Quick Answer
Choose the FJ400 II if you want faster recycle times, a longer-lasting battery, and a touchscreen interface. Stick with the Original FJ400 if you prefer a lower upfront cost and don't need the extra features.
Why the FJ400 II is a Meaningful Upgrade
The FJ400 II isn't just a cosmetic refresh. Its recycle time drops to as fast as 0.01 seconds at lower power, compared to the Original's 0.05-second minimum. That difference matters when you're shooting fast sequences or working with moving subjects.
Battery life also gets a boost: the FJ400 II's FJ Pro battery delivers 550+ full-power flashes per charge, while the Original manages 480+. If you shoot long events or location sessions without easy access to power, that extra capacity can save you from swapping batteries mid-shoot.
The full-color OLED touchscreen on the FJ400 II replaces the Original's button-and-dial interface. It includes a built-in help guide, which is handy if you're new to strobes or want to change settings quickly without memorizing menus.
What You Give Up with the FJ400 II
Price is the main trade-off. The FJ400 II lists at $649.90 but typically sells for $422.44, while the Original lists at $599.90 and sells for $425.93. At typical street prices, the difference is small, but if you're on a tight budget, the Original still gets you 400Ws of power and reliable color stability.
The Original FJ400 also has a slightly different battery system. If you already own Original batteries or chargers, the FJ400 II uses the FJ Pro battery, which is also compatible with the FJ800. That's a plus if you plan to expand your kit, but it means your existing Original batteries won't carry over.
FJ400 II vs Original FJ400: Trade-offs at a Glance
- Recycle Speed: FJ400 II: 0.01–0.9s. Original: 0.05–0.9s. The II is faster at lower power, which helps with rapid bursts. If you shoot fast action or events, the II's faster recycle is worth the extra cost.
- Battery Life: FJ400 II: 550+ full-power flashes. Original: 480+ full-power flashes. The II lasts longer per charge. For all-day shoots without power access, the II's extra capacity reduces battery swaps.
- Control Interface: FJ400 II: full-color OLED touchscreen with built-in help. Original: traditional buttons and dials. If you prefer tactile controls, the Original is fine; if you want quick menu navigation, the II is easier.
- Price: FJ400 II: $422.44 (list $649.90). Original: $425.93 (list $599.90). The II costs slightly less at typical street price. Price is nearly identical, so the II's extra features are essentially a bonus.
- Battery Compatibility: FJ400 II uses the FJ Pro battery, which also works with the FJ800. The Original uses a different battery. If you plan to add an FJ800 later, the II's battery system is more future-proof.
Product Facts
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Original FJ400 Strobe with AC/DC Battery (400Ws): The Original FJ400 provides 480+ full-power flashes per charge and recycles in 0.05 to 0.9 seconds. It's a solid workhorse for studio sessions where you can plan around slower recycle times.
Original FJ400 Strobe with AC/DC Battery (400Ws)
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FJ400 II Touchscreen Strobe with FJ Pro AC/DC Battery (400Ws): The FJ400 II recycles from 0.01 to 0.9 seconds and delivers 550+ full-power flashes on the FJ Pro battery. The faster recycle and longer battery life let you shoot longer and capture rapid sequences without waiting on the flash.
FJ400 II Touchscreen Strobe with FJ Pro AC/DC Battery (400Ws)
Which Strobe Fits You?
Best for
- Photographers who need the fastest recycle times for events or action
- Shooters who want a touchscreen interface with built-in help for quick adjustments
- Those planning to expand with the FJ800 and want battery compatibility
Not for
- Budget-focused buyers who don't need the extra speed or battery life
- Photographers who prefer physical buttons and dials over a touchscreen
