Best Flash for Sony a7C & a7C II
The Sony a7C is a compact, lightweight full-frame mirrorless camera that was released in 2020. It features a 24MP sensor, 4K video recording, and 5-axis in-body image stabilization. The a7C II is the successor released in 2023. It keeps the same compact design but upgrades to a new 33MP sensor, improved autofocus with real-time eye tracking, and adds a vari-angle touchscreen LCD. Both cameras use Sony’s E-mount lenses and offer excellent performance in a portable form factor, making them great choices for travel and everyday photography. To shoot better photos, you’d better get a flash for Sony a7C and a7C II. Currently there are a lot of great speedlite flashes in the world, and we have reviewed and tested latest flashes, below are top recommended ones for Sony a7C & a7C II:
Best TTL Flashes for Sony a7C & a7C II:
Sony HVL-F46RM Wireless Radio Flash – Check Price at B&H Photo Video/Adorama/Amazon
The Sony HVL-F46RM is a professional-grade external flash unit with some very useful and powerful capabilities for both on and off-camera flash photography. This wireless radio controlled flash can be used on its own as an on-camera flash, triggered remotely as an off-camera flash, or linked together with other compatible units in multiple lighting setups. A key highlight is the radio frequency wireless triggering which provides reliable syncing, freed from line-of-sight limitations of optical wireless flash systems. The flash head can tilt up 90° and rotate 180° for flexible positioning. Light output is impressive with a guide number of 46m at ISO 100, and there is high-speed sync capability for using flash at faster shutter speeds beyond the normal sync speed. The large backlit LCD panel makes adjustments and settings easy to control. The head zooms from 20-200mm, providing coverage for wide angle to telephoto lenses. Power can be supplied by AA batteries or an optional external battery pack. All in all, the HVL-F46RM is a versatile, powerful flash that provides professional lighting capabilities for multi-flash shooting in the studio or on location.
Product Highlights
- Compatible with Sony ADI / P-TTL
- Per-Frame P-TTL Flash Control
- On-Camera Flash & Transceiver
- Recycle Time: 1.7 Seconds
- Flash Control Linked to Face Detection
- Up to 60 Consecutive Flashes at 10 fps
- Comprehensive Control from Sony Alpha
Sony HVL-F60RM2 Wireless Radio Flash – Check Price at B&H Photo/Adorama/Amazon
The Sony HVL-F60RM2 is a high-end professional grade external flash featuring cutting-edge capabilities for on and off-camera flash work. This radio controlled flash delivers 60Ws of power with a Guide Number of 60m at ISO 100, providing substantial light output for creative and versatile lighting. A key upgrade over its predecessor is the integration of a laser-assisted AF illuminator, enabling precise auto focus in dark conditions when using compatible Sony cameras. The head tilts up 150° and rotates 180° for flexible positioning. The zoom range covers 20-200mm focal lengths. Wireless radio transmission enables rock-solid syncing up to 30m away, free of line-of-sight limitations. The large backlit LCD makes adjustments quick and convenient. The flash can be triggered optically or via the multi interface shoe. Power options include AA batteries or an external battery pack. With robust metal construction, intuitive controls and advanced features like high-speed sync, FE sync terminal and multi flash radio control, the HVL-F60RM2 is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance professional flash for demanding flash photography applications.
Product Highlights
- High-output Guide Number for compact mirrorless cameras (GN60)
- Intelligent communication with the latest Alpha cameras
- White balance and flash control linked to camera face detection
- Per-frame P-TTL flash control instantly adapts to changing light
- Light output optimized for focal length (14mm w/ wide panel to 200mm)
Godox V1 Flash for Sony – Check Price at B&H Photo/Adorama/Amazon
The Godox V1 is a powerful and versatile external flash designed for Sony mirrorless cameras. Built with pro features at a competitive price point, it’s a great flash option for enthusiasts and professionals. With a powerful output of 76Ws, the V1 has an impressive guide number of 60m at ISO 100. The unique round head design allows for natural catch lights and even light distribution. The head tilts up 150° and rotates 330° for incredible flexibility. Zoom range covers 20-200mm focal lengths. This flash features 2.4Ghz radio wireless triggering for reliable sync and control up to 100m away. It has HSS/FP sync for high speed flash sync. The bright dot matrix LCD makes adjustments simple. Power options include the li-ion battery, AA batteries or an external power pack. The V1 has a Bowens S-type modifier mount for attaching softboxes, beauty dishes and grids. The mount lock lever provides a secure, vibration-free fit. For Sony users, the V1 offers TTL autoflash, high speed sync and easy wireless shooting right out of the box. With great power, intuitive controls and advanced features, the Godox V1 is a superb flash choice for Sony mirrorless shooters.
- Compatible with Sony ADI / P-TTL
- Output: 76Ws
- Auto Zoom Control, Zoom Range: 28-105mm
- 2.4 GHz Wireless X-System Transmitter
- Built-In LED Modeling Lamp
- Tilts -7 to 120°, Rotates 330°
- Round Flash Head Design
- Magnetic Light Modifier Attachment
- 1.5 sec Recycle Time, HSS Support
- Removable, Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery
Sony HVL-F28RM External Flash – Check Price at B&H Photo/Adorama/Amazon
The Sony HVL-F28RM is a compact, feature-packed external flash designed for Sony’s mirrorless cameras. Despite its small size, it delivers impressive power and functionality. With a guide number of 28m at ISO 100, it provides sufficient light output for general on-camera flash needs. A key highlight is the integrated 2.4GHz radio wireless triggering, enabling simple off-camera flash setups with reliable sync and no line-of-sight limitations. It supports HSS (high speed sync) for shooting with flash at faster shutter speeds. The zoom head covers wide angle to telephoto focal lengths from 20-105mm. The flash head can tilt up 90° and rotate 180° for bounced lighting flexibility. Power options include NiMH batteries or an optional AC adapter. The large LCD panel makes adjustments easy. It has an auto white balance function to match the color temperature of flash to ambient light. For Sony cameras, the HVL-F28RM offers TTL auto flash capability, AF illuminator and flash compensation control from the camera menu. Weighing just 10.9 oz, this little flash delivers big functionality. It’s a great compact, radio-controlled flash option for Sony mirrorless shooters looking to expand their lighting capabilities.
Features:
- Compatible with Sony ADI / P-TTL
- 2.4 GHz Radio Transceiver, 115′ Range
- Guide Number: 92′ at ISO 100 and 50mm
- Wireless TTL Ratio Controller/Remote
Best Manual Flashes for Sony a7C & a7C II:
Looking for manual flashes for Sony a7C & a7C II ? Manual flashes are usually much cheaper than TTL flashes, below are some recommended manual flashes:
Yongnuo YN560-IV Speedlite – Check Price at Amazon/B&H Photo Video/Adorama
The Yongnuo YN560-IV is a popular manual flash providing ample power and features at a very wallet-friendly price. With a guide number of 58m at ISO 100, it has enough juice for both on and off-camera flash photography. This speedlite gives you complete manual control over flash power output from 1/1 down to 1/128th power. The head zooms from 24-105mm and rotates 270° for bounced light versatility. Tilt motion covers -7 to 90° for creative directional lighting. Powered by 4 AA batteries, a convenient external battery pack port is also provided. YN560-IV works in manual mode only with no TTL or automatic exposure control. Settings must be dialed in manually. This makes it great for learning lighting principles. The flash recycle time is a quick 3 seconds at full power. It has a standard hot shoe mount with a PC sync port for wired triggering solutions. At around $70, the all-manual YN560-IV provides great value for photographers wanting to dip their toes into off-camera lighting on a budget. While not loaded with advanced features, its excellent power, fast recycle times and intuitive manual controls still make it a compelling choice for manual flash work.
Product Highlights
- 2.4 GHz Transceiver with 328′ Range
- Guide Number: 190′ at ISO 100 and 105mm
- Zoom Range: 24-105mm (18mm with Panel)
- Output Range: 1/1 to 1/128
- Tilts -7 to 90° & Rotates 270°
- Optical Slave Functionality
- Recycle Time: Three Seconds
- Multi-Mode for Firing Series of Flashes
- PC Sync and HV Power Ports
- Runs on Four AA Batteries
Bolt VD-420 Manual Flash – Check Price at B&H Photo Video
The Bolt VD-420 is a simple, manual external flash geared towards entry-level and budget-conscious photographers. It provides a decent amount of power at a very affordable price point. With a guide number of 42m at ISO 100, the VD-420 has sufficient light output for basic on-camera flash needs. The head tilts up 90° for nice bounce capability, and rotates 270° for flexibility. The zoom head covers focal lengths from 24mm to 105mm. Power comes from 4 AA batteries. This is a manual-only flash with no advanced automation features. Settings and output power must be controlled manually. While limiting for run-and-gun shooting, this makes the VD-420 well-suited for learning the fundamentals of flash photography and off-camera lighting. The VD-420 has a standard hot shoe mount compatible with many camera brands. A PC sync port allows wired sync with light modifiers or remote triggers. At just $50, this flash delivers good bang for the buck if you don’t need TTL, HSS or wireless capability. For beginning photographers wanting an inexpensive introduction to off-camera flash, or a backup unit for manual control, the Bolt VD-420 is a solid choice with decent power and flexibility at an affordable price point.
Product Highlights
- Manual Flash Unit with 8-Stop Range
- Guide Number: 108.3′ at ISO 100
- Built-In Reflector and Diffuser Panels
- Included Radio Transmitter has 50′ Range
- Tilts Down -7° and Upwards 90°
- Rotates Right 90° and Left 180°
- Recycle Time: 0.1-5.0 Seconds
- Optical Slave S1 and S2 Modes
- Skip One Pre-Flash Function
- Runs on 4 AA Batteries, HV Power Supply
Conclusion:
The Sony a7C and a7C II compact full-frame cameras benefit greatly from a capable external flash. For advanced TTL needs, Sony’s HVL-F46RM and HVL-F60RM2 provide excellent power, wireless control, and pro features perfect for demanding shoots. More affordable options like the Godox V1 or Sony HVL-F28RM still offer radio triggering and high-speed sync in compact form. On the budget manual side, the Yongnuo YN560-IV is a great starter flash to learn lighting basics. Whichever flash matches your budget and features, adding a speedlite expands the creative lighting potential of the a7C and a7C II.