Meike MK430N
Score: 73/100
Meke MK-14EXT-N
Score: 60/100Rankings
The Meike MK-430N is a compact TTL speedlite providing a 36 m guide number, built-in LCD and wireless slave capability for Nikon and Canon shooters. Its modest power, relatively slow recycle time and uncertain HSS support may restrict fast-action or high-power scenarios. Ideal for hobbyists seeking an affordable on-camera flash with TTL and wireless features.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
36 mbest | 14 m | |
| ↓ lower better | 4 seconds | 3 secondsbest |
| ↓ lower better | 275 gbest | 398 g |
22best | 8 | |
25 mbest | — | |
5,600 Kbest | 5,500 K | |
3best | 3best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Recycle Time (seconds) | 4 seconds | 3 seconds |
General(1) | ||
Compatible Mount Types | Nikon, Canon, others | Nikon DSLR |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wireless Capability | true | false |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Power Levels (steps) | 22 | 8 |
Design(1) | ||
Weight (with batteries) (g) | 275 g | 398 g |
Lighting(2) | ||
Guide Number (m) | 36 m | 14 m |
Color Temperature (K) | 5600 K | 5500 K |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers note that the Meike MK-430N offers solid specifications for its class, delivering reliable TTL performance, a useful LCD panel, and decent wireless range, but they caution buyers to verify version-specific features such as high-speed sync and to be aware of possible configuration differences.
Everyday users appreciate the flash's affordability, lightweight form factor, and the inclusion of essential accessories, though they commonly mention the limited power output and the need to manage AA battery life during extended shoots.
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.
“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.”
