7artisans 18mm F6.3 Mark II MFT Lens

83%

Image Quality

Manual Focus Usability

Build Quality

Portability

Value for Money

Aperture Performance

Compatibility with MFT Cameras

Ease of Use

Compactness

Learning Curve for Manual Focus

Durability

Street Photography Performance

Travel-Friendliness

Overview

The 7artisans 18mm F6.3 Mark II MFT Lens is a compact, manual focus lens designed for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras. With a focal length of 18mm, equivalent to 27mm on full-frame systems, it’s perfect for wide-angle photography, especially landscape and architectural shots. Despite its affordability, this lightweight lens offers a solid build quality and exceptional image sharpness, making it a great option for photographers who prefer to travel light. Its small size makes it easy to carry, and its manual focus offers a hands-on experience, ideal for those who want more creative control over their shots.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of this 7artisans lens is its manual focus, which provides greater control over composition, allowing for more precision than autofocus. The f6.3 maximum aperture offers a balance between sharpness and depth of field, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios. Weighing only 3.17 ounces, it’s incredibly portable, which is great for travel photographers or street shooters who need a compact setup. Additionally, the lens is a more affordable alternative to higher-end MFT lenses, delivering excellent performance without breaking the bank.

Best For

The 18mm F6.3 MFT lens is an excellent choice for photographers seeking an affordable wide-angle lens for their MFT cameras. It suits those who prefer manual focus, offering more control over their shots, particularly in creative or fine-tuned environments. Travel photographers will especially appreciate its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry on the go. Whether you're shooting landscapes, architecture, or everyday scenes, this lens is a versatile addition to any gear bag for those who prioritize portability and simplicity.

User Feedback

User feedback for this lens has been generally positive, with many praising its sharp image quality and solid build despite its affordable price. However, some users have noted that manual focus can be challenging for beginners, especially for fast-moving subjects. On the plus side, many appreciate the lightweight design, particularly for travel and street photography, where a compact setup is crucial. While it may not be ideal for fast-paced action shots, for those who enjoy taking their time to compose their images, this lens is a great option.

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Pros

This lens is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for travel and street photography.
The manual focus allows photographers to have precise control over their composition.
It provides sharp image quality, even at a lower price point compared to other MFT lenses.
The 18mm focal length is perfect for wide-angle shots, including landscapes and architecture.
At just 3.17 ounces, it's easy to carry for long shooting sessions without adding weight.
This lens offers an affordable option for those looking for a manual-focus wide-angle lens for MFT cameras.

Cons

The manual focus can be challenging for beginners, especially when quick adjustments are needed.
Some users find the f/6.3 aperture limiting in low-light conditions, requiring higher ISO settings.
It lacks autofocus, which can be frustrating for users accustomed to faster setups.
The build quality is good for the price but may not withstand heavy use over time.
Some may find the 18mm focal length too wide for certain types of photography, like portraits.
The lens can be difficult to use for action shots, where quick and accurate focusing is necessary.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide across multiple languages and platforms, the ratings for the 7artisans 18mm F6.3 Mark II MFT Lens reflect a balanced picture of its strengths and pain points. Spam, bot/incentivized, and off-topic reviews were filtered out to ensure the scores are based on authentic and high-quality feedback. Users generally praise the lens for its affordability, portability, and image quality, though some note challenges with the manual focus for beginners. Both positive and negative aspects are clearly reflected in the ratings, offering a comprehensive view of this lens' performance.

Image Quality

88%

Many users rave about the sharp image quality, even at this price point. For landscape and wide-angle shots, the lens delivers crisp, clear results with minimal distortion. Buyers appreciate its consistent performance, especially considering its compact size and affordability.

While the image quality is generally praised, some users feel that the lens could perform better in low-light conditions. A few also mention slight softness at the edges of images, especially when shooting at wider apertures, which may be a concern for more demanding photographers.

Manual Focus Usability

71%

29%

The manual focus feature gives users a high degree of control over their compositions, allowing for precise adjustments. Experienced photographers especially value the focus ring’s smoothness and responsiveness, which enhances the creative possibilities when shooting.

Not all users are comfortable with the manual focus, especially beginners. Some find it challenging to achieve quick, sharp focus, particularly in fast-moving situations. The lack of autofocus is a significant drawback for those who are used to the convenience of automatic focusing.

Build Quality

83%

The lens boasts a solid build with good materials that feel sturdy in hand. Users often highlight the compact and lightweight design, which doesn't compromise its robustness. Many consider it a durable, well-constructed product that can withstand the rigors of regular use.

While the build is generally solid, some users mention concerns over its all-plastic construction. A few feel that it lacks the premium feel of higher-end lenses, which may not appeal to those used to more expensive MFT lenses.

Portability

92%

The small and lightweight design is perfect for travel photographers, allowing them to carry it around without feeling weighed down. Weighing just 3.17 ounces, it easily fits into bags or camera kits, making it ideal for on-the-go shooting without sacrificing image quality.

Some buyers may find that the compact size means the lens feels a bit too small or delicate, especially in cold or wet weather. Despite being lightweight, it can be a bit tricky to handle for those with larger hands or those accustomed to heftier lenses.

Value for Money

90%

Buyers consistently praise this lens for offering excellent performance at a relatively low price. Compared to more expensive MFT lenses, it delivers solid quality and a good range of features without breaking the bank. It's a great option for those on a budget who still want reliable wide-angle shots.

Although the lens offers great value, some users argue that the manual focus may not justify the cost for beginners, who might prefer more automatic options. Additionally, a few feel that its lower price point means sacrificing some of the advanced features of more premium lenses.

Aperture Performance

80%

20%

The f/6.3 maximum aperture provides a decent balance between sharpness and depth of field. It's particularly effective for wide-angle photography where depth and clarity are important, delivering pleasing results for most users in everyday shooting situations.

Some users find the f/6.3 aperture limiting in low-light environments, as it doesn't allow as much light in compared to faster lenses. This can lead to longer exposure times or the need for higher ISO settings, potentially introducing noise into the images.

Compatibility with MFT Cameras

85%

This lens is perfectly suited for Micro Four Thirds systems, delivering impressive results across a range of compatible cameras. Many users appreciate its seamless integration with various MFT cameras, making it a versatile and reliable choice for those with compatible gear.

While it works well with MFT systems, some users have reported that it may not be the best match for certain older or entry-level models. A few mention that the lens's full potential is best realized on more advanced MFT cameras, which might be a drawback for beginners.

Ease of Use

75%

25%

For users familiar with manual focus lenses, this product provides a satisfying and hands-on experience. The focus ring is easy to use, offering precise adjustments that many photographers find satisfying, especially for creative control over their shots.

The manual focus can be tricky for those who are not accustomed to it, particularly beginners or those transitioning from autofocus lenses. Some users report difficulty achieving sharp focus quickly, which may cause frustration in fast-paced shooting situations.

Compactness

93%

One of the standout features of this lens is its compact size, making it ideal for travel and street photography. Its small form factor allows it to easily fit into camera bags or even larger pockets, making it perfect for photographers on the move.

While compactness is appreciated, some users feel that its small size comes at the expense of ergonomics. The lens can be somewhat fiddly to handle, especially in challenging weather conditions or when wearing gloves.

Learning Curve for Manual Focus

65%

35%

For experienced photographers, the manual focus provides a level of creative control that is highly valued. It allows for more intentional adjustments, which can be especially useful in controlled shooting environments or when composing artistic shots.

The learning curve for manual focus is steep for many users, especially those who are new to this type of lens. Beginners often find it difficult to quickly achieve sharp focus, which can be frustrating and limit their overall shooting experience.

Durability

78%

22%

Many users are impressed by the durability of this lens, which holds up well to everyday use. The lens feels robust despite being lightweight, and several buyers have reported no issues with its performance even after extended periods of regular use.

While generally durable, some users have expressed concerns about the lens's plastic construction. It may not feel as rugged as higher-end lenses and could be more susceptible to damage if not handled carefully, especially in harsh conditions.

Street Photography Performance

85%

For street photographers, this lens offers a great combination of portability and sharpness. Its wide-angle focal length and compact design make it easy to carry around, and the sharpness is appreciated for quick, candid shots in various urban environments.

Some street photographers find the manual focus a bit cumbersome, especially when trying to capture fast-moving subjects. The lack of autofocus can make it harder to react quickly in dynamic environments, which is a key drawback for those used to fast-paced shooting.

Travel-Friendliness

90%

As one of the most compact and lightweight lenses for MFT systems, this lens is ideal for travelers. Its small size and low weight mean it won’t take up much space in a bag, while still delivering impressive image quality for landscape, architecture, and travel photography.

Despite being travel-friendly, a few users mentioned that the manual focus can be an inconvenience when shooting quickly in unfamiliar or fast-moving environments. For some, the manual adjustments can slow down the process during spontaneous travel photography moments.

Suitable for:

The 7artisans 18mm F6.3 Mark II MFT Lens is ideal for photographers looking for an affordable, compact wide-angle lens for their Micro Four Thirds cameras. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prioritize portability, making it a great choice for travel and street photography. The manual focus allows experienced photographers to exercise more creative control over their compositions, while the lens’s small size and low weight make it easy to carry for long periods. This lens is a good fit for users on a budget who need a reliable lens for wide-angle shots, particularly in outdoor or landscape settings.

Not suitable for:

This lens may not be the best choice for beginners or those accustomed to automatic focus. The manual focus system, while providing excellent control, can be challenging for users who are new to manual lenses, especially when shooting fast-moving subjects or in low-light conditions. Additionally, those looking for a lens with a wider aperture for more light-gathering capabilities may find the f/6.3 maximum aperture limiting. If you need a lens with quicker focus adjustments or superior performance in dim environments, this may not meet your needs, particularly for indoor or event photography.

Specifications

Focal Length: The lens has a focal length of 18mm, equivalent to 27mm in full-frame terms.
Aperture: The lens features a maximum aperture of f/6.3, providing a balance between sharpness and depth of field.
Focus Mode: This lens is equipped with a manual focus system, offering precise control over focus adjustments.
Mount Type: The lens is compatible with Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera mounts.
Minimum Focus Distance: The lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.35 meters, suitable for close-up shots.
Weight: Weighing only 3.17 ounces (90 grams), the lens is lightweight and portable.
Dimensions: The lens measures 0.6 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches, offering a compact form factor.
Lens Type: This is a standard wide-angle lens, ideal for landscape, architecture, and street photography.
Build Quality: The lens has a sturdy and lightweight build, providing durability without excessive weight.
Construction: The lens construction is simple, with manual control over focus but no autofocus mechanism.
Compatibility: This lens is specifically designed for MFT camera systems and may not be compatible with other camera mounts.
Image Quality: Users report sharp image quality, particularly for wide-angle shots, with minimal distortion at the edges.
Light Gathering: The f/6.3 aperture is suitable for daytime and bright light conditions but may struggle in low-light environments.
Creative Control: The manual focus offers more creative control, allowing users to adjust focus manually for artistic compositions.
Price: This lens is priced as an affordable alternative to more expensive MFT lenses with similar focal lengths.
Best Use: Ideal for photographers seeking a budget-friendly option for wide-angle shots, travel, and landscape photography.
Vignetting: Some users report mild vignetting at the edges of images, especially when using larger apertures.
Field of View: The lens provides a wide 87-degree field of view, suitable for capturing expansive scenes and landscapes.
Filter Thread: The lens has a filter thread of 43mm, allowing users to attach filters for enhanced creativity.

FAQ

The 7artisans 18mm F6.3 Mark II MFT Lens has a focal length of 18mm, which is equivalent to 27mm in full-frame terms. This makes it an excellent wide-angle lens for landscape and architectural photography on Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras.

Yes, the 18mm F6.3 Mark II MFT Lens is designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras. It works with all MFT-compatible bodies, offering a versatile option for wide-angle photography.

The manual focus design allows for greater control and precision when composing your shots. It is particularly beneficial for photographers who enjoy the process of carefully adjusting focus, offering a more deliberate and creative approach to photography.

The f/6.3 aperture on this lens offers a good balance between sharpness and depth of field. However, in low-light conditions, it may require higher ISO settings or slower shutter speeds, as the lens doesn’t let in as much light as wider-aperture lenses.

Weighing just 3.17 ounces (90 grams), this lens is incredibly lightweight and compact. It’s a great choice for travel photographers or anyone who wants to reduce the weight of their camera gear without sacrificing performance.

While the 18mm F6.3 Mark II MFT Lens is mainly designed for still photography, its manual focus can also be useful for video work, especially when you want precise control over focus transitions. However, the lack of autofocus could be a challenge for fast-moving subjects in video.

This lens is a wide-angle lens, so it’s not typically ideal for portraits. At 18mm (equivalent to 27mm on full-frame), it may distort facial features when used for close-up shots, but it works well for environmental or group portraits.

Despite its affordable price, many users find that this lens offers sharp image quality. It’s a strong performer, particularly for landscape and wide-angle shots. While it may not match the performance of higher-end MFT lenses in terms of speed or low-light capability, it offers great value for its price.

Some users find the manual focus challenging, particularly beginners who may not be used to focusing manually. The f/6.3 aperture can also be limiting in low-light scenarios, and the lack of autofocus can be frustrating for those accustomed to quicker setups.

This lens is perfect for wide-angle photography, including landscapes, architecture, and street photography. It’s ideal for travelers and anyone looking for a compact, lightweight lens that delivers great image quality on MFT cameras.