Canon's 430 EX II flash gun is a powerful and flexible hotshoe flash that can help photographers improve the quality of their pictures.
The Canon 430 EX II speedlite is Canon's mid-level flash gun. It has many of the options of the more expensive 580 EX II, but at a more affordable price, though it is not quite as powerful. Many serious amateur photographers start out with the 430 EX II, before adding a 580 EX II to their kit. The 430 EX II makes for a capable on-camera flash unit, but excels in off-camera flash setups.
According to Canon:
Bringing a new level of versatility and capability to flash photography, the Speedlite 430EX II features a powerful flash (guide number of 141 ft./43m at ISO 100) with a fast recycling time in a compact, durable body. A one-touch quick-lock mechanism makes it easy to attach or detach the 430EX II from the camera and a metal foot has been added for strength and durability. Flash controls can now be set through the camera's LCD screen on compatible EOS Digital SLR cameras. The Speedlite 430EX II is also quieter, recycle time is 20% faster (as compared to the 430EX) and since it is compatible with Canon's wireless E-TTL, it can be used as an affordable "slave unit".
