Powerextra DF-400
Score: 59/100
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 Powerextra DF-400 is a budget manual speedlite offering a GN33 output, full head swivel and a 18-180 mm zoom range. Its trade-offs include the absence of TTL, high-speed sync and a relatively slow full-power recycle. It is best for beginners and hobbyists needing an affordable, versatile flash for indoor and off-camera use.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
33 mbest | 14 m | |
| ↓ lower better | 3 secondsbest | 3 secondsbest |
| ↓ lower better | 315 gbest | 398 g |
8best | 8best | |
5,800 Kbest | 5,500 K | |
3best | 3best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
General(1) | ||
Compatible Mount Types | Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax, Olympus, Panasonic, etc. | Nikon DSLR |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Wireless Capability | true | false |
Features(1) | ||
TTL Support | false | true |
Battery & Power(1) | ||
Battery Type | 4× AA alkaline | AA |
Design(1) | ||
Weight (with batteries) (g) | 315 g | 398 g |
Lighting(2) | ||
Guide Number (m) | 33 m | 14 m |
Color Temperature (K) | 5800 K | 5500 K |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the Powerextra DF-400 a solid entry-level flash that offers good value for its price, thanks to its GN 33, full head swivel, and wireless slave capabilities. However, they note significant drawbacks such as the lack of TTL/HSS, a relatively slow full-power recycle, and a plastic build that feels less robust than competing models.
Everyday users praise the flash for its low price, long battery life, and ease of use across many camera brands, while repeatedly criticizing the cheap plastic construction, slow full-power recycle, and inconsistent performance at very high shutter speeds.
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.
“Cheap entry ($26) and great battery life up to 1500 flashes”
“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.”
