Godox Mini Flashes Compared: iM30, iM20, and iA32

When it comes to portable lighting solutions, Godox has built a reputation for offering budget-friendly yet powerful flashes. Their latest releases, the Godox iM30, iM20, and iA32, are all designed to cater to photographers who need compact, lightweight, and easy-to-use flashes. But with three different models available, how do you decide which one is right for you? Let’s break down their features, advantages, and limitations to help you make an informed choice.

Comparison Table

Godox iM30: A Compact and Reliable Flash

The Godox iM30 is a manual-style flash that serves as an excellent portable lighting option for photographers who need something simple, lightweight, and budget-friendly. It is particularly well-suited for travel and everyday use, making it a great companion for APS-C mirrorless cameras like the Sony A6000 series or Fujifilm X series.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to carry.
• Simple manual operation with 7 power steps.
• Optical slave support allows it to work with other flashes.

Cons:

• Uses AAA batteries, which may not last as long as rechargeable options.
• No wireless triggering support.
• No tilt functionality, limiting creative angles.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly, beginner-friendly flash that can provide decent lighting for casual photography, the iM30 is a solid choice.

Godox iM20: The Smallest of the Bunch

For those prioritising size and weight, the Godox iM20 is an ultra-compact flash that’s perfect for mirrorless cameras. It is even smaller than the iM30, making it ideal for street photography, travel, and casual shooting.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and ultra-compact.
• Built-in lithium-ion battery for convenience.
• Long battery life with ~440 full-power flashes per charge.

Cons:

• Fewer power steps (5 levels), reducing control over output.
• No optical slave functionality.
• Slightly slower recycle time than higher-end models.

If you need the smallest possible flash with a rechargeable battery and don’t mind the limited output control, the iM20 is a great choice.

Godox iA32: More Power and Flexibility

The Godox iA32 is slightly larger than the iM30 but offers more power and versatility. It comes with a higher guide number (GN 15) and an extended power range, making it more suitable for those who need better lighting control. Additionally, the inclusion of a tilt feature allows for more creative lighting angles.

Pros:

• More power (GN 15) and a wider power range (8 steps).
• Uses AA batteries, which last longer than AAA options.
• Tilt function allows for more flexibility.
• Optical slave mode for working with other flashes.

Cons:

• Slightly bulkier than the iM30 and iM20.
• No wireless triggering.
• Heavier than the iM20 and iM30.

If you need a more versatile flash with better control over power output and a tilting head, the iA32 is the best option among the three.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose the Godox iM30 if you want a simple, affordable, and reliable flash for everyday and travel photography.
• Choose the Godox iM20 if you need the smallest, most portable flash with a rechargeable battery.
• Choose the Godox iA32 if you want a more powerful flash with better flexibility and control.

Each of these flashes serves a unique purpose, catering to different types of photographers. Whether you are a beginner looking for a basic lighting solution or a more advanced user seeking better control over your lighting, one of these Godox flashes is sure to meet your needs.