What is the difference between AD600 and AD600 Pro?

Godox AD600Pro flash performance vs AD600

The new Godox-branded autonomous flash AD600Pro is the result of changes to the previous AD600B/AD600BM model, as well as the addition of new features.

Like the AD600B, it combines automatic illumination adjustment control (TTL or "Through the Lens") and Manual and Multi functions with a built-in radio system for wireless control.

We therefore need to assess whether the innovations contained in the new AD600Pro make it worth purchasing it, or whether we can continue using one of the previous models, whose effectiveness has been proven by photographic professionals since its launch.

AD600Pro new design of the flash

The new flash, which retains its recognizable appearance from the other Godox brand model, is 3 centimeters longer than the AD600.

The main difference is in the front part, similar to the Siros L models of the Broncolor brand.

The result is both elegant and functional. The front cover features a parabolic-style cover, whose protective cover is high-quality and robust enough to give the impression of complete integration in one piece.

Not only does it protect the bulb from scratches and impacts, but it also makes the exterior design more compact and attractive. The rest of the design, front to back, is the same as previous AD600 models, but the LCD screen we find on their side now displays larger letters with a more pronounced accent effect.

It's perfect for outdoor photography. The battery design, which is identical to comparable models, still connects to the rear in the same way. The main difference is that a rear grip can be added to make controlling the focus more convenient and secure, something the AD600 didn't include until this new model.

The handle and base, which connect to the studio stand, no longer click to tilt. While the positions are well-locked, and this small detail suggests a change for the better, the new movement is permanent. The umbrella holder has eliminated the traditional lock, providing an internal pressure mechanism for attaching it. Finally, the power button has been moved from its usual location on the front to the bottom of the flash. This makes it easier to reach when using the flash from high positions.

New stable color temperature mode

Colour stability is what allows this new flash to deliver top performance, putting it on par with the best models from other competing brands.

It can deliver a color stability of +/- 75°K between each shot, which, together with a very high color rendering (CRI) of up to 96%, allows for the most faithful reproduction of natural color in photographs.

While color performance isn't superior to previous models in the same range, if we compare color stability we see that the AD600Pro is the clear winner.

Previous models only offered a maximum stability of +/- 220ºK between shots, making them unsuitable for high-sensitivity photography for advertising purposes, for example.

If we needed the flash above all for outdoor shooting, we could do without this improvement in the AD600Pro, since the difference of about 200 ºK between the different photos will not be appreciated unless we put them side by side to examine them carefully.

Even so, 200°K color rendering is a current standard for most flash brands on the market.

This performance index provides the necessary consistency, and if it is insufficient, various editing programs can fix it simply and quickly.

Modeling light and flash tube

The new model changes the design of the flash tube and the modeling of the LED light. From the 10W of the previous flashes, we now have 38W 4800ºK in the AD600Pro.

The flash tube is larger, including a glass guard that provides protection for the tube itself as well as cooling to reduce temperature during extended use.

The new power of the modeling light offers the equivalent of a 250W incandescent light, allowing us to use it as a continuous light in certain situations.

The new external radiator with a slightly larger surface area prevents the LED from overheating.

The key difference when it comes to LED lights is that they no longer operate with three preset intensity settings like the AD600, but rather with a continuous gradient from 0% to 100%.

We can program the modeling light to stay on during the flash or to turn off at the same time.

Recycling the AD600Pro

At full power, this flash recycles in 0.9 seconds, which makes it unique.

The only drawback of the very high reload speed is that it combines this model with the previous model in the same series, as this would force us to wait until everyone is ready to fire a new shot.

Flash duration

Like all AD600 models, this flash provides a flash rate between 1/220th and 1/10000th of a second.

Synchronization Speed

This entire range allows HSS sync at up to 1/8000 of a second with most Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus-Panasonic and Fuji cameras.

This is made possible by the use of certain triggers such as the Godox X1T and Xpro, with which almost complete control is possible up to a distance of approximately 100 meters.

The entire AD600 flash series can be synchronized at high speed in 1st, 2nd curtain and HSS, as well as other flashes of the Godox X system, such as compact-type speedlights and studio flash ranges.

Weight and size compared to other models

As for the weight, this time we went from 2.66 Kg in the AD600B and AD600BM versions to 3 Kg in the AD600Pro version.

This increase is definitely due to the length of the device being increased from 220mm to 250mm and the inclusion of a larger heatsink for the LED, which is invisible to the naked eye, as well as other internal components.

The AD600B and AD600BM models have dimensions of 220 x 245 x 115 mm. The AD600Pro, on the other hand, measures 250 x 245 x 115 mm, meaning the length has only increased by 3 centimeters.

We think this is something most people can accept, but for those used to working out of a compact backpack or bag, it might be too much.

This could be something that pushes us to rethink new ways of placing things or to buy a properly sized container for shipping.

Advantages of the AD600Pro over similar flashes from competing brands

Comparing it with other equipment designed for outdoor use, such as the Profoto B1X and the Broncolor Siros L, we can highlight that this equipment is superior or at least similar in the following aspects:

• Color stability. Provides a fixed Color Temperature mode.
• Dimensions and relative weight.
• The battery's lifespan and capacity are within the market average for a full charge. The Broncolor brand offers significantly faster recharge times.
• A better and more powerful LED for modeling.
• Very fast recycling speed, 0.9 seconds.
• Pretty solid structure design and good touch.
• Lower price compared to models with the same features from other brands.
• It offers a color rendering index (CRI) of over 96% in all available units. This can help us achieve a more natural color.
• The flash duration indicator on T.01 is now visible on the screen.
• Both are remotely controlled with dedicated X1T triggers and, especially, the Xpro, in versions from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus-Panasonic and Fuji.
• Power supply via the AD600Pro AC mains adapter for indoor operation without the need for batteries.
• Flashlight for carrying out work more comfortably and agilely or for mounting on a boom or boom.
• A wide range of light modifiers are available for Bowens mounting.

In short, if we want to enjoy the same high performance as the Godox AD600 flash series, but also benefit from the features of high-end models from other brands, the AD600Pro is a safe choice in terms of price and quality.