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SMART 3 Prototype Testing in the Red Sea

2025.04.21
We took the brand-new i-TURTLE 3 SMART trigger prototypes for a real-world test dive in the Red Sea. Our mission: evaluate battery life, TTL accuracy, and HSS performance under real shooting conditions with pro-level gear.

SMART 3 Prototype Testing in the Red Sea

Between April 5th and 12th, we conducted intensive field testing of the latest TURTLE 3 SMART prototypes in the Red Sea. The focus was on evaluating battery performance and TTL/HSS functionality in real underwater conditions.

Real-world Battery Test

We used the Nikon Z8 system with AOI UIS-Pi and Backscatter MF-2 strobes, capturing nearly 2000 images over the course of the week. The trigger started with a full charge, and by the end of the trip, the SMART Button indicated three red LED flashes—meaning the battery was still at 75% capacity. The LED system gives quick and clear feedback on battery level:

  • 4 flashes – 100%

  • 3 flashes – 75%

  • 2 flashes – 50%

  • 1 flash – 25% (At this point, it's best to recharge or swap the battery)

A key innovation in the SMART 3 model is its user-replaceable battery, offering three times the capacity of those used in previous generations (SMART 1, SMART 2).

TTL and HSS Strobe Performance

TTL performance was excellent with the AOI UIS-P1, which we believe handles TTL signals more precisely than standard POP-UP-based TTL systems. The Backscatter MF-2 was also part of our testing, especially for snooted shots. We tested HSS shooting with both strobe types as well.

F3.3 - F40 aperture TTL test. (Nikon Z8, 105VR, AOI UIS PI)
F3.3 - F40 aperture TTL test. (Nikon Z8, 105VR, AOI UIS PI)

Connectivity and Compatibility

The SMART 3 features a USB-C port, which offers a sleeker and more reliable connection compared to the USB-B port on earlier models. We include a high-quality USB-C cable with each unit, and we recommend using this over third-party alternatives—while many such cables exist, quality can vary significantly.

Computer connection (PC or Mac) is now only needed for firmware updates or changing settings. Daily use no longer requires connecting to a computer.

Sony A7 IV System Performance

Using the Sony A7 IV and the same two strobes, we achieved an impressive 6000–8000 images per charge. The trigger was installed in Marelux and Nauticam housings, and will be available with both LED and wired strobe output options. If you'd like to connect a third strobe (e.g., for HSS snooted shots with the MF-2), we will offer LED windows with M14, M16, and IKELITE thread compatibility.

F2.8 - F22 aperture TTL test. (Sony A74, 90 mm, AOI UIS PI)
F2.8 - F22 aperture TTL test. (Sony A74, 90 mm, AOI UIS PI)

Summary

We believe the SMART 3 series is a worthy next step in the TURTLE family. It’s reliable, powerful, energy-efficient, and tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern underwater photographers.

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