Godox iA32 – Compact flash control in a pocket-friendly package for under $50

Flash photography isn’t just about power. Sometimes, it’s about control, portability, and adaptability. Enter the Godox iA32 ($49.90). It’s a pocket-sized flash designed for shooters who prioritise travel-friendly gear without compromising on basic functionality.

Sure, it’s not aiming to replace studio-grade units or high-end speedlights. But its simplicity and versatility might make it a solid option for specific shooting scenarios. And at less than $50, it’s a great first flash for beginners.

The iA32 sports a flat-body design with a compact flash head. It weighs only 117g and measures roughly 2.5×4.5″ in size. So, it’s easy to toss into your camera bag. It’s a practical choice for on-the-go creators who don’t want to lug around big, bulky gear. Its lightweight design screams convenience – if not power.

One of the iA32’s standout features is its dual-mode operation. In Auto mode, photographers can set their ISO and aperture values. Then, the flash offers recommendations for optimal shooting distance. This is a handy tool for beginners of flash photography.

For those who prefer more control, Manual mode provides adjustable flash power levels. It steps from 1/128 to full power in 1/3 stop increments.

Modest Specs for Everyday Use

The Godox iA32 won’t blow you away with raw power. It has a very modest Guide Number of 15. But combined with its 2.5-second recycle time, it’s adequate for casual scenarios. You’ll be able to shoot portraits of your friends or light up small gatherings quite easily. But you’re not going to be lighting up a studio with it.

It does rely on AA batteries, though. It’s convenient but may not deliver the performance some photographers expect. Especially compared to lithium-ion-powered options. But you get up to 490 full-power pops on fresh NiMH AA batteries. And when they die, you can easily get more – or just use rechargeables.

It offers S1/S2 optical triggering and hot shoe or sync cord options. It can also serve as part of a multi-flash setup as an optical slave. But there are some things to keep in mind. Its power output won’t meet the needs of demanding pro shoots. It’s also not compatible with the Godox X wireless flash system.

But it’s cheap enough that it doesn’t really matter. For $50, it’s good for you to learn the basics. If you’re learning flash and think you’ll expand your lighting kit in the future, I still think the Godox TT600 ($59) may be the better option.

Is the iA32 Worth Your Time?

The iA32 feels like a jack-of-all-trades flash for hobbyists or even as a backup flash. Its compact size and dual-mode simplicity make it a useful tool for beginners. It’ll also potentially serve well for lightweight travel kits. But for seasoned professionals who need more power or advanced features (like TTL and HSS), it’s likely to fall short.

At its core, the iA32 is an affordable, portable solution for everyday shooters who value convenience over capability.

Price and Availability

The Godox iA32 is available to pre-order now for $49.90 and is expected to begin shipping in the coming days.