We are Insstromall, a professional camera equipment online store, and we provide you with top-quality gear for all your photography needs. Today, we'll review the Godox V1, one of the most popular Godox on camera flashes.
Godox is one of the industry-leading brand that has produced on camera flashes for over a decade. In this Godox V1 review, we will analyze the highlight features, customer reviews, for this famous brand.
Let’s get started!
Godox V1 Overview
It’s been about 4 years since the Godox V1 arrived on the market. In this article, we have this Godox round flash head in handy. Now, let’s talk about what it’s like to use one as your daily round head flash.
Godox V1 Specifications:
| Guide Number | |
| Coverage | |
| Auto Zoom Head | |
| Bounce Head | |
| Swivel Head | |
| Flash Duration | |
| Recycle Time | |
| Secondary Illumination |
| Wireless Operation | |
| Wireless Channels | |
| Wireless Groups |
| Internal Power | |
| External Power Pack Compatible |
| Mount | |
| Off-Camera Terminal | |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | |
| Weight |
| Package Weight | |
| Box Dimensions (LxWxH) |
Godox v1 's Build Quality
Last time, I had doubts about plastic construction because that's how all of Godox's products are - a little bit plastic. But in practice, this product is more rigid than many of Godox's other products.
It's not made of metal or anything, but it has a surprisingly sturdy construction. When I first got the flash head,, I doubted it was a new and improved plastic hot shoe. However, after using it for a long time, I haven't encountered any problems.
However, My only complaint is that the quick lock on this flash could be shakier. However, overall, this device is solid. It hasn't broken on me, even though I haven't taken good care of it. I don't use the shoe protector on the bottom like most people do (although I probably should). But if there's no time for that, let's move on to the feature set. And obviously, this is where this flash has always excelled.
Let's shift our focus to the features of this flash head. Godox V1 did do an excellent job in this regard.
Godox V1 's Wireless channel scanner
I constantly emphasize the vast range of capabilities and communication options of this whole Godox Ecosystem. It functions as a wireless flash and has a unique feature that sets it apart from almost everything else: the wireless channel scanner. This functionality is genuinely remarkable.
Unlike the ad300 and the ad200 pro models, this flash can scan wireless channels. With this feature, I can easily detect signal congestion and identify the optimal medium for this compact pocket strobe. It's a valuable tool to have, especially in situations where wireless interference is a concern.
It may seem surprising that this flash has such a feature, but it is a fantastic and reliable addition. While accessing and scanning channels may be more cumbersome with the ad600 Pro, having the convenience of quickly popping out the Godox V1 and scanning channels makes a significant difference in simplifying my workflow. It greatly enhances the ease of use and efficiency in managing wireless channels, ultimately making my life much easier.
Channels 1, 2, and 12 are relatively free from interference in your area. This knowledge can be helpful when setting up your flash head and choosing the appropriate wireless channel for optimal performance. Let's shift our focus to the features of the flash unit. Godox V1 did do an excellent job in this regard.
Godox v1 's Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery and Backward Flipping Neck
Two prominent features of this flash include the rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides long-lasting full power throughout the day, and the backward flipping neck. These features are great for this manual model and offer significant advantages.
With the rechargeable battery, you won't have to worry about constantly replacing disposable batteries. The backward flipping neck also allows for a convenient bounce flash without physically turning it around, making it a user-friendly and time-saving feature.
Additionally, the magnetic adapters included with the flash, particularly for the flash unit, offer versatile functionality. One practical application is the use of magnetic gel filters. These filters, made of rigid plastic, can be easily attached to the magnetic adapter.
They provide color correction or creative effects to modify the flash's light output. For example, you can use a gel filter to adjust the color temperature or add artistic color effects to your images.
Additionally, the magnetic adapters allow for attaching other accessories, such as an umbrella, enabling you to diffuse and spread the light more evenly for a softer and more flattering lighting effect. The convenience and flexibility provided by these magnetic adapters make them a valuable tool for various real-world photography scenarios.
Godox v1 's Magnetic Adapters
The Godox v1 comes with some accessory kit. The versatility of the Godox V1 with its magnetic adapters allows you to adapt and control the lighting precisely according to your needs. In your video shoot with Monica by the river, you can easily attach the flash to a 7-foot parabolic umbrella, transforming it into a significant light source that produces soft, diffused lighting for a flattering effect. The snap-on feature makes setup quick and hassle-free.
Additionally, you can utilize the honeycomb grid if you desire even more control over the light. This accessory helps narrow the light beam, creating a spotlight effect on your subject and allowing for precise light control in specific shots.
The convenience of the pop-on and pop-off magnetic adapters is a standout feature of the flash unit. While it's important to note that these accessories are sold separately, they offer significant advantages in flexibility and ease of use. So you need to buy them separetely.
Other than the automatic twisting feature for bounce flash found in Canon flashes, I cannot think of many additional standout features compared to the Godox V1 bounce flash. However, it's worth noting that the automatic twisting feature in Canon bounce flashes is often considered more of a gimmick and needs more speed.
The interface of the Godox V1 can be pretty cumbersome
However, when used as a controller, the interface of this flash is remarkably clean and user-friendly. It provides convenient quick links to each group at the bottom, allowing effortless power adjustments. Setting it up is as simple as using a wireless trigger, making it a seamless experience when attached to your camera.
You don't need to have the bounce flash activated to control all the other devices, making it highly convenient. The backward tilting head is also practical, and the magnetic filters offer easy usability.
The only drawback I notice in terms of usability is the soft buttons at the bottom and several screens with no functionality. Despite that, this flash encompasses numerous functions and features.
Despite efforts to avoid confusion, the screen on this flash is excellent and capable of displaying a lot of information. It would be beneficial to use the soft buttons to enhance functionality.
Godox v1's Light Quality
While this strobe does not possess perfect color accuracy or consistency, it offers a satisfactory output level and a reliable recycle time. However, it's important to highlight its positive aspects.
There is some controversy surrounding the guide numbers of this flash due to its round head design, which leads to sacrifices in terms of output. People may notice that its guide number is only 92 feet, which can be misleading.
Compared to other flashes like the V860 Mark II and most regular speedlights that can zoom up to 200 millimeters, this flash has a limited zoom range of only 105 millimeters.
The guide number measures the distance to which the flash can project a certain amount of light rather than the actual amount of light emitted. It reflects the effectiveness of focusing the light output. Therefore, the guide number often serves as a rating for the performance of the frontal head on this flash.
A Canon 600D X may have a guide number of 197, but it achieves that by zooming in more. On the other hand, the ad200 flash, which has almost three times the full power of Godox v1, has a fixed 35mm frontal head, resulting in a guide number of 170, less than twice as much as this flash.
A small LED is located at the bottom of the flash head but doesn't illuminate the entire flash effectively. While the LED is visible and emits a peripheral glow, it emits a warm light that doesn't align precisely with the direction of the flash head.
Consequently, the LED must provide precise information about the flashlight's direction. Moreover, the light it emits significantly differs from the flash itself, being exceptionally bright, especially in dark situations. Its primary function is to illuminate the room somewhat rather than serving as a true modeling lamp that offers an accurate image preview.
However, if you encounter difficulties with achieving focus or face other challenges while using this light, it may help you with those aspects. While this light can provide some illumination, I rarely find a need to utilize it. However, I did use it recently when capturing new shots specifically to have fresh content for this video.
I activated the modeling light to view my eye in the preview while simultaneously looking at the screen above the camera. Without any modifier, the light was directed straight towards my face, set at a full power level to achieve a precise and clean ISO 100 image at f/11. That required a significant amount of power, even at half power.
The recycle time of this head flash is not a limiting factor as it fires incredibly quickly at half power. That makes it highly convenient for specific situations. I prefer something other than the modeling light. Overall, the light quality offered by this flash is noteworthy, especially considering the flexibility provided by the ability to use adapters to achieve desired effects. It's a solid 7 out of 10.
Godox v1 's Value
While it may not be as powerful as a studio strobe, this round-head flash still performs well. Now, moving on to value, I had anticipated a rating change for a while. Specifically, I assumed this flash would eventually replace the V860 Mark II in the Godox lineup.
Over time, I expected the price of this flash to decrease, possibly leading to the phasing out of the V860. However, the cost of this flash remained unchanged despite sales.
On the other hand, there have also been sales of the V860 Mark II. Comparing the two, they offer similar features and full power, with the main differences being the absence of a bounce card in this flash and the inclusion of an extra light and a round head. However, this flash still comes at a 45% higher price than the V860 Mark II.
I had expected the price to decrease, but unfortunately, that didn't happen. This flash still maintains a relatively high price point. One notable advantage over the V860 is its user interface, which is easier to use.
However, both flashes have similar screens, so the improved user interface is an artificially created distinction. This flash offers excellent value compared to other options in the market, particularly within the Godox lineup. It costs much less than the Profoto A series. Compared to the TT685, priced at $119, and the V860 Mark II, priced at $159, this flash is competitively priced.
While this flash may be worth its price, it is within expectations in value like some other Godox products. Additionally, its battery life performance is impressive, requiring infrequent recharging, which is advantageous.
This Godox v1 flash head may not offer the best value compared to other options in the Godox lineup, but it remains a reliable and solid flash.
If it possesses the specific features you require, I wholeheartedly recommend it. However, if it stretches beyond your budget, there's no need to feel discouraged. Godox offers cheaper strobes that provide similar features and power. If you are a portrait photographer or wedding photographer, this flash head is best for you.
Godox V1 Reviews
96% of photographers on Amazon would recommend Godox v1 flash head round head camera flash Over 321 Godox v1 reviews give this product an average rating of 4.6/5 stars.
Most reviews share that their perfect pictures after using this camera flash. Owners also appreciate this product’s affordable price, with many Godox v1 flash kit reviews mentioning difficulty finding other quality camrea flashes in their budget.
I'm a professional photographer (mostly events/parties), and initially purchased this as a backup flash when my Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT (which is an excellent flash) was in the shop for repair.
LIKES: diffusion of light, battery life can last through 3-4 hour events if shooting 1/4 power, battery not too expensive (always have two), tilt-head easy to manipulate.
But if you are a beginner and have no idea how to buy a best camera flash, please read the Definitive Guide to Buying a Camera Flash in 2024.
Godox v1 Sample Images
From Fashion photographer Andrey Rossalev
From Fashion photographer Andrey Rossalev
From: https://wildmacro.de/
From: https://wildmacro.de/
FAQ
Is Godox V1 good?
Yes. you would benefit from using a wireless flash control system that allows you to control multiple slave flashes remotely. There are various systems available, such as radio triggers or optical triggers, that enable you to trigger and control your slave flashes from a distance. These systems typically consist of a transmitter unit that attaches to your camera and receiver units that connect to the slave flashes. Additionally, this flash head could allow for shooting efficiency.
Does the Godox V1 have a built in receiver?
Yes. It comes with a built in 2.4 wireless receiver.
What is the difference between Godox V1 and AD200?
The V1 flash unit has a power output of 76 watts, while the AD200 flash unit has a power output of 200 watts.
How long does Godox V1 last?
The battery of the flash unit is rated to provide up to 480 full-power pops, meaning you can trigger the flash at maximum output for approximately 480 times before the battery life requires recharging.
Can I charge Godox V1 directly?
The Godox VC26 USB Charger for V1 Battery is designed to charge the V1 battery and is connected to a computer using a separate USB cable that is included in the basic V1 package.
Is Godox V1 good for Canon?
Yes. It is well suited for Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, Nikon, Olympus.
Does Godox V1 have high speed sync?
Yes. It is 1/8000s High-Speed Sync.
Is Godox V1 compatible with Sony a7III?
Is Godox V1 compatible with Sony a7III? Godox V1-S Camera Flash Speedlite for Sony a7IV a7III a7RIII a7RII a7C a6400 a6000 a9 a77 a350.
How many watts is V1 Godox?
76Ws output.
What is the Godox 1 battery?
GODOX VB26 Battery Replacement for V1 & V860III.
How to update the Godox 1 firmware?
Check out Godox's website: https://www.godox.com/firmware-flash/
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