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TLDR Review: LAOWA 100mm f/2.8 Macro Lens for Sony E

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: September 16th, 2024

Score

The Venus Laowa 100mm F/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens for Sony FE receives a moderate score, praised for its sharp imaging capabilities and unique 2x magnification feature at an affordable price. However, it suffers from drawbacks such as manual focus and potential vignetting, which may frustrate some users, indicating a need for practice to achieve optimal results.

7/10

Expert

9.09/10

Consumer

Pros

•Exceptional macro capabilities with 2:1 magnification ratio.
•Excellent build quality with a robust metal construction.
•High image quality with impressive sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration.
•Versatile lens mount compatibility (Sony FE, Canon EF/RF, Nikon F/Z, Pentax KAF2, ount).
•Manual focus that provides precise control for detailed shots.
•Compact and relatively lightweight design for a telephoto macro lens.

Cons

•Lack of autofocus, which may not suit those who prefer the convenience of automatic focusing.
•No image stabilization, which can make handheld shooting more challenging at slow shutter speeds.
•Some users might find it difficult to achieve sharp focus at very close distances without experience.
•Limited aperture range with a maximum aperture of only f/2.8.
•The manual nature of the lens might not be suitable for quick or spontaneous photography.

Bottom Line

The Venus Laowa 100mm F/2.8 2X Ultra Macro APO Lens for Sony FE is an excellent choice for macro photography enthusiasts looking for extreme close-up capabilities and high image quality. While it requires manual focus and lacks image stabilization, it offers fantastic performance for those dedicated to mastering its use. If you need a lens with autofocus and image stabilization, you may want to consider other options, but for precision and build quality, this lens is a standout.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$499.00 at Amazon

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