The Inon Z240 is a compact, powerful underwater strobe favored by many photographers for its reliability and versatile lighting capabilities. As an owner of two Inon Z240s, I can confidently say that these strobes offer exceptional build quality and performance in both macro and wide-angle underwater photography. This review will delve deep into the design, functionality, and real-world usage of the Inon Z240, covering its strengths, limitations, configuration settings, and technical distinctions between its various types. Whether you are a beginner venturing into strobe lighting or a seasoned diver looking for equipment insights, this multi-part series aims to guide you through all facets of the Z240 strobe system.
Build Quality and Design Features
One of the most impressive aspects of the Inon Z240 is its outstanding construction. The build quality immediately feels solid and professional. The yellow O-ring is highly visible, making it easy to detect dirt or debris that could lead to flooding. Additionally, the clear battery compartment allows users to inspect the seal visually, reducing the risk of accidental flooding. This level of design precision provides a layer of reassurance before each dive.
The battery compartment itself is particularly well-engineered. Unlike other strobes that might be more prone to moisture intrusion, the Z240's compartment is tightly sealed, and the layout ensures correct battery placement. Even under repeated use, the cap and threading mechanism maintain their integrity. Four AA batteries are required, and they tend to last for three dives under heavy shooting conditions, which is efficient for a high-powered strobe of this class.
From a usability perspective, the Inon Z240 is small and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and reducing drag underwater. The compact size does not come at the cost of performance; it packs a powerful flash output and a broad angle of coverage suitable for many shooting conditions. These design traits make the Z240 a favorite among both compact camera users and DSLR photographers.
Flash Power and Performance
In terms of flash strength, the Inon Z240 outperforms many of its predecessors and competing models. It has been measured as one stop faster than the Sea & Sea YS-110 and up to 1.5 stops more powerful when both use diffusers. This makes it a significant upgrade for photographers looking to capture fast-moving marine life or wide scenes where more light coverage is required.
While some shooters claim that the Z240 may be even stronger than the Ikelite DS-125s, this perception can depend on the shooting environment and how light is distributed. However, when factoring in size, weight, and output balance, the Z240 delivers exceptional value. Its recycle time is fast, around 1.6 seconds at full power, with even faster times at lower output levels. This means photographers can fire in quick succession without the frustration of waiting for the strobe to charge.
The light output remains consistent and accurate across various scenarios, whether photographing coral reefs or smaller creatures like nudibranchs. The strobe’s beam angle is wide enough for full scene illumination, and with a diffuser attached, it reaches up to 110 degrees, enabling even exposure across the frame. The optical design is suitable for wide-angle shooting, though there may be some falloff near the edges when using lenses like a 10mm fisheye.
Focus Light and Battery Compatibility
The Inon Z240 Type 3 comes equipped with a high-intensity LED focus light that aids in low-light conditions, particularly for macro and close-focus wide-angle compositions. This feature is especially useful for pre-focusing and helps guide the camera system toward the subject without additional gear. The spotlight beam is well-centered and bright, giving the user enough illumination to frame their shot effectively without overwhelming the subject.
One specific requirement with the Type 3 version is the recommendation to use low-discharge rechargeable batteries such as Sanyo Eneloops. These batteries hold their charge longer and are less prone to overheating, especially when the focus light is in use. While some might see this as a limitation, Eneloops are widely available, affordable, and compatible with most standard AA chargers. This makes them a practical choice for divers who need reliability and consistent power output across dives.
Even though the Z240 uses four AA batteries, the overall power output and flash longevity per charge are impressive. The battery performance supports the strobe’s reputation for dependability, and with proper care, the unit can go through multiple dives without requiring a battery change. For those who value predictability and endurance in the field, this feature will be highly appreciated.
TTL Compatibility and Advanced Flash Control
Another strength of the Inon Z240 is its compatibility with both optical and electrical triggering systems. It supports Sea & Sea’s TTL Converter III for Nikon, allowing accurate TTL exposures for macro and close-focus wide-angle scenes. This setup ensures the flash intensity is well-calibrated with the camera’s exposure metering, reducing the need for constant manual adjustment.
The Z240’s signature feature, the “S-TTL” mode, is an optical TTL function that mimics the camera’s pre-flash. This mode is not functional with sync cords but works efficiently via fiber optic cables. The strobe responds to the camera’s internal flash, syncing the light output for accurate exposures. This approach is favored among compact and mirrorless camera users who rely on optical triggering.
In addition, the strobe includes “pre-flash cancel” circuitry, which helps minimize the power drain caused by the camera’s preflash. This results in extended battery life for the camera and quicker internal flash recycling. While these features aren’t usable with sync cables, they represent an advanced level of integration that caters to a variety of shooting styles and gear setups.
The strobe also stands out for its diffuser design. Unlike other brands where diffusers are prone to falling off, the Z240’s diffusers screw in securely, minimizing the risk of loss during dives. This design makes it easy to add colored gels or filters behind the diffuser, opening creative lighting possibilities for subjects that benefit from colored or warmer tones.
The Inon Z240 has earned its place as a trusted tool in the underwater photographer’s kit. Its thoughtful design, dependable build quality, and advanced TTL features make it a top-tier choice for macro and wide-angle shooting alike. The strobe provides flexibility, power, and reliability that few competitors match, especially in a compact and travel-friendly form. Whether you are a DSLR user pushing lighting boundaries or a compact shooter seeking enhanced image control, the Z240 delivers exceptional value and performance.
Understanding the Inon Z240’s Configuration and Controls
The Inon Z240’s controls are a blend of simplicity and depth, allowing photographers to operate in both TTL and manual modes with a wide range of adjustments. While the physical layout of the dials is intuitive, users often find the manual to be confusing, especially for those new to strobes. Over time, however, using the dials becomes second nature. On the left side of the strobe is the primary function dial, and on the right is the power level adjustment dial. The left dial determines the operational mode of the strobe—S-TTL, Manual, Full Dump, and Low Power—while the right dial lets users adjust the flash output in manual modes.
When using a TTL converter such as the Sea & Sea TTL Converter III, the settings are straightforward. For standard TTL functionality, the left dial is set to S-TTL. The right dial can be left in its neutral position, which is typically 12 o’clock, or slightly adjusted for minor exposure compensation. The system works seamlessly, and exposures tend to be accurate when shooting in macro or close-focus wide-angle.
For full manual control, turn the left dial to “M” and then adjust the right dial to set power levels. The right dial has 11 manual power levels, from the weakest output to near-full strength. However, even the highest manual setting is approximately half a stop below the absolute maximum power of the “FULL” setting, which is selected using the left dial. This small discrepancy is worth remembering if maximum output is essential for your shot.
Photographers who shoot with sync cords, particularly DSLR users, will also benefit from understanding how the strobe behaves in different modes. When connected via a direct sync cable, manual power settings must be used. TTL via fiber optic is not possible with sync cords, though manual mode remains very effective once the power levels are dialed in correctly. For those transitioning between compact and DSLR systems, this flexibility in triggering makes the Z240 an investment that can grow with their kit.
Optimizing the Z240 with Fiber Optic Cables
The Inon Z240 is optimized for use with fiber optic triggering, and many of its advanced features are unlocked only through this method. Optical triggering relies on the camera’s internal flash to fire a signal through the fiber optic cable, which then activates the strobe. When in S-TTL mode, the Z240 mimics the camera’s pre-flash and adjusts output based on reflected light. This creates a sophisticated TTL experience that delivers impressive exposure consistency, especially in variable lighting conditions such as shadowed reef structures or when photographing moving subjects.
Photographers looking for a more hands-on approach can use the manual or full dump settings with the fiber optic connection. When shooting in Manual via fiber, the left dial should be turned to “M” and the right dial used to fine-tune the flash output. While the “FULL” setting provides maximum output, it does not allow intermediate adjustment, so it’s best used sparingly when a strong burst is needed to fill the scene or backlight a subject.
There is also a “LOW” setting, which is similar to S-TTL but emits a lower intensity pre-flash. This helps avoid overexposure in high-contrast scenes or when photographing highly reflective subjects. While not as commonly used, this setting can be valuable for macro shooters working with delicate marine life that reacts to intense lighting.
Another benefit of fiber optic control is its elimination of the need for electronic sync connectors, which can be prone to corrosion and require extra waterproofing care. Fiber optic cables are lighter, easier to pack, and generally more reliable in saltwater environments. As a result, many divers prefer optical triggering for its simplicity and lower maintenance.
Inon Z240 Type Differences and Model Evolution
Since its introduction, the Inon Z240 has gone through four major iterations, each offering refinements in response to changes in camera technology and user needs. Understanding the distinctions between Type 1, 2, 3, and 4 is important, especially for buyers in the used market or those looking to pair multiple units.
The Inon Z220 was the Z240’s predecessor. While it had a solid reputation and provided adequate power for its time, it lacked some of the advancements found in the Z240 line. The Z240 was a significant upgrade in terms of guide number, recycle time, and TTL responsiveness.
Inon Z240 Type 1 was the original version and was already considered a professional-grade strobe upon release. It supported TTL via fiber optics and had a decent modeling light, although the power output of that light was limited by today’s standards.
Inon Z240 Type 2 improved on TTL performance with newer Nikon DSLRs such as the D80 and D200. These cameras emitted multiple pre-flashes, which confused some strobes. The Type 2 responded better to those complex pre-flash patterns, providing a more consistent TTL experience.
Inon Z240 Type 3 introduced a major enhancement: a brighter, more energy-efficient LED focus light. This change made it easier to shoot in darker environments or under rocks where ambient light was minimal. In addition, the manufacturer recommended using low-discharge batteries like the Sanyo Eneloops to minimize overheating, particularly when the focus light was left on for extended periods. While this wasn’t a strict limitation, using the recommended battery type ensured optimal performance.
Inon Z240 Type 4 made another leap forward. It could be triggered optically without requiring a fiber optic cable, thanks to a significantly more sensitive TTL sensor. This improvement allowed for even more flexibility, especially in compact camera systems. Type 4 also resolved some of the heat-related limitations of earlier models, allowing for the use of regular AA rechargeables without safety concerns. For most users, the Type 3 or Type 4 models are the most desirable due to these performance and reliability improvements.
These same evolutionary differences also apply to Inon’s D2000 line, which shares a similar design philosophy and TTL behavior but is aimed more at compact users.
Real-World Tips for Usage and Setup
While the Z240’s specifications are impressive, real-world applications are where the strobe proves its value. To get the most out of the strobe, a few setup tips and common-sense practices can make a significant difference.
First, always check that you have the proper adapters to connect the strobe to your arm system. Inon strobes often require a specific ball adapter, such as the Ultralight AD-IN, which costs around $27. Without this adapter, connecting the strobe to standard arms and clamps becomes difficult or impossible. Packing a spare adapter is also a smart move, particularly for longer dive trips.
Next, take extra care not to lose the small metal screw that secures the battery compartment. It’s easy to misplace, especially when changing batteries in a boat or during surface intervals. Carrying a spare or placing the screw in a secure tray during swaps can prevent frustrating delays or potential flooding risks.
Photographers should also understand how different diffuser options affect lighting. The 0.5 diffuser softens the light and increases the angle of coverage to 110 degrees, making it ideal for wide-angle scenes. However, even with a diffuser, lighting falloff can occur at the frame edges when using ultra-wide lenses like a 10mm fisheye. To counter this, consider dual strobe positioning to balance light distribution or adjust the strobe angle outward slightly to fill shadow zones.
The strobe’s color temperature is set at 5500K, which is close to daylight. While this is acceptable for most underwater photography, some professionals prefer a warmer tone, especially for reef scenes and skin tones. In post-processing, adjusting the white balance slightly lower (around 5100–5200K) usually produces a more pleasing tone. This is particularly effective when working with RAW files in editors like Adobe Lightroom or Capture One.
Another useful tip is to experiment with placing colored gel filters behind the screw-in diffuser. This allows you to create creative effects or adjust the color temperature of the strobe light without modifying your white balance settings. Gel filters can also help match lighting between multiple strobes if you are using different brands or models on the same rig.
For macro shooting, positioning the Z240 closer to the lens port and slightly downward often yields the most pleasing results, minimizing backscatter while still illuminating the subject. In wide-angle, strobes should be pulled further back and aimed forward at an angle to reduce hotspots and ensure edge coverage.
Handling Common Issues
Despite its many strengths, the Inon Z240 has a few quirks and limitations that are worth understanding. One common confusion among new users is the strobe’s behavior in full manual mode. When the strobe is set to manual using the “M” dial position, even at the highest setting (11), the output is still about half a stop weaker than the “FULL” dump setting. If maximum light is essential, always use the dedicated “FULL” setting.
Battery management is another area to monitor. While Eneloop batteries are highly recommended and reliable, keeping extras charged is essential for longer shooting days. Bringing a multi-battery charger with independent charging channels helps avoid downtime. It’s also wise to store charged batteries in a dry bag with silica gel packs to reduce humidity exposure.
Finally, for photographers shooting with sync cords, be aware that Inon strobes use a Nikonos 5-pin connection, which is standard for Sea & Sea as well. However, it is incompatible with Ikelite sync cords, which use a different connector. Always verify cable compatibility before leaving for a trip, and pack a backup sync cord if possible.
Comparing the Inon Z240 with Other Underwater Strobes
Choosing the right underwater strobe involves evaluating power, size, recycle time, color temperature, and compatibility with your gear. The Inon Z240, while compact, offers an impressive feature set that competes head-to-head with many larger and more expensive strobes. However, to truly understand where the Z240 stands in the market, it’s essential to compare it with other popular strobes used by underwater photographers.
One of its main competitors is the Sea & Sea YS-D1 strobe. Both strobes are compact, travel-friendly, and support TTL via fiber optic. The YS-D1 has a guide number similar to the Z240, around 24 on land, and a beam angle that extends to 100 degrees without a diffuser, and 110 degrees with one. However, users have noted that the Inon Z240 recycles faster, particularly when using high-quality rechargeable batteries. The Z240 also offers a slightly more refined manual control system with 11 precise power levels. While both strobes are very capable, the Inon Z240 tends to be preferred by those who value consistent exposure and advanced TTL behavior in tricky lighting conditions.
Another strong contender is the Ikelite DS-160. This strobe is known for its excellent color temperature—closer to 4800K—providing a warmer tone out of the box, which some photographers find more aesthetically pleasing for wide-angle shots, especially with human subjects or coral scenes. The DS-160 also offers a powerful modeling light and a strong flash output with a guide number slightly above 30 on land. However, this comes at the cost of weight and bulk. The DS-160 is significantly larger and heavier than the Z240, making it less convenient for travel or compact housing rigs. Additionally, the DS-160 relies on proprietary battery packs, while the Z240 runs on easily replaceable AA batteries. For shooters prioritizing portability and flexibility, the Z240 may be the better choice, especially when working in remote locations where access to charging stations or spare packs may be limited.
The Retra Flash is a newer entry in the high-end strobe market. It offers cutting-edge features like user-upgradable firmware, ultra-wide beam angles, and an optional booster system for increased output. While the Retra Flash is technologically impressive, it is significantly more expensive and lacks the universal availability of parts and accessories that make the Inon Z240 so versatile. In real-world use, the Retra Flash may offer marginal gains in beam uniformity or color fidelity, but for most shooters, especially those using compact or mid-sized housings, the Z240 remains the more practical option.
There is also the Sea & Sea YS-01 and Inon S2000, both smaller strobes aimed at compact camera users. While these strobes are capable in macro scenarios, they lack the power and flexibility of the Z240. The S2000, in particular, is quite compact but does not offer a focus light or the high-speed recycle time of the Z240. For macro-only shooters or those just entering the underwater photography world, these may be affordable alternatives, but for anyone looking to shoot wide-angle or mix shooting styles, upgrading to the Z240 makes a noticeable difference.
In summary, the Inon Z240 sits in a unique sweet spot—combining power, reliability, TTL performance, and compact form. It may not be the absolute strongest strobe in the market, but it delivers consistent results, works seamlessly with most systems, and is trusted by professionals around the world.
Real-World Applications: Macro and Wide-Angle Photography
The true power of any strobe is revealed in how well it performs across various real-world shooting scenarios. The Inon Z240 has proven itself to be a reliable and capable tool in both macro and wide-angle underwater photography. Thanks to its wide beam angle, fast recycle time, and precise manual controls, it adapts seamlessly to different lighting needs.
In macro photography, the Z240 excels by providing clean, accurate lighting that highlights detail without overpowering the subject. When working with small critters like nudibranchs, shrimp, or pygmy seahorses, control is key. The strobe’s low manual power settings allow for fine-tuned lighting, avoiding harsh reflections or overexposure. The built-in focus light is another critical asset—it illuminates the subject just enough to help with composition and focusing, without distracting marine life or introducing hotspots in the image. Using a snoot with the Z240 further enhances macro performance, enabling the photographer to isolate subjects and create dramatic lighting effects.
When it comes to wide-angle photography, such as reefscapes, wrecks, or schooling fish, the Z240 delivers consistent performance. Paired with diffusers, the strobe’s beam is soft and broad enough to cover large scenes, especially when used in a dual-strobe configuration. Shooting wide-angle underwater requires careful strobe positioning to avoid backscatter, and the compact size of the Z240 makes it easier to angle the strobes precisely without interfering with camera operation. It also allows photographers to keep their setup streamlined, especially important when maneuvering in currents or shooting in tight spaces like caves or shipwrecks.
Some users may notice slight light falloff at the edges of the frame when shooting with ultra-wide fisheye lenses. This is a known limitation and can be addressed through careful positioning, shooting closer to subjects, or correcting in post-processing. Despite this, the Z240 remains one of the few compact strobes capable of handling wide-angle work without the need for bulky accessories or external power sources.
Battery Management and Practical Power Tips
One of the most appreciated design elements of the Inon Z240 is its power system. Using four AA batteries, it avoids the need for proprietary packs, making it easy to find replacements almost anywhere in the world. Whether you are on a liveaboard, in a remote dive resort, or diving locally, AA batteries are universally available.
For best performance, users are advised to use low-discharge NiMH rechargeable batteries, such as Sanyo Eneloops. These batteries hold their charge well over time and provide stable power output, which is essential for consistent strobe firing. They also reduce the chances of overheating, especially when the focus light is used for extended periods. Keeping multiple sets of pre-charged Eneloops on hand is a common practice among professionals.
When using freshly charged Eneloops, the strobe recycles very quickly, often under one second at mid-level power outputs. Even at full dump, recycle time rarely exceeds 1.6 seconds. For macro work or slow-paced shooting, one set of batteries can last for up to three dives. Wide-angle work or burst shooting might require changing batteries more frequently, especially when pushing the strobe to higher power settings.
It’s also helpful to label batteries and rotate them in a cycle to ensure even usage and prolong battery life. A quad-bay smart charger with individual charging slots and status indicators is highly recommended. Storing batteries in waterproof bags with desiccant packs prevents corrosion and maintains battery health, especially in tropical environments.
Handling, Durability, and Travel Considerations
For underwater photographers who travel frequently, the weight and durability of gear play a critical role in equipment choice. The Inon Z240 shines in this area. Weighing only around 580 grams on land without batteries, and remaining nearly neutral underwater, the strobe is easy to manage during dives and simple to pack for international travel. Even when fully loaded with batteries, sync cords, and a diffuser, the strobe’s total weight rarely exceeds 750 grams.
The compact form factor means it fits easily into carry-on camera bags or protective cases. Photographers can usually bring two strobes, arms, and accessories in a single padded case without exceeding airline size or weight limits. For extended trips, this portability is invaluable, reducing travel stress and ensuring the strobes remain protected throughout transit.
Durability is another strength. The strobe body is constructed from corrosion-resistant materials and features robust seals. The yellow O-ring, visible through the transparent battery compartment, helps detect any foreign debris during battery changes. Proper maintenance, such as rinsing the strobe with fresh water after each dive, inspecting seals, and lightly greasing the O-ring, ensures years of reliable use.
The only fragile part is the battery compartment screw, a small metal part that secures the battery lid. It’s easy to lose if mishandled, so having a spare on hand is wise. Some divers thread the screw onto a lanyard or attach a magnet to their housing tray to keep it secure during battery changes.
The strobe’s intuitive controls, sealed dials, and rugged construction make it ideal for both recreational and professional underwater use, from tropical reef photography to cold-water wreck diving.
Real-World Sample Usage and Image Results
The Inon Z240 has proven itself across countless dive trips, workshops, and professional assignments. Whether photographing nudibranchs in Lembeh, wide reefs in the Philippines, or cuttlefish in Bali, the Z240 delivers consistently well-lit, vibrant images. Its versatility makes it one of the few strobes that can perform both delicate macro work and dramatic wide-angle lighting without requiring different gear.
One striking example includes a series of cuttlefish photographs taken in Bali. With two Z240 strobes angled slightly outward and diffusers attached, the resulting images show clean, evenly lit scenes with excellent color balance and no harsh shadows. The strobes captured the cuttlefish’s subtle skin textures, iridescent tones, and movement with precision.
In the Philippines, the Z240 was used to photograph a giant frogfish resting on coral. Here, the strobe’s low-power manual settings proved invaluable. By dialing down the output and using the focus light, the photographer was able to compose carefully and avoid disturbing the subject. The strobe’s color fidelity and beam consistency helped produce a well-balanced, detailed shot, showcasing the frogfish’s camouflage in the coral environment.
From a photographer’s perspective, the Z240 doesn’t get in the way of creativity. Instead, it adapts to the vision of the user. Whether shooting blue water silhouettes, intricate macro life, or night dives with bioluminescence, the Z240 offers a lighting solution that enhances image quality and supports experimentation.
Real-World Applications in Various Dive Conditions
The Inon Z240 truly shines when tested in diverse underwater conditions, from calm reef dives in tropical waters to cold, low-visibility environments in temperate seas. Its performance remains consistent regardless of water temperature, salinity, or dive depth. One of its strongest advantages is its compact size and weight—critical for travel photographers and divers who often juggle limited baggage allowances and harsh environments.
Macro photographers frequently praise the Z240 for its ability to emit tightly controlled light. Using diffusers or snoots, the beam can be narrowed and softened, perfect for lighting small subjects like nudibranchs, pygmy seahorses, and crustaceans without disturbing them or washing out their natural colors. The fine-tuning capability of the manual power dial allows incremental adjustments, particularly useful for complex lighting setups or scenes with reflective surfaces.
Wide-angle shooters, especially those photographing large pelagic animals or reefscapes, benefit from the strobe’s wide beam and consistent color temperature. By setting up dual Z240s angled outward, users can eliminate backscatter while achieving balanced exposure across the frame. Despite its relatively small physical footprint, the Z240 produces enough power to light large subjects even in moderately turbid water.
The strobe’s reliability during multiple dives, including repetitive dives over weeks-long expeditions, confirms its durability. This strobe has been dragged through coral channels, exposed to strong currents, and bumped against rocky entries, yet continues to deliver excellent results. This level of ruggedness earns it high marks from dive photographers who don’t always have the luxury of ideal conditions.
Maintenance in the Field and Long-Term Care
One of the unsung strengths of the Inon Z240 is its simplicity when it comes to care and maintenance. Designed with harsh saltwater environments in mind, the Z240 benefits from a robust double O-ring design for the battery compartment. This helps to prevent floods, one of the most common causes of strobe failure. Users are encouraged to inspect and grease O-rings before each dive and to rinse the strobe thoroughly in fresh water after every outing.
The control dials are tactile and responsive even after prolonged exposure to salt. Unlike some strobes with plastic-based or rubberized rings that degrade over time, the Z240’s controls retain their feel and function with minimal care. Users have reported using their units for years, some even up to a decade, with only routine maintenance required.
Another benefit is that user-serviceable components—like the diffuser cap, battery cover, and mounting hardware—are easy to replace. Even in remote areas, a small kit containing spare O-rings, silicone grease, and a microfiber cloth can keep the strobe in top shape throughout a long expedition.
In terms of battery management, the Z240 is efficient, typically yielding 200–300 flashes at mid-power using a set of four high-capacity NiMH AA batteries. This is a respectable figure, especially given the power output. Unlike some newer lithium-ion-based strobes, you won’t need proprietary chargers or batteries, which is a huge benefit for global travel. Standard AA chargers are readily available and easy to pack.
Versatility with Multiple Setups and Camera Systems
One of the key strengths of the Inon Z240 lies in its adaptability. Whether paired with compact cameras in underwater housings or full-frame DSLR/mirrorless rigs, it integrates smoothly. The strobe supports TTL (through-the-lens) exposure with a wide variety of camera brands using optical or electrical sync cords. It can be used in slave mode for creative off-camera flash work or in conjunction with fiber-optic triggering systems when electrical sync is not possible.
Underwater photographers working with multiple lighting systems—such as video lights, additional strobes, or focus lights—can confidently include the Z240 in hybrid configurations. The strobe’s consistent output and predictable behavior allow it to blend seamlessly into multi-light setups. For instance, during blackwater dives where multiple light sources are often used to attract planktonic creatures, the Z240 adds just the right pop to highlight translucent subjects without blowing out fine detail.
It’s also worth noting that the strobe’s rear indicator panel provides excellent visibility in low-light situations. Colored LEDs denote readiness, TTL status, and overheat warnings, reducing guesswork and keeping the diver in control. This is a critical feature for night dives or cave environments where visual feedback can be challenging.
Community Trust and Legacy
Although Inon has since released newer models, such as the Z330, the Z240 still commands a loyal following. Many professional underwater photographers continue to use it because of its track record of reliability and performance. Dive instructors, marine biologists, and photojournalists have brought back exceptional images from around the world using the Z240 as their primary lighting tool.
This legacy of trust is further reinforced by online communities, where tutorials, sample galleries, and configuration tips specific to the Z240 are still widely shared. It's not uncommon to find professional guides still recommending the strobe for new underwater shooters due to its affordability and rock-solid capabilities.
This sense of trust and support in the diving community plays a significant role in its continued popularity. From dedicated Facebook groups to online workshops and digital guides, knowledge is abundant around getting the most from a Z240 setup.
Conclusion:
The Inon Z240 is more than just a flash unit—it’s a field-tested, diver-approved lighting solution that continues to hold its own in an increasingly crowded market of high-end underwater strobes. While it may lack the higher guide numbers or more advanced features found in newer models, it more than compensates with reliability, versatility, and performance that consistently meet the demands of underwater shooters.
Its intuitive controls, solid TTL capabilities, and strong manual mode give photographers the flexibility to adapt to rapidly changing underwater conditions. The lightweight design, dependable battery life, and simple maintenance requirements make it an ideal travel companion. Whether you're embarking on your first underwater shoot or preparing for an advanced multi-strobe expedition, the Z240 deserves a place in your kit.
For many, it represents the perfect balance between function and form, power and portability. As a strobe that has illuminated reefs, wrecks, and the tiniest of marine creatures across every ocean, the Inon Z240 remains a true workhorse and a trusted companion in the underwater photography world.
If you're considering your first strobe or simply adding another reliable light to your system, the Inon Z240 offers a legacy of excellence you can trust—dive after dive.