Godox TT685 II Review

The Godox TT685 II is a workhorse speedlight that has earned a loyal following among photographers who need reliable TTL performance without spending flagship money. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest assessment of what this flash does well and where it falls short.

Who is the Godox TT685 II for?

This flash is aimed at enthusiast and semi-professional photographers who want a versatile on-camera flash that can also serve as an off-camera remote unit. It is available in versions for all major camera brands, which makes it a popular choice for multi-system shooters. If you are just starting with flash photography and want a solid all-rounder, the TT685 II offers a lot of capability for the money.

However, it is not for everyone. If you need a compact travel flash, the TT350 is lighter and smaller. If you want the convenience of a built-in lithium battery, the Godox V860 III is a better choice. And if you are a professional who shoots in demanding conditions, you might want a more rugged, weather-sealed option.

Standout features and specifications

The TT685 II has a guide number of 60 meters at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom, which is plenty powerful for most shooting scenarios. It offers a zoom range of 20-200mm, with automatic zoom that adjusts to your lens focal length. The flash head tilts up to 90 degrees and rotates 360 degrees, giving you plenty of flexibility for bounce flash.

One of the biggest selling points is the built-in 2.4GHz Godox X wireless system. This means the flash can act as both a transmitter and receiver, so you can use it off-camera with a Godox trigger, or control other Godox flashes from your camera. It supports 32 channels and 5 groups, which is plenty for complex multi-flash setups.

The flash also supports TTL, manual, and multi (stroboscopic) modes, and it has high-speed sync (HSS) up to 1/8000s. This is essential for outdoor fill flash or when you want to use a wide aperture in bright light.

Real-world performance and image quality

In terms of image quality, the TT685 II produces consistent and accurate color, as long as you set the white balance correctly. The TTL exposure system works well in most situations, though like any TTL flash, it can occasionally underexpose or overexpose, especially in tricky lighting. That is why the manual mode is there, and it is easy to adjust power in 1/3 stops.

Recycle time is about 2.5 seconds with NiMH batteries, which is acceptable for most shooting. If you need faster recycling, you can use external battery packs, but the flash does not have a dedicated port for the Godox PB960, so you would need a third-party solution.

Buyer feedback often praises the flash for its reliable wireless triggering. Many users report that it works seamlessly with Godox triggers and other Godox flashes, making it a great building block for a studio setup. The HSS performance is also well-regarded, with no noticeable banding or exposure issues.

Handling and ergonomics

The TT685 II is a bit larger and heavier than some competitors, especially when loaded with four AA batteries. It weighs around 410 grams without batteries, so it is not the lightest option. However, the size is justified by the powerful output and the built-in wireless capabilities.

The controls are fairly intuitive, with a large LCD screen that shows all the important settings. The mode button lets you switch between TTL, manual, and multi modes, and the zoom button adjusts the flash head. The menu system is straightforward, though some beginners might find it slightly confusing at first.

The metal foot is sturdy and locks securely onto the camera hot shoe. The locking mechanism is an improvement over the original TT685, which had a plastic lock that could wear out over time. The flash head tilts and rotates smoothly, and it stays in place without drooping.

Battery and storage

As mentioned, the TT685 II uses four AA batteries. This is both a pro and a con. On the plus side, AA batteries are easy to find and replace, and you can use rechargeable NiMH batteries to save money in the long run. On the downside, you need to carry spare batteries if you are shooting for a long time, and the flash has no built-in battery indicator, so you need to check the battery level manually.

In terms of storage, the flash comes with a small plastic stand and a carrying bag, but the bag is not particularly protective. You might want to invest in a padded case if you plan to travel with it.

Common buyer complaints

While the TT685 II is generally well-received, there are a few recurring complaints in buyer reviews. Some users report that the flash gets hot after extended use, especially in rapid-fire situations. This is not unusual for speedlights, but it is something to be aware of.

Another common gripe is the lack of a built-in battery. Many users wish they had spent a bit more on the V860 III, which has a rechargeable lithium battery and faster recycle times. However, the price difference is significant, and the TT685 II is still a great value.

Finally, some users have reported compatibility issues with certain camera models, particularly with older firmware. It is always a good idea to update the flash firmware to the latest version to ensure compatibility.

How it compares to alternatives

The closest alternatives to the TT685 II are the Godox V860 III and the Godox V1. The V860 III is essentially the same flash but with a built-in lithium battery, which provides faster recycle times and more flashes per charge. It also has a slightly better build quality and a more advanced UI. However, it is more expensive.

The Godox V1 is a round-head flash that provides more even light distribution and a built-in modeling light. It is also more expensive and has a similar battery system to the V860 III. If you are on a budget, the TT685 II is the best value.

Another alternative is the Godox TT350, which is much smaller and lighter, but it has a lower guide number and fewer features. It is a good choice for travel or for use on a small mirrorless camera, but it is not as powerful or versatile as the TT685 II.

Final verdict

The Godox TT685 II is a solid choice for photographers who need a reliable, full-featured TTL flash without breaking the bank. It offers excellent wireless capabilities, a powerful guide number, and good build quality for the price. While it has some drawbacks, such as the need for AA batteries and a slightly bulky design, these are minor compared to the value it provides. If you are in the market for a versatile speedlight, the TT685 II should be at the top of your list.