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

*Published: 2024-09-16 | Updated: 2024-09-16 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/laowa-100mm-f2.8-macro-lens-for-sony-e*

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## Product: LAOWA 100mm f/2.8 Macro Lens for Sony E
**Brand:** LAOWA

**Overall Score:** 0.8045454545454546/100

## 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, L-Mount).
- 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.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Exceptional macro capabilities with 2:1 magnification ratio. | Lack of autofocus, which may not suit those who prefer the convenience of automatic focusing. |
| Excellent build quality with a robust metal construction. | No image stabilization, which can make handheld shooting more challenging at slow shutter speeds. |
| High image quality with impressive sharpness and minimal chromatic aberration. | Some users might find it difficult to achieve sharp focus at very close distances without experience. |
| Versatile lens mount compatibility (Sony FE, Canon EF/RF, Nikon F/Z, Pentax KAF2, L-Mount). | Limited aperture range with a maximum aperture of only f/2.8. |
| Manual focus that provides precise control for detailed shots. | The manual nature of the lens might not be suitable for quick or spontaneous photography. |
| Compact and relatively lightweight design for a telephoto macro lens. |  |

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*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*