Which camera flash is better: the Godox V860ii or the Nikon SB 910?
Both Godox and Nikon offer camera flashes that cater to different needs and budgets. Godox has gained a reputation for providing budget-friendly options while maintaining good quality and performance. On the other hand, Nikon's SB-910, being a first-party device, initially comes at a higher price point but offers excellent flash duration and high-speed sync capabilities. Nikon also has other notable flashes like the SB-5000.
Now let’s check out specs and features before we get to the details.
Features |
Godox V860ii |
Nikon SB 910 |
Guide Number |
196.85' / 60 m at ISO 100 (200 mm Position) |
34 m/111.5 ft. (at ISO 100, 35mm zoom head position |
Auto Zoom Head |
Yes |
Yes |
Bounce Head |
-7 to +90° |
-7° or up to 90° |
Swivel Head |
360° |
180° |
Wireless Operation |
Optical Pulse (TTL/Manual) Up to 49.21' / 15 m (Master, Slave) Radio (TTL/Manual) Up to 328.08' / 100 m (Master, Slave) |
/ |
Internal Power |
1x Rechargeable |
4 AA batteries (alkaline, Ni-Mh or Li-Ion) |
Flash Duration |
1/300 to 1/20000 seconds |
1/880 to 1/38500 seconds |
Recycle Time |
Approx. 0.1 to 1.5 Seconds |
Approx. 0.1 to 1.5 Seconds |
Flash Modes |
Hi-Speed Sync, Second-Curtain Sync |
i-TTL Mode Auto Aperture Flash Mode Non-TTL Auto Flash Mode Distance-priority Manual Flash Mode Manual Flash Mode Repeating Flash Mode |
Flash Compensation |
-3 to +3 EV (1/3 EV Steps) |
-3 to 3 EV in 1/3 EV |
Wireless Channels |
32 |
4 |
Wireless Groups |
3 |
3 |
Battery Life |
Approx 650 full power flashes |
10 shots with throw-away Alkaline. 165 shots with 2,000 mAh eneloop. 190 with 2,600mAh Ni-MH |
Dimensions (W x H x D) |
2.5 x 3 x 7.5" / 64 x 76 x 190 mm |
5.7 x 3.1 x 4.4 inches, HWD. 145 x 78.5 x 113 millimeters |
Weight |
15.17 oz / 430 g |
18.410 oz/ 521.9 g |
Price and Size
The Godox V860II offers an attractive price point compared to the higher-priced Nikon SB-910. With a starting price of $179 on Amazon, the Godox flash provides excellent value for photographers on a tight budget who still want to achieve high-quality flash photography. It offers reliable performance and quality that can meet the needs of many photographers. The SB-910 goes for $499.
Furthermore, if you already own a Nikon camera flash and are looking for an additional unit as a backup, the Godox V860II is a great option. It provides compatibility with Nikon cameras and offers similar functionality and performance at a more affordable price compared to the Nikon SB-910. Both the Godox V860II and the Nikon SB-910 are designed to be relatively compact and portable camera flashes, so there is no significant difference in size between the two units.
Godox v1 vs Nikon SB5000 - Which One is the Best for You?
Flash duration and Recycle Time
The Godox V860II offers a flash duration range of 1/300 to 1/20000 seconds, which provides photographers with the ability to freeze fast-moving subjects and capture high-quality details. This wide range allows for versatility in various shooting scenarios, especially when photographing action or sports.
On the other hand, the Nikon SB-910 has a flash duration range of 1/880 to 1/38500 seconds, with a minimum flash duration slightly slower than that of the Godox V860II. Indeed, both the Godox V860II and the Nikon SB-910 have recycle times ranging from approximately 0.1 to 1.5 seconds. Recycle time refers to the duration it takes for a flash to recharge and be ready for the next shot after firing at full power.
For instance, imagine you are capturing moments at a wedding reception, where timing is crucial. A camera flash with a 2-second recycle time at full power would be too slow and could cause you to miss beautiful and critical moments. However, if you have a camera flash with a recycle time of 0.1 to 1.5 seconds, you can take more shots in quick succession.
Flash Modes and Battery Life
Both the Nikon SB-910 and the Godox V860II offer a range of flash modes that can be helpful in various shooting situations. However, the Nikon SB-910 comes with a broader selection of flash modes, such as Non-TTL Auto Flash Mode, manual mode, and i-TTL Mode, among others. These options allow photographers to have more control over the lighting and achieve accurate lighting effects in different scenarios.
We think that Nikon SB-910 can be a good choice for experienced photographers who are familiar with different lighting techniques and want precise control over their flash output. By adjusting the flash modes, photographers can fine-tune the lighting to achieve the desired results.
Indeed, battery life is an important consideration when choosing a camera flash. In this case, the Godox V860II and the Nikon SB-910 have different battery life specifications.
The Godox V860II is known for its impressive battery life. It is capable of providing approximately 650 full power flashes on a single charge.
Nikon SB-910 has different battery life performance in different situations, here are some information comes from the kenrockwell:
- 110 shots with throw-away Alkaline.
- 165 shots with 2,000 mAh eneloop.
- 190 with 2,600mAh Ni-MH
- 230 with AA Lithium
Which Flash is Right for Your Photography Needs
Type |
Godox V860ii |
Nikon SB 910 |
Portrait Photography |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Event Photography |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Studio Photography |
Excellent |
Excellent |
Environmental and On-location Photography |
Excellent |
Excellent |