ULANZI SL01 Mini Flash Speedlite, GN8 6500K Camera Flash Light
Quick take
The ULANZI SL01 is a small hot-shoe mini flash built for manual use, with 4 brightness levels and a built-in rechargeable battery for frequent, lightweight shooting. It can be a practical add-on for compatible cameras, especially when you want a simple flash solution without bulky gear. The biggest caveat is compatibility and control, it has no TTL and it will only work with cameras that use a single-contact hot shoe.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Manual operation with 4 power levels (1/1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8)
- Compact size and light weight for travel or carry-along kits
- Built-in rechargeable battery with Type-C charging (charging cable not included)
- GN8 guide number and specified 6500K color temperature for consistent starting settings
Cons
- No TTL, you control exposure yourself
- Single-contact hot-shoe compatibility is strict, some camera models are explicitly not supported
- For best results, use a shutter speed at or under 1/250s and manage exposure to avoid overexposure
- With wider lenses, there is a risk of lens shadow in-frame
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is mixed but points to a clear pattern: the SL01 is widely appreciated as a small, straightforward flash accessory that is easy to mount and quick to operate. Several comments describe it as a solid value for the size, with performance that works well for basic flash needs on compatible camera bodies. At the same time, review evidence is limited on advanced use cases, and at least one negative report highlights a common practical limitation for small on-camera flashes, lens shadowing when used with certain wider lens focal lengths.
What this mini flash is (and what it is not)
The ULANZI SL01 is a hot-shoe mini speedlight designed to fire in manual mode. It is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery and supports Type-C charging. You adjust output using the flash’s power levels, rather than relying on an automated TTL metering system.
If you need a flash that handles exposure automatically through your camera, the SL01 is the wrong tool because it does not offer TTL functionality. If you are comfortable setting flash power and exposure manually, it can fit nicely into a small kit.
Compatibility is the deciding factor
This flash is built for cameras that use a single-contact hot shoe. Before buying, verify your camera has the correct hot-shoe type and matches the supported list for the SL01.
Not compatible (examples explicitly called out): Sony ZV-1F and related models listed as not supported, plus several Canon and Fujifilm models listed as not supported.
Compatibility note for Fuji users: using the flash may require setting the flash sync setting to “M” in camera flash settings. If it does not fire, switching shutter type from electronic to mechanical may be necessary, then returning to manual flash settings.
Manual control, power levels, and expected behavior
The SL01 uses 4 brightness levels: 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, and 1/8. In practical terms, you start with the higher level for more reach, then dial down if your subject looks washed out or overexposed.
It also comes with guidance for shutter and exposure behavior. Since it is a single-contact flash, keep shutter speed at 1/250s or slower for optimal results. If images come out too dark, lowering shutter speed is recommended. If images look too bright, dimming the flash level and adjusting exposure settings such as ISO or exposure compensation can help.
Build and usability for travel and quick shoots
One of the main reasons shoppers seem to like the SL01 is how easy it is to live with. It is very light and designed to stay in your bag without taking over the kit. Setup is straightforward: mount it on the hot shoe, power it on using the mode button, then use the pilot button to fire when ready. Pilot light colors indicate when the unit is ready versus recycling.
Battery and charging, including what to plan for
The flash includes a built-in 250mAh rechargeable battery and supports Type-C charging at 5V 1A. The listed behavior indicates it can deliver up to 500 full-power flashes (and it is intended for convenient use while charging). Plan ahead that the charging cable is not included.
Potential limitations to consider
- Small on-camera flash can be shadowy: Because it sits above the lens and is compact, it may create lens shadows, particularly with certain lens sizes and focal lengths.
- No TTL convenience: You will need to rely on manual power and your camera’s exposure settings.
- Strict hot-shoe requirement: If your camera does not match the single-contact hot-shoe requirement, it may not work at all.
- Shutter speed and exposure still matter: The unit’s performance is sensitive to your shutter speed and overall exposure settings, especially for bright scenes.
Verdict: who should buy the ULANZI SL01
Buy it if: you want a compact, simple hot-shoe flash for manual use, your camera is confirmed compatible with a single-contact hot shoe, and you are okay controlling exposure by adjusting flash power and camera settings.
Skip it if: you need TTL metering automation, you are using a camera model that is explicitly not supported, or you often shoot wide-angle compositions where lens shadowing would be a frequent problem.
Also consider: if you are shopping for a flash primarily for event run-and-gun with automatic exposure, look instead for flashes that support TTL through your camera system. If your priority is small size, confirm hot-shoe compatibility first, then compare manual power adjustability, charging convenience, and whether the flash design is likely to shadow your lens.
Price and availability
The SL01 is positioned as an affordable mini flash option for adding basic on-camera fill or punch. Availability shows as in stock, but pricing can change, so it is worth checking current listings before ordering.
FAQs
Does the ULANZI SL01 have TTL?
No. The SL01 is a manual mini flash, so you set the power level and manage exposure yourself.
Is the ULANZI SL01 compatible with my camera?
It depends on both the camera model and the hot-shoe type. The SL01 is designed for a single-contact hot shoe, and some models are explicitly listed as not compatible. If you are unsure, confirm your camera’s hot-shoe type and check the supported list.
What shutter speed should I use with the SL01?
The SL01 guidance is to keep shutter speed at or under 1/250s for optimal results.
How many power levels does it have?
It offers 4 power levels: 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, and 1/8.
Does it have a built-in battery?
Yes. It uses a built-in rechargeable battery and supports Type-C charging (charging cable not included).
Why does my flash look dark or why are my photos overexposed?
If photos are too dark, slowing shutter speed is recommended. If photos are overexposed or too white, try lowering the flash power level and adjusting other exposure settings like ISO or exposure compensation.
Specifications
| Product Title | ULANZI SL01 Mini Flash Speedlite, GN8 6500K Camera Flash Light Compatible with Sony Canon Fuji Nikon Panasonic Pentax Olympus Leica Camers Flash, 4 Power Levels Mini Camera Flash NOT for Sony ZV-1F |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Camera & Photo > Flashes > Shoe Mount Flashes |
| Brand | ULANZI |
| Manufacturer | ULANZI |
| Model Name | SL01 |
| Model Number | SL01 |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 1.16 ounces |
| Compatible Mountings | FUJI: X-Pro2, X-T20, X-T2, X-T1, GFX50s, GFX50R, X-T30, X-T4, X-T3, X-Pro1, X-T10, X-E1, X-T5, X-M5; Panasonic: GH4, LX100, GF1, G85, Panasonic, GX85, FZ2500GX, S1R, GH5, G7; L-EI-C-A: SL1, M10, Q2, TYP601, CL, SL2; PENTAX: K-3I1, 645Z, KP, K-70, K-S2, K-1, K50; OLYMPUS: E-M1, PRN-F, E-M10II, E-M10III, E-PL8, E-P5, E-M5I., SONY: A7III, A7IV, A7R5, A7RIII, A7RIV, A9, A7RII/V4.0, A7R, A6400, RX10, ZV-1, ZV-E10；CANON: 5DIII, 5DIV, 70D, 80D, 1DX, 850D, 760D, 5DII, 7DII, 6DII, 6D, 800D, 90D, 600D, 7D, M6, M5, M3, EOS RP, EOS R, R5, 60D；NIKON: D800, D780, D5, D4, D500, D610, D750, D700, D300S, D3300, D3100, D5300, D5200, D5000, 27II, 26, Z8, ZFC, D200, D60, D5100, D7500, D7100； |
| Battery Average Life | 5 years |
| Flash Sync Speed | 1/250S |
| Connectivity Technology | Hot Shoe Mount |
| Guide Number | GN8 |
| Number of Batteries | 1 AAA batteries required. (included) |
| Wireless Technology | Hot Shoe Mount |
| Mount Type | Hot Shoe Mount |
| Color Temperature | 6500 Kelvin |
| Has Self-Timer | No |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.73"D x 1.41"W x 1.15"H |
| Compatible Devices | SONY: A7III, A7IV, A7R5, A7RIII, A7RIV, A9, A7RII/V4.0, A7R, A6400, RX10, ZV-1, ZV-E10; CANON: 5DIII, 5DIV, 70D, 80D, 1DX, 850D, 760D, 5DII, 7DII, 6DII, 6D, 800D, 90D, 600D, 7D, M6, M5, M3, EOS RP, EOS R, R5, 60D; NIKON: D800, D780, D5, D4, D500, D610, D750, D700, D300S, D3300, D3100, D5300, D5200, D5000, 27II, 26, Z8, ZFC, D200, D60, D5100, D7500, D7100; FUJI: X-Pro2, X-T20, X-T2, X-T1, GFX50s, GFX50R, X-T30, X-T4, X-T3, X-Pro1, X-T10, X-E1, X-T5, X-M5; PANASONIC: GH4, LX100, GF1, G85, GX85, FZ2500GX, S1R, GH5, G7; L-EI-C-A: SL1, M10, Q2, TYP601, CL, SL2; PENTAX: K-3I1, 645Z, KP, K-70, K-S2, K-1, K50; OLYMPUS: E-M1, PRN-F, E-M10II, E-M10III, E-PL8, E-P5, E-M5I. |
| Audio Recording | No |
| Minimum Shutter Speed | 0.004 seconds |
| Maximum Shutter Speed | 0.004 seconds |
| Exposure Control Type | Manual |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Media Type | ProductImage |
| Camera Flash | Hotshoe |
Recommended next
Canon Speedlite EL-10, Portable Camera Flash, Compatible with Select EOS R Series Mirrorless Cameras
The Canon Speedlite EL-10 is a compact, mid-range hot-shoe flash designed for select Canon EOS R mirrorless cameras with a multi-function shoe. It supports E-TTL, manual/custom flash modes, up to 15 additional compatible Speedlites via wireless communication, and optional control through the Canon Camera Connect app. The tradeoff is that it is not the strongest flash in Canon’s line, so it is best for buyers upgrading from basic speedlights or building a controllable, wireless flash setup.
NEEWER Z2PRO-S 2.4G TTL Round Head Flash Speedlite Compatible with Sony
The NEEWER Z2PRO-S is a Sony-compatible, TTL-capable round-head shoe-mount speedlite built for flexible bounce lighting and fast shooting. It adds 2.4G wireless control (with Godox-style interoperability modes), strong output, and an upgraded user interface with a quick TTL to manual switch, plus HSS up to 1/8000s.
NEEWER Z2PRO-C 2.4G TTL Round Head Flash Speedlite Compatible with Canon
The NEEWER Z2PRO-C is a Canon-compatible round-head shoe mount flash with TTL, 1/8000s HSS, and 2.4G wireless control in the Godox ecosystem. It’s designed for faster shooting workflows with 76Ws output, fast recycling, and a high-capacity battery, but buyers should confirm camera compatibility and understand the Q vs X wireless compatibility tradeoff.
Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight Flash for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras, Standard Packaging
The Nikon SB-700 is a compact, feature-rich shoe-mount flash built for Nikon Creative Lighting System (CLS) users who want more than a built-in flash, plus reliable wireless control. Expect fast recycle times, strong i-TTL performance on compatible Nikon DSLRs, and useful onboard diffusion and filters, with the main caveat being compatibility limits outside Nikon CLS ecosystems.