Godox iT32 & X5: Breaking Down System Barriers in Flash Photography
In photography, being locked into a single camera system has always been a frustrating limitation. Whether you're a professional working with multiple brands or an enthusiast exploring different platforms, traditional flash units force you to buy separate equipment for each system. The new Godox iT32 iFlash and X5 TTL Wireless Flash Trigger finally solve this problem with an elegantly simple innovation: a detachable, interchangeable hot shoe.
Why System-Switching Matters
Equipment investment protection: Camera systems evolve, and photographers often work across multiple brands. A modular flash system means your lighting investment isn't tied to a single manufacturer.
Workflow efficiency: Multi-system shooters can now carry one flash body instead of multiple units, reducing weight and complexity while maintaining full TTL and HSS functionality across Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, and OM System cameras.
Future-proofing: When you upgrade or switch camera brands, you only need a new $24.90 USD ($34.90 CAD) X5 trigger—not a completely new flash.
The Godox iT32 & X5 System
Dual-Identity Design
The X5 serves as both a hot shoe mount and wireless transmitter. Attach it to the iT32 for on-camera shooting, then detach it to instantly switch to wireless trigger mode—controlling the iT32 or any other Godox X System flash remotely.
Technical Specifications
Guide Number: 18m (59.1ft)
Flash Duration: As fast as 1/30,000s
Recycle Time: 1.5 seconds
Power Range: 1/128 to 1/1 with ±3 EV compensation
Wireless Range: Up to 80m (262.5ft)
Dimensions: 101 x 56 x 39mm (4 x 2.2 x 1.5")
Weight: 170g (6oz)
Key Features
Magnetic mounting: One-click connection between iT32 and X5—secure yet quick to detach
Intelligent recognition: The iT32 automatically identifies which X5 version is attached, displaying model type, battery level, and charging status
Touchscreen control: Intuitive interface for quick adjustments
Rotating and tilting flash head with built-in reflector and diffuser
USB-C charging for modern convenience
LED modeling lamp for previewing lighting
Magnetic color filters for creative control
2.4GHz wireless: Instant connection without manual pairing
Multi-Light Capability
Together, the iT32 and X5 function as a master unit, controlling multiple Godox flashes simultaneously. The system integrates seamlessly with the broader Godox 2.4GHz Wireless X System ecosystem, enabling complex multi-light setups with minimal hassle.
Pricing
Godox iT32 iFlash: $79 USD (new) / $79 USD (used)
Godox X5 Trigger (per camera system): $24.90 USD / $34.90 CAD
Comparing Options: LightPix Labs Q20II
For photographers considering compact flash alternatives, the LightPix Labs FlashQ Q20II represents a different approach to portable lighting. Here's how it compares to the Godox iT32:
LightPix Labs Q20II Specifications
Guide Number: 20 (65 feet) at ISO 100
Weight: 4oz (lighter than iT32's 6oz)
Dimensions: 3.9 x 2.3 x 1.1 inches
Power: Manual control from 1/64 to full power
Recycle Time: 6-7 seconds (alkaline/Ni-MH batteries)
Power Source: 2x AA batteries (alkaline or Ni-MH)
Wireless Range: 32 feet (10 meters)
LED Light: 7 output levels with 60-minute runtime
Flash Head: Tilts up to 90° with click-stops at 0°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°
Additional Features: Built-in gel holder with included gels, 1/4"-20 tripod threads, S1/S2 optical slave modes, supports up to 8 units
Key Differences
Where the Godox iT32 excels:
TTL and HSS support: Automatic exposure and high-speed sync vs manual-only operation
Faster performance: 1.5-second recycle time and 1/30,000s flash duration vs 6-7 seconds
Superior wireless range: 80 meters vs 32 feet
Cross-system compatibility: Interchangeable hot shoes for different camera brands
Modern interface: Touchscreen control vs button-based operation
USB-C charging: Built into the flash itself
Where the Q20II excels:
More compact: 4oz vs 6oz makes it even more portable
Built-in tripod mount: Integrated 1/4"-20 threads for direct mounting
Longer LED runtime: 60 minutes of continuous use for modeling light
Simplicity: Manual-only operation appeals to photographers who prefer full control without automation
Which System Is Right for You?
Choose the Godox iT32 if you:
Work across multiple camera systems and need cross-brand compatibility
Require TTL automation and high-speed sync for event or portrait work
Need fast recycle times and quick flash durations for action
Want longer wireless range for complex lighting setups
Prefer modern touchscreen interfaces
Choose the LightPix Labs Q20II if you:
Prefer manual flash control and want the lightest possible setup
Work primarily with mirrorless cameras for travel photography
Want a simpler, more traditional flash workflow
Need built-in tripod mounting capability
Value extended modeling light runtime
The Bigger Picture
The ability to seamlessly switch between camera systems isn't just convenient—it's becoming essential in modern photography. Both the Godox iT32 and LightPix Labs Q20II recognize this trend, though they approach it differently. The iT32 offers true cross-platform compatibility through its modular hot shoe system, while the Q20II focuses on universal simplicity through manual operation that works with any camera's basic trigger.
Whether you choose the feature-rich automation of the Godox iT32 or the streamlined manual approach of the Q20II, investing in flexible lighting tools means spending less time managing gear compatibility and more time capturing the perfect shot. In an era where photographers regularly work with multiple camera brands, these solutions represent the future of portable flash photography—one where your lighting investment isn't locked to a single manufacturer's ecosystem.
All Images Credits To Godox
iT32 Flash: https://bhpho.to/4qJ0Txs
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