Nikon has announced a new entry-level flashgun, the Speedlight SB-300.
Aimed at “novice photographers”, the SB-300 is designed to be an upgrade from the built-in flashes of Nikon Coolpix and DSLR cameras. The flash head tilts up and down, but not side-to-side, and has no physical controls except a power switch. The guide number is 18, with an effect i-TTL range up to 20 metres, and the device runs on a pair of AAA batteries.
The SB-300 is 1.5 stops less powerful than the SB-400 and there are no manual adjustments or wireless capabilities.
Extremely savvy, Nikon-toting readers might realise that these specifications are identical to the existingĂ‚Â Speedlight SB-N7, the flashgun whichĂ‚Â replaced the SB-N5Ă‚Â for Nikon’s 1-series compact system cameras. The only difference is the mount: a standard Iso hotshoe foot on the SB-300 and a proprietary Nikon connector on the SB-N7.
Does this make it more likely that Nikon’s next high-end 1-series camera, the 1 V3, might have a “proper” Iso hotshoe on it? Or are Nikon just saving a bit of money by bringing out the same flash for both their systems? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
Update:Ă‚Â Nikon’s 1st quarter financial results has recommended measures to reverse a deceleration in compact system camera sales by reconsideringĂ‚Â “product planning of Nikon 1 (non-reflex camera)”. So we could be seeing more drastic changes than a swap of hotshoe. Let’s hope they don’t discontinue the venture altogether.
The Nikon SB-300 will be out at the end of August 2013 for a recommended retail price of Ă‚ÂŁ119.99, or $149.99 in the USA.