The Canon 430EX combines good looks with a high specification and is simple to use. An ideal choice as main flashgun for amateurs and a back-up for pros.

The Metz 54 AF-1 is a very powerful flashgun in a compact, lightweight design that produces near perfect results.

The Olympus FL-36 is one if the smallest flashguns in the sub £200 price range, but it's still feature-packed for Olympus D-SLR users.

The Nikon SB-800 is the top of the range offering from Nikon, featuring wireless operation, anti redeye pre flashes and an impressive power output.

The Metz 76 MZ-5 has to be one of the biggest flashguns on the market and has a price tag to match, costing more than a budget D-SLR.

The Nikon SB-600 is a well-built flashgun packed with features, including wireless i-TTL.

The Canon Speedlite 580 EX II flashgun is a direct replacement for the Speedlight 580 EX model and has a number of new features that makes it the number one choice for professionals and experienced Canon users.

Nikon's Speedlight SB-800 has plenty of fans - but can this new Nikon flagship flashgun win them over? It boasts lots of design improvements to make it better-suited to the professional user and discerning enthusiast.

Macro shooters are gioven a budget alternative for close up lighting in the form of the Sigma EM-140DG ringflash.

The Canon MR-14EX is a ringflash offering dual tube control for modeling and shadow control.