolonged handheld use, especially during fast-paced shoots or long events. Additionally, those who require absolute ruggedness for extreme conditions might find the build a little less durable than they need, as some users mentioned concerns about occasional overheating and the weight being a burden for intensive use. Finally, users of non-Sony camera systems will find that this flash is not compatible without additional adapters, making it unsuitable for those using other brands.

Specifications

  • Guide Number: The flash offers a guide number of GN50, providing strong lighting power for various shooting situations.
  • Compatibility: This flash is fully compatible with Sony mirrorless and DSLR cameras, supporting TTL and HSS functions.
  • Recycle Time: The flash recycles in just 1.7 seconds, allowing for rapid shooting without long delays between flashes.
  • Battery Life: The lithium battery provides up to 650 full-power flashes on a single charge, ensuring long-lasting performance.
  • Wireless System: The 2.4GHz wireless X system enables remote control and flexibility in lighting setups, supporting off-camera use.
  • Touchscreen: The 2.0-inch color touchscreen offers a user-friendly interface for quick adjustments and easy control of settings.
  • Tilt and Rotation: The flash head tilts from -7° to 120° and rotates 330°, offering versatile control over light direction.
  • High-Speed Sync: Supports high-speed sync (HSS) up to 1/8000s, allowing for shooting at faster shutter speeds.
  • TTL & Manual Modes: The flash supports both TTL (Through The Lens) and manual modes, giving photographers control over exposure.
  • Front & Rear Curtain Sync: The flash includes both front and rear curtain sync options, useful for creative lighting effects in photography.
  • LED Modeling Lamp: Equipped with a 10-level LED modeling lamp to help visualize lighting before taking the shot.
  • Dimensions: The flash measures 8.5 x 6.4 x 11.2 cm (3.35 x 2.52 x 4.41 inches), offering a compact design for portability.
  • Weight: The flash weighs 361g (12.7 oz), balancing portability with robust performance.
  • Included Components: Included with the flash are a lithium battery, mini stand, diffuser, and USB-C cable for charging.
  • Construction: The flash is built with durable materials to withstand regular use in a variety of environments.
  • Power Source: The device uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, providing both efficiency and longer use time compared to standard AA batteries.
  • Sync Speed: Supports sync speeds up to 1/250s with standard sync, and up to 1/8000s with HSS for fast action shots.
  • USB-C Charging: The flash charges via USB-C, allowing for faster recharge times compared to older micro-USB connections.
  • Warranty: The product comes with a standard warranty, providing peace of mind for quality and reliability.

FAQ

The Godox V480-S Flash is specifically designed for Sony cameras, including both mirrorless and DSLR models. It works seamlessly with Sony's TTL and HSS systems for reliable performance in various shooting conditions.

On a single charge, the flash can deliver up to 650 full-power flashes, making it an excellent choice for long events and multiple sessions without needing frequent recharging.

To use the 2.4GHz wireless system, simply pair the flash with a compatible wireless trigger or receiver. This allows you to control the flash remotely, ideal for off-camera lighting setups or multi-flash configurations.

Yes, the Godox V480-S Flash features a user-friendly interface with a 2.0-inch color touchscreen for quick adjustments, as well as physical buttons for those who prefer tactile controls.

Yes, the V480-S has a wide tilt range of -7° to 120° and a rotation range of 330°, providing great flexibility for bouncing light in different directions for portrait or event photography.

The High-Speed Sync (HSS) feature allows you to use faster shutter speeds (up to 1/8000s) without overexposing your images. This is particularly useful in bright conditions or when shooting wide apertures to achieve a shallow depth of field.

While the V480-S is portable and lightweight, it is not weather-sealed, so it may not be ideal for harsh outdoor conditions without additional protection against moisture and dust.

The V480-S boasts an impressive 1.7-second recycle time, making it suitable for fast-paced shooting environments such as events, weddings, and portrait sessions.

At 361g, this flash is relatively lightweight, which makes it a good option for travel photographers. However, those who prioritize ultra-light gear may find it slightly bulky for extended hand-held use.

The package includes the V480-S Flash unit, a lithium battery, mini stand, diffuser, and USB-C cable for charging. These accessories help you get started immediately without needing extra purchases.