Dimensions and weight:
********************
The Nikon SB-700 is almost identical to the much cheaper Nissin model part weight and dimensions.
Processing:
**********
The often criticized cheap processing at Nissin flash I can not confirm. Both units are in this respect, OK, that is, one can be satisfied if it were worse, but even better. The finish of molded plastic parts is perhaps something noble with the Nikon, but I like the mounting on the hot shoe at Nissin much more. Means thumbwheel sits tremendous bombproof on the camera. Not so with Nikon. After locking by clamping lever of the flash has a lot of game. In addition, the thread for tripod mount at Nissin metal while it is made only of plastic with the Nikon.
Scope of supply:
**********
While only a windy protective cover and a CD with the manual are provided at Nissin, shines the Nikon with an exemplary optional equipment. In addition to a very detailed printed manual (164 pages!), Even a photo-guide, a diffuser and two clip-on are included. Rounding out the whole thing with a solid and padded storage bag.
Flash output:
*********
During Nissin is specified with a maximum guide number of 44, the Nikon has here with max. 38 left behind. However, Nikon has 2.5 seconds significantly shorter charging time (Nissin 5 sec). This is clearly noticeable in sequential shots, eg for portraits.
Functionality:
************
The backs of the devices reveal the biggest differences. The Nissin has no display, but only three buttons and some LEDs. Unlike the Nikon: A large, easy to read and illuminated graphic display dominates the back. There are plenty of switches and a centrally placed dial. The most important features, such as i-TTL control, master and slave function master both devices. Regarding zoom range there are differences. The Nissin is for 24 - designed 105 mm, the Nikon after 18 - 120 mm. Otherwise, the Nikon draws in terms of equipment confidently past the Nissin. Distance-priority, illumination patterns, CLS or visual control options for optimum setting you will not find at Nissin.
Operation:
*******
In addition to the greater functionality, the better operation of the primary advantage over the much cheaper flash of Nissin: The Nikon SB-700 helps the photographer through the visualization of the setting parameters immediately and without undue experimentation the optimum setting with regard to aperture and ISO value on the camera to choose. Whether the better features of the SB-700 for the respective user justify the high surcharge, everyone must decide for themselves.
Attaching the diffuser becomes very hakelig. The manual helps here also not really. It took a while until I got the hang of it and the correct position is found. Here then you realize quite possible that might be SB-700 made a little sound.
The adjustment of the angle of the flash head in the vertical or horizontal axis like it when nission also better, because there are no annoying catch. When Nikon is very troublesome, because it is not really ergonomically managed to have simultaneously press the locking button.
The same applies to the mode dial on the SB-700. To switch to the slave / master mode, you have to simultaneously press a tiny release. This one breaks almost the fingers and has at the same time afraid to damage the switch. Why Nikon has chosen this solution does not, unfortunately, reveals itself to me.
Conclusion:
****
Despite the one or the other criticism I am excited about the possibilities of the Nikon SB-700. Finally succeed flash shooting right away, or with less trial and error. The Nissin I wanted to actually sell, but I will now use it as additional slave flash. The combination of the built-in camera flash in conjunction with the SB-700 and the Di622 unleashed in flash mode made a lot of fun and leaves much room for creativity. For the fixing shaky and not quite optimal ergonomics but there is a point deduction.
Bargain hunters are also happy with the Nissin device, provided that they do not need the additional functionality of SB700.
