With so many underwater housings to choose from, plus a large selection of strobes, how do you decide on what strobe sync system is right for you? Here is a list of the pros and cons of fiber optic and electronic sync cords that will help you make a decision based upon your shooting needs. Fiber optic cable,sync cord,debate,pros and cons,DSLR,TTL,Bulkhead,What's Best

The Fiber Optic Cable or Sync Cord Debate - Pros & Cons

Depending on the make and model of your camera, which underwater housing you've chosen and which strobes you've decided will best light up those fish portraits and reef scenes, you may have another decision to make: fiber optic cable or electronic sync cord. For some, your gear will dictate your choice, for others, you'll have to be guided by your preferences and shooting needs. We've listed the Pros and Cons for both fiber optic cable and electronic sync cord below to help you determine which strobe sync system is best for you. Fiber Optic Cable ProsNo penetration of the housing so no concern of flooding Removable in waterFairly durable, difficult to damageNo electronic bulkheads to flood No O-rings to maintainCan do TTL without the need of a converter, with compatible strobes Takes up very little space in your camera bagRelatively inexpensiveFiber Optic Cable ConsRely on built-in flash's recycle timeStrobe manufacturer specificCan be housing specificCan be damaged if not handled correctly Requires a housing with an optical port Not all strobes accept fiber optic cables Electric Sync Cord ProsDoes not rely on the camera's flash so fast recycle timeCompatible with most SLR housingsSince you are not relying on built in flash, easier on camera batteryElectric Sync Cord ConsBulkheads can flood and are susceptible to corrosionCords have O-rings that need to be maintainedMore expensive than fiber opticSince the bulkhead penetrates housing potential flood point Requires a converter for TTL Not all strobes accept electronic sync cords VIEW FIBER OPTIC CABLESVIEW ELECTRIC SYNC CORDS Still befuddled by the options? No worries! Feel free to contact any one of our Sales Pros who will be happy to recommend what gear you need based on your shooting style.Our Sales Pros are all active divers who regularly use the equipment that we stock, so drop us a line! We're here to help! sales@backscatter.comWhy buy direct from Backscatter?Free lifetime tech support with every purchase. We will beat any advertised price. Free shipping to USA and Canada and low cost international shipping. ...


Related Posts

OM System TG-7 Underwater Camera Review

Get ready to embark on new underwater adventures with the next generation of the world's most beloved camera for underwater photography.

Read More

Guide for the Best Filter for your GoPro

The Flip Filter System by Backscatter provides you with the most comprehensive filter kit available. We've got you covered underwater with color correction, lens correction as well as topside len...

Read More

Nikon Z 8 Underwater Camera Review

In this article, we'll provide an in-depth review of the highly anticipated Nikon Z8 for underwater photography from our first-hand perspective. We’re going to explore and discuss the key aspects...

Read More

Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV Underwater Camera & Housing Review

Excellent image quality, more affordable than similar rigs, and compact enough for travelers and novice shooters - is this the new Best Bang For Your Buck in underwater photography? That’s a 10-4, goo...

Read More

Ikelite Lens & Port Charts

Most Ikelite housings offer interchangeable ports that allow for the use of a variety of lenses, however different lenses may require different ports and extensions rings to maintain or correct for un...

Read More

Sony a7R V Underwater Camera Review

The Sony a7R V is the newest full-frame mirrorless camera from Sony. It’s an all-around serious upgrade for α7 shooters and we dove deep to find what matters most to underwater photo and video shooter...

Read More