Canon Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT

WRITTEN BY: BRUCE LOVELACE

UPDATED: August 14, 2024

The Canon Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT is a game-changer for photographers looking to harness the power of off-camera flash. This compact yet robust device offers unparalleled control and flexibility, allowing you to create stunning images with professional-level lighting.

Transmitter ST-E3-RT displayTransmitter ST-E3-RT

Finally with the arrival of the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT, Canon has upgraded its offerings to include a radio speedlite trigger.

But, we need to back up before we go on. You need to know what does a Canon Speedlite Transmitter do.


The ST-E3-RT uses 2-way wireless radio for improved communication among the master (sending) Canon Speedlite flash and slave (receiving) Speedlite flash units up to 98.4 feet. This enables you to use one or more flashed for more flattering lighting.


Canon was overdue to take advantage of the superior technology of radio technology and now it's available.

One transmitter can control up to 5 groups of flashes (or 15 separate flashes) and has 8 types of custom functions. That includes controlling the light ratio in half-stop increments up to a ratio of 8:1.



As an Amazon affiliate Canon Camera Geek receives a small commission from qualifying purchases, at NO added cost to you.

Transmitters on Amazon

The LCD screen with back-lighting control is a bright dot matrix display that gives you all the information you could possibly need.

You can adjust the LCD screen to 5 different levels of contrast.

You can set the background color of the screen to green or Amber if it is set as the master unit.



Canon Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT specs

It has almost a 100 foot range with 360 degree coverage. This supports E-TTL II (evaluative through the lens) metering as well as manual and strobe flash.

The ST-E3-RT works with the Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT.  It has all of the same control functions as a 600EX-RT, except of course the flash itself.

This photo shows you the transmitter mounted on top of a Canon 5D Mark III.

What I like about these speedlite transmitters is how light  and small they are. I have had a Canon Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 for many years now and your camera is still light and easy to handle with the transmitter attached. See my full post on the ST-E2.

I also like the fact that you can power this accessory with with two AA batteries.

The RT (Radio Transmitter) system is almost a necessity when you are shooting with speedlites inside softboxes or other similar systems where direct line-of-site is interrupted. This transmitter also has the same dust and water resistance that has been built into the Canon EOS-1D series of cameras.



How The Canon ST-E3-RT works

The ST-E3-RT mounts on your camera's hot shoe and acts as a central hub for controlling multiple off-camera flashes. You can create complex lighting setups with ease, adjusting power, zoom, and bounce settings for each flash independently. Whether you're shooting portraits, weddings, or events, the ST-E3-RT empowers you to achieve your desired lighting effects.

cover of Canon Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT Manual


You can get more insightful information about this Canon accessory by reading the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT Speedlite Manual pdf.

There are rumors that Canon will be announcing replacement flash for the IR (infrared) triggered Canon Speedlight 430EX II. with RT- Radio Transmitter control.


Stay inspired, shoot your Canon.

Author Bruce Lovelace
Bruce Lovelace Signature

Bruce Lovelace is the publisher of Canon Camera Geek. Read more about him on the About Page. He also publishes how to articles and camera gear reviews at the Photography Tips website.

View some of Bruce's photos on Instagram  and Flickr.   Join the tribe of followers on YouTube. Bruce also runs photo workshops and provides 1 on 1 digital photography coaching.

Canon Geek on Google My Business

You might like these


Recent Articles

  1. Is The Canon 17-40 Worth It? Canon's Popular Wide-angle Zoom Lens

    Oct 05, 26 10:24 AM

    Canon 24-70 USM II General Purpose Zoom Lens
    Cleary the Canon 17-40mm wide-angle zoom was the most popular super wide angle lens Canon had. Is it still a good buy these days. Thoughts on whether the Canon EF 17-40mm lens is worth buying and is t…

    Read More

  2. Which teleconverter is compatible?

    Sep 18, 26 11:44 AM

    Canon 2x Teleconverter
    Hi! I've been unsuccessfully scouring the internet for the answer, and came upon your page! I am hoping you can help. I have a Canon Rebel XT EOS. My

    Read More

  3. NEED HELP WITH CANON POWERSHOT SX740

    Sep 18, 26 11:39 AM

    Canon SX740 HS Camera
    It's only been almost a year since I have bought this camera, and suddenly the camera froze and went while it was still on, and the lens is still in place.

    Read More

  4. What is The Canon 90D Good For? Canon EOS 90D Review and Sample Photos

    Aug 24, 26 01:00 PM

    Canon 90D Professional header
    I bought mine because of its video capabilities and high speed frame rate but what's the the Canon 90D good for? Is it a professional camera? let's find out.

    Read More

  5. Which teleconverter will be compatible?

    Aug 22, 26 07:13 PM

    Canon EF Tele-extender
    Hi! I've been unsuccessfully scouring the internet for the answer, and came upon your page! I have a Canon Rebel XT EOS. My lens is the Canon Zoom lens

    Read More

  6. How do I learn the firmware level of my Canon G3X?

    Aug 10, 26 03:33 PM

    I've been thinking about upgrading my firmware on my g3x. I've been getting an error message lens issue, closing down, restart. I'm thinking an upgrade

    Read More


Sign up for a monthly update

Enter Your E-mail Address
Enter Your First Name
Then

Don't worry — your e-mail address is totally secure.
I promise to use it only to send you Canon Geek Newsletter.