Meike FC-100
Score: 55/100
Meke MK-14EXT-N
Score: 60/100Rankings
The MEKE MK-14EXT-N is a TTL macro ring flash for Nikon DSLRs offering a high 14 m guide number and versatile dual-tube ratio control. Its lack of wireless operation, heavy weight, and limited compatibility with newer mirrorless bodies constrain its use in professional studio or outdoor macro work. It is best suited for hobbyist macro photographers using compatible Nikon DSLRs who need affordable, high-contrast ring lighting.
The Meike FC-100 is a manual LED macro ring flash that offers versatile continuous and flash lighting with a lightweight design and affordable price. Its low 15 GN output and lack of TTL automation limit its usefulness for demanding macro work. Best suited for beginners and video shooters needing basic close-up illumination.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
15 mbest | 14 m | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 3 secondsbest |
| ↓ lower better | 230 gbest | 398 g |
7 | 8best | |
5,500 Kbest | 5,500 Kbest | |
4best | 3 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Compatible Mount Types | Universal hot shoe | Nikon DSLR |
Features(2) | ||
Number of Flash Modes | 4 | 3 |
TTL Support | false | true |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Power Levels (steps) | 7 | 8 |
Design(1) | ||
Weight (with batteries) (g) | 230 g | 398 g |
Lighting(1) | ||
Guide Number (m) | 15 m | 14 m |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the FC-100 for its low price, portability, and versatile lighting modes, especially the flash capability that sets it apart from pure continuous rings. However, they consistently note that its 15 GN output is too weak for true 1:1 macro work and that the manual-only operation can be challenging for users expecting automatic exposure.
Everyday users praise the ring's affordability, easy adapter system, and usefulness for video or basic close-up photography, but they frequently complain about insufficient power for high-magnification subjects, manual exposure difficulties, and limited effective range.
Professional reviewers commend the MK-14EXT for its versatile dual-tube ratio control, strong 46′ guide number and reliable i-TTL performance, which together deliver precise, high-contrast macro lighting. However, they also point out that its brightness can be excessive, it lacks wireless triggering, and its support is limited to older Nikon DSLRs, leaving its suitability for serious professional macro work uncertain.
Everyday users praise the flash for delivering even, shadow-free illumination ideal for jewelry, product and dental photography, and for its long battery life and included adapter rings. Recurring complaints focus on the absence of wireless control, occasional over-brightness, and limited compatibility with newer Nikon mirrorless bodies.
“decent, cheap for portable setups”
“praises the MK-14EXT's flexibility in TTL/Manual/A:B modes, brightness for stopping down to f/16 at ISO 100/1/250s, and side power programming, calling it useful for macro control but noting the jury is "out" after brief testing-potentially too bright without adjustments.”
