EVERY Godox Trigger VS the NEW X3 - Review & Comparison
Вставка
- Опубліковано 1 жов 2024
- I've been waiting YEARS for Godox to finally release a touchscreen device, and the X3 (AKA X3 Nano, R2nano) is the first on the scene. It features a glass touchscreen, a fluid and intuitive operating system, and a Very tiny footprint. But is it actually Practical, or even Useful? Let's go in deep and find out! This is a great place to help you decide which trigger is right for YOU, and not just for me.
Canon：www.amazon.com...
Sony：www.amazon.com...
Nikon：www.amazon.com...
Fuji：www.amazon.com...
Promotion Link: www.amazon.com...
To pick one up, be sure to get the model that matches your camera manufacturer (suffix changes for brand: S- Sony, C- Canon, N- Nikon, F- Fuji, O- Olympus, etc)
X3 Adorama: adorama.rfvk.n...
X3 Amazon US: amzn.to/3WxB4ni
X3 Amazon CA: amzn.to/3UuLNfT
R2 Pro 2 Adorama: adorama.rfvk.n...
XPro 2 Adorama: adorama.rfvk.n...
XPro 2 Amazon US: amzn.to/4a7YYJf
XPro 2 Amazon CA: amzn.to/3QxOlZy
X2T Adorama: adorama.rfvk.n...
X2T Amazon US: amzn.to/44D7SNN
X2T Amazon CA: amzn.to/3Wz07q5
Always updating features chart: docs.google.co...
My merch store: www.wesperryph...
The WesScores master spreadsheet: docs.google.co...
A few of my favourite things:
www.amazon.com...
Timestamps:
0:15 Into
1:10 Build Quality
5:13 Feature Set
9:30 Usability
21:22 Value
22:51 Conclusion
Shot on a Sony a7iv in 4K30 10-bit 4:2:2 Slog 3
Camera Canada kit: shrsl.com/3c0b6
Camera Canada Body Only: shrsl.com/3eq87
Amazon US: amzn.to/3G8yB7T
Adorama: adorama.rfvk.n...
With the Viltrox 16 1.8:
Adorama: adorama.rfvk.n...
Amazon US: amzn.to/3OK7YgI
Amazon CA: amzn.to/42f5aLy
Follow me on the faceplaces:
/ wesperryphoto
/ wesperryphotograpy
www.WesPerryPh...
Music provided by EpidemicSound - To join up, feel free to use my referral link: www.epidemicso...
Thanks for stopping by!
#godox #offcameraflash #x3
*Disclosure: One of these was sent to me by Godox for my honest review. (That's 1/7, to be clear) Additionally, I am a member of Amazon, Camera Canada, Adorama and Pergear affiliate/associate programs, and anything that you purchase by clicking on/through my links could result in me getting a commission. That being said, I greatly appreciate you doing so, as it helps to fund this channel's operations, as well as feed my family. - Наука та технологія
*Addendums: (will continue to add to this)
1) the X2T can activate ALL mode by holding down the SET button for 4 seconds. Not nearly as convenient, but it’s there.
2) the X3 has an ALL function at the bottom of the screen with the +\- buttons.
3) on the X3, after doing a channel scan you can just Tap one of the discovered channels to quickly switch to it! I might need to do an updated face off soon 😏
Updated/corrected features doc: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1lG3XytAAMJCAUAbfXs3UEZOwPwnQ0EtFv3bY83FXMAw/
The new x3 has the adjust all feature in the main screen all the time.. at the bottom
@evokestudioio wow, how did I miss That?? Thanks
@@WesPerry while we’re at it, why are you using the scroll wheel at all? The x3 crush the other triggers at adjusting groups if you just use the touch screen.
The scroll wheel can slide settings faster and with more accuracy (at least for me) as you can feel the detent clicks as it rolls.
@@WesPerry soooo many things to catch. impossible!
The only control it has is in the wrong place, it is on the right side, but we are holding the camera with the right, so you need to pass the camera to your left hand in order to operate it. Very unconfortable, I will wait for the version two .
Touch screen
Over the years, I have acquired all of these triggers for 4 different brands 🤦🏽. I can honestly say that I love the X3 over everything else. The only thing that would definitely make the X3 or an X3 Pro trigger better would be a universal shoe, with an optional Sony adapter. Those of us that shoot multiple brands can worry about a single trigger as opposed to needing multiples. Great comparison.
As a Sony shooter I see no benefit to this 😏😂
Having a cluncky menu and not having AA battery in X3 and having to keep track of battery life is the huge deal breaker for me.
Just a proof that newer is not always better.
And it’s $90. dollars.💵
The details and comparison and the depth you have gone to do so is amazing.
Thank you !!
Superb comparison, thank you!
Comments:
(1) I bring 3 triggers to any commercial shoot because they break so easily.
(2) For any situation where lots of changes are needed during shoot (eg wedding) and IF the photographer likes to rely on muscle memory, the X3 has zero usability due to no buttons.
(3) At least one backup trigger is needed for X3 because battery capacity will reduce over time. Finally,
(4) I find that the older Godox triggers drain the battery when not in use for a couple months. Can be a real problem.
(5) almost forgot - the oddly slow startup time of the X3 can be a problem for some photographic situations.
1) I've only once broken one during a shoot. Dropped an X1T onto concrete. Oops. But I still bring 3 regardless anyway, because one can never be too sure!
2) Can't argue with you there
3) I don't think long term battery degradation will be an issue for the X3, except for the most intense flash photographers. I've charged mine once in two months (aside from the purposeful battery drain test), which mean that, assuming a 200-300 cycle timeframe for showing wear and 1000 cycles for serious loss of capacity, we're looking at 7 years to 35 years to wear down.
4) I haven't noticed this. But I tend to remove the batteries from the ones I'm not currently using, and use the ones in circulation too much to be able to notice.
5) That one is taking a little getting used to. Had to add a custom button on my a7iv to toggle flash exposure preview instead of just toggling the trigger off and on (such as for real estate photography).
@@WesPerry Thanks for the detailed response! I also rely on A7iv and will try out that "toggle flash exposure preview". Brilliant, actually.
Which one do you suggest to start, it will be my first one
Xpro ii c or x3c (for canon) which one is better
23:20 Ah-ha! That's exactly what I was looking for! Thank you and subbed.
I’ll stay with the previous one. Thank you for doing this!
It's as if for each trigger they hired a new team to develope it instead of having one team to evolve to a perfect trigger.
Because they never nailed it. So they always had to fire the development team after release and tried it again 😂
Thanks for this Wes! I have the XPro and it worked great with my A7iii but when i upgraded to A7iV I had a lot of trouble getting it on and off.
You confirmed my hopes that the new XNano had a metal mount and you even said it slides on easier on the A7iV.
Appreciate the time you took for this video. Thanks
Yeah I am so tired of wrestling things in and out of that a7iv hot shoe 🤦🏻♂️
@WesPerry yes main concern tight hot shoe. I m also sonya7iv user. If it fit well. I definitely gonna buy
I went back to the XProII yesterday and thought something was broken, then realized “oh right, I got used to the new metal shoe that actually slides in and out without a fight” 🥴
@@WesPerry 😊😊😆
You missed what I consider to be the absolute most reliable one of them all, the FPRRR2SPT! No HSS, no TTL, single point, totally foolproof, and super duper easy to use. It has a dedicated button for each channel, and dedicated + and 0 buttons, no menu, but still supports modeling lamp and sound control, as well as a passthrough hotshoe. The hidden gem of the Godox/Flashpoint lineup. Highly recommend if you are looking for the most robust trigger and you never use HSS or TTL.
Great, very useful review, Wes. Thanks!
The x3 is super easy to use and I love it. Wouldn’t mind a slightly larger size but I’m not really complaining either
Mine comes in a few days, looking forward to trying it out.
I have owned many of these units but the ONLY one that can do HHS on Canon mirrorless bodies is the new X3. Plus it's the ONLY one in which I can see all the settings in the camera, just like I had a Canon brand unit on top. So it is my choice for sure!
Very informative and information I couldn't find anywhere else!
How about Ettl + HSS on Canon R camers, did Godox finally get that working?
Appreciate this! Thank you... I know where I belong.
Wonder why the ‘focus assist beam’ is left out of the new X3. I’ve tried in a darkened room and all test shots were in focus and correctly exposed so maybe it really is unnecessary.
I must add that due to its miniscule size navigating took a lot of trial and error
There likely wasn’t much room for it, and they know that compatibility with modern mirrorless cameras has been greatly degraded anyway, so it only serves a very niche audience at this point.
Thanks Wes, I brought one of the x3 been wanting one for a while. Great Review!!
is the battery long lasting ?
I'm buying my 1st one, but I'm choosing between X2T and X3. What really makes me want an X3 is the lightness of it, I'm not a very strong girl and holding so much is tiring. Plus, I really really hate batteries that die too quickly, and then you must go and buy a new one....
What did you buy
@@limebulls X3. Easy to navigate, lightweight, satisfied
When all’s said and done, we got to admit that before Godox came along if you’re looking for half of the features that Godox packed into their line from the camera brand speedlights you either could not get them or they were astronomically priced. It’s good to see Godox improving on their build quality now lets see them focus a little more on ergonomics
Damn, you didn't helped me at all :-D ... I Have X1T, and I'm always scrolling in a wrong way to change active group. Btw afaik X3 doesn't allow to change zoom per group, but just globally. Thank you for nice video.
I’m getting the X3. Very disappointed in the R2 Pro II, after about a year and a half the shoe fell apart in my hands. Never abused, in fact stayed on my A1 in the studio 90% of the time. Not cool.
Wow that’s wild
Hopefully this metal shoe does better
My Pro2 has suffered a Lot of abuse in my bag and after a few years I broke a couple of the tiny Sony shoe pins but for some reason it still works fine 🤔
Godox customer service claimed to me yesterday that the plastic hotshoe is not something they heard customers complain much about. I said no way, the complaints are everywhere! They really don't want to make it right. It is clearly a design flaw in combination with a manufacturer defect. It's a shame they responded the way they did to me about it because most of my camera accessories are from Godox!
My experience is that devices with batteries live longer then does with built in rechargeable batteries. When they get bad you can't replace them. Is that so?
It is Possible to replace this battery. I took it apart and removed it myself. It’s not glued together. It’s also not strictly “user serviceable”.
But I also don’t think there’s all that much to worry about here. Li-ion batteries tend to last for at least 300-1000 charge cycles. So with the really good battery life this has, most people are looking at charging this once every 2-6 weeks at best.
So for a Very conservative estimate, the battery should last a minimum of 12+ years.
I’m willing to bet that almost Any trigger is replaced in less time than that because something better or a new system entirely comes along.
(Less conservative / more realistic estimate puts it at closer to 50 years… but I think we know li-ion chemistry is unlikely to last that long, so it’s not wear and tear that’s likely to end it, more just the limitations of the structure ends a li-ion battery somewhere between 10 and 20 years).
Incredibly detailed video that is going to make our choice much easier. Thank YOU for making this awesome comparison!
I believe you are not knocking off enough points for the X3 for having been designed to be used with the right hand. Last time I checked, my camera had the grip on the right and whenever I'm holding it, my right hand appeares to be occupied doing just that. It is completely brain dead to place the dial on the wrong side of the trigger. What were they thinking? Is this for tripod use only?
I knocked off less points there than I might have otherwise because I honestly hardly ever even use the buttons on the right, but instead just use the screen, which is totally workable. It would sure be Better if they were on the left though, for sure. Very odd choice. And would rather have the wheel the XT2 has. Much more ergonomic and fast.
The wheel is very usable with left hand. Though you missed one big issue, the time it takes to turn on and off. It makes exposing ambient light a PITA for faced paced environments and unusable for real estate photography
Impressive comparison, great job as always, thanks.
Focus assist seems like an odd omission given its included in older models. too bad. You mention an X3 pro a few times, heard something?
@@jayt2266 I have heard nothing. But time and technology inexorably marches on…
My Godox XPROs often underexposes. Is this issue still present with the new Nano?
@@gintoxin I’ve heard that before but have never experienced it myself with any of them 🤔
So I can’t say if it’s improved or not.
For godox x3 how you can connect to godox flash app I need to connect his for control power of light from app .. godox x3 use this option yes or no
X3 doesn’t have Bluetooth, so no app interfacing I’m afraid!
I own the Flashpoint AD600 Pro and have encountered several durability issues. After the first year, the tab for releasing the Bowens mount protector and reflector broke. My Flashpoint R2 XPro II trigger also failed when the plastic between the hot shoe connection and the top separated.
I switched to the R2 Pro Mark II, which has been working fine, but I’m considering a new controller while keeping the current one as a backup. Despite careful storage and handling, the plastic quality of Flashpoint (Godox) products leads to frequent breakages. After three years, my AD600 Pro battery also failed.
Given these issues, I suggest potential buyers be aware of the durability concerns. It might be worth considering a more reliable and robust lighting system.
Also, the battery on my Godox LC500 went out a few months ago which can happen, but… the thread on the battery side to mount like on a C-Stand or Tripod began bending over time, luckily there’s another one on the other end. 😅 fml.
I'm curious about what you think of using TCM on the triggers that support it.
I can't say I've used it much on triggers, but I have used it a bit on the V1 Pro now. Previously I wouldn't use TTL much at all, but I find the V1 Pro is Finally Much more accurate and usable for that, so I'll occasionally do that.
13:30 It is designed for right hand use because it is Touchj Screen. Most people (including you 😃) will use their right hand to navigate a touch screen. If the wheel was on the left, it would be harder to adjust things in the menu, using touch screen and wheel, while the triggers is on the camera. You need 1 hand to hold the camera while using the touch screen, and most people will use their right hand. I would actually prefer a sideways scroll wheel at the front, to use for either hand in different scenarios 😊
Does the X3-s works for Godox MF12 twin macro flash?
@@dentreveal3820 it does yes
Nano dont work HSS on my a7iv
I'd love the X3 pro to move the crown to the left side or turn it into a click wheel on top (though i prefer the crown as they manufacture the flimsiest click wheels)
Love this review.
Sometimes the nano is just too small, especially for old eyes. I really love the XPro II even though it doesnt have the second hot shoe and has a larger form factor like a satellite dish.
I own a X-pro & a X-Pro 2 I love the bluetooth for when my camera is up high on my camera stand and I can use the phone app to change settings but I find it chews through my batteries where my X_pro last ages however I noticed my X-Pro hot shoe has cracked and now doesn't work reliably so I need to get a new trigger and I'm thinking I might try out the new X3 thanks for your review.
But no Bluetooth on the new X3!
@@WesPerry yes that is my problem hope fully the next model will be my dream trigger but I think I will just grab one as a spare until a new version comes out.
Just discovered your channel, because I was searching for Godox triggers. Such a good comprehensive review! You got a new subscriber. It's cray that Godox keeps changing the UI from one counter intuitive setup to another!
My main complaint with the X3 is that the control button would have to be on the left side to make it easier for the right hand to normally control and hold the camera. In the case of using a tripod this is not a problem.
It bugs me that the Nano (X3) does not allow you to individually control the zoom of each flash. I use multiple ad100's and this is a feature I really hope they add in.
You are completely wrong about X3 in "raise output 3gr" - there are + and - buttons at the bottom - changing all groups will take 0.5sec. You are using touchscreen way less than it is designed to do. Most of functions can be done even quicker with touchscreen. Only place where crown is usefull, is to make one click adjustment (like +0.1) on main screen if You are too lazy to open submenu (where it still can be done quicher and as same precise with touchscreen).
Just skipped right past the pinned post, eh? 😏
Thank you for pointing out the wrong position of the wheel. I would’ve bought it and suffered
I have only seen videos and and I can already tell that I will love the R2 nano (when it arrives at my doorstep) much more than the rest. I am older but I'm assuming because of the almost phone like interface that I will get used to it way quicker than I did with my last two (R2 proii and Xproii).
Thanks for the breakdown!
Anyone else have the issue where the x3 overexposes when using tcm. Mine overexposes by a full stop of light. My Xpro-N never does this. The initial ttl exposure is fine but when I switch to manual it’s overexposed.
Well, the reason for the case is keeping up with the competition like the Lightpix Labs tiny flash which comes in a similar case.
The button on the right works well if you hold your camera by the lens in your left hand.
When I saw new one x3 first what I thought why control button wheel from right side, I’m night club photographer and I always use my left head to control a settings on transmitter
think that the X3 is available on Aliexpress for about 73 euros!!
I have dropped a few triggers and I owned every one of these except the new Nano. The week after I bought the Xpro ll they came out with the nano. I always like to have a back up triggered but I already have two backup triggers so I’m not sure if I need the nano or not. I have large hands actually size 4 XL hands and I’m afraid that the touchscreen will be more of a hassle with my big fingers, but I love that. They are coming out with new and improved triggers.
Yeah this isn’t great for large hands. The adjustment wheel on the side is hard to use even for my medium hands.
@@WesPerry every time i comment on your videos you always reply back unlike other UA-cam channels. I greatly appreciate it. I like the Xpro-ii's easier menu and the simplicity od tapping on the group needed and just adjust it. Plus i like the angle of the xpro models cuz its easy to glace down on it to see the settings
@@LMActionsports I’m not sure if it’s possible to make a “perfect” trigger. Every good thing has potential trade offs
thx you for this sir.
been looking for autofocus assist lamp and this one has no autofocus assist.
Thank you so much for the spreadsheet. The lack of single pin mode is enough to avoid it for me. But, also interesting that there's no bluetooth for remote app control.
I got the X3 and cou;dn't make it work with my Sony flash... (after following all the instructions)
Very weird. One of my X3’s came with an ID turned on which I had to turn off before it would work right 😑
Great Review. Thank you for explaining
That thing is way cheaper than i thought, come to think of it, daddy does needs a new trigger!
Inbuilt battery is a bummer
Love the idea of small form factor and built-in battery that lasts a long time.
Ideal for when you aren't sure if you'll need ocf but want to have the option
Cell phone flash trigger
I have the original and I still love it! I'll get this X3 for sure in the future.
Hi Wes. Legacy Hotshoe and SHOOT L-858 mode are shown in the manual on the Godox web site. I imagine there will be a software update to add them soon.
The XT32 is still available but only directly from Godox. It was only made in Canon & Nikon versions but still works with the latest R versions of Canon. Still for size and what it needs to do one of the best! I have it as a backup and it has never let me down!
Could have been nice if the x3 has rear sync flash…
I have the X3 (for canon) and thankfully I can get single pin mode with a piece of tape over the other contacts on my canon r6. The reason I do this is to gain back exposure simulation (important when using natural light or continuous light as the main light in portraits as I do) which is automatically disabled when a non single pin flash is connected. I lose e-ttl and hss but if I ever need I just remove the tape.
There’s a new firmware update that adds single pin.
Do you know if the X3 will work with a receiver like X1r or the Flashpoint R2 transceiver?
And can you please explain single pin. Is that the legacy hot shoe thing? What does it do? And if you look at the Godox manual online for the r3 you'll see a legacy hot shoe setting. Which apparently is missing from the r3 and a bit of false advertising. They even show the screen with it as an option. Maybe it was removed as a feature or possibly will be in a firmware update.
This should work with any of the current / existing X series godox devices as any of the other triggers would.
The biggest problem with these reviews and comparisons is one firmware update is all it takes to make it all obsolete 😂
Single pin basically makes the transmitter no longer appear to the camera, just receiving a dumb signal, no ttl or exposure comp. Which can be good for some things, and can make some problematic cameras more reliable.
How does the xproii compare to the westcott fjx3 s/m in terms of making adjustments on the fly i.e weddings, fast paced environments? Not alot of people/youtubers cover this topic
FStoppers just did a comparison video. They glossed over a lot of stuff (as would be necessary to not make it nine hours long lol). The V1 Pro has a much higher resistance to overheating than anything but the Profoto at this point, though.
Also der X3 Trigger sieht zwar schick aus und der wiederaufladbare Akku ist schon ein Fortschritt gegenüber normalen Batterien, wobei man dann auch sehen muss, ob man diesen nach einem Akkutod leicht tauschen kann oder dann den ganzen Apparat wegwerfen muss. Aber meiner Meinung nach ist das auch schon alles! Ich habe sowohl den XPro, den X2T, den XPro II als auch den R2pro II von Flashpoint ( den ich glücklicherweise gebraucht bekommen konnte, da der in Europa nicht zu bekommen ist). Ich benutze am liebsten diesen, da er einige sinnvolle Buttons besitzt und Funktionen erlaubt, die mit den original Godox Sendern nicht verfügbar sind. Es ist nur schade, dass die Firmware dafür offenbar seit etwa 2 Jahren nicht mehr weiterentwickelt wird. Ich hatte den X3 jetzt mal testweise und hab das Ding nach einem Shooting schon wieder zurück gegeben. Die Bedienung mit dem winzigen Touchscreen ist grauenhaft. Wenn man nicht dauernd genau zielt, tippt man daneben und verliert sich schnell irgendwo in einem der unübersichtlichen Untermenüs. Man muss ständig genau auf das winzige Display starren, was wahnsinnig ablenkt. Die anderen Sender kann ich mittlerweile fast blind bedienen und bin damit wesentlich schneller am Ziel. Und wer Angst hat, sich das Display zu verkratzen, für den gibt es inzwischen passende Schutzfolien. Die Bluetooth- Funktionalität bringt nicht allzuviel ( ausser, dass die Batterien schneller leer werden), da die Godox / Flashpoint App so schlecht programmiert sind, dass man davon Hirnkrebs bekommt. Und für die AA Batterien gibt es auch jetzt Li Ionen Akkus, die ebenfalls 1,5 Volt liefern. Damit arbeiten die Sender einwandfrei.
Für mich geht Godox da etwas in eine falsche Richtung. Sinnvoller wäre gewesen, die XPro Reihe mit einem schönen kontrastreichen OLED Display auszustatten, was die Ablesbarkeit verbessern würde. Das wäre sinnvoll gewesen.
Thanks you for this review✌️🙏
Godox can't get the simple things right. Why don't we just crowd design the perfect trigger and then send them the idea and get it made already! I REQUIRE single pin isolation for real estate photography.
Totally hear you, that’s why I got the xPro ii for my canon. It has the option to put it in legacy mode for single pin in manual mode. No more weird warm white balance. It gives you complete control for real estate.
It's totally confusing, and how many people change to different flashes? Once you have conquered one, then stick to it.
You mean changing to different triggers?
I prefer the old style, because it's a little bigger...and batteries are easy to fuînd.... The X3 seems really small.....and that battery...hm
I suspect there will be a bigger one coming soonish if this one sells well enough. And presumably it will have even more battery life.
Amazing review Wes. So thorough! Thank you. I have an x2t and it might have a problem. Off camera ttl only works with one light. Multiple lights underexpose by over one stop. (Key light still 0 exposure comp background minus 1)ever had this problem on your Sony’s? It also fails to control flash zoom if that’s connected …
I haven’t, but I don’t really use TTL all that often. You might want to check that all devices are up to date on firmware, though. Could be some miscommunication going on.
Just a quick observation, the X3 without single pin isn't as useful as the XProII for flash/ambient mix for real-estate.
Depends on the camera body, as they all have different options for simulating (or not) flash and/or ambient. But yes, that’s totally true. With the other triggers I just quickly turn them off and on for this, but when using the X3 I instead toggle flash explosive preview off and on in the camera body instead.
Hey Wes, amazing video! Is there a quick way to toggle a single group off and on, like double tapping the group button on the X2T?
@@mhand7 there doesn’t seem to be at this time. Hopefully they could add double tap in a firmware update?
@@WesPerry I saw you can scroll down to the next group when in the single view so I guess that is almost as quick! Thanks for the reply and very detailed video!! Top work!
single pin mode doesnt make scene for the Sony version! the x pin is not really in the middle so they cancel it for the x3 that is information from GODOX
But what about for the rest of them?
I just recently got the X3 for my Sony A7iii and love it, except I don’t know if this has happened to you, but sometimes when I turn it off to expose for the ambient and then turn it back on like I’ve done with all my past Godox triggers, it doesn’t trigger with my shutter. It triggers with the test button, but not the camera shutter. After like a while it connects itself back to the camera. I’ve had to go back to the XPro 2 😔. Firmware says 1.06
This is an issue I’ve had with all godox triggers on my a7iv’s since i started using that body years ago. Never happened on my a7iii for some reason, and still never happens on my a9. I have to quickly pull it out of the hotshoe and slide it back in again. Which thankfully is a faster process with the X3 than with previous triggers. I avoid this now by mapping exposure preview to a button on the camera and use that instead of doing the old trigger off/on maneuver.
I thought it was just a faulty device and even bought a second one, but got the same result. will definitely try that Wes and I really appreciate it!
@@WesPerry
Integrated battery is such a huge detraction imo.
It's great that the battery is replaceable, and I'm sure there _is_ something out there already as a direct replacement (no way they had a custom battery made for this thing), but what happens when you forget to charge it and are in the middle of a shoot -you wait, which isn't an option.
But what do I know, I only remember when we hacked our Cactus triggers to make them take AA's instead of the obscure cell they came with specifically for this reason.
I did address this to a degree in the video. Just a couple minutes of usb c charging would likely get you through an hour of shooting. And that battery pack is always in my camera bag anyway. Also, I would Never show up for a paid shoot with one camera or one trigger. I normally bring 2-3 triggers and 2-3 camera bodies (3 for weddings).
Thanks a lot
I had just assumed they were copying Profoto with the new design. Interesting to hear that the quality is better, too. My biggest beef with the other triggers is that they keep breaking on me. Locking mechanism breaks, buttons falling out, etc. Good to hear that the new one may last a bit longer.
Oddly I’ve only had one trigger break on me. An X1T that I dropped 6’ onto concrete. The battery contacts broke right off the circuit board.
That’s about 1/8 in 7 years!
No Bluetooth makes it unless in studio
Given that Most people have never used the Bluetooth in these Godox controllers. Great for some for sure, but definitely a minority, even in studio setups.
I would certainly expect Bluetooth when the larger “pro” version of this comes out.
I have owned the Xpro S and Xpro II S. Neither work in TTL mode. All images underexposed by 1-2.5 stops. Exp Compensation can't correct the problem. Happens at all apertures. Godox hasn't replied to me on this but it's a well documented problem. Anyone found a fix for this?
Which camera and lens combo? I haven’t had this issue…
@@WesPerry Both Sony A7iv and A7Riv with any lens including Sony 23 & 55, Sigma Art 85. Happens in all apertures. These triggers have never worked for me in TTL. But put a V1 on camera and TTL works.
I received it yesterday. It's a great product in every aspect. The only thing I expected to be better is the fit-it's still quite tight when attaching and detaching it from my camera. The button doesn't offer much assistance.
does the new trigger have a single pin mode? I love being able to activate that on the current trigger to avoid frequent errors in auto WB - especially when I don't need HSS.
Unfortunately not at this time. Not sure if this can or will be added later as a firmware update either.
I use a Sony mirrorless camera and I always start with an ambient exposure with the trigger turned off. Then I turn the trigger on and adjust my flash power to taste. Waiting 6 seconds for the X3 to turn on isn't a viable option for me. Sorry Godox but I'll have to stick to my XT2.
Great comparison video Wes!!!! ❤
With newer sony mirrorless cameras you dont have to turn off the trigger (live preview or something i forget)
Yeah I assign the live view preview to a button on the camera. But I used to just hit the power switch on the trigger instead.
the X3 doesn't work correctly in TTL mode on Sony bodies !
Worked fine for me on the a7iv
What do you mean “not correctly”?
I work in clubs, had my X1T and X2T in the worst condition imagineable. I've been hit by people dancing multiple times and safe to say it drew blood from me 2-3 times with that top hotshoe passthrough.
But the trigger is still like new. The screen sure is a bit scratched up but I literally never cared for it, I throw it in my bag and if it dies, it dies.
So no I don't think the glass screen is a good idea. It's there because of the touchscreen, which is a bad idea to begin with. It's fancy but it's not a good tool.
Edit: though I do like the smaller size and simpler lock, for sure.
I used to carry my a6000 by the X1T on top 👀😂
@@WesPerry Well if I did that with my gripped 5d4+24-35 f/2 I think I would quickly figure out how a lone hotshoe looks mounted with cables hanging out 🤣
Anyhow aside from my negative comment about durability I have a birthday party coming up this weekend and the touch screen interface over only 2 channels is interesting... I may splurge on this. After all more triggers are never a bad idea
Not sure if you mentioned this, but +1 for the X2T for having the additional slot atop the unit. I like filming BTS for my site and I use the hotshoe with an Insta360 and that allows me to connect it while using the flash trigger.
Even rhinitis the X3 for most all of my shoots. I love that lil thing!!❤❤😊
I did mention this, but not something I Personally use ;)
12:20 I don't think the "less intuitive" criticism has any merit for anyone but first time users. Once one has used the device for a bit, pressing the group buttons becomes second nature and is quicker than moving between buttons on the side and the bottom all the time. Devices should be designed to be quick to operate for normal users, as opposed to being the most intuitive for complete novices.
I think devices should and could be Both.
@@WesPerry "Both", yes, if possible. However, one cannot place the group buttons at the "intuitive" locations (some of them are offset to the screen rows) and have them as quickly accessible (considering the dial and "OK" are frequently used) as they are on the R2ProII at the same time. If a compromise has to be made, I'd say make it better for the non-novice user because most users will be novices only for a relatively short period.
Hi Wes awesome video, however I have a question for you and your subscribers. I have a XPRON, now I have 1 x V1N and 2 x V860iiC which I run as OCF. Now the when I have the trigger on either of my Nikon bodies, D5 and D500 the trigger would not fire any of the flashes when in Manual mode, however it would fire all 3 only in I-TTL mode. When I put the the V1N on the bodies and use it as a master it will fire the V860iiC flashes in manual & I-TTL mode. Have you or any of your subscribers had this issue? I have a XPRO2 on order thank you Mark from Australia.
That is an odd issue which Shouldn’t affect you. Are all the devices up to date on firmware?
@@WesPerry thanks Wes I shall check that, never thought about that. Awesome thanks again
My X2T has an ALL button, if you long prep the SET button
Huh, it does! Has to be pressed for a rather inconvenient amount of time, but it works! Will add that to my addendums comment soon ;)
can you use it for other brands or is it only for godox strobes and flashes?
It’s only for Godox
@@WesPerry thanks a lot for the reply, how do I find a trigger that is suitable for all brands?
@eternalincantation there is no such thing as a trigger that’s suitable for all brands. Many use totally different frequencies and/or protocols. I think there’s a Neewer one that works with both Neewer and godox, but not sure (because they copied it all right down to the last component)
@@WesPerry thanks a lot for the reply, this just saved me from buying it
the biggest thing that interests me about the new R3 is can I see it easier ?? , I am like many people short sighted so being able to see numbers & figures on a screen easily is very important
Yes! It is indeed Much brighter and clearer.
Some of the larger pro ones have a “big numbers” mode as well, though. But then you lose some other screen info.
@@WesPerry thank you , im gonna order one from Amazon & hope I can see it better & if I can't I send it back haha ..
Great video and comparison! It shows exactly my huge disappointment coming from Xpro: EVERYTHING takes longer, from starting, from switching groups, changing power.
I wanted to love that thing for the BEAUTIFUL and contrasty display. But sending mine back. I don't need a NEW trigger do things slower.
A lot of it is just due to bad UI and unnecessary steps. For example: after a few seconds it will unselect the current group, so you have to select it again. Even if you have ONLY ONE group. That makes absolutely ZERO sense and adds annoying friction.
Yeah I meant to mention the single group getting deselected thing. That kinda drives me crazy, too.
@@WesPerry even more annoying with multiple groups. imagine you have 3-4 groups. EVERY TIME you want to change the D group, you have to push button, go down from top, select group. auto deselecting makes no sense in no use case I can imagine.
@dominicpascal5512 yeah I’m hoping the larger Pro version of this still comes with Both the group shortcuts on the left hand side And a touch screen. I’m probably asking for too much, though.
I absolutely love my Nano, it’s the best trigger I’ve ever used.
Awesome!
I bought these universal (cut to size) screen protectors for electronics for my Godox X-Pro2. I have 2 X-Pro2's, 1 XT2. I use the X-Pro2 still today because of the screen and ease of use.
A great idea! Although I would rather it not be necessary at all lol
@@WesPerry Let's see a version 2 of the X3 with a screen twice the size and the job wheel on the other side. I think that might really do it for me.
great video. one issue i am noticing and I cant figure out. my X3 jumps out of HSS and I end up taking a blown out image. I know to pay attention but dont know what im doing to make that happen. Have you or any of your viewers have this happen to them?
I’ve heard this from a bunch of people and it finally happened to me for the first time yesterday. This after probably 6000 shots on three camera bodies and two different X3’s. Very odd. But glad I knew what happened given the feedback from others. I assume it’s just a hotshoe connection error, but not sure.
@@WesPerry well it just happens and I don't think I am bouncing the camera around to jar the hot shoe.
@gixster92 I would assume it just as often has to do with dirty or corroded contacts in the hotshoe. Not sure, though.
X2T is still the king
100%
Hi there . I’m using it with z8 and miss fired so many times . I have change the setup to long distance or close distance still miss fired . Anyone ? Thank you
Which trigger, this one? Have you done a channel scan?
A friend of mine with a Z8 found that the most recent firmware greatly improved the camera's reliability with his Godox transmitters.
Hi thank you for your reply . I have a session yesterday so I decided to bring the nano trigger again . I did try channel scan and I change the channel to what it show . Then I miss fired like crazy lol . Luckily I brought my old trusty R2 trigger switch back to that and work with no issue . I guess z8 firmware could use and update . I have not update the firmware on the camera yet because I am using Sony lens adaptor as well .
Very good and very useful video!
Nice review, thanks.