Going back to the basics: a review of fixed focal length lenses.

The ease and clarity of learning digital photography, multiplied by the instant result, has led to a revival of general interest in fixed focal length lenses, or “fx” or “discrette” lenses in common parlance. They were the starting point of photography in the beginning and now it turns out that their special qualities are not being replaced by the convenience and versatility of zooms.

Of course if you need just one lens, let’s say for traveling, it will most likely be a zoom. The same is true if you think of photography as just having a memory shot at home. But if you’ve ever taken a close look at an interesting photo and tried to understand why it makes such an impression, you will probably have noticed that the impression you get often depends not only on the subject or the well caught moment but also on certain properties of the image it captures.

When you take pictures at an open aperture, for example, the sharp areas with the finest detail of texture alternate with soft blurred lines, and an experienced photographer can achieve stunning effects with just one skillful focus.

Once you’ve noticed that, the interest in “fixes” is almost inevitable. Their main distinguishing feature in comparison with zooms is, first of all, their higher aperture ratio, which means they make it possible to shoot at an open aperture, blurring the background and visually emphasizing the main subject. Additionally, fix-focus lenses generally have better image quality in general better resolution and micro-contrast, less distortion , lower weight and compactness.

Lenses with fast lenses are also good because the autofocus is faster and more accurate and in low light conditions the need to increase the sensitivity to the detriment of the image quality is not so important.

All of these advantages are significant in their own way, but for serious photography, where a photographer has to be in complete control of the frame and be able to adjust all the characteristics of an image at will, according to his/her concept, it is the ability to shoot at an open diaphragm that is primarily important.

The artistic value of the blurred background effect, especially for portraits, is difficult to overestimate. It adds “volume” and versatility to a picture, the image becomes plastic, you get “air” in it. This is especially true for cameras with relatively small sensor size in comparison with full frame , such as APS and 4/3 formats, which make up almost the whole mirrorless class.

The optical laws of imaging are such that the smaller the size of the sensor, the greater the depth of field at any given aperture value for lenses comparable in focal length, and therefore the more one-dimensional, “squeezed” the frame, which is often a serious drawback.

in order to compare the depth of field at different formats, you can apply the following approximate calculation: if you take the depth of field at full frame with an aperture of f/8 as a reference, then to get a similar effect on the APS sensor you should set the aperture between f/4 and f/5.6 the difference is approximately one and a half stops , and on the 4/3 format sensor – even more, between f/2.8 and f/4 approximately one more step .

All this makes the purchase of fix lenses an important step in the development of your photographic arsenal, which, if used thoughtfully, will allow you to noticeably increase the level of your work.

READ MORE:

New format universals: overview of mirrorless lenses.

Eyes wide open: A survey of wide angle lenses

The new elite: APS-C zoom lens reviews

Light is power : A review of professional zooms for full-frame cameras.

Mass stability! An overview of budget lenses with optical stabilization.

Canon EF-M 22mm f/2S STM

Bayonet	Canon EF-M
image format	APS-C 22.3×14.9 mm
Lens construction	7 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	22 mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	35 mm
Maximum aperture	2
Minimum aperture	22
View angle	63°
MDF	15 cm
Maximum magnification	0,21h
Number of petals	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	EW-43
Light filter diameter	43 mm
Extra features	Always silent autofocus when shooting video
Dimensions	61 ×24 mm
Weight	105 g

First focal length prime lens launched at the same time as Canon’s first mirrorless camera, the EOS M. It would be logical to make the first and so far the only Fix of the new line as universal as possible. And so it turned out: its focal length corresponds to the classic 35mm in 35mm equivalent , the standard for compact cameras. This compact “pancake” is only 24mm long, allowing you to carry the camera with it in your jacket pocket, and is quite bright, although there is no image stabilization. STM autofocus system for continuous and silent autofocusing in movies. The optical design incorporates aspherical elements to reduce aberrations.

Price $160 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Fujifilm XF 14 mm f/2.8 R

Bayonet	Fujifilm X
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens design	10 elements in 7 groups
Focal length	14 mm
Focal length 35mm equivalent.	21mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	22
angle of view	89°
MDF	18 cm
Maximum Magnification	0,13h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	supplied
Light Filter Diameter	58 mm
Optional features	2 aspherical and 3 low dispersion elements
Dimensions	65 ×58 mm
Weight	235 g

Fujifilm’s mirrorless systems are in the higher, luxury segment of the market, and this affects their impeccable optical quality as well as, unfortunately, the price. Fujifilm XF 14mm f/2.8 R is a high quality super wide angle focal length lens with a focal length equivalent to 21mm and a new optical design to minimize the decrease in light and basic optical characteristics of the image from the center of the frame to the edges which is the main problem with all lenses of this type . Distortion, including geometric distortion, is minimal, and this is achieved not by digital correction, but by the calculation of the optical scheme and the use of aspherical and low-dispersion elements

Price $900 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Fujifilm XF 18 mm f/2 R

Bayonet	Fujifilm X
Image Format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens construction	8 elements in 7 groups
Focal length	18 mm
Focal length 35mm Eq.	27 mm
Maximum aperture	2
Minimum aperture	16
Angle of view	76°
MDF	18 cm
Maximum magnification	0,14h
Number of lobes	7 rounded
Hood type	included
Light filter diameter	52 mm
Additional features	2 aspherical and 3 low dispersion elements
Dimensions	65 ×41 mm
Weight	116 g

The Fujifilm XF 18mm f/2 wide-angle pancake lens is lightweight and compact – it has a maximum aperture that is one farther than the most common lenses, making it ideal for difficult lighting conditions and beautifully blurring the background. As you’d expect from Fujifilm optics the company has achieved a leading position in large- and medium-format lenses, where demands are particularly high , image quality is characterized by excellent uniformity throughout the frame and an almost complete absence of chromatic aberration. This lens is perfect for street and interiors and landscapes.

$610 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Fujifilm XF 35 mm f/1.4 R

Bayonet	Fujifilm X
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens construction	8 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	35 mm
Focal length 35 mm eq.	53 mm
Maximum aperture	1,4
Minimum aperture	16
Angle of view	44°
MDF	28 cm
Maximum magnification	0,17h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	is included
Light filter diameter	52 mm
Additional features	1 aspherical element
Dimensions	65 ×55 mm
Weight	187 g

In 35 mm equivalent, the focal length of the Fujifilm XF 35 mm f/1.4 corresponds to 53 mm, which means it is a classic aperture “tripod”, with all its versatility and many applications. The use of aspherical and low-dispersion elements ensures exceptionally low levels of chromatic aberration and curvature of the image field, while the maximum aperture of f/1.4 enables low-light shooting and pronounced visual separation of the frame plans. The aperture diaphragm blades are not just rounded, their edges are specially sharpened to minimize loss of sharpness. A great choice for day-to-day shooting.

Price $660 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

1 Nikkor 10 mm f/2.8

Bayonet	Nikon 1
Image format	Nikon CX 13.2×8.8 mm
Lens design	6 elements in 5 groups
Focal length	10 mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	27mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	11
Angle of view	77°
MDF	20 cm
Maximum magnification	0,06h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	HN-N101
Light Filter Diameter	40.5 mm
Optional features	1 aspherical element
Dimensions	55 ×22 mm
Weight	77 g

The wide-angle pancake lens 1 Nikkor 10 mm f/2.8 is the most compact lens in the 1 Nikkor lineup. A wide-angle camera, but not as extreme as you might think: its focal length is equivalent to 27 mm in 35 mm format. Ultra-compact and exceptionally lightweight, yet lightweight enough to produce high quality images with the low level of geometric distortion and other aberration typical of wide-angle lenses thanks to the aspherical element. Proprietary anti-reflective coating effectively combats glare, even in backlighting, promoting natural color reproduction with bright, saturated colors.

Priced at $190 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

1 Nikkor 18 mm f/1.8

Bayonet	Nikon 1
Image format	Nikon CX 13.2×8.8 mm
Lens construction	8 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	18.5 mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	50 mm
Maximum aperture	1,8
Minimum aperture	16
Angle of View	46°
MDF	20 cm
Maximum magnification	0,12h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	HN-N104
Light filter diameter	40.5 mm
Supplementary features	1 aspherical element
Dimensions	56 ×36 mm
Weight	70 g

The fastest lens in the mirrorless Nikkor lineup with a focal length roughly equivalent to 50 mm, which means that it fully meets all the requirements for a classic “tripod. The large maximum aperture of f/1.8 lets you vary the depth of field considerably and blur the out-of-focus zones in spectacular fashion. Optics optimized for digital and aspherical elements ensure sharp, high contrast images over the entire image area. Ideal as a prime fix-focal lens, giving the photographer ample opportunity for creative experimentation with the image.

Price $220 [IN THE BEGINNING OF THE REVIEW]

Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12mm f/2.0

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image format	micro 4/3 17.3 × 13.0 mm
Lens construction	11 elements in eight groups
Focal length	12 mm
Focal length 35 mm eq.	24mm
Maximum aperture	2,0
Minimum aperture	22
Viewing angle	84°
MDF	20cm
Maximum magnification	0,08h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	LH-48
Light filter diameter	46 mm
Optional options	special lens glass grades
Dimensions	56 ×43 mm
Weight	130 g

Lightweight wide-angle M.ZUIKO 12 mm f/2.0 is one of the top-class and most expensive lenses in Olympus’ mirrorless lineup and is undoubtedly one of Olympus’ professional optics. Housed in a sturdy metal body, it has a fast f/2 aperture.STM autofocus system makes it possible to adjust the focus distance to 0, which allows to shoot at more or less close distance and noticeably blur the background a modern optical scheme, which uses special kinds of glass low dispersion, with a high refractive index, with double aspherical surfaces, etc a pair of modern optical systems, which allows to use a wide variety of optical systems with high refractive indexes, which allows to use a wide variety of gratings for example, glass with two-stage. d. enhanced near-silent autofocus system. Lens provides an image with low chromatic aberration and excellent color reproduction.

Price $950 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Olympus 15/8 Body Cap Lens

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image format	micro 4/3 17,3×13,0 mm
Lens design	3/3
Focal length	15 mm
Focal length 35 mm equivalent.	30 mm
Maximum aperture	8
Minimum aperture	8
Angle of view	N/A
MDF	30 cm
Maximum magnification	0,06h
Number of blades	n/a
Hood type	n/a
Light Filter Diameter	N/A
Optional features	N/A
Dimensions	length9 mm
Weight	22 g

An ultra-slim 15mm f/8 lens only 9mm long .0 Body Cap Lens is the exact opposite of the luxurious 12 mm f/2 wide-angle.0. In its philosophy this is a minimalist lens whose main objectives are, firstly, to be always at the ready for spontaneous shootings that require instant response, and secondly, to be so unbreakable and unpretentious that photographers need not worry about it at all. No autofocus – instead of manual slider from infinity to 0.3 m, the simplest optical scheme at a constant, not changing aperture f/8 gives a huge depth of field. This simplicity may help creative experimentation, though: the 15/8’s pattern is a bit like a Holga-type toy camera frame.

Price $80 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17 mm f/1.8

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image format	micro 4/3 17.3 × 13.0 mm
Lens Design	9 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	17 mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	34 mm
Maximum aperture	1,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	84°
MDF	25 cm
Maximum magnification	0,08h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	LH-48B
Light Filter Diameter	46mm
Additional features	Specialty lenses glass grades
Dimensions	58 ×36 mm
Weight	120 g

The new wide-angle M.ZUIKO 17 mm f/1.8 is a testament to the growing popularity of mirrorless cameras, as Olympus has had a respectable 17/2.8 lens in its lineup for quite some time. Only when you are completely confident in the prospects of the lineup is it possible to produce a professional aperture “take” of an already successful lens. M.ZUIKO 17 mm f/1.8 is in the same luxury class as the M.ZUIKO 12 mm f/2.0, is just as solidly made and produces images of the same high level. Fast and near-silent autofocus tracking allows you to shoot high quality video clips and high aperture ratio to capture candid shots in all lighting conditions.

Price $650 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 45mm f/1.8

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image Format	micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens construction	9 elements in 8 groups
Focal length	45 mm
Focal length 35 mm eq.	90 mm
Maximum aperture	1,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	27°
MDF	50 cm
Maximum Magnification	0,11h
Number of lobes	7 rounded
Hood type	LH-40B
Light Filter Diameter	37 mm
Additional features	special lenses Glass grades
Dimensions	56 ×46 mm
Weight	116 g

A professional-grade “short” telephoto lens, ideal for portraits 35mm equivalent – 90mm . Rugged metal body, fast f/1.8 aperture ratio, fast and silent autofocus – it has everything you need to become a reliable and durable tool for the serious photographer. Shooting at open apertures combined with a relatively long focal length will greatly blur the background for an expressive portrait. The optical design uses two high refractive index lenses to deliver excellent sharpness and contrast with minimal aberration and flare. Ideal for portraits in natural light.

Price $380 [IN THE BEGINNING OF THE REVIEW]

Panasonic Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 Aspheric

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Picture format	micro 4/3 17.3 x 13.0 mm
Lens construction	7 elements in 5 groups
Focal length	20mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	40 mm
Maximum aperture	1,7
Minimum aperture	16
Angle of view	57°
MDF	20 cm
Maximum magnification	0,13h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	N/A
Light filter diameter	46mm
More options	2 aspherical elements
Dimensions	63 ×25 mm
Weight	99 g

The compact and lightweight Lumix 20mm f/1.7 pancake lens – Panasonic’s candidate for a micro 4/3 system prime lens. Its focal length is equivalent to 40mm, and it is theoretically capable of replacing two classic “tripods” with focal lengths of 35 and 50mm. The lens has an unusual manual focus mechanism using autofocus drive. The speed at which the focus ring rotates affects aiming accuracy: slower rotation gives more accurate aiming. A big plus is the f/1.7 aperture ratio you won’t find many lighter lenses in the mirrorless world . The use of two aspherical elements provides superb image quality.

Price $560 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Panasonic Lumix G 14mm f/2.5 Aspheric

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image Format	micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens design	6 elements in 5 groups
Focal length	14 mm
Focal length 35 mm eq.	28 mm
Maximum aperture	2,5
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of View	75°
MDF	18 cm
Maximum magnification	0,1h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	n/a
Diameter of the light filter	46 mm
Optional capabilities	3 aspherical elements
Dimensions	56 ×21 mm
Weight	55 g

The 14mm f/2.5 wide-angle pancake is the lightest autofocus “fix” in the whole vast world of interchangeable optics of all formats, so it immediately gets the highest score for compactness and convenience. Combined with the in-demand focal length 28mm equivalent – moderate wide angle , the aperture of f/2.5 and the modern optical design with three aspherical elements, it has good chances of becoming an everyday photographic tool for those interested in landscape and street photography. The Lumix G 14mm f/2.5 can also be credited with a very fast and quiet autofocus, providing constant tracking focus when shooting video clips, and excellent image quality.

Price $410 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Panasonic Leica DG Summilux 25mm f/1.4 Aspheric

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image format	micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens Design	9 elements in 7 groups
Focal length	25mm
Focal length 35 mm eq.	50mm
Maximum aperture	1,4
Minimum aperture	16
Angle of view	47°
MDF	30 cm
Maximum magnification	0,11h
Number of petals	7 rounded
Hood type	included
Light Filter Diameter	46 mm
More features	Specialty lenses glass grades
Dimensions	63 ×54 mm
Weight	200 g

The fast 25mm f/1,4 “tripod” is designed together with the legendary “Leica”, with which Panasonic has a fruitful cooperation for a long time, and meets high standards of the German manufacturer. Summilux lenses are known for their unsurpassed image quality, even at fully open apertures, and the image performance is virtually the same throughout the frame. This is achieved in particular by using an ultra-high refractive index lens and aspherical elements in the optical scheme, as well as a special coating on all optical surfaces. The f/1.4 aperture ratio allows you to shoot in the most difficult light conditions and blur the background to highlight the main subject.

Price $750 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Panasonic Leica DG Macro-Elmarit 45mm f/2.8 ASPH

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image format	micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens construction	14 elements in 10 groups
Focal length	45mm
Focal length 35 mm eq.	90 mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	27°
MDF	15 cm
Maximum magnification	1h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	included
Light filter diameter	46mm
Optional features	optical image stabilizer
Dimensions	63 ×62 mm
Weight	200 g

Macro-Elmarit 45mm f/2.8 ASPH. MEGA O.I.S. Jointly developed by Leica and Panasonic. It can shoot at 1:1 and has an effective optical image stabilizer, especially important when shooting at high magnification handheld. The physical size of the lens does not change when focusing, including in the macro range, which is achieved by the internal focusing mechanism. Not only convenient, but also reduces the risk of damaging the front lens. The optical scheme includes an ultra-low dispersion lens and aspherical element to deliver minimal aberrations, including chromatic aberration, and superb image quality.

Price $920 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Pentax 18mm f/8 Toy Lens

Bayonet	Pentax Q
Image format	Pentax Q 6.17×4.55mm
Lens construction	3 elements in 3 groups
Focal length	18 mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	100 mm
Maximum aperture	8
Minimum aperture	8
Angle of view	25°
MDF	27 cm
Maximum magnification	0,08h
Number of petals	n/a
Type of hood	n/a
Light filter diameter	n/a
Additional features	manual focus
Dimensions	41 ×20 mm
Weight	18 g

Pentax’s unconventional approach to the mirrorless lineup was reflected in the design of its interchangeable lenses. A “toy lens” with a focal length equivalent to 100mm in 35mm format, the telephoto lens has a single fixed f/8 aperture and a simple optical design with deliberately uncorrected aberrations, giving it a kind of soft, nostalgic look. The company, describing it, applies the terms “impressionism” and “surrealism” nowadays such pictures are usually obtained with computer filters . Moreover, the lens does not even have autofocus, although with a focal length of 18 mm and aperture f/8 it is not terrible.

Price $130 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Samsung 16mm f/2.4

Bayonet	Samsung NX
Image Format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens Design	7 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	16 mm
Focal length 35mm equivalent.	24.6 mm
Maximum aperture	2,4
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	83°
MDF	18 cm
Maximum magnification	0,12h
Number of lobes	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	N/A
Light Filter Diameter	43 mm
Supplementary features	2 aspherical elements, i-Function
Dimensions	61 ×24 mm
Weight	90 g

A wide-angle pancake lens with a focal length equivalent to 24 mm in 35 mm format, ideal for city and landscape shots and for special effects typical of short-focus lenses. It’s exceptionally compact and lightweight, and has a decent f/2.4 maximum aperture, which makes it ideal for low-light and beautifully blurred backgrounds. The lens has an i-Function button for intelligent control of shooting parameters, which can be used to quickly change the shutter speed, aperture, etc. d. Simply turning the ring on the lens. This makes it much easier to control shooting, with the LCD screen showing in advance the effect of changes. Two aspherical lenses are used in the optical scheme.

Price $320 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Samsung 20mm f/2.8

Bayonet	Samsung NX
Image Format	APS-C 23.6 x 15.6 mm
Lens construction	6 elements in 4 groups
Focal length	20mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	30.8 mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	70°
MDF	17 cm
Maximum magnification	0,18h
Number of petals	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	n/a
Light Filter Diameter	43 mm
Extra features	1 aspherical element, i-Function
Dimensions	62 ×24 mm
Weight	89 g

Another “pancake” from Samsung’s series of compact fix-focus wide-angle cameras produced for the “mirrorless” format – 16 mm, 20 mm and 30 mm. Like the others it is compact and lightweight but powerful enough for creative experimentation. The i-Function button, a great innovation in the field of shooting control, lets you change the shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation, ISO value and white balance quickly and easily. For street photography enthusiasts, this is a great choice to wear on your camera all the time, as the 30mm equivalent focal length is great for many spontaneous subjects, and the lens’ compact size makes it easy to use.

Price $260 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Samsung 30mm f/2.0

Bayonet	Samsung NX
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens construction	5 elements in 5 groups
Focal length	30mm
Focal length 35mm Eq.	46.2 mm
Maximum aperture	2
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	50°
MDF	25 cm
Maximum magnification	0,16h
Number of lobes	7 rounded
Hood type	N/A
Light Filter Diameter	43 mm
Optional features	1 aspherical element, i-Function
Dimensions	62 ×21 mm
Weight	85 g

Samsung’s compact 30mm f/2.0 pancake lens is the standard lens in the NX mirrorless lineup and, as a “staffer” should be, features an excellent f/2 aperture. It’s also exceptionally compact, lightweight and delivers great images with nearly identical performance across the entire frame, sharp, contrasty and with saturated colors. Maximum aperture of f/2 enables noticeable background blur, especially when shooting close-up subjects. The Samsung 30mm f/2.0 is probably the most versatile lens in the lineup, as it’s equally suitable for portraits, landscapes, and genre scenes, and in addition it allows you to shoot in any natural light.

Price $265 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Samsung 85mm f/1.4 ED SSA

Bayonet	Samsung NX
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens design	10 elements in 8 groups
Focal length	85mm
Focal length 35mm equivalent.	131 mm
Maximum aperture	1,4
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	19°
MDF	82 cm
Maximum magnification	0,13h
Number of blades	9 rounded
Hood type	included
Light filter diameter	67mm
Optional features	1 low dispersion element, i-Function
Dimensions	79 ×92 mm
Weight	696 g

“The 85mm f/1.4 Portrait Lens is the fastest, most versatile and by far the most expensive lens in the mirrorless lineup. The equivalent focal length of 131mm in 35mm format, a bit longer than the average portrait view, but still a bit longer than the average portrait view. F/1.4 maximum aperture enables portrait backgrounds to be blurred for a perfectly professional look. The lens features an ultrasonic silent autofocus system, allowing you to record video clips with always-tracking autofocus and without annoying noise. Also has an i-Function button. Utilizing ultra-low dispersion optics, image quality meets the highest standards.

Price $800 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Sigma 30mm f/2.8 EX DN

Bayonet	Sony E micro 4/3
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens design	7 elements in 5 groups
Focal length	30 mm
Focal length 35mm Eq.	45mm/60mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	51° 40°
MDF	30 cm
Maximum magnification	0,12h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	LH520-03, included included
Light filter diameter	46mm
Optional options	2 aspherical elements
Dimensions	61 ×40 mm
Weight	135 g

Sigma, the largest independent manufacturer of interchangeable optics, offers three models of lenses for mirrorless cameras, which are currently available in two versions – with micro 4/3 and Sony E mount. 30mm f/2.The 8 EX is part of the new Digital Neo high-end optics and carries the EX logo, indicating it is in the professional class. It has a telecentric optical design that provides excellent image performance, virtually unchanged across the entire field of the frame. The lens features a new autofocus system for fast, silent focusing during video shooting, an internal focus system and aspherical elements. Equivalent focal length of 60 mm for micro 4/3 format, 45 mm for Sony E.

Price $180 [IN THE BEGINNING OF THE REVIEW]

Sigma 19/2.8 EX DN

Bayonet	Sony E micro 4/3
Image Format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens construction	8 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	19mm
Focal length 35mm Eq.	28.5 mm /38 mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	73° 59°
MDF	20 cm
Maximum magnification	0,13h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Type of hood	LH520-02, includes supplied
Light filter diameter	46 mm
Optional capabilities	3 aspherical elements
Dimensions	61 ×46 mm
Weight	140 g

Sigma zoom wide-angle for micro 4/3 and Sony E. Equivalent focal length of 38 mm for micro 4/3 format, 28.5 mm for Sony E. Belongs to the new Digital Neo DN series, in which the optical design has been recalculated to best suit the characteristics of digital images, and at the same time in the professional EX series. Three die-cast aspherical elements effectively reduce image aberrations distortion, chromaticity and curvature of field and an internal focusing mechanism keeps aberrations low at all focusing distances. The lens delivers great image quality even at the fully open aperture. New fast and silent continuous autofocus system.

Price $180 [BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Sigma 60mm f/2.8 DN

Bayonet	Sony E micro 4/3
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens design	N/A
Focal length	60 mm
Focal length 35mm equivalent.	90 mm/120 mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of View	27° 20°
MDF	50 cm
Maximum magnification	0,14h
Number of blades	7 rounded
hood type	LH520-03, included included
Light Filter Diameter	46 mm
Supplementary capabilities	special lens glass grades
Dimensions	61 ×56 mm
Weight	N/A

Sigma’s latest offering to owners of mirrorless cameras is a “short” telephoto lens, which in 35mm equivalent corresponds to a focal length of 90mm when mounted on Sony cameras and 120mm on micro 4/3 format cameras. The lens has a sturdy metal body and a new autofocus system for silent and fast continuous autofocusing when shooting video. The optical scheme uses lenses with particularly low dispersion, which significantly reduces chromatic aberration, and aspherical elements to reduce other distortions, and the optical scheme itself is telecentric, which provides high quality digital images. Internal focus system helps maintain image level at all focus distances.

Price: new lens, n/a [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Sony 16mm f/2,8

Bayonet	Sony E
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens construction	5 elements in 5 groups
Focal length	16mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	24 mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	83°
MDF	24 cm
Maximum magnification	0,08h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	N/A
Light filter diameter	49 mm
Optional features	Low-noise autofocus
Dimensions	62 × 22.5 mm
Weight	67 g

Thanks to its latest innovations, Sony has the widest range of fix-focus lenses of any photographer. The wide-angle “pancake” 16mm f/2.8 is the most affordable lens in this range and one of the most compact second only to 20mm f/2.8 in miniaturization . Its focal length is equivalent to 24 mm for the 35 mm format, which means it is in demand for landscape, urban, interior, and genre photography. 16mm f/2.8 has a fast, silent autofocus system ideal for movies and a reliable metal body. Sufficient light power of f/2.8 enables creative focusing, especially with subjects close to you.

Price $290 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Sony 20mm f/2.8

Bayonet	Sony E
Image Format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens construction	6 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	20 mm
Focal length 35mm Eq.	30mm
Maximum aperture	2,8
Minimum aperture	16
angle of view	70°
MDF	20 cm
Maximum magnification	0,12h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	ALC-SH113, included
Light filter diameter	49 mm
Additional features	Low-noise autofocus
Dimensions	63 ×20 mm
Weight	69 g

The latest lens, incorporating many of the latest advances in the industry. The most compact in Sony’s lineup of interchangeable optics. The optical design incorporates three aspherical elements which effectively reduce aberrations, resulting in an image with uniform characteristics across the entire field of the frame, including the edges. The f/2.8 aperture ratio lets you shoot in low light and beautifully blur the background in the frame. Both autofocus and aperture changes use a built-in silent stepping motor to quietly and smoothly change focus distance and aperture, ideal for video shooting.

Price $370 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Sony 24/1.8 Carl Zeiss Sonnar

Bayonet	Sony E
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens design	8 elements in 7 groups
Focal length	24 mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	36 mm
Maximum aperture	1,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	61°
MDF	16 cm
Maximum magnification	0,25h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Type of lens hood	ALC-SH114, included
Light filter diameter	49 mm
Optional features	1 low dispersion and aspherical elements
Dimensions	63 ×66mm
Weight	225 g

Top-class wide-angle 24/1.8 Sonnar, co-developed by Carl Zeiss and Sony, is the most advanced and expensive lens in Sony’s mirrorless lineup. Optics by Carl Zeiss with one ultra-low dispersion element and several aspherical elements on either side of the aperture for unsurpassed image quality at all apertures and across the entire field. Signature Carl Zeiss T* coating reduces internal glare and enhances micro contrast. The autofocus system is fast and silent, allowing you to shoot professional-level video. Direct manual focus for accurate selective focus.

Price $1250 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Sony 30mm f/3.5 Macro

Bayonet	Sony E
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens design	7 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	30mm
Focal length 35mm eq.	45 mm
Maximum aperture	3,5
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of view	50°
MDF	9.5 cm
Maximum magnification	1h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Type of hood	ALC-SH113, included included
Light Filter Diameter	49 mm
More features	low-dispersion and aspherical elements
Dimensions	62 ×56 mm
Weight	138 g

The 100 mm in 35 mm equivalent is considered the standard focal length for macro lenses, but lenses with shorter focal lengths are good for giving a broader, more convex image. The Sony 30mm f/3.5 Macro is compact and lightweight, but allows you to shoot in true 1:1 macro scale. The optical design incorporates aspherical elements and low dispersion lenses to deliver superior sharpness and detail at all apertures and focus distances, with virtually identical image characteristics across the entire frame. Silent and fast autofocus motor ideal for video shooting. Like almost all Sony mirrorless lenses, the 30mm f/3.5 Macro has a solid metal barrel.

Price $280 [IN THE BEGINNING OF THE REVIEW]

Sony 35mm f/1.8 OSS

Bayonet	Sony E
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens construction	8 elements in 6 groups
Focal length	35mm
Focal length 35mm Eq.	52.5 mm
Maximum aperture	1,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of View	44°
MDF	30 cm
Maximum magnification	0,15h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	ALC-SH113, included included
Light filter diameter	49 mm
Optional features	optical image stabilizer
Dimensions	63 ×45 mm
Weight	155 g

High-end lightweight tripod for Sony mirrorless cameras. Equipped with an optical image stabilizer that allows handheld shooting at shutter speeds much slower than normal up to 4 stops . Combined with the large f/1.8 aperture ratio, this allows you to shoot in almost any light. The lens remains very compact and lightweight at the same time. In addition to a state-of-the-art quick and silent autofocus system, it also has a direct manual focus system that facilitates creative experimentation. The new ultra-low dispersion lens optics and aspherical elements deliver exceptional image quality across the entire field of view, at all apertures.

Price $500 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Sony 50mm f/1.8

Bayonet	Sony E
Image format	APS-C 23.6×15.6 mm
Lens design	9 elements in 8 groups
Focal length	50 mm
Focal length 35 mm eq.	75 mm
Maximum aperture	1,8
Minimum aperture	22
Angle of View	32°
MDF	39 cm
Maximum magnification	0,16h
Number of blades	7 rounded
Hood type	ALC-SH116, includes included
Light filter diameter	49mm
Supplemental features	optical image stabilizer
Dimensions	62 ×62 mm
Weight	202 g

“Short” telephoto lens focal length equivalent to 75 mm for 35 mm format , ideal for portraits thanks to large f/1.8 aperture. Which effectively blurs the background and makes the main subject stand out in the frame. Optical Image Stabilizer to enable photographers to shoot at shutter speeds up to 4 stops slower than normal and housed in a sturdy and stylish aluminum body. Auto focus is achieved by a fast, quiet, linear motor and the focus can be corrected in one motion thanks to direct manual focusing. New optical scheme provides superior image quality.

Price $330 [IN BEGINNING OF REVIEW]

Tokina 300mm f/6.3 Reflex Telephoto Macro

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image format	micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens design	7 elements in 3 groups
Focal length	300 mm
Focal length 35mm equivalent.	600 mm
maximum aperture	6,3
Minimum aperture	6,3
Angle of View	4°
MDF	87 cm
Maximum magnification	0,5h
Number of blades	no
Hood Type	VH552, included
Light Filter Diameter	55 mm
Optional features	macro at 1:2 scale
Dimensions	55 ×66 mm
Weight	298 g

Tokina 300mm f/6.3 SLR telephoto lens combines mutually exclusive advantages: a huge focal length 600mm in 35mm equivalent , amazing compactness and lightness less than 300g and decent macro capabilities – at a scale of up to 1:2. This is due to the mirror lens design. There’s a downside – a constant unchanging aperture of f/6.3 and manual focus. However, the latter is not a problem – at such a focal length, manual aiming is fast and convenient, especially since the focus ring takes up almost the entire length of the lens. The body is metal, reliable and the image has practically no chromatic aberrations, which is typical for such optics.

Price $590 [IN THE BEGINNING OF THE REVIEW]

Voigtlander Nokton 17.5mm f/0.95

Bayonet	micro 4/3
Image format	micro 4/3 17.3×13.0 mm
Lens design	13 elements in 9 groups
Focal length	17.5 mm
Focal length 35mm equivalent.	35 mm
Maximum aperture	0,95
Minimum aperture	16
Angle of View	65°
MDF	15 cm
Maximum magnification	0,25h
Number of lobes	10
Types of hoods	included
Light filter diameter	58 mm
Optional features	Additional features
Dimensions	63 ×80mm
Weight	540 g

Nokton is a specialized professional lens for night photography, which is reflected in its name, with a unique f/0.95 aperture ratio. Focusing only by hand. The optics are designed for optimum results at the fully open aperture, and according to many reviews, the Nokton is as sharp as a Leica lens. 10 aperture blades help beautiful, soft blurring of out-of-focus areas of the frame. Can be used for professional video shooting by continuously adjusting aperture and focusing silently. Aspherical elements are used in the optical scheme, ensuring sharp, high-contrast images with high detail.

Price $1600 [IN THE BEGINNING OF THE REVIEW]