Powerextra DF-400
Score: 54/100
Godox iM30
Score: 68/100Rankings
The Godox iM30 is an ultra-compact manual speedlight powered by two AAA cells, offering basic flash functionality and optical slave modes. Its portability is offset by low power, no TTL/HSS, and a fixed head, making it suited for casual or travel use rather than demanding studio work.
The Powerextra DF-400 is a budget-friendly manual flash offering basic power control, optical slave modes, and a rotating head, suitable for beginners and hobbyists. It lacks TTL, HSS, and a robust build, making it less ideal for demanding professional work.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
33 mbest | 15 m | |
| ↓ lower better | 3 sbest | 3.6 s |
— | 230 flashesbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 315 g | 108 gbest |
8 levelsbest | 7 levels | |
5,800 K | 6,500 Kbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Features(1) | ||
Flash Modes | Manual, S1, S2 | Manual |
Battery & Power(2) | ||
Battery Type | AA | AAA |
Battery Life (full‑power flashes) (flashes) | 110-1500 flashes | 230 flashes |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Weight (g) | 315 g | 108 g |
Performance(5) | ||
Guide Number (m) | 33 m | 15 m |
Recycle Time (s) | 3.0 s | 3.6 s |
Flash Duration (s) | 0.005-0.00005 s | 1/2000-1/300 s |
Power Output Levels (levels) | 8 levels | 7 levels |
Color Temperature (K) | 5800 K | 6500 K |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional editors note that the DF-400 delivers essential manual flash capability at an exceptionally low price, making it a solid starter flash for beginners.
Everyday users generally praise the DF-400 for its affordability, basic functionality, and the rotating head that enables bounce lighting.
Professional reviewers commend the iM30 for its nostalgic retro styling, ultra-compact form factor, and intuitive tactile dial, but stress its low guide number, lack of bounce/swivel, and absence of TTL/HSS for demanding work.
Everyday users love the tiny size, vintage look, and AAA convenience, but are frustrated by the missing battery indicator, slower recycle, and harsh light from the fixed head.
“perfect reincarnation of 70s and 80s flashes”
“doesn't ruin the camera's profile”
“Extremely compact and lightweight (78 g); Universal hot shoe compatibility across DSLR, mirrorless, and film cameras.”
