Canon announces 430EX III-RT Speedlite with built-in wireless radio triggering

Today, Canon announced its newest speedlite, the Canon 430EX III-RT. In addition to a number of new features, this update marks the first time a speedlite in Canon’s 430EX series offers radio-controlled triggering capabilities.

Compared to its predecessor, the Canon Speedlite 430EX II, the new 430EX III-RT features two new flagship features, adopted from its elder sibling, Canon’s 600EX-RT.

The first of these is the ability for the 430EX III-RT to be triggered via radio transmission, in addition to optical transmission, the first time this feature has been available in Canon’s 430EX series. The 430EX III-RT supports both master and slave control in radio transmission mode, but unlike the more pricey and powerful sibling, the 600EX-RT, the 430EX III-RT's optical wireless mode only offers slave functionality.

Second, the 430EX III-RT now includes an SCF-E2 Color Filter, another first for Canon’s 430EX series. This new feature helps to better balance color temperature when shooting under incandescent lighting.

In line with the features of Canon’s previous speedlite offerings, the 430EX III-RT offers familiar controls, tilt/swivel capabilities, a diffusion panel, Hi-Speed/second-curtain Sync, and a built-in catchlight. The maximum guide number for the 430EX III-RT is 43/141 (meters/feet) at ISO 100. Both auto and manual zoom are available from 24–105mm.

Despite more internal components needed for the radio trigger, Canon has reduced the 430EX III-RT in both weight and size compared to its predecessor.

The Canon 430EX III-RT is set to be available in September 2015 for $299.99. With your purchase, you will receive the speed light and two cases: one for the speedlite and one for the Color Filter. For more information, you can check out Canon’s product page by clicking here.

Correction, 6:50PM: Canon updated their specs for the 430EX III-RT regarding the master and slave functionality, and we've updated this feature accordingly.