Westcott FJ400 vs Godox AD400 from a Profoto User

[@toddstrong1353]

The price between the Godox/ Flashpoint vs. Westcott is relatively nothing. The Godox trigger is about $70 ($50 on sale) which brings the overall price to around $700 - $720. The Westcott is $599 and their trigger is $100 ($99.00) which brings the price to right around $700. So really there's not much of a difference price wise. The thing to look at to me is the eco system. In that regard, Godox has much more to offer than Westcott in terms of variety of usable lights with the same trigger. Even the plug in studio lights can be used along side the battery powered lights using the same trigger.

[@clarkconway8796]

That was a pretty cool video to watch! Always felt Westcott products were a little over priced, but they proved to hold their own against the big boy Profoto. Thanks!

[@frankiealex11]

I purchased 3 wescotts lights because I watched your videos from 2 years ago :)

[@lindaoreb]

GREAT! I was on the fence on these 3 models, and I know what to buy. You explained it effectively and simple. It is what it is.

[@WilsonSilverthorne]

Great video - thanks so much for sharing your working knowledge. I'll tell you - your channel is a breath of fresh air as you are a working photog and doing test that are practical and beneficial for you as well. I'm well invested in the Godox ecosystem and just love it. Godox's functionality meets all my needs for portrait photography. I love the color consistency of the lights over the power ranges. Anyhow - any of these strobes will allow the photographer to make beautiful images - if they know what their doing. Thanks again and best wishes to you and your business.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Couldn’t agree more and thank you!

[@rgrayphotog]

Nice to see Westcott’s performance under duress. We switched from Godox/FP to Westcott last year and are so glad that we did. More so now after seeing this side by side comparison! Thank you! By the way I also like Westcott’s lights because they work well together with the Canon RT system. I can use the EL-1 speed lite to control the Westcott Strobes remotely. Or I can use the EL-1 speed lite off-camera and use the X2M remote to control the EL-1.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Prabhu_njd]

@rgrayphotog I just got into the westcott system with 2 fj400 strobes and my canon el-1. How did you get the canon el-1 to work as a trigger to fire the fj400s?

[@rgrayphotog]

@@Prabhu_njd there used to be a tedious process where you have to go through the menus of the FJ400s each time. But the newest firmware upgrade helped and now once set you don’t have to keep going back again. I found the instructions in this video: m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/fqu5nauNisqGiKc

[@rgrayphotog]

@@Prabhu_njd if that video doesn’t help you, let me know and I’ll go through each of the steps.

[@ihashup]

I've switched frrom Jinbei AKA Westcott to Godox just because of the modularity of the Godox system but overall they are both the same quality tbh.

[@chrisalexander2478]

Im knee deep in the Flashpoint ecosystem so I guess im kinda locked in :)

[@QuantzPhoto]

Nothing wrong with it!

[@mikezupancic2182]

I'm trying to find out if I can get a remote trigger that will work with the Godox system as I have a bunch of their stuff too and am looking at some FJ400s

[@bobmclaughlin4896]

Note: Ad400/600 reflector sleeve must be removed to attached with Bowens mount attached. ... there is a gap that works very well.

[@mrroyce1138]

check out the Rotolight AEOS 2 or pro lots of option on color temp and RGB color. I considered this so i could change colors o the prolightmods based on team colors

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks Royce, I'll def check that out!

[@jellevanthuyne1984]

Having had misfires on a wedding, I’m thinking about switching from godox to westcott. Do you find westcott more reliable?

[@QuantzPhoto]

Hey Jelle, I haven't spent quite enough time with the system to give a confident answer on that.

[@diegopisante]

I'm very happy with my Westcott lights. It's a breeze to be able to sync with Canon flashes for events. I also use one Fj400 and 3 Fj200 in the studio, and they can keep up for up to 4 hours photo shoot with one battery.

[@wesbaynham1634]

AD400Pro batteries just keep dying. After taking them apart and charging them myself with a lab bench power supply I just got tired of taking this risk. Just bought a Westcott Fj400 & FJ200 and I hope their batteries last longer (I will be regularly charging to try and prolong their life). Westcott feels a bit flimsier, display and menus are loads simpler than Godox and I bought the Westcott gear from a shop I will get repairs even if out of warranty.

[@ranjankmsphotography]

I know I'm responding late after about a year 😊 but I think I can get information from you.... are these Westcott lights manufactured / Made in China?

[@nolansdad55]

So the big question is. If you zero lights right now and had to commit to one brand, who do you choose?!?!

[@QuantzPhoto]

I think each system has pros and not many cons. I tried to show both so viewers could make their own decisions!

[@SanGioSports]

Have you considered that the Westcott is the only one with a radio link? Let's say that it's firing but not enough to trigger optical from the other flashes. How about redoing the test with the trigger on another flash?

[@QuantzPhoto]

Watch my Godox and Profoto video from a few weeks ago where I used the Godox remote. The results are very similar.

[@markkempton4579]

I shared a gym with a Westcott shooter and noticed a lot of misfires with my Godox/Flashpoint system. I was considering making a switch. (Had I known the Westcotts were cheaper, I may have gone with them a while ago.). However, he later mentioned having misfires, so I held off on making any changes as I don't use my strobes on a regular basis. I ended up doubling down with a pair of Xplor 600s during the November sale, so I'm probably here to stay, warts and all. The price point of the 600 and the flexibility of the 200s is just too hard to ignore. Thanks for the comparison and your thoughts!

[@QuantzPhoto]

They’re both great systems and I hope the video demonstrated that!

[@Third13]

Thanks for taking the time to do this test. Appreciate it and keep up the great work!

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks Jeff!

[@shichaosun3298]

I tried to do continuous shots but my westcott recycle is not as good as you showed. Can you show more info about the setting you do? Like what is the power level of transmitter (nor or max)?

[@jaym5938]

Maybe redo your testing with Profoto and Godox triggers and slave the other lights.

[@dbenedict357]

I know this is old but the AD400 has an adapter you can buy that allows it to be plugged in instead of using battery.

[@tugwilson]

The standard reflector on the AD400Pro/AD600Pro is designed for use with an umbrella (like the Broncolor Siros L) which is probably why you are getting flare. It's a pity Godox never made an equivalent of the Broncolor L40 but the Godox RFT13/RFT-14 both work well with the light. Rather than trickle charging the battery you can use the AC400 AC adapter if you have mains power available. It's about the size of a Westcott/Jinbei battery.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks for sharing John!

[@wilbignal]

Curious George here! Wonder if the Profoto and Godox units would have missed at the same rates were they to have a direct signal from their respective transmitters vs. using the optical slave modes.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Hey Wil possibly not but I did a similar test in a previous video using the Godox remote and the Godox performance was very similar to this one.

[@Charlotte_Photographer]

Just bought my first FJ400 about two months ago. Also picked up an additional FJ400 battery and the Westcott FJ-XR receiver which I can plug into my Einsteins. Obviously, I can't get the functionality of HSS when I'm working with the Einsteins. Can't decide if I want the Manny Ortiz or the Joel Grimes Beauty dish. Probably going to pull the trigger on that purchase soon.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Bigger will give more coverage if you’re shooting full body. If tighter maybe the smaller would be best for you.

[@Charlotte_Photographer]

@@QuantzPhoto thanks. Yeah definitely a consideration. For me, the FJ400s main use is going to be outside of the studio. And it’s probably be used in run and gun “one light” situations. So I’m thinking the smaller might be more portable, stable in light wind and i will just have to live with the hard light contrast the small box will create. Glad to hear your review though. Thanks

[@leroytademy]

I noticed in my FJ400s I lean on the sound the light makes instead of having to walk to see the channel. I like the idea of having a larger font for the group though. Hopefully Westcott makes a firmware update for that.

[@chrishandley8691]

Very impressive I was surprised. I thought the Almighty godox was going to beat out the Westcott I'm glad it did not.

[@QuantzPhoto]

I was surprised too!

[@elboogie2324]

I am enjoying this video. I just really got into lighting. I bought my first strobe this year. A Godox MS300v. It's very entry level. I'm fully into the Godox system, but it's good to see what's out there.

[@pnwbjj]

Godox AD 400 batteries are horrible. The battery lost charge and will no longer re-charge. I didn't even get to use it much. Worse is that Godox won't even support their own products. I was told to speak with the retailer if I had issues with the battery. Any company that doesn't want to support their own products loses my business. Buy American.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Yeah they require some periodic attention to keep working. Flashpoint through Adorama is the best way to get any kind of warranty coverage with Godox made products.

[@rickjbradbury]

I believe the AD400 has an AC adapter option which IMO is a better solution VS having a Lithium battery being charged and used ( thinking battery life ). Have to agree on the reflector for the AD400, same on the 600. I always use other reflectors and treat the included ones as a cap.

[@swandme686]

how do you tun on the optical rigger on the Wescott

[@TheDominicballard96]

Have you seen the AD1200 Pro yet or used it? You should do a video about it....if you can.

[@QuantzPhoto]

I haven’t. Rarely do I need that much power with what I do but I’m always down to check out different gear so who knows! 🤣

[@kimmimaloney]

I have godox right now, but I went to lighting workshop that is sponsored by Westcott, and I've been thinking about switching. So great to hear your thoughts on these as well! Thanks man!

[@QuantzPhoto]

They're both pretty great!

[@cml5150]

I'm purchasing 3 FJ-400's this week! Also a coupe 36x36 soft boxes from Adoroma and my first pro-mods! Be looking for my order! I really enjoy your videos and appreciate you sharing your insight to photography. I'm brand new to strobes after 12-years behind the lens, think I'm ready lol...again, thanks alot and have a great Holiday!

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks Michael!

[@Zetaphotography]

Have you shot anything with that system

[@shanetography]

I'm a new subscriber, so I'm a little late to the party here...I just found you. I really enjoyed this video! Especially considering the fact that I've been a Profoto user since 2017. And while I'm completely happy with my B1's, I'm tired of the expenses of owning them. I've decided to jump to Westcott. The only reservation I have had is the lack of power beyond 400ws strobe. I considered Paul C. Buff's wireless system, but their trigger is absolutely awful. And with the trigger being something I'm dealing with constantly in the field, that's a huge, huge downside. Godox....just....no. I do like that they have a broad ecosystem of strobes/wattage, as well as modifiers and accessories. But, as your video shows, there's just too much inconsistency. I've also heard others that have had horrible (or nonexistent) experiences with their customer service. So Westcott it is. Do you know if a more powerful strobe is on the horizon for the FJ series?

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks Shane! I think you'll find Westcott's customer service to be the best in the business. As far as your question I believe Westcott is always innovating new products so we'll see!

[@CaseyIverson10]

Great video I never leaves comments on videos but felt the need here. Thanks for the info without trying to get too cute with the info and delivery like so many try and do. You gave us the info we were seeking and appreciate that. Thanks again!

[@billjohnson3323]

Any of you had any issues with FJ400s shutting down. I shoot volume style (entire team one after another) and on some occasions they shut down and I have to move to different lights to finish the job?

[@QuantzPhoto]

Hey Bill I haven't had that issue or used them for that purpose really. As a precaution with most any of these strobes I make sure not to operate them with modeling lamps on since I know that will overheat most of them.

[@The_Daliban]

Thank you for the video. I really appreciate your reflection and awareness to how unique of a situation you're in. I saw the cases at the beginning and was like: That's worth a house! Keep it up and enjoy the wonderful gear and experiences. Great Photos by the way(:

[@maxkearney114]

Great video. so much useful info. thank you sir!

[@aaronm5149]

Great video Thank You for sharing I’m leaning toward Westcott lights I appreciate the experience and thorough attention to detail.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Glad it was helpful!

[@juans5308]

Thanks James, very informative. One question (observation), does the Wescott strobe work with a "generic" remote or is it locked in to working only with the Wescott remote?

[@QuantzPhoto]

Hey Juan, I’m not sure on that one.

[@MrDan1509]

Can you do this test but at a shutter speed around 1/1000 please!

[@natetheartist9]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge, very useful

[@joeclaymore]

Show off! Joking of course, never do I think this and I would hope that anyone that has watched your videos appreciate the expertise and experience that you share. Thanks!

[@QuantzPhoto]

I appreciate that Joe, thanks!

[@edritger7233]

Interesting. Did you do the same test with other trigger and optical slave combos? Westcott performed the best, but it was on the westcott trigger. It would be interesting to see if the trigger had anything to do with it.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Hey Ed I did the same test a few videos ago using the Godox remote and results were similar. I might do another in the near future with all these remotes.

[@LMoProVisualComm]

Have you invested in the Godox AC/DC POWER PACK AND EXTENSION HEAD

[@QuantzPhoto]

No I'm using Westcott lighting these days!

[@LMoProVisualComm]

@@QuantzPhoto sounds good. Keep doing great things pro🤜🏾

[@IAmR1ch]

I think the two flashes are designed for different purpose or at least design goals. The ad400 is less than half the weight and the battery is smaller so I am not surprised the AD400pro does not hold up as well on recycle consistency but for someone that is looking for a light weight system, the Godox is better. The AD400pro is 2.8lbs and the FJ is 5.28 pounds AD600 non pro is 5.8lbs. To me the JF400, looks like size, battery size, and weight, much closer to or even a repackaged Godox AD600 non pro (earlier version). AD600 non pro Non TTL sells for $479 and the TTL version sells for $550 with trigger at Adorama right now, the AD600pro is selling for $699, they are on sale most of the time with even better discounts during black friday. So, to me Godox is superior in all the things you said about ecosystem, and I am going to say price and value (and weight in the 400s). But for the specific thing you do, the FJ400 is clearly better for recycle but if I were doing what you do, I would have the Ad600 non pro for less, or Ad600 pro for more which both use the bigger battery and are probably more consistent at the same output (because at 400 it is not at full power output on the 600s) One thing I did find that Wescott does which is superior, they have one trigger that fits every camera mount. That is a savings for sure of $70 if you switch camera brands.

[@rockj8197]

Thank you for this great video. Your knowledge and presentation style are excellent. I think the power output settings for the lights are significantly different in your test. I’m not completely certain and welcome correction but I see the Profoto set to 5.0 or 1/32 power (15.6w/s), The Westcott to 4.5 or 1/24 power (16.6w/s), The Godox set to 1/16th (25w/s). I may be understanding the profoto and westcott scales wrong but if not, the differing power outputs would effect the comparison. By how much, not sure. It looks like PF and W are modulating power output also. Is that an option? Kind of like speed vs focus priority on a camera. Thanks again for the great videos!

[@cesarebonazza]

Great info Thank you. Why do you have so many brand 😀 ?

[@QuantzPhoto]

So I can demo them for you!

[@topolino39]

hi, thx a lot, very usefull video, i'm looking for a new set of flashes and i think i found the right one. just a question... how did you trigger all the 3 flashes that are from different manufactures? thx :) cheers

[@adamfahlund]

Nice video! It woulda been cool if you measured light spread out of an octabox or strip

[@harrisongould9460]

What an exhaustive test you put those strobes through...that's a lot of work buddy. I have the Canon 600 on camera flashes but have been entertaining the Westcott systems. I just wish that the Westcott on camera, and off camera for that matter, flashes would sync with my 600s. My 600s still work perfectly. FYI...I now Westcott has a trigger for Canon, I just wanted it in the on camera strobes. Nice work.

[@leroytademy]

Do you think on the test the westcott didn’t fire strong enough to trigger (optically) off the profoto light?

[@johnguira]

I may go with Westcott. I am used to fraction numbers on the speed. That's the only part that has me thinking.

[@QuantzPhoto]

I believe you can set them to read both ways.

[@johnguira]

@@QuantzPhoto thank you

[@johnpeterka8355]

Thank you for your video! During your test, did you have to use S1 or S2 settings on your Godox?

[@denisl1071]

Thanks for the video, what reflector do you use for ad400pro?

[@Audi59]

Great video and testing did u ever have misfires on the wescot , I have a godex 600pro that misfires .. done everything to correct this , batteries, channel, etc etc .. thanks

[@QuantzPhoto]

They all misfire every now and then. If it's more frequent then something might be wrong...🤷‍♂️

[@dkalmbach]

Hi James, was the AD400Pro in colour mode?

[@RawGreySun]

Are your beauty dish & strips also a silver interior? Do you ever use a white interior for umbrella, strip or beauty dish?

[@leroytademy]

Have you tried the freeze mode on the FJ400?!?

[@jaidamann8365]

Try using the Profoto trigger when doing the test. Let's see what happens.

[@tommynikon2283]

James....despite being a grizzled commercial vet, I always learn something from you. I've always avoided Profoto....in fact, still shoot Norman after 40+ years. But....seeking OCF w/ HSS capability, because NDs are driving me nuts. Love your work/results.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks Tommy, lights have come a long way in the past few years!

[@iTriguy1]

Is there any chance the fact that you are using an optical trigger on the profoto and the godox had any impact?

[@ralphbphoto]

If and when you are in Vegas working I would love to meet you and learn.

[@crmlbadboy]

Thanks for the video. I'm still deciding between the two systems. Can you please tell me which one is better at freezing action for sports or dance? Thank you in advance.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Flash duration is very similar so you can't really go wrong with either. If you want more info find me on Instagram and send me a dm!

[@elboogie2324]

I'm watching this, but all i see is $$$$

[@florencioaviles408]

Thanks for the demo. Great info

[@taylor_imaging]

My AD600BM strobes do not have a handle on them.

[@QuantzPhoto]

I was showing the AD400 in the video.

[@BeatOfAngelx]

Very nice video!! May I ask what is the name of the diffusion with the 6 holes you put on the modifiers, and where I could get one please? :)

[@QuantzPhoto]

They’re linked in the description but you can try this - fjwestcott.myshopify.com/products/westcott-pro-light-mods-3x4?sca_ref=3173058.qeYxH4q1MS

[@BeatOfAngelx]

thank you so much @@QuantzPhoto

[@Bub-n-Luci]

My setup is 1 AD400 ($650), 2 AD200s ($350 each), 1 V1 ($300) and the R2 trigger ($70) for a total of $1720. The Westcott equivalent setup of the FJ400 ($600), FJ200s (400) FJ80 II ($340) and the FJ-X3 trigger ($100) totals $1840. If I were first starting out I would definitely consider Westcott’s system. They have always had the reputation of bein absurdly overpriced. But now with so much competition they are becoming more reasonable. Check out the upgraded Eyelighter, for example.

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks for sharing!

[@tonyguerrero7491]

Damn.....just bought that nice pelican case! Thanks man hahaha

[@QuantzPhoto]

Enjoy it!

[@acmephotographic7874]

Why do you say you wouldn't trust the lights in the Pelican case for air travel? What would you use instead?

[@QuantzPhoto]

It's not really the case but the amount in it and knowing how they're handled.

[@acmephotographic7874]

@@QuantzPhoto Do you mean the weight or the $-amount? So what do you use to fly your monolights?

[@lolingsaraee]

Very interesting video thanks +subscribed

[@QuantzPhoto]

Welcome!

[@dbemproductions]

How do you fly with the lithium batteries ?

[@QuantzPhoto]

In my carry on bag.

[@johnyoung1606]

Always Great !!!!! ThankYou :) :) :) !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks John!

[@paulkane7636]

Great to see the comparison between the 3 lights ! Westcott are making great progress in the US market, with the rebranded Jinbei lights and triggers.

[@ranjankmsphotography]

I know I'm responding late after about a year 😊 but I think I can get information from you.... As you said, Westcott is doing great with rebranded Jenbie, so are these Westcott lights manufactured / Made in China?

[@SNEAAAKBEATS]

Thank you!

[@QuantzPhoto]

You bet!

[@donsherrill5069]

Alway great info J

[@QuantzPhoto]

Appreciate that Don!

[@rickbenda9319]

I had both systems. Both were good. My reason for leaving Flashpoint was the terrible batteries. Bought a new AD 600 Pro TTL and came with a dead battery. I was waiting for a battery for my 400 pro that died at a year. Realized that I needed a Flash that didnt have such a weak link. I've got 4 year old Interfit batteries that still work great.

[@NancyGillespie-k9h]

I have 2 ad400's and yes, the battery can go dead if you don't keep it charged and not let it drain. I didn't know that and one of mine died. I youtube'd and was able to bring mine back to life. You have to take the housing off, and then you kind of have to jump start it. Check youtube - you'll find a few good videos on how to do that. I've never jumpstarted anything, and I was able to do it. You don't need the measuring tool, just hold the points for 1 minute - that's enough to jump start it so that it could take a charge.

[@zacgrimaldo]

Just came across your channel, like your sports work! I have both the Westcott and Godox set ups and I actually have found the opposite results in a about a 1 1/2 yrs of real-world work. I consistently have misfires on my Westcott system and very rarely on my Godox! Both systems are similar as the battery starts to decline. I do like the pairing of the Godox 150s and AD600 as a flash ecosystem and it gives me variety, depending on the shooting needs. I just subbed your channel! Also, where did you find those cookie mods for the softboxes?

[@QuantzPhoto]

Thanks Zac, appreciate you sharing your feedback. Those are the www.prolightmods.com on the lights that I introduced about a year ago!

[@zacgrimaldo]

@@QuantzPhoto They are pretty awesome! Where did you find protective covers for FJ400s? I looked through the links and didn't see them.

[@Prabhu_njd]

@@zacgrimaldo they are on westcott's website under the accessories tab.