The Canon Speedlite EL-1 is a high-performance, professional-grade, weather-resistant flash, designed to meet the demands of the most demanding photographers. It features a powerful guide number of 60m (197 ft) at ISO 100, an insanely fast recycle time of 0.1-0.9 seconds, and up to 335 full-power flashes on a single charge. It also has a built-in LED modeling light for precise lighting control and a heavy-duty construction that will withstand the rigors of professional everyday use.

My Canon 600 EX-RT has been my workhorse for the past 10 years. It has worked in all weather and is one of the most reliable pieces of kit in my arsenal as a professional photographer. So, I was so pleased when Canon announced the new Speedlite EL-1, as it meant that we were obviously going to have something that was built on the existing rock-solid technology already produced while embracing new technologies to produce a speedlight for at least the next 10 years. This uses new LED technology, meaning faster recycle times and a more reliable and longer-lasting flashgun. 

Image Quality

The Canon Speedlite EL-1 produces consistent and balanced light and high-quality images with excellent color balance and exposure. Its powerful guide number allows it to light up even large scenes and subjects at a distance. The built-in bi-color LED modeling light is very helpful for setting up shots, ensuring that the lighting is even, and helping to judge where the light will fall and where the shadows will appear.

Included Accessories

  • Battery Pack LP-EL
  • Battery Charger LC-E6E
  • Case
  • Mini Stand
  • Bounce Adapter SBA-EL
  • Color Filter SCF-ELOR1
  • Color Filter SCF-ELOR2

The case is great, as it allows you to store the color adapters and mini stand with the flash (something I’m always hunting for with my Canon 600 EX-RT).

Performance

The Canon Speedlite EL-1 is a very fast flash, with a recycle time of 0.1-0.9 seconds. This means that you can capture multiple shots in quick succession without having to wait for the flash to be recycled. You can shoot up to 170 full-power flashes in a burst. The Canon Speedlite EL-1 uses just one large-capacity lithium-ion battery. The LP-EL (1920mAh, 7.2 volts) is capable of approximately 335 flashes on a full charge, more than three times that which is possible with the Speedlite 600EX II-RT using four standard AA batteries, and while the LP-EL looks like the LP-E6 battery used in many advanced EOS cameras, it cannot be used in cameras. However, it can be charged using the same charger as the one used for R6/5 cameras.

Features

The Speedlite EL-1 has a ton of features that make it an incredibly versatile tool for photographers. It has a built-in bi-color LED modeling light, weather-resistant construction, and a huge range of power settings. It also supports Canon’s E-TTL II metering system for automatic exposure control. Optical and radio transmission are included, although you do need the Canon Speedlite ST-E3-RT for optical and radio transmission of up to 30 meters. 

The photo above was shot with two Canon EL-1 speedlites. The key light is behind a MagMod 24 Octabox and the fill light on the right is at 1/512 power, giving a lift to the shadows.

Ease of Use

The Speedlite EL-1 is easy to use and control. Its controls and menus have been redesigned to be quick and easy to use and are well labeled and easy to reach. It also has a large, clear LCD screen that displays all of the important settings.

Value

Okay, so this is an expensive piece of kit for enthusiasts, coming in at $1,099 from B&H here in the States and at £1451 through Amazon in the UK, but make no mistake, this is a premium piece of technology, and that’s what you’re paying for. The 600EX-RT lasted me over 10 years, and it’s still going strong. The Speedlite EL-1 is a high-quality flash that is worth the investment for photographers who need a powerful and versatile tool. It is a great choice for professionals and advanced amateurs alike.

Build Quality

In addition to its high performance, the Speedlite EL-1 is also very durable. It is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, and it is weather-resistant so that you can use it in a variety of conditions. Rubberized grips and easy-to-open and close battery panels mean that this should not need any regular maintenance. It even comes with a little rubber hot shoe cover!

What I Love About the Canon Speedlite EL-1

  • Powerful guide number of 60 m (197 ft) at ISO 100
  • Insanely fast recycle time of 0.1-0.9 seconds
  • Up to 170 full power flashes on a single charge 
  • Built-in LED modeling light, which is so handy for seeing where my light is going and showing me the shadows that will appear
  • Weather-resistant construction means no more Ikea plastic bags covering my flashguns
  • Easy to use and control menus and system
  • Pairs with my ST-E3-RT with a firmware upgrade available from Canon

What I Dislike About the Canon Speedlite EL-1

  • Expensive if you’re an enthusiast or are replacing more than one flashgun 
  • In-camera flash settings are not compatible with all Canon cameras, as some cameras don’t have this ability
  • Slightly larger than the 600 EX-RT II, meaning I can’t fit two side by side in my MagMod Mag Ring

Verdict

The Canon Speedlite EL-1 is an excellent, high-performance flash that is perfect for professional and advanced amateur photographers who need a powerful and versatile tool. It is a bit expensive, but it is worth the investment for photographers who need the best. I love mine and will slowly be replacing the Canon 600 EX-RTs when they either fail or need service. The thing I love is that they just feel so good. It’s a quality piece of kit you’re buying, and Canon has obviously put a lot of thought and effort into creating the most useful flash I’ve seen since the 600 EX-RT II.