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Yongnuo YN560 IV Review
An honest look at the Yongnuo YN560 IV speedlight for US buyers: who it suits, real specs, performance, handling, and how it stacks up against alternatives.
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The Yongnuo YN560 IV is a powerful, affordable manual flash that delivers reliable performance for photographers who understand manual exposure. Its built-in radio trigger and receiver make it a versatile choice for off-camera lighting, but the lack of TTL and limited high-speed sync options mean it is not for everyone. If you are comfortable with manual mode and want a budget-friendly workhorse for portraits, events, or creative lighting, this flash offers exceptional value. However, if you need TTL automation or advanced wireless features, you should look elsewhere.
How it scores
The good and the annoying
- Built-in radio trigger and receiver for off-camera use
- Powerful GN60 output at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom
- Fast recycle time of about 3 seconds with NiMH batteries
- Large, clear LCD screen with intuitive menu
- Excellent value for manual flash users
- No TTL or HSS support (manual only)
- Plastic build feels less durable than premium flashes
- Battery drain is noticeable with frequent use
- Radio triggering is basic, lacks groups and remote power control
The Yongnuo YN560 IV is one of the most popular manual speedlights on the market, and for good reason. It packs a powerful punch, offers built-in radio triggering, and costs a fraction of what name-brand flashes go for. But is it the right flash for you? Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest, practical review for US buyers.
Who Is the Yongnuo YN560 IV For?
This flash is designed for photographers who are comfortable shooting in full manual mode. If you are a portrait photographer, a hobbyist exploring off-camera lighting, or a student learning the ropes of flash photography, the YN560 IV offers a low-cost way to get professional-looking results. It is also a favorite among event photographers who use multiple off-camera flashes for group shots or dance floors.
On the other hand, if you are a wedding photographer who needs TTL for fast-moving moments, or a sports shooter who relies on high-speed sync, this flash will not meet your needs. The lack of TTL means you must adjust power manually, which takes time and practice.
Standout Features and Real Specifications
The YN560 IV has a guide number of 60 at ISO 100 and 200mm zoom, which is impressive for a manual flash. It offers a zoom range of 24mm to 200mm, with auto zoom that adjusts based on your lens focal length when used on-camera. The built-in radio trigger and receiver are the standout features, allowing you to fire multiple flashes wirelessly without extra triggers.
Other key specs include a flash duration of 1/200s to 1/20000s, a recycle time of about 3 seconds with NiMH batteries, and support for optical slave modes S1 and S2. The LCD screen is large and backlit, making it easy to read in low light. It also has a PC sync port and a standard hot shoe, so it works with most cameras.
Real-World Performance and Image Quality
In terms of performance, the YN560 IV delivers consistent, reliable output. The flash power is accurate, and the color temperature is stable at around 5600K, which matches daylight. For off-camera use, the radio trigger works well within a reasonable range, typically up to 100 meters in open spaces. However, the radio system is basic: it only triggers, it does not allow remote power control or grouping. You must walk to each flash to adjust power, which can be tedious.
Image quality depends on your technique. With proper diffusion and positioning, you can achieve soft, professional lighting. The flash is powerful enough to light a subject at moderate distances, and the zoom head helps concentrate the beam for telephoto shots. For video, this flash is not suitable as a continuous light, but it can be used for stills in video production.
Handling and Ergonomics
The YN560 IV is relatively compact and lightweight, weighing about 390 grams without batteries. The controls are straightforward: a mode button, a zoom button, and a dial for adjusting power. The menu system is simple, and the LCD screen is easy to navigate. However, the plastic build feels a bit cheap, and the battery door is not as sturdy as on higher-end flashes. The head tilts up to 90 degrees and rotates 270 degrees, giving you flexibility for bounce flash.
One ergonomic quirk is that the radio trigger is built into the flash, but when you use it as a trigger, you cannot use the flash itself as a slave. You need a separate YN560 III or IV to act as the slave. This is not a dealbreaker, but it is worth noting.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life is decent but not exceptional. With four AA NiMH batteries, you can expect around 200 full-power flashes. Recycle time is about 3 seconds at full power, which is acceptable for most shooting situations. If you use alkaline batteries, expect fewer flashes and longer recycle times. There is no external battery pack option, so you must carry spare AAs for extended shoots.
Storage is not an issue since the flash has no memory card. Settings are stored internally, and you can save custom presets. The flash also remembers the last power setting when powered off, which is convenient.
Common Buyer Complaints
While the YN560 IV is highly rated, some buyers have reported issues. The most common complaint is the lack of TTL, which surprises some beginners. Others mention that the radio trigger range can be reduced by walls or interference, and that the flash can overheat if used at full power repeatedly. A few users have experienced inconsistent triggering with off-brand triggers, but this is rare.
Another minor issue is that the flash does not have a built-in bounce card or diffuser, so you need to buy one separately. The plastic foot can also be fragile, so handle it with care when mounting.
How It Compares to Alternatives
The closest competitors are the Godox TT600 and the Neewer NW670. The Godox TT600 offers similar manual-only features but uses Godox's X wireless system, which supports remote power control and groups. That is a significant advantage if you plan to expand your lighting kit. However, the Godox TT600 is slightly more expensive.
The Neewer NW670 is a budget option with similar specs, but it lacks the built-in radio trigger. If you already have a trigger system, the Neewer might be a cheaper choice. For those who want TTL, the Canon Speedlite 430EX III-RT is a reliable option, but it costs significantly more and has a lower guide number.
Ultimately, the YN560 IV is a great entry point into off-camera flash, but if you see yourself growing your lighting setup, consider the Godox system for its expandability.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
- Pros: Powerful output, built-in radio trigger, affordable, easy to use, good for manual shooters.
- Cons: No TTL, no HSS, basic radio control, plastic build.
Final Verdict
The Yongnuo YN560 IV is a solid choice for photographers who want a reliable, powerful manual flash without spending a fortune. It excels in off-camera scenarios where you have control over your settings. However, if you need automation or advanced wireless features, you will quickly outgrow it. For the price, it is hard to beat, but weigh your long-term needs before buying. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.
Specs that matter
| Guide number | GN60 (ISO 100, 200mm) |
| Zoom range | 24-200mm (auto or manual) |
| Wireless modes | Radio slave, optical slave, S1/S2 |
| Power source | 4x AA batteries (NiMH recommended) |
| Recycle time | Approx. 3 seconds (NiMH, full power) |
| Flash duration | 1/200s to 1/20000s |
You are a photographer who shoots in manual mode and wants a reliable, powerful off-camera flash without breaking the bank. The YN560 IV is ideal for portraits, product shots, and creative lighting where you have time to adjust settings.
You need TTL automation, high-speed sync, or advanced wireless control with groups and remote power adjustment. If you shoot fast-paced events or rely on automatic exposure, this flash will frustrate you.
Questions before you buy
Does the Yongnuo YN560 IV support TTL?
No, the YN560 IV is a fully manual flash. It does not support TTL (through-the-lens) metering. You must set the flash power manually or use the built-in radio trigger to adjust power from the camera-mounted unit.
Can I use the YN560 IV as a wireless trigger for other flashes?
Yes, the YN560 IV has a built-in radio trigger that can fire other YN560 III or YN560 IV flashes wirelessly. However, it only works with Yongnuo's 560 series radio system, and you cannot control groups or adjust power remotely from the trigger.
What batteries does the YN560 IV use and how long do they last?
It uses four AA batteries. With NiMH rechargeables, you can expect around 200 full-power flashes per set, depending on usage. Recycle time is about 3 seconds at full power, but faster at lower power levels.
Is the YN560 IV compatible with Canon, Nikon, Sony, or other cameras?
Yes, the YN560 IV is a universal manual flash. It has a standard hot shoe and a PC sync port, so it works on any camera with a standard hot shoe or PC port, regardless of brand. However, it does not communicate TTL information with the camera.
Does the YN560 IV have high-speed sync (HSS)?
No, the YN560 IV does not support HSS. The fastest shutter speed you can use with this flash is typically 1/250s (or your camera's sync speed). For high-speed sync, you would need a different flash like the Godox TT685 or a dedicated HSS unit.
