Nikon SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander Unit Review

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Introduction

November 30, 2008

The Nikon SU-800 is Nikon's solution to wireless flash control. This unit can be bought separately or with Nikon's macro setup R1C1. A major benefit with the SU-800 compared to using a flash as the commander is the size and weight of the unit. The Nikon SU-800 has one more bank compared to the built in commander units in Nikon's Dslr's. Setup is also far quicker with this unit then the built in commander functions in Nikon's Dslr's and the SB-800.

Specifications

Power Source: 123A 3v Lithium battery

Included accessories: Soft case SS-SU800

Size: 2.7 x 3.8 x 2.3" (68 x 96 x 58mm) [W x H x D]

Weight: 5.6 oz (160 g)

Price: 254.95 USD

Positives

• Setup, quick and easy
• Size/weight, a lot lighter then using a SB-800/900 as a commander

Drawbacks

• Can be hard to get a hold of
• Uses 123A 3V batteries.
• Range, 66' / 20m is on the short side.
• Has to be in direct line of sight to the slaves.
• If used with cameras not compatible with I-TTL, only close-up flash operation with cords are possible.
• Build quality, plastic fantastic.

Verdict

The Nikon SU-800 Wireless Speedlight Commander Unit is an awesome tool, and is far easier to use then a SB-800 or a Dslr as a commander unit. The downside to this unit is the range and that it has to be in more or less direct line of sight to the flashes(as does all Nikon's wireless CLS equipment). That said the unit works like a charm and is really easy to work with. Another benefit of the SU-800 is that it does not contribute to the overall lighting of the shot. The built in flashes and the Nikon Dslr's or the SB-800/900 is not supposed to do this either, but if used in close proximity it will contribute somewhat to the overall lighting in the shot. This can be a pain especially when working with highly reflective surfaces. Build quality could definitely be better, don't drop this unit!

Features
Performance
Build
Value

Nikon SU-800Price: $ 254.95 USD

Alternatives

Nikon SB-800 Price: Discontinued

Nikon SB-900 Price From: $449.95 USD

Nikon R1C1 Price From: $699.95 USD

PocketWizard Plus II Price: $169.00 USD

PocketWizard MultiMax 32 Channel Price: $279.95 USD

*Prices are subject to change. Listed price is from July 31, 2009

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