Best Manual Flash Money Can Buy?

Despite being a manual flash, the LumoPro LP180 holds its own as one of our favorite manual pocket strobes. For those of you not accustomed to the photographic nomenclature, a pocket strobe is the name given to this particular power output (~guide 60) and size of flash, because it can fit in your pocket. Health Warning: we do not suggest doing this and are not responsible for loss of circulation and/or spastic judgment and mockery. However, we will be responsible for fully reviewing the LumoPro LP180 in all its manual splendor.

LumoPro LP180 Flash Review Video

04-performance-5-stars

After being included in a side-by-side test with over a dozen other pocket strobes, we personally rated the guide number at around 60. This is around the average guide number for a pocket strobe. The LumoPro LP180 also produces solid recycle times of 2-3 seconds. On top of that, it also produces constant power output and color consistency during many shoots. It is incredibly reliable for professional use.

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We have personally taken these out on professional shoots and were very impressed. Before we review gear, we field test the heck out of them to find their true weaknesses and strengths. Many pocket strobes out of the box are great but only show their true colors when they have been field tested over and over again. Because the Lumopro LP180 has remained consistent after many shoots we rate its performance 5 out of 5 stars.

09-features-5-stars

When compared to other manual flashes, again we award the Lumopro 5 out of 5 stars for features. Generally, manual flashes don’t have many features to begin with. They can control power output and zoom with the ability to test flash. However, there are some notable differences with this unit.

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The LP 180 is the only manual strobe we own that has a 1/4 20 bolt insert on the side of the flash. This makes it incredible versatile and easy to mount to everything that has the “standard” 1/4 20 bolt.

14-design-5-stars

The Lumopro LP180 has an incredibly simple UI. The ease of use to set basic adjustments without the need to read your manual makes it simply beautiful.

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It features a slave option and test option. The buttons for navigation are straightforward and fast. This elegantly designed interface deserves all of it’s 5 of out 5 stars.

19-quality-5-stars

The Lumopro LP180 has the build quality you would come to expect from a big brand manufacturer. The weight correctly reflects it’s high grade plastic structure including details like rubber buttons. We give it 5 out of 5 stars on overall quality.

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In fact, this pocket strobe would be nearly perfect if it wasn’t for our rating of 3 out of 5 in the value category. 3 out of 5 is not necessarily bad, it’s average. For what the LP180 delivers you pay the appropriate price of $200. Also to keep in mind, combining this with a Pocketwizard+ III for around $150 will raise the price to $350. This flash is more expensive than a Neewer ($100) and a Yongnuo ($70) but the build quality is superior. If you want a new and reliable manual flash this is the flash for you.

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33-overall-score-4.5-stars

The LumoPro LP180 is a reliable workhorse in the world of manual flashes. Although it’s expensive, it’s incredible performance and reliability make it well worth the price you pay. If you’re looking for a top-notch manual flash, then you should definitely consider the LumoPro LP180.

Conclusion and More Info

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