> missing every third shot and the TTL is totally hit or miss I saw this yesterday and it brought back some bad memories. I had a similar headache with a third-party unit during a corporate gala where the TTL would randomly underexpose because the pre-flash wasnt timing correctly with the Z7 sensor readout. Basically, the Z system uses a different polling rate for the hotshoe pins compared to the old DSLRs, which can really mess with communication timing during fast bursts. I would suggest being careful with older units tho. While the Nikon SB-700 Speedlight AF is a tank, the recycle time might frustrate you during a wedding reception. I eventually moved to a used Nikon SB-5000 AF Speedlight because of the internal cooling system. That fan is a lifesaver for reception shots when youre firing rapidly. It stays locked in because the native i-TTL BL protocol is actually optimized for these newer bodies. You might want to consider checking the used market to hit that 400 dollar budget.

> buying used right before a huge wedding next weekend feels kinda risky. To add to the point above: i completely agree about avoiding used gear for a big gig. i once bought a mint flash for a family event and it literally started smoking ten minutes in. it was so embarrassing trying to explain that to the bride while fanning the smoke away. i ended up buying a brand new Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight for my z6 and honestly it just works every time. it isnt as powerful as the high end pro ones but for weddings it cycles fast enough and the ttl is basically foolproof. Quick tip: for faster recycling times, try using Powerex 2700mAh Rechargeable AA Batteries instead of standard ones. they handle the high drain way better during reception dances. also, make sure you are using mechanical shutter on the z6ii so the sync stays perfectly lined up.

coming back to this... honestly ive spent way too much money over the years trying to make third party flashes work during high stakes wedding receptions. it always ends in tears lol. if you have 400 bucks and a week to go, dont mess around with another off-brand. heres what i would do based on my experience:

• look for a used Nikon SB-5000 AF Speedlight. it has an internal cooling system that keeps it from overheating during those long dance floor sets. i found mine for like 380 used and it literally never misses a sync.
• the Nikon SB-700 AF Speedlight is a gold standard for a reason. its super easy to flick the switch to TTL and just forget about it, though recycle times are slightly slower than the 5000.
• skip the brand new stuff and hit up reputable used dealers. you get pro-level power for the same price as a mid-range new unit. nothing beats the native nikon communication tbh. it just works every single time and connects perfectly with my Z6ii without any firmware headaches.

Re: "coming back to this... honestly ive spent way..." - > look for a used Nikon SB-5000 AF Speedlight. it has an internal cooling system I hear what youre saying about the pro gear, but honestly, buying used right before a huge wedding next weekend feels kinda risky. I tried that once with a flash I found on marketplace and the zoom motor died right during the first dance... it was a total disaster and I felt so unprofessional. If youre worried about the budget and need something right now, I might suggest sticking with your gut and getting the Nikon SB-700 Speedlight instead. Its super easy to use since the physical switches on the back mean no menu diving while the bride is walking down the aisle. The TTL on it is way more consistent with the Z6ii than my old Godox ever was. Just be careful with the recycle times if you go heavy on the shots because it can lag if it gets warm. Its not the cooling beast the 5000 is, but it'll definitely save you some cash and peace of mind. Just make sure to use high quality batteries like Panasonic Eneloop Pro AA Rechargeable Batteries to keep it snappy.