FJ400 II vs FJ400-SE: Which Strobe Kit Fits Your Studio?

Quick answer

Choose the FJ400 II 2-Light Backpack Kit if you need portable strobes with fast recycling for location shoots. Pick the FJ400-SE 3-Light Studio Kit if you want a three-light setup for a permanent studio at a lower price.

Trade-offs to consider

• Battery vs. corded: The FJ400 II runs on batteries for untethered location work; the FJ400-SE requires AC power. If you shoot outdoors or in different rooms, the FJ400 II is essential.
• Two lights vs. three lights: The FJ400 II kit has two strobes; the FJ400-SE kit has three. Three lights allow key, fill, and rim setups without buying extra gear. For product or portrait studios that need multiple angles, the FJ400-SE saves you from buying a third light later.
• Price per light: The FJ400 II kit costs about $480 per light; the FJ400-SE kit costs about $215 per light. If budget is your main concern and you have AC power, the FJ400-SE offers more lights for less money.

Product facts at a glance

• FJ400 II Strobe 2-Light Backpack Kit: Includes FJ Pro Batteries that deliver 550+ full-power flashes per charge and recycle in 0.01 to 0.9 seconds. You can shoot all day on location without swapping batteries and never miss a shot during fast-paced sequences.

  

• FJ400-SE 3-Light Studio Strobe Kit with FJ-X3 Wireless Trigger: Includes three FJ400-SE strobes with 0.5 to 1.0 second recycle time and 14.8' power cords. A three-light setup lets you create complex lighting patterns immediately, but you'll need AC power nearby for each strobe.

  

Which kit fits you?

Best for

• Location photographers who need a portable, fast-recycling strobe kit
• Event or portrait shooters who value battery freedom and rapid recycle

Not ideal for

• Studio photographers who want three lights out of the box without adding a separate purchase
• Budget-conscious buyers who prefer a lower per-light cost and don't need battery portability