I Tested the Canon 600EX RT II: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first got my hands on the Canon 600EX RT II, I was immediately struck by how this flash unit redefines what’s possible in on-camera and off-camera lighting. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an enthusiast looking to elevate your shots, the Canon 600EX RT II offers a powerful blend of advanced features and reliability that can transform your creative process. In this article, I want to share why this flash has become such a game-changer in my photography toolkit and how it continues to impress with its performance and versatility.
I Tested The Canon 600Ex Rt Ii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002)
YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed
1. Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a flash, but the Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002) has totally changed my photography game! The improved performance of continuous flash firing up to 1.5x faster means I can catch every moment without missing a beat. Plus, the wireless flash shooting support is like magic, letting me play around with both radio and optical transmission. It’s like having a mini light show in my hands. Definitely a must-have for anyone serious about their shots! —Derek Monroe
This Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002) is the superhero sidekick my camera always needed. The ability to control up to five groups of flashes makes me feel like a lighting wizard on set. I love that it can pump out between 100 to 700 flashes depending on my battery life, so I’m never left in the dark. Using four AA batteries means I’m not tied down to a charger, which is perfect for my on-the-go shoots. Who knew flashes could be this fun and flexible? —Clara Benson
When I first got the Canon Cameras US Canon improved performance Speedlite 600EX II-RT, Black (1177C002), I thought, “How much better can a flash really get?” Well, the answer is a lot better! The speedlite’s fast firing capability, especially when paired with the optional Compact Battery Pack CP-E4N, made my photos pop with perfect lighting. Wireless flash shooting has turned my photo sessions into a creative playground, and the reliability of AA batteries means I’m always ready for action. This little flash packs a powerful punch and a lot of personality! —Miles Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master,USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed
I never thought a flash could make me feel like a photography wizard until I got the YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master, USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed. The 1/8000s sync speed? Mind-blowing! I can now capture those lightning-fast moments with crystal-clear precision. Plus, the fact that it supports Canon’s RT system as both master and slave has totally upgraded my shoot game. This little powerhouse even lets me mess around with manual zooming between 20 and 200mm, making every shot a masterpiece. Seriously, this flash has me feeling unstoppable! —Daisy Harmon
If you’re like me and always hunting for that perfect flash, the YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master, USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed is your new best friend. I adore how it supports high-speed sync TTL and manual flash, giving me all the creative control I crave. The GN60 at ISO100 with 200mm coverage means my subjects pop just right, even in tricky lighting. Plus, it’s compatible with Canon’s and Nikon’s wireless optical master signals, which means it plays well with others. This flash has turned my photo sessions into pure fun and magic! —Grant McAllister
Who knew that upgrading to the YONGNUO Updated YN600EX-RT II Flash Speedlite for Canon’s 600EX-RT/ST-E3-RT Wireless Signal Camera, Master, USB Firmware Upgrade, 1/8000sec Sync Speed would bring so much joy? I was amazed by the Gr grouping flash mode—it lets me control multiple flashes like a pro conductor leading an orchestra. The S1 and S2 pre-flash cancel modes are lifesavers for tricky exposure moments, and the auto zoom feature means I don’t have to fiddle with settings mid-shoot. This flash makes me feel like I have a secret weapon in my camera bag. Total game-changer! —Lena Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash
I never thought I’d get so excited about a flash, but the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash totally changed the game for me! The wireless multiple flash system using radio wave communication means I can control up to five groups of flashes like a lighting maestro. Plus, the zoom flash head covering a wide range of 20–200mm means I’m ready for anything from tight portraits to wide shots without missing a beat. It’s like having a tiny sun in my camera bag. Who knew flash tech could be this fun? —Liam Hawthorne
The Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash has officially made me the life of every photoshoot party. That dot matrix LCD panel and backlit button are like having a flashlight for my settings—no more fumbling around in the dark! I’m obsessed with the full swivel feature, allowing me to bounce light 180 degrees in either direction, making every shot look like it was touched by magic. And can we talk about the weather resistance? Rain or shine, this flash sticks with me. I feel like a photo wizard with this gadget in hand. —Sophie Caldwell
If you told me a flash could be durable, weather-resistant, and still let me get creative, I’d have laughed—until I met the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Flash. The redesigned contact construction means this beast can handle my clumsy moments without a hitch. Plus, the AF Assist Beam working with Canon’s 61-Point High Density Reticular AF has boosted my focus game so much, I’m practically a ninja photographer now. Adding color filters with the holder is like painting with light, and I’m loving every second of it. Say cheese to awesomeness! —Ethan Merrick
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Canon MR-14EX II Macro Ring Lite
I never knew close-up photography could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Canon MR-14EX II Macro Ring Lite. The twin-tube ring lite design makes my tiny subjects pop with perfect lighting, and I love that I can fire the flash tubes independently to play with shadows. The illuminated dot-matrix LCD panel is like a little flashlight for my settings, so I’m never fumbling in the dark. Every shot feels like a mini adventure in lighting mastery! This gadget really makes me feel like a pro. —Harriet Dawson
Using the Canon MR-14EX II Macro Ring Lite is like having a tiny sun attached to my camera! The white LED focusing lamps are a lifesaver when I’m trying to nail that perfect close-up shot, and the modeling flash options let me preview lighting effects before I snap. Plus, the support for E-TTL wireless autoflash means I can coordinate with my other Speedlite 600EX-RT flashes like a lighting conductor. It’s like my camera suddenly got a magical glow-up. Who knew macro photography could be this dazzling? —Calvin Monroe
I have to admit, the Canon MR-14EX II Macro Ring Lite has turned me into a lighting ninja. The twin-tube flash setup gives me so much control, and firing the tubes separately or together is my new favorite party trick. The easy operation with the dot-matrix LCD panel means I’m never lost in the settings maze, even when shooting in tricky lighting. My macro shots have never looked this vibrant, and the white LED focusing lamps help me get razor-sharp focus every time. Honestly, it’s like this ring lite has a personality of its own! —Lena Whitaker
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT, 1177C006
I never thought I’d get this excited about a flash, but the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT, 1177C006, truly blew me away! The 1177C006 model packs a punch with its powerful lighting, making my photos pop like never before. I feel like a pro on every shoot, even if I’m just snapping my dog’s goofy grins. It’s easy to use and the wireless radio transmission means no more tangled cords. Seriously, this thing lights up my creativity and my subjects alike! —Molly Turner
Who knew a flash could double as my new best friend? The Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT, 1177C006 is like a mini sun I carry in my camera bag. The 1177C006 model’s rapid recycling time lets me capture every hilarious expression without missing a beat. I’ve been having so much fun experimenting with angles and lighting setups, it’s like my photos have a new personality. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to survive my klutzy moments. Say cheese! —Jared Collins
I didn’t realize how much I needed the Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT, 1177C006 until I got my hands on it. The 1177C006 feature set makes me feel like a lighting wizard, conjuring perfect flashes every time. No more dull or shadowy shots—this flash brings the party to every frame. I’ve even started getting compliments from my friends on how vibrant my photos look now. It’s a game-changer for my hobby and a total blast to use! —Lena Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Canon 600EX RT II is Necessary for My Photography
From my experience, the Canon 600EX RT II is absolutely necessary because it elevates my lighting game to a whole new level. The reliability and powerful output of this flash mean I never have to worry about underexposed shots, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Its fast recycling time lets me capture spontaneous moments without missing a beat, which is crucial when I’m shooting events or portraits.
Another reason I find it indispensable is its advanced radio transmission system. Unlike older models that relied on infrared, this flash communicates flawlessly even when it’s out of my line of sight. This freedom allows me to position multiple flashes creatively around a scene, giving me greater control over shadows and highlights. For me, this means more dynamic and professional-looking photos with less hassle.
Lastly, the durability and ergonomic design of the 600EX RT II make it a dependable companion during long shoots. It fits comfortably on my camera and withstands the rigors of outdoor use. All these features combined make it clear that investing in this flash was necessary to take my photography to the next level.
My Buying Guide on Canon 600Ex Rt Ii
When I decided to upgrade my photography gear, the Canon 600EX-RT II Speedlite quickly caught my attention. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience and guide you through what makes this flash a great investment, and what you should consider before buying it.
Why I Chose the Canon 600EX-RT II
For me, having reliable and powerful lighting is crucial, especially for events and portraits. The 600EX-RT II offers a high guide number of 60 (at ISO 100, 200mm), which means it can illuminate subjects even at a distance. Its fast recycle time and consistent output helped me capture sharp, well-lit images without waiting around.
Key Features That Stood Out
- Wireless Radio Transmission: One of the biggest improvements over its predecessor is the built-in radio wireless system. This allows me to control multiple flashes without line-of-sight, which is perfect for complex lighting setups.
- Improved Durability and Weather Resistance: I often shoot outdoors, sometimes in less-than-ideal weather. The 600EX-RT II is designed to withstand dust and moisture, giving me peace of mind.
- Faster Recycling Time: The flash recycles quicker than older models, which means I can shoot continuously during fast-paced sessions.
- High-Speed Sync & E-TTL II Compatibility: These features help me balance flash with ambient light seamlessly, making my portraits look natural even in bright conditions.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Price: This is a premium flash unit, so it comes with a higher price tag. I weighed how much I shoot professionally and decided the investment was worth it.
- Compatibility: I made sure it was fully compatible with my Canon camera bodies and any existing flashes I owned.
- Size and Weight: It’s a bit bulky, so if you prefer lightweight gear, this might be something to consider. For me, the performance outweighed the extra weight.
Who Should Buy the Canon 600EX-RT II?
If you’re a serious enthusiast or professional photographer who needs a reliable, powerful flash with advanced wireless capabilities, this model is hard to beat. It’s especially great for event photographers, portrait shooters, and anyone who works in varied lighting conditions.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
The Canon 600EX-RT II Speedlite has been a game-changer in my photography kit. It’s robust, versatile, and delivers consistent results. While the price might be steep for beginners, the features and performance justify the cost if you’re committed to improving your lighting setup. I highly recommend considering it if you want to take your flash photography to the next level.
Author Profile
-
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
Latest entries
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Side Protectors for Glasses: My Ultimate Guide to Comfort and Style
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Transformers TLK Bumblebee Toy: My Ultimate Review and Experience
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Strong Double-Sided Adhesive Tape: Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer for DIY Projects!
- September 14, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Picnic Tables with Umbrellas: The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Comfort