Not sure which Godox flash to buy? The right choice depends on your camera, how you shoot and which features you will actually use—not simply which model is newest or most expensive.
This guide compares the Godox V480, V1 Mid, V1, V1 Pro, V100 and V860III, with a quick comparison chart, practical buying advice and a checklist to help you choose the correct camera version.
Specifications reviewed: 16 October 2026. Based on the official Godox sources linked below, not a controlled head-to-head test. Availability and functionality vary by camera version and firmware.
The Short Answer: Which Godox Flash Should You Choose?
- Keeping your kit compact? Start by comparing the V480 and V1 Mid. Both offer touchscreen controls, USB-C charging and a manufacturer-rated approximately 650 full-power flashes.
- Want a compact round-head flash? Shortlist the V1 Mid for its round head, approximately 413g weight with battery and AK-R1 compatibility.
- Need detachable forward fill while bouncing the main head? Compare the V1 Pro and V100, which support the SU-1 fill light.
- Specifically want 100Ws maximum output and touchscreen controls? Consider the V100, while accounting for its greater weight and lower published full-power shot count than the V480 or V1 Mid.
- Already own a V1 or V860III? Keep it unless you can identify a feature or performance limitation that an upgrade will address.
Before buying: confirm the flash version matches your camera system and check your exact camera body against the manufacturer's compatibility information.
In This Guide
- Godox Flash Comparison Chart
- The Six Models Explained
- Choose by Shooting Needs
- Camera Versions and Compatibility
- When an Upgrade Makes Sense
- Before You Order
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Godox Flash Comparison Chart
Use this chart to narrow your shortlist. A dash means this guide does not provide a verified figure, not that the feature is absent. Check the linked manufacturer page or matching manual for details not shown.
| Feature | V480 | V1 Mid | V1 | V1 Pro | V100 | V860III |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head style | Rectangular | Round | Round | Round | Round | Rectangular |
| Output specification | GN50 at ISO 100, 105mm | — | — | 76Ws | 100Ws maximum in M mode | — |
| Weight including battery | Approx. 361g | Approx. 413g | — | — | Approx. 616g | — |
| Full-power flashes per charge | Approx. 650 | Approx. 650 | — | Approx. 500 | Approx. 400 | — |
| Published recycling time | Approx. 1.7s | Up to 1.7s | — | Approx. 1.3s | Approx. 1.7s with standard battery | — |
| Touchscreen confirmed in reviewed page | Yes, 2-inch; also physical buttons | Yes | — | Not listed | Yes, 2.3-inch | — |
| USB-C/Type-C charging confirmed | Yes | Yes, battery charging | — | Yes | Yes | — |
| Notable selection point | Compact body and modern controls | Compact round head; AK-R1 support | Compare current value against newer options | SU-1 support; external power port | SU-1 support; external power port; 100Ws | Traditional-head option; S-R1 listed as an accessory |
Read the numbers correctly: guide number describes reach under specified conditions; watt-seconds describe energy. They are not interchangeable. Manufacturer battery and recycling ratings are not a controlled cross-model test and can vary with temperature, firing frequency and battery condition.
The V100's advertised recycling as fast as 0.8 seconds requires a PB960 external power pack. Do not compare that figure with another flash's standard battery-only specification.
The Godox Flash Lineup Explained
Godox V480: Compact, With Touchscreen and Physical Controls
The V480 combines a 2-inch colour touchscreen with physical buttons, TTL, manual and multi modes, high-speed sync and the Godox 2.4GHz X wireless system. Godox specifies approximately 361g including the battery, approximately 650 full-power flashes and approximately 1.7-second recycling.
Why shortlist it: you want a compact camera-mounted flash without giving up touchscreen operation or USB-C charging.
What to check: camera compatibility, accessory attachment and whether its head coverage suits your setup. Its published GN50 rating is specified at ISO 100 and 105mm; this guide does not assign it an unverified watt-second rating.
Godox V1 Mid: A Compact Round-Head Setup
The V1 Mid combines a round head with touchscreen controls and USB-C battery charging. Godox lists approximately 413g with battery, approximately 650 full-power flashes and recycling up to 1.7 seconds. Its accessory support includes the AK-R1 kit and S3 bracket.
Why shortlist it: you want a round-head accessory workflow in a compact body.
What to check: whether the available camera version supports your exact body and the functions you need. Do not assume its smaller body means it lacks current features.
Compare V1 Mid camera versions and current pricing.
Godox V1: Consider the Features and Current Price
The V1 is a round-head option worth including in your price comparison. For existing owners, the useful question is not whether a newer flash exists, but whether your current flash is preventing you from getting the results or workflow you need.
Why shortlist it: its current price and feature set may fit your requirements.
What to check: the matching camera-version manual and any charging, interface or accessory differences that matter to you.
Check V1 camera versions and current pricing.
Godox V1 Pro: Detachable Fill Light and Flexible Power
The V1 Pro offers 76Ws output, SU-1 detachable fill-light support, Type-C charging and an external power port. Godox specifies approximately 1.3-second recycling and approximately 500 full-power flashes.
The SU-1 adds forward fill while the main head is used for bounce lighting. Whether that is useful depends on the effect you want and the scene you are photographing.
Why shortlist it: you specifically need its fill-light arrangement or power options for portraits and events.
What to check: camera compatibility, the included package contents and whether those features justify its price for your work. Do not choose it on the basis of the touchscreen claim made in the previous version of this guide.
Check V1 Pro options and package details.
Godox V100: 100Ws Maximum Output With Touchscreen Control
The V100 offers a 2.3-inch touchscreen, SU-1 support and 100Ws maximum output in manual mode. Godox lists approximately 616g including the battery, approximately 400 full-power flashes and approximately 1.7-second recycling on its standard battery.
Why shortlist it: you have a specific need for its rated output, interface or supported sync functions.
What to check: weight, battery endurance and whether you need an external power pack. This guide does not claim a measured brightness or thermal-performance advantage from a head-to-head test.
Check V100 camera versions and current pricing.
Godox V860III: A Traditional Rectangular-Head Alternative
Include the V860III when comparing rectangular-head and round-head setups. Refer to its matching camera-version manual for specifications rather than assuming a different head shape makes it better or worse for a whole category of photography.
Why shortlist it: its handling, existing accessory setup or current price may suit you.
What to check: accessory attachment requirements. Godox lists the S-R1 adapter among its optional accessories; direct attachment and attachment through an adapter are not the same thing.
Choose by Shooting Needs, Not Just Model Names
First Flash or Lightweight Travel Kit
Start with your camera compatibility and budget, then compare the V480 and V1 Mid for weight, handling and preferred accessories. Both have touchscreen controls and USB-C charging. Try to avoid paying for features you cannot yet identify a use for.
Portraits, Weddings and Events
Think about how you bounce or modify light, how often you fire and how you manage batteries. Shortlist the V1 Mid for a compact round-head setup, or the V1 Pro and V100 if SU-1 fill light is important. An existing V1 or V860III may still meet your needs.
There is no single flash that guarantees flattering portraits or covers every wedding. Placement, bounce surface, modifiers and shooting technique remain important.
Off-Camera Flash
Plan the system as well as the flash. Check sender and receiver capabilities, camera-version compatibility, groups and any special sync functions you need. For a separate transmitter, compare the XPro II and X3 Pro against your camera and intended setup.
Video and Social Content
These products are primarily photographic flashes. A modelling lamp should not be confused with a dedicated continuous video light. If recording video is your main requirement, assess continuous LED lighting separately.
Camera Versions and Compatibility: Check Before You Buy
Choose the version intended for your camera system. Common suffixes across these families include C for Canon, N for Nikon, S for Sony, F for Fujifilm and O for OM SYSTEM/Olympus. Available versions differ by model.
Matching the brand is only the first step. Check the exact camera-body compatibility list, firmware notes and desired operating mode. TTL, high-speed sync, electronic-shutter operation and wireless features can have camera-specific conditions.
Sony a9 III and Global-Shutter Sync
The V100 is not the only model in this comparison with published global-shutter support. Godox's current specifications also list global-shutter sync and radio wireless global-shutter sync for the Sony versions of the V480 and V1 Mid.
Confirm the exact flash version, firmware, camera and connection method. Do not apply a Sony-specific capability to every version of a flash.
Should You Upgrade?
- V1 to V1 Pro: consider the SU-1 arrangement, charging and external power options. Keep your V1 if those additions will not change your workflow.
- V1 Pro to V100: compare touchscreen operation and maximum rated output against weight and endurance. Do not assume the V100 has faster battery-only recycling.
- V480 to V1 Mid: focus on head design, handling and accessory preferences. Both already offer touchscreen controls and USB-C charging.
- V860III to a round-head model: upgrade for a specific workflow or accessory requirement, not a general promise of better light.
A useful upgrade test: finish the sentence, “My current flash cannot do ___, and the new one solves it by ___.” If you cannot fill both gaps, you may not need to upgrade yet.
Before You Order From RYNOW
- Confirm your exact camera model and flash version. Check the manufacturer's compatibility information for the functions you intend to use.
- Compare current prices. A value recommendation depends on today's price, not just the model hierarchy.
- Check the selected variant and availability. Do not assume every camera version has the same stock status.
- Review what is included. Confirm battery, charger, fill-light and accessory contents for the specific package.
- Check existing accessories. Confirm direct fit, adapter requirements and trigger compatibility before replacing equipment you already own.
- Review delivery and warranty information. For purchases in Malaysia, confirm the delivery arrangement and applicable warranty terms shown for your order rather than assuming a particular delivery time or coverage.
If you need help selecting a version, include your camera model, main shooting use, budget and current flash or transmitter when contacting RYNOW. These details are more useful than asking for the “best” flash without context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Godox V480 have a touchscreen and USB-C charging?
Yes. Godox lists a 2-inch colour touchscreen, physical buttons and USB-C charging.
How many full-power flashes does the V1 Mid provide?
Godox specifies approximately 650 per charge, with recycling up to 1.7 seconds. Actual performance depends on conditions.
Is the V100 always the best choice?
No. Its 100Ws maximum output and touchscreen may be useful, but weight, battery endurance, price and camera compatibility also matter. Select it for a requirement it meets, not simply because it sits higher in the range.
Does a round head automatically produce softer portraits?
No. Head shape alone does not determine the final result. Consider light distribution, bounce surface, modifier size, distance and placement.
Is the V100 the only option for Sony global-shutter cameras?
No. Current Godox specifications also list global-shutter sync for the Sony versions of the V480 and V1 Mid. Check the exact camera, firmware and setup.
Can I mix different Godox flashes?
The Godox X system supports multi-flash setups, but confirm the required sender/receiver functions and camera-specific features. General system compatibility does not guarantee every advanced function in every combination.
Can a V860III use round-head accessories?
Check the particular accessory and required adapter. Godox lists the S-R1 adapter for the V860III, so a blanket statement that accessories cannot be used is not a reliable buying guide.
Will one battery last an entire wedding?
There is no universal guarantee. Flash output, firing rate, session length and battery condition matter. Plan spare power around your own workload rather than relying on a full-day promise.
Final Verdict: Buy for Your Workflow
Start with the V480 and V1 Mid if you want a compact setup with modern controls. Compare the V1 Pro and V100 when detachable fill light or their power options address a real need. Keep the V1 and V860III in consideration when their features and current price fit your setup.
The best purchase is the correct camera version with the features you will use—not the longest specification list.
Compare current options at RYNOW: V1 Mid · V1 · V1 Pro · V100.
Official Sources and Specification Notes
Sources reviewed on 16 October 2026. The V1 and V860III product pages link to camera-version manuals and compatibility information; detailed numeric specifications not verified in the reviewed text are omitted. Manufacturer ratings and available functions may change. Follow the current manual and firmware notes for your exact version.
- Godox V480: official features and specifications
- Godox V1 Mid: official features and specifications
- Godox V1: product page, manuals and compatibility information
- Godox V1 Pro: official features and specifications
- Godox V100: official features and specifications
- Godox V860III: product page, manuals and compatibility information