Godox V480 vs. V1pro vs. V860 III: Which Flash Should You Choose?
As a photographer, selecting the right flash can make all the difference in achieving stunning, well-lit images. Godox, a leading brand in photography lighting, offers a range of flashes that combine performance, reliability, and affordability. Available through Red Dot Photo, Singapore’s trusted photography equipment reseller, the Godox V480, V1pro, and V860 III are three popular models that cater to different needs. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into their specifications, performance, user experiences, and value to help you decide which flash is the best fit for your photography journey.
Specifications Comparison
To understand how these flashes stack up, let’s examine their key specifications in a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Godox V480 | Godox V1pro | Godox V860 III |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guide Number (GN) | 50 | 60 | 60 |
| Battery | Lithium-ion, 650 full-power flashes | Lithium-ion, ~500 full-power flashes | Lithium-ion, ~650 full-power flashes |
| Recycle Time | 1.7 seconds | ~1.5 seconds | ~1.5 seconds |
| Size and Weight | 166.12 x 71.1 x 49.02 mm, 282g (without battery) | Slightly larger, 530g (with battery) | Larger, 530g (with battery) |
| Zoom Range | Up to 105mm | 28-105mm | 20-200mm |
| Unique Features | 2-inch HD touchscreen, tactile buttons, 10-level LED modeling light, USB-C charging | Detachable fill light (SU-1), all-metal foot, dedicated TTL/Manual switch | 2W front-facing modeling light, traditional speedlight design |
| Wireless System | 2.4GHz Godox X (100m range) | 2.4GHz Godox X (100m range) | 2.4GHz Godox X (100m range) |
| Price (SGD) | ~$230 | ~$420 | ~$238 |
{Disclaimer: Prices and are based on available data as of July 2025 and may vary.}
Guide Number
The guide number indicates a flash’s power output. The V1pro and V860 III, with a GN of 60, are more powerful than the V480’s GN of 50, making them better suited for lighting larger scenes or off-camera setups. However, the V480’s power is sufficient for most on-camera applications, especially in smaller settings.
Battery Life
All three flashes use lithium-ion batteries, offering longer life and faster recycling compared to traditional AA batteries. The V480 and V860 III both provide up to 650 full-power flashes, slightly outperforming the V1pro’s ~500 flashes. This makes the V480 and V860 III ideal for extended shoots without frequent recharging.
Recycle Time
Recycle time is critical for fast-paced photography. The V1pro and V860 III recycle in approximately 1.5 seconds, slightly faster than the V480’s 1.7 seconds. While the difference is small, it may be noticeable during rapid-fire shooting, such as at events or sports.
Size and Weight
The V480 is the most compact and lightweight, weighing just 282g without the battery, making it perfect for photographers who travel light. The V1pro and V860 III, both at 530g with batteries, are bulkier but still manageable for most camera setups.
Unique Features
- V480: Features a 2-inch HD touchscreen and tactile buttons for intuitive control, a 10-level LED modeling light for previewing lighting effects, and USB-C charging for convenience.
- V1pro: Includes a detachable fill light (SU-1) for creative lighting, an all-metal foot for durability, and a dedicated TTL/Manual switch for quick mode changes. It can handle 100 full-power flashes before overheating, a significant improvement over its predecessor.
- V860 III: Offers a 2W front-facing modeling light, useful for previewing lighting setups, and a wider zoom range (20-200mm) for greater flexibility in various shooting scenarios.
Wireless Capabilities
All three flashes support the 2.4GHz Godox X wireless system, allowing seamless integration with other Godox lights and triggers for off-camera flash setups. The V480 also includes advanced features like a SCAN function to find the least-crowded radio channel and wireless sync with newer Godox models.
Performance and User Experience
User reviews provide valuable insights into how these flashes perform in real-world scenarios:
Godox V480
- Pros: Users praise its compact size, modern touchscreen interface, and USB-C charging, which eliminates the need for a separate charger. Its portability makes it a favorite for travel and street photography.
- Cons: Some users note the slower recycle time (1.7 seconds) can be a limitation in fast-paced scenarios. The zoom range, limited to 105mm, may not suffice for photographers needing to cover larger areas.
- User Feedback: A Reddit user highlighted the V480’s improvements over the V350, such as 330° head rotation and full 100m radio range, making it a significant upgrade for compact flash users (Reddit Post).
Godox V1pro
- Pros: The detachable fill light (SU-1) is a standout feature, adding versatility for event and portrait photography. The all-metal foot and improved thermal performance (100 full-power flashes before overheating) enhance durability and reliability.
- Cons: Its higher price point may deter budget-conscious photographers, and its larger size makes it less portable than the V480.
- User Feedback: Reviews on Fstoppers and Shotkit commend the V1pro’s ease of use and professional-grade features, noting its value compared to pricier alternatives like Profoto’s A10 (Fstoppers Review).
Godox V860 III
- Pros: Users appreciate its power, reliability, and value for money, often comparing it favorably to more expensive Nikon and Canon flashes. The front-facing modeling light is particularly useful for previewing lighting setups.
- Cons: Some users report concerns about Godox’s customer service and warranty support, suggesting the Flashpoint-branded version from Adorama for better support. The modeling light’s position on the body (not the head) can be less effective when bouncing light.
- User Feedback: A Fstoppers review describes the V860 III as a “go-to” for photographers seeking feature-packed lighting at a competitive price, with reliable performance in various scenarios (Fstoppers Review).
Price and Value
Price is a critical factor when choosing a flash, and these models cater to different budgets:
- Godox V480 ($230 SGD): The most affordable option, offering excellent value for hobbyists or photographers who prioritize portability and modern features. Its compact design and touchscreen make it a great entry-level choice.
- Godox V1pro ($420 SGD): The most expensive of the three, but its advanced features, like the detachable fill light and improved durability, justify the cost for professionals needing versatility.
- Godox V860 III ($238 SGD): Strikes a balance between power, features, and price, making it a versatile option for both enthusiasts and professionals.
{Disclaimer: Prices and are based on available data as of July 2025 and may vary.}
Red Dot Photo offers competitive pricing and a wide selection of Godox products, ensuring you get the best value for your investment. Visit Red Dot Photo to explore these flashes and other photography gear.
Which Flash is Right for You?
Choosing the right flash depends on your photography style, budget, and specific needs:
- Godox V480: Ideal for photographers who need a compact, lightweight flash with modern features like a touchscreen and USB-C charging. It’s perfect for travel, street photography, or casual shoots where portability is key.
- Godox V1pro: Best suited for professionals who require advanced functionality, such as the detachable fill light for creative lighting setups and improved durability for demanding shoots.
- Godox V860 III: A great middle-ground option for photographers who need a powerful flash with a traditional design, a wide zoom range, and a modeling light at a reasonable price.
Conclusion
The Godox V480, V1pro, and V860 III are all excellent choices, each catering to different photography needs. The V480 offers unmatched portability and modern features at an affordable price, making it ideal for hobbyists and travelers. The V1pro provides professional-grade functionality for those who need versatility and durability, while the V860 III balances power and features for a wide range of applications.
At Red Dot Photo, we’re committed to helping photographers find the perfect gear to elevate their craft. Explore these Godox flashes and more at Red Dot Photo to take your photography to the next level. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s a Godox flash that’s right for you.
You can find us on Lazada, Shopee & Tiktok shop as well.
Looking for more Godox products? Check out our Godox collection.
