Godox V1 Pro Flash for Canon Review: Pro Verdict
Digging into cross-platform feedback, the Godox V1 Pro Flash for Canon earns a solid 8.7/10 from users who prize endurance, soft light quality, and flexibility. While marketed as a major upgrade over the original V1, community sentiment suggests the improvements are valuable mainly for professionals doing high-volume or long-duration shoots, rather than casual photographers.
Quick Verdict: Conditional — worth it for event pros, less so for hobbyists
| Pros (User-Reported) | Cons (User-Reported) |
|---|---|
| 100 consecutive full-power flashes without overheating | Larger and heavier than V1 |
| USB-C direct charging plus VC26 cradle option | Detachable SU-1 fill light seen as gimmicky by some |
| Round head delivers soft, even light | Proprietary battery limits easy replacement on the road |
| Faster recycle time (~1.3s vs 1.5s) | Only marginal battery capacity increase over V1 |
| PB960 external pack compatibility | Price jump over V1 not justified for casual use |
| Magnetic modifier mount without adapter | Light throw distance less than Fresnel-headed flashes |
Claims vs Reality
One of Godox’s headline claims is the ability to fire 100 consecutive full-power flashes without overheating. Reddit user Randy*** confirmed this is “the one advantage of the V-1 Pro” over the earlier model, noting PB960 battery pack compatibility makes it even more appealing for endurance shooting. For wedding and event shooters, this means capturing every key moment without waiting for cooldown.
The detachable SU-1 fill light is promoted as a “game-changer” in marketing materials. However, multiple Reddit and Canon Rumors posters were unconvinced. A Canon Rumors contributor said, “The new detachable mini fill-flash looks a bit gimmicky, especially if used outdoors will likely have zero effect.” This suggests the feature’s impact varies heavily by shooting environment.
Godox touts USB-C charging convenience as a leap forward. While officially described as modern and eco-friendly, some users framed this as fixing “a gross engineering oversight” from the V1, which required removing the battery for charging. The new port is widely appreciated by traveling photographers who can charge directly from a power bank.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
The round head light quality is repeatedly praised for producing soft, flattering illumination. A verified buyer on Amazon noted it “offers even soft effect and increased illuminated surface… perfect for portraits.” Event photographers on Reddit agreed it provided a more even spread than Fresnel heads when used bare, reducing harsh falloff.
Battery endurance is another standout. The 2980mAh VB30 cell, while only ~14% larger than the V1’s, supports longer shooting sessions with fewer swaps. Reddit user u/flash*** reported shooting “around 1500 photos on an average job” without exhausting a single battery. For professionals, this translates to uninterrupted workflow during high-pressure events.
Wireless integration into Godox’s 2.4G X system is highlighted across Trustpilot and Reddit as a key strength. Canon Rumors contributors spoke of seamless pairing with other Godox lights, enabling layered setups without cable clutter. This benefits multi-light shooters in both studio and on-location contexts.
Common Complaints
Size and weight are recurring negatives. Several Reddit threads mention the V1 Pro is “somewhat larger (and maybe heavier) than the V1,” making it less appealing for travel photographers who value compact kits. Combined with the proprietary battery, this limits field repairability—users noted AA-powered alternatives can be sourced anywhere.
The SU-1 fill light divides opinion. While some appreciate the on-camera fill option for quick portrait setups, others don’t see measurable improvement. Reddit user Randy*** compared it to older Metz flashes and found it “didn’t make much of a difference, at all.”
Price is another sore point. With street prices around $329–$550, multiple Canon Rumors users questioned if the ~$100 premium over the V1 is justified. One wrote, “The price differential… does not seem worth it tbh,” especially with identical power output and similar battery life.
Divisive Features
The faster recycle time (1.3s vs 1.5s) is welcomed by event shooters but dismissed as negligible by hobbyists. Some argue the gain is only notable when using the PB960 pack, which instantly recycles at full power. Without it, the improvement is modest.
Light throw distance is another split. Fresnel-headed flashes can zoom narrower and throw farther. Reddit’s lighting enthusiasts note the round head excels at close, soft coverage but lacks reach for distant subjects, making it less ideal for sports or wildlife flash work.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot reports emphasize reliability, with the upgraded flash head structure “ensuring lasting light quality.” Reddit veterans describe Godox gear as “bulletproof” even when dropped or submerged, citing consistent output and color accuracy over years of use.
Concerns about firmware updates persist. Canon Rumors users recall older Godox models requiring clunky PC apps to update, though this is less relevant for newer releases. No widespread reports of early failure emerged, suggesting strong build quality.
Alternatives
The TT685 II is repeatedly mentioned as a cheaper, Fresnel-headed alternative with similar power output. A Reddit contributor noted it costs less than half the V1 Pro and “could net you the new X3 transmitter, light stand, swivel, and an umbrella” with the savings.
For more power, the AD200 (with round head attachment) is suggested. Canon Rumors users highlight it’s “three times as powerful” with longer battery life and lighter on-camera handling when using a remote head via EC200 cable.
High-end shooters compare the V1 Pro to Canon EL-1 and Profoto A10. While the EL-1 boasts faster recycle (.9s) and 170 continuous full-power pops, it costs ~6x more. Profoto fans cite decades of reliability but acknowledge price is the main barrier.
Price & Value
eBay listings show the V1 Pro averaging $329 new, with some regional retailers charging over $500. The original V1 is often discounted to ~$199, creating a significant value gap. Reddit consensus leans toward buying the Pro only if you need the endurance and USB-C convenience.
Resale value for Pro units should remain strong given cross-brand compatibility in the Godox X system. Buyers on Canon Rumors suggest waiting for promotional bundles that include the AK-R22 diffuser and SU-1 fill light at no extra cost.
FAQ
Q: Does the V1 Pro have more power than the V1?
A: No. Users across Reddit and Canon Rumors confirm both are rated at 76Ws. Improvements are in endurance, charging, and features—not raw output.
Q: Is the SU-1 fill light worth using?
A: Mixed. Some find it helpful for quick fill on portraits, others see little difference, especially outdoors. Effectiveness depends on shooting conditions.
Q: Can I use AA batteries instead of the VB30?
A: No. The V1 Pro uses a proprietary lithium-ion battery. This limits field replacement options compared to AA-powered flashes.
Q: How much faster is the recycle time?
A: Internally, about .2 seconds faster than the V1. With a PB960 pack, recycle is nearly instant, but the pack adds bulk.
Q: Will the V1 Pro integrate with my other Godox lights?
A: Yes. It’s fully compatible with the Godox 2.4G X wireless system, allowing mixed setups with other Godox flashes and strobes.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re an event or wedding professional needing long-duration, high-frequency firing with soft light and modern charging. Avoid if you’re a casual or travel shooter prioritizing compactness and replaceable batteries. Pro tip from the community: pair it with a PB960 for instant recycle during peak action moments.
