Yongnuo Digital YN560-II Flash [GN39M] Review

The Yongnuo YN560-II is a manual speedlight offering bounce, swivel, and zoom capabilities at an exceptionally low price point. With a guide number of 39 meters (at ISO 100), it delivers enough power for most hobbyist and event photography needs, though it lacks TTL metering and wireless optical slave functionality found in higher-end flashes. The build is straightforward and function-focused, trading premium materials and advanced features for affordability.

This flash is intended for photographers who need off-camera lighting on a tight budget or who want a backup unit without breaking the bank. It's a purely manual flash, so you'll need to adjust power levels by hand, making it best suited for controlled setups where you have time to dial in exposure. The zoom head adjusts coverage, and the bounce and swivel mechanics give you flexibility to shape light, though build quality reflects the budget price. At $13 for a used unit from KEH, it's an entry point into manual flash photography, not a tool for fast-paced or automated shooting.