NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light

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85%
91%
Lighting Power & Performance
86%
Ease of Use
80%
Recycle Time
88%
Build Quality
85%
Cooling Efficiency
84%
Flash Duration & Consistency
90%
Compatibility with Modifiers
82%
Modeling Lamp Brightness
92%
Overall Value for Money
75%
User Support & Warranty
78%
Portability & Weight
87%
Setup & Installation
More

Overview

The NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light is a powerful studio monolight designed for professional photographers. This 400Ws flash provides consistent and accurate lighting with a color temperature of 5600K, making it ideal for various types of photography. Its Bowens mount compatibility allows you to easily use a wide range of modifiers, while the built-in 150W modeling lamp offers adjustable brightness for precise lighting control. Whether you're working on portraits, still life, or commercial shoots, this strobe light is built to handle demanding studio environments.

Features & Benefits

This strobe light boasts a variety of features that enhance its functionality for professional photographers. The 9 brightness levels provide precise control over lighting intensity, while the fast flash duration of 1/2000–1/800s ensures sharp, crisp images even in rapid-fire settings. With a recycle time between 0.4 and 2.8 seconds, this monolight offers quick recovery, keeping up with even the most demanding shooting sessions. Additionally, the memory function allows you to save settings, making setup easier for future shoots.

Best For

The NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light is best suited for photographers who need reliable and powerful lighting in a studio setting. It's an excellent choice for those specializing in portrait or product photography, where consistency and color accuracy are key. Studio photographers will appreciate its fast flash duration and recycle time, which make it ideal for high-paced shoots. Additionally, those who regularly use Bowens mount softboxes and modifiers will find this light an essential part of their kit.

User Feedback

Users have generally praised this strobe light for its consistent performance and powerful output. Many photographers highlight its efficiency in longer shoots, noting that the optimized cooling fan allows for extended use without overheating. However, some users wish the recycle time could be a bit faster when operating at full power. Despite this, its fast recovery rate is often seen as a significant advantage over similar models in this price range. Overall, the NEEWER S101-400W has garnered a solid reputation for its reliability and versatility.

#Monolights
#Strobe Lighting
#Lighting
#Lighting & Studio
#Camera & Photo
#Electronics

Pros

  • This strobe light provides a solid 400Ws of power, making it ideal for professional studio use.
  • Users appreciate the 5600K color temperature, which ensures consistent lighting in various setups.
  • The 150W modeling lamp with adjustable brightness allows for precise control of lighting intensity.
  • This device's fast recycle time (0.4–2.8s) helps photographers stay efficient during busy shoots.
  • The inclusion of S1/S2 optical slave modes offers versatile triggering options for different setups.
  • Its compatibility with Bowens mount modifiers makes it adaptable to a wide range of light-shaping tools.

Cons

  • The 6.62-pound weight makes this flash less portable, which may be a drawback for outdoor or on-the-go photographers.
  • Some users find that the recycle time is slower at higher power settings, which can be frustrating during fast-paced shoots.
  • The lack of advanced wireless features may limit those seeking more sophisticated remote control options.
  • While the cooling system is efficient, extended use at higher power levels may still lead to some overheating concerns.
  • A few users have noted that the flash could benefit from a more intuitive user interface for quicker adjustments.
  • At its maximum power, the flash may struggle with rapid recycling, especially in high-demand situations.

Ratings

The NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light has garnered a strong reputation based on real user feedback from various global platforms. After analyzing verified reviews across multiple languages and sites, we filtered out low-quality or incentivized responses to ensure only authentic insights were considered. Both the strengths and pain points of this device are reflected in the scores, with key aspects like performance and usability standing out positively, while some users mentioned room for improvement in recycle times under full power. The following ratings are derived from diverse sources, showcasing the overall user sentiment.

Lighting Power & Performance
91%
Users consistently praise the lighting power and performance of this strobe light. The 400Ws output ensures bright, consistent lighting for professional photography, especially in studio settings. It's powerful enough for most needs while maintaining reliable color temperature, making it a favorite for portraits and product shots.
A few users have pointed out that while the lighting power is generally great, it may not be sufficient for certain high-demand scenarios, like large group shoots or high-output outdoor photography. Some wish the flash power could be boosted beyond 400Ws for more flexibility in certain conditions.
Ease of Use
86%
Several photographers have mentioned how easy it is to set up and operate this monolight flash. The intuitive controls, combined with the memory function that saves preferred settings, streamline workflow during shoots. The Bowens mount compatibility also makes it simple to pair with other modifiers, enhancing usability.
While most users find it easy to use, a small number have expressed that the interface could be more user-friendly, especially for beginners. Some felt that the controls are not as intuitive as they would like, and the lack of a touchscreen interface limits its ease of navigation during more complex setups.
Recycle Time
80%
20%
The fast recycle time of 0.4–2.8s has been highlighted as a standout feature. Many users appreciate the speed, allowing for continuous shooting without long delays. This feature is particularly praised in fast-paced studio environments where quick flash recovery is essential for capturing action shots.
Some users have noted that while the recycle time is quick, it can slow down when using higher flash power settings. This can be a drawback in situations where quick successive shots are needed, particularly during events or photo sessions requiring multiple flashes in rapid succession.
Build Quality
88%
The build quality of this studio flash is often described as robust and durable. The design feels solid and can withstand regular use in professional studios. The heavy-duty materials ensure it holds up well against the occasional bumps and knocks during transportation or setup.
A few users mentioned that the overall weight of the unit, at 6.62 pounds, can be cumbersome for long-duration shoots or frequent on-location use. Some also feel the dimensions could be more compact, as it takes up more space in bags compared to other, more portable lighting options.
Cooling Efficiency
85%
Many buyers have praised the cooling system, which uses an optimized fan to prevent overheating during extended use. This ensures the flash can handle long shoots without thermal issues, making it ideal for those needing continuous lighting for hours at a time.
While the cooling system performs well in most cases, a few users reported that it could get louder at higher power settings. The fan noise can be distracting, especially in quieter environments or during delicate shoots where background noise is undesirable.
Flash Duration & Consistency
84%
This flash provides a wide range of flash durations from 1/2000–1/800s, which many users appreciate for different types of photography, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects. The consistency of the light output is also highly regarded, with minimal color shift over time.
Some photographers have mentioned that the flash duration could be more precise in extremely short bursts for certain high-speed applications. While it works well for most, there are occasional concerns about slight inconsistencies in power output during rapid sequences of shots.
Compatibility with Modifiers
90%
This strobe light's compatibility with Bowens mount light modifiers is a major selling point. Many users have noted the flexibility it offers, allowing them to easily attach a wide variety of softboxes, umbrellas, and other modifiers, making it adaptable to different shooting styles and setups.
While the Bowens mount is a great feature, a few users have encountered occasional difficulties with certain third-party modifiers. These users reported that not all modifiers fit perfectly or may require extra adjustments for optimal performance.
Modeling Lamp Brightness
82%
18%
The included 150W modeling lamp offers adjustable brightness, which users find especially useful when setting up shots and previewing the lighting. The flexibility to fine-tune the brightness adds convenience and precision to the shooting process.
Despite the adjustability, some users feel that the 150W lamp could be brighter for specific high-demand lighting scenarios. A few have mentioned that for larger setups or brighter studio environments, they prefer a more powerful modeling light to assist in better visualizing the scene.
Overall Value for Money
92%
This studio flash is widely regarded as a great value for the features it offers. With its solid build, reliable performance, and compatibility with various modifiers, users believe they are getting a professional-grade light at a reasonable price point. Many feel the overall quality justifies the cost.
A small portion of buyers believe the product could be priced more competitively against other studio lights in the same class. While it's seen as a solid option, some feel that the added cost for premium features like faster recycling could be better balanced with similar models in the market.
User Support & Warranty
75%
25%
Several users have noted that when they did need customer support, the team was responsive and helpful in addressing issues with the flash. The warranty also provides some peace of mind, ensuring the product is covered in case of malfunctions.
However, some customers have reported slow response times when trying to get help with specific technical problems. A few buyers felt the warranty coverage could be more comprehensive, with more options for extended support and repairs for professional users.
Portability & Weight
78%
22%
The weight of this studio flash is considered reasonable for its power output. Users appreciate the solid construction that balances portability with durability, making it easy to transport to shoots without compromising on the quality of lighting.
However, the 6.62-pound weight can be a drawback for those who need a lightweight solution for on-the-go shoots. Some photographers feel that it is too heavy to carry around for long periods, especially when used with additional gear.
Setup & Installation
87%
The setup process for this monolight flash is straightforward, with many users pointing out that it doesn’t take long to get started. The user manual provides clear instructions, and attaching modifiers or accessories is simple, helping users get to work quickly.
A few reviewers felt that the initial setup could be streamlined further, especially when assembling it with Bowens mount accessories. Some have mentioned that they would prefer a quicker way to adjust settings during on-the-fly adjustments, especially in fast-paced shooting environments.

Suitable for:

The NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light is an excellent choice for studio photographers who require reliable, high-performance lighting. With its 400Ws power output and consistent 5600K color temperature, this flash is ideal for portrait and product photography where color accuracy and lighting consistency are essential. Photographers using Bowens mount modifiers will appreciate the versatility, as this strobe supports a range of softboxes and light shapers, making it adaptable to various setups. Additionally, those in need of quick recycling times and efficient cooling for longer sessions will find this flash highly effective, especially in professional studio environments where reliability is crucial.

Not suitable for:

This strobe light may not be the best fit for photographers who frequently shoot outdoors or in more mobile setups. Weighing 6.62 pounds and being on the bulkier side, it might feel cumbersome for users who prioritize portability. Additionally, those needing extremely fast recycle times at higher power settings might find some limitations, as several users mentioned slower recovery when using maximum power. Also, if you're looking for a flash with a more intuitive interface or one that includes advanced wireless features, this flash's simpler design might not meet all the needs of more tech-savvy or complex setups.

Specifications

  • Power: Provides a maximum output of 400Ws, offering powerful lighting for studio settings.
  • Color Temperature: Operates at a consistent 5600K, ideal for neutral and natural-looking lighting.
  • Modeling Lamp: Includes a 150W modeling lamp with adjustable brightness for lighting previews.
  • Flash Duration: Offers a flash duration range from 1/2000s to 1/800s, suitable for capturing high-speed action.
  • Recycle Time: Recycles in 0.4 to 2.8 seconds depending on power setting, ensuring quick readiness between shots.
  • Brightness Levels: Offers 9 adjustable brightness levels for precise control over light intensity.
  • Slave Modes: Supports S1 and S2 optical slave modes, providing flexible triggering options for multi-flash setups.
  • Cooling System: Equipped with an optimized fan system for efficient heat dissipation, supporting long usage sessions.
  • Mount Type: Compatible with Bowens mount light modifiers, allowing versatility in lighting setups.
  • Memory Function: Features a memory function that saves and recalls preferred settings for faster setup.
  • Flash Sync Speed: Supports a maximum flash sync speed of 1/200s for syncing with camera shutter speeds.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 6.62 pounds, offering a balance between power and portability.
  • Dimensions: Measures 15.94 x 10.31 x 8.11 inches, compact enough for studio use while accommodating essential features.
  • Guide Number: Has a guide number of GN65, providing ample light power for a variety of photography applications.
  • Power Source: Requires an external power source, typically AC, for operation in studio environments.
  • Usage: Designed primarily for portrait and product photography in controlled studio settings.
  • Flash Output Control: Offers precise control over flash output, suitable for fine-tuning lighting setups.
  • Durability: Built for regular studio use, designed to withstand long shooting sessions without significant wear.
  • Triggering Method: Can be triggered via sync cable or optical slave modes for flexible shooting configurations.

FAQ

The NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light offers 400Ws of power with consistent 5600K color temperature, making it a reliable choice for studio settings. It’s compatible with Bowens mount modifiers, and the 150W modeling lamp provides excellent control over lighting. The fast recycle time (0.4–2.8s) and 9 adjustable brightness levels ensure flexibility during sessions.

To set up the flash, attach the desired Bowens mount modifier to the mount, plug in the power cord, and adjust the brightness using the 9 available levels. You can also use the 150W modeling lamp for light preview and adjust its brightness. Simply plug it into your camera's flash trigger system or use the S1/S2 optical slave modes for triggering.

While the NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light is designed for studio environments, it can be used outdoors with the right power source and weather protection. Keep in mind that its 6.62-pound weight might make it less portable compared to smaller units, and you’ll need a generator or portable power supply to use it outside.

The Bowens mount is a versatile and widely used standard in photography, which allows you to easily swap between various light modifiers like softboxes, beauty dishes, and reflectors. This compatibility ensures that you can fine-tune your lighting setup based on your specific needs and shooting conditions.

The NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light recycles in 0.4–2.8 seconds depending on the power setting. Fast recycle time is crucial in a busy studio or during events where multiple shots are taken in quick succession, as it ensures you don’t miss key moments between flashes.

Yes, the NEEWER S101-400W includes a 150W modeling lamp with adjustable brightness, allowing you to preview and adjust the lighting intensity before capturing your shot. This feature is particularly useful when working with softboxes or other light modifiers to see the effect of light positioning.

The flash is compatible with many wireless triggers, as it can be triggered via its optical slave modes (S1/S2). However, it does not have built-in advanced wireless functionality, so you’ll need to use a compatible trigger or sync cable for wireless control.

Some users have mentioned that the flash could benefit from faster recycling times at higher power settings, especially during fast-paced shoots. Additionally, its weight may make it less portable for outdoor events or quick setups. The cooling system, while effective, can still lead to some overheating during prolonged use.

The 150W modeling lamp in this device is designed to last for a significant amount of time under normal studio use. However, like all incandescent bulbs, its lifespan can be affected by how often it’s used at full brightness and the surrounding environmental conditions. It’s always a good idea to keep a spare lamp on hand, especially for heavy usage.

Yes, the NEEWER S101-400W Strobe Flash Light comes with an optimized fan system for efficient heat dissipation. Users have reported that it can handle prolonged use without significant overheating, making it reliable for long studio sessions. However, running the flash at its maximum power for extended periods could still lead to some heat buildup.