When it comes to flash triggers, Godox has built a solid reputation among photographers for offering reliable, feature-rich tools. Two popular models that often come up in conversation are the X3 and the X3 Pro. Both are compact, versatile, and perfect for lighting enthusiasts, but they serve slightly different needs depending on your workflow. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences, compare their usability, and explore why the Godox X3Pro could be a game-changer for your creative process.
Screen and Display: Size Matters
One of the first things you notice about these triggers is their screens. The original X3 sports a 1.7-inch OLED touchscreen, which is clear, responsive, and perfectly adequate for basic adjustments. It’s compact and easy to navigate, especially if portability is a priority.
The X3 Pro, on the other hand, steps up with a 2.4-inch LCD touchscreen. The larger display allows you to view up to four groups simultaneously, making it easier to manage multi-light setups without constantly switching menus. For photographers and videographers juggling multiple flashes, this can be a real workflow saver.
For a closer look at the Godox X3Pro, check out the CameraStuff page.
Size and Weight: Portability vs. Control
If you often work on location or need something unobtrusive in your camera bag, the X3’s 48g weight is hard to beat. Its compact dimensions make it ideal for travel or quick shoots where mobility is key.
The X3 Pro weighs 103g, which is more than twice the X3, and it is slightly wider and taller due to the larger screen. While this added weight might not matter in a studio setup, it is worth considering if you prioritize lightweight gear for long shoots or handheld setups. The trade-off is greater control and enhanced functionality.
Connectivity: Bluetooth Brings Convenience
The X3 keeps things simple, offering reliable basic functionality but no wireless app integration. The X3 Pro adds Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair it with the Godox Flash Smartphone app. This means you can adjust settings, trigger flashes remotely, and manage multi-light setups directly from your phone, which is handy when you are working in challenging environments or need to move around freely.
Battery Life: More Power, Less Worry
Both models charge in about two hours, but the X3 Pro takes battery life to another level. While the X3 offers a solid 7 days of standby time, the X3 Pro stretches this to an impressive 35 days. For photographers who might leave their triggers unused between shoots, this extended standby period ensures your device is ready whenever inspiration strikes.
Advanced Features: X3 Pro Takes the Lead
This is where the Godox X3Pro really shines. Beyond basic triggering, it gives you advanced shutter controls, including shutter delay, exposure time, and interval settings, all accessible via the touchscreen.
Whether you are shooting time-lapses, single long exposures, or experimenting with interval shots, the X3 Pro’s built-in capabilities eliminate the need for additional accessories. It also includes a PC sync port and is compatible with XR flash receivers, expanding your options for wireless remote shutter release and intervalometer functionality.
For photographers looking to integrate lighting with creative workflows, these features make the X3 Pro more than just a trigger, it becomes a versatile tool that can adapt to complex setups.
Practical Scenarios: Choosing the Right Trigger
Here is how the differences play out in real-world situations:
- Travel Photography: The X3’s lightweight, compact design makes it ideal for packing light while still providing reliable flash control.
- Studio Shoots: With the X3 Pro, you can manage multiple light groups simultaneously on the larger screen, which is perfect for complex setups with multiple strobes.
- Event Photography: Quick adjustments are easier with the X3 Pro’s touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing on-the-fly changes without interrupting the flow of the event.
- Creative Long Exposures and Time-lapses: The X3 Pro’s advanced shutter and intervalometer functions unlock creative possibilities that go beyond simple flash triggering.
Why the Godox X3Pro Stands Out
While both triggers are solid, the X3 Pro stands out for a few reasons:
- Enhanced battery life for extended readiness
- Advanced control over shutter and exposure settings
- Larger touchscreen for easier navigation
- Bluetooth integration for remote adjustments
- Expanded compatibility with XR receivers for versatile wireless setups
For photographers and content creators who want more control and flexibility, the X3 Pro does not just match expectations, it exceeds them.
For more details, visit the official Godox website to see the full range of capabilities.
Bringing It Together
Ultimately, the choice between the X3 and the X3 Pro comes down to how you work. If portability, simplicity, and a lighter footprint are your priorities, the X3 delivers exactly that. If you are looking for a feature-packed trigger that integrates seamlessly into more complex workflows, the Godox X3Pro is worth a closer look.
No matter which model you choose, both offer the reliability and build quality that Godox is known for, making them excellent companions for photographers and videographers at any skill level.
Next Steps
Ready to upgrade your lighting setup? The Godox X3Pro is available at CameraStuff.co.za, with local warranties, excellent customer service, and the option to shop either online or in-store. Enjoy peace of mind with a 60-day refund policy and convenient delivery options right to your door.
Whether you are a beginner exploring your first off-camera flash setup or a professional looking to streamline complex workflows, the X3 Pro can help take your photography to the next level.
CameraStuff is an Official Godox Distributor in South Africa. CameraStuff is proud to serve as an authorised official agent and distributor of Godox products within South Africa since 2018. This partnership, firmly established over an extended period, underscores our commitment to providing authentic Godox equipment to our valued customers. Our status is substantiated by an official Letter of Authorization issued directly by Godox Global.
