Canon Officially Launches Speedlite EL-5 – High-Performance Flash Light for Multi-Function Shoe
Speedlite EL-5
HONG KONG, 11 July 2023 — Canon today announces the official launch of Speedlite EL-5, the first speedlite for multi-function shoe. Designed to meet the needs of professional photographers, newly launched advanced flash Speedlite EL-5 is compatible with Multi-Function Shoe that expands functionality with compatible EOS R Series cameras[1], allowing for high-speed data communication between the speedlite and camera. Thanks to its efficient charging circuits inherited from the Speedlite EL-1, the new flash offers super high-speed charging of approximately 0.1- 1.2 seconds[2], even at low battery level. This feature, along with the ability to capture up to approximately 95 or more continuous flash burst[3] at full output, helps reducing the delay time between photos and ensures that photographers never miss a shot. In addition, it is also ideal for wireless multi-flash setups which convenient the user by enhancing the compatibility during multi-flash shooting environment. With its outstanding performance, the Speedlite EL-5 is a must-have for professional photographers who demand the best in their craft.
Exceptional Compatibility with Multi-Function Shoe
As the first speedlite designed for multi-function shoe, the Speedlite EL-5 can be easily mounted on designated mirrorless EOS R series cameras[1] without an adapter. The flash also supports high-speed data communication between the speedlite and camera. Compared to the existing 5-pin speedlites, the 15-pin gold-plated terminals do not oxidize easily, reducing contact resistance and enhancing connectivity. With a flash coverage range of 24mm to 200mm, which can be extended to 14mm with built-in wide panel, and a bounce flash angle of 120˚ up, 180˚ left and 180˚ right, the Speedlite EL-5 provides photographers with convenient light control during photo shoots.
Considerable Recharging and Flash Output
The Speedlite EL-5 delivers quick and reliable flash performance similar as Speedlite EL-1, recharging in just approximately 0.1 – 1.2 seconds[2] at minimum power. Powered by the high-capacity LP-EL rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, the flash supports approximately 350 to 2450 flashes per charge[4]. The Speedlite EL-5 is a high-performance flash that can deliver stable flash output even during high action situations, and supports a continuous flash burst of approximately 95 times with full output[3]. This enables you to meet the most demanding situations where continuous shooting with flash is required even for extended durations.
Furthermore, the Speedlite EL-5 offers a wide range of micro flash output levels and an extended flash output range between 1/1 to 1/1024, allowing photographers to control and reduce the intensity of the flash to match the atmosphere of various scenes, and offering more flexibility for creativity in flash photography. With high-speed synchronization, large apertures can be used even during an outdoor shoot to achieve beautiful background blur effects.
Wireless Multi-Flash Control
The Speedlite EL-5 is also equipped with an integrated 2.4GHz radio transmission wireless flash “Sender” & “Receiver” functions[5], together with the support of second-curtain sync[6], designated for a multi-flash shooting environment with real-time controlment. As a sender unit, it can control up to 15 receiver units in up to 5 groups. When paired with designated EOS R cameras, the “Menu Direct” button allows user to access Flash Function Settings Menu instantaneously on camera display[7] in a convenient way. Additionally, the on/off setting of the receiver unit’s modeling lamp can be controlled from the sender unit[8].
Additional Features of Speedlite EL-5:
- Powerful flash output with maximum Guide No. 60 (meter; ISO 100; 200mm).
- Equipped with two white LED for use as modeling lamps (with adjustable brightness) and AF-assist beam with automatic light intensity adjustment[9].
- New Custom Flash Mode C1/C2/C3 which can be linked with camera’s corresponding C1/C2/C3 shooting mode[10].
- Large high-resolution reflective memory LCD panel with “white text on black” display for better visibility.
- Improved user interface with a “joystick” as found on Speedlite EL-1 for more intuitive viewing and speedy operation.
- Wireless flash setting can be set with camera menu or Camera Connect smartphone app.
- Dust-and-water resistance design[11].
Suggested Retail Price
The new Speedlite EL-5 is now available. The suggested retail price is HK$3,180.
The accessories for Speedlite EL-5 and their suggested retail prices are as follows:
| Model | Suggested Retail Price |
| Battery Pack LP-EL | HK$1,080 |
| Battery Charger LC-E6E | HK$490 |
[1] Compatible with EOS R3/EOS R6 Mark II/EOS R8/EOS R7/EOS R10/EOS R50. As of Jun 2023. Firmware update required for EOS R3/EOS R6 Mark II/EOS R7/EOS R10.
[2] Based on Canon’s measurement standards, when using a new, fully charged LP-EL battery.
[3] 35mm flash coverage. Number of consecutive full flashes until flash firing restriction level 2, when using a new, fully charged LP-E1 battery. Based on Canon’s measurement standards using manual flash.
[4] Based on Canon’s measurement standards, when using a new, fully charged LP-EL battery.
[5] Compatible with Speedlite EL-1/Speedlite EL-5/600EX II-RT/600EX-RT/430EX III-RT; Speedlite Transmitter ST-E10/Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT (as Sender only).
[6] Compatible Sender: Speedlite EL-1/Speedlite EL-5/Speedlite Transmitter ST-E10/Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT (Ver.2). Compatible Receiver Speedlite EL-1/Speedlite EL-5/600EX II-RT/600EX-RT/430EX III-RT.
[7] Compatible with EOS R6 Mark II / EOS R8 / EOS R50. As of June 2023.
[8] Requires using Speedlite EL-5 as both sender and receivers.
[9] Compatible with EOS R6 Mark II / EOS R8 / EOS R50. As of June 2023.
[10] Firmware update required for EOS R3/EOS R6 Mark II/EOS R7/EOS R10.
[11] With EOS R3/EOS R6 Mark II/EOS R8/EOS R7. Not recommended to use in the rain.