Cheap Triggers?

Corvphotography · May 16, 2011

So i have a canon rebel XS and i have a canon 439 exII flash. what im looking for is a CHEAP YET RELIABLE trigger i could use to sync w my camera so i can walk around anywhere with my flash away from me. Any help would be MUCH appreciated. I search myself but i dont wanna buy the wrong trigger.:mrgreen:

Big Mike · May 16, 2011

Gadget Infinity :: Digital Camera :: Flash Trigger :: Wireless Trigger

I have the V2s version (as well as the older PT-04 version) of the Cactus triggers...and I wasn't happy with their reliability. Although, several members around here (and elsewhere) didn't have any problems with them.

I haven't tried any of the newer versions, but I'd suggest that the V4 looks pretty good and isn't too expensive. The new V5 also looks good but is starting to get pricey for a 'cheap' trigger set.

What I use now, is the Cyber Sync from Alien Bee. The CST and the CSRB. Together, they are quite a bit more expensive than the 'cheap' ones...but they have worked very reliably for me.

joealcantar · May 16, 2011

Cactus Triggers are popular, I use Pocket Wizards but am sure these will work fine. They have a Strobist section here you may want to look at it to get some ideas.
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Cactus V4 Radio Slave Set (has a reciever and transmitter)
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Cactus V5 Radio Slave Set (V5 has two Transcievers that can do either function) lean towards this set.
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Shoot well, Joe

SrBiscuit · May 16, 2011

I have a set of V4s, and they are fantastic. Good range, consistent popping.
Finally after dropping them 3 times, they are not communicating anymore...though I think it's due to a layer of superglue keeping the contacts of the flash just out of contact range.

the new V5s look pretty sweet too. I might replace with some V5s.

lyonsroar · May 16, 2011

Amazon.com: CowboyStudio NPT-04 4 Channel Wireless Hot Shoe Flash Trigger Receiver for Canon EOS, Nikon, Olympus & Pentax Flashes Other products by cowboystudio: Camera & Photo

KmH · May 16, 2011

ISHOOT, PT-04 C Wireless Remote Radio Flash Trigger, with 3 receivers

Of course, you know how to use both the camera and flash unit in manual modes, right?

Most of the cheap radio triggers won't support flash TTL functions.

Corvphotography · May 16, 2011

I really like the choices you guys have given me! thanks a bunch!

Corvphotography · May 16, 2011

Yes i do.

maxairedale · May 16, 2011

Hi,

Check this site items are designed for either Canon or Nikon not generic. Not as expensive as Pocket Wizard, but a bit more then some others.

Gary

KrisHunt · Jan 8, 2012

Here's my experience with Cactus V4s. They started out pretty reliable; only a few misfires every now and then. After using them for a year, they are now quite unreliable. I find that I have to hold the camera very gingerly so as to not block the signal coming from the transmitter. I also cannot put my eye right up against the viewfinder, or the signal won't get through. Even when both of those issues are avoided, they still won't fire a flash from more than about four feet away. Also, the battery covers come off the receivers too easily. I lost one when out on a shoot once, and now I have to use rubber bands to hold the batteries in.

Jhass1 · Jan 13, 2012

just a warning - jjc triggers seem incapable of working at shutter speed faster than 1/50th.

RebeccaAPhotography · Jan 13, 2012

Well heres a question if you don't mind me semi hi jacking your thread lol!..... What are good reliable triggers I'm not to worried on prices I don't want to spend hundreds on it tho.

Compaq · Jan 13, 2012

I spent $5 on some Asian low-weight low-quality plastic thing with one button and a painfully short cable... Never let me down once!

jwbryson1 · Jan 13, 2012

KmH said:
ISHOOT, PT-04 C Wireless Remote Radio Flash Trigger, with 3 receivers

Of course, you know how to use both the camera and flash unit in manual modes, right?

Most of the cheap radio triggers won't support flash TTL functions.

Keith, that's a GREAT deal! A transmitter and 3 receivers for $53! Not bad.