Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens

Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens — image 1
Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens — image 2
Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens — image 3
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Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens — image 6
Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens — image 7
87%
93%
Autofocus Speed
91%
Image Quality
89%
Portability
74%
Low-Light Performance
88%
Build Quality
85%
Ease of Use
90%
Price-to-Value Ratio
92%
Vlogging Suitability
90%
Sharpness
80%
Lens Flexibility
87%
Size and Weight
80%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens is a compact, lightweight option for photographers and videographers using Sony APS-C and Super35 E-mount cameras. This wide-angle lens is designed to offer excellent versatility with its large F1.8 aperture, making it ideal for creative shots in both bright and low-light conditions. Whether you're capturing sweeping landscapes or shooting dynamic vlogs, this lens provides a wide field of view that makes it easy to fit more into the frame. Its portability and performance are especially valuable for on-the-go creators who need a dependable lens without the bulk.

Features & Benefits

This Sony E lens offers a range of standout features that cater to both still and video content creators. The fast autofocus, powered by two linear motors, ensures precise and quiet operation, which is crucial for smooth video recording. Additionally, the internal focus mechanism allows the lens to maintain its length while focusing, making it comfortable to use. With its 11mm focal length and large aperture, this lens excels at delivering sharp, wide perspectives with beautifully blurred backgrounds, ideal for capturing the essence of any scene or subject.

Best For

This APS-C prime lens is best suited for a variety of users who value both performance and portability. It's an excellent choice for vloggers looking for a wide field of view without distortion, even when holding the camera at arm's length. Creators and photographers who need a compact lens for travel or everyday use will appreciate its lightweight design and versatility. Those who prioritize fast, silent autofocus for both video and stills will find this lens particularly appealing, as it keeps up with even the most dynamic subjects.

User Feedback

User reviews highlight the portability and ease of use, making this lens a favorite for travel photographers and vloggers. The autofocus is widely praised for its speed and precision, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects or smooth video sequences. However, some users note that the lens may struggle in extremely low-light conditions due to its wide aperture. Despite this, the overall feedback is largely positive, with many appreciating the balance of quality and convenience in a compact form factor.

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Pros

  • Lightweight design makes it easy to carry for extended periods, ideal for travel and on-the-go shooting.
  • Fast autofocus performance, particularly praised for smooth video and fast-moving subjects.
  • Compact size provides excellent portability without sacrificing image quality.
  • Large F1.8 aperture creates beautiful bokeh for a more artistic look in portraits and close-ups.
  • Great for vlogging, providing a wide field of view at arm’s length without noticeable distortion.
  • The internal focus mechanism ensures the lens remains compact even during focusing, improving handling.

Cons

  • Some users report less-than-ideal performance in extremely low-light conditions despite the large aperture.
  • The ultra-wide 11mm focal length may not be versatile enough for all photography needs.
  • Not the best choice for portraiture due to its wide angle and minimal zoom capabilities.
  • Some find the build quality to be less robust compared to professional-grade lenses.
  • Lack of weather-sealing may be a concern for those using it in harsh outdoor conditions.
  • May not provide enough depth of field control for more specialized photographic techniques.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple platforms worldwide, the scores for the Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens reflect authentic feedback, filtered for quality. Both strengths and pain points are considered, providing a balanced overview. The product's performance in key areas like autofocus, portability, and image quality stands out, but some users mention limitations in low-light situations. Reviews span various languages and countries, ensuring a comprehensive view of what to expect from this lens.

Autofocus Speed
93%
Users consistently praise the autofocus speed of this lens. The two linear motors deliver fast and accurate focusing, which makes it great for both stills and video. Many content creators have noted how effortlessly it captures fast-moving subjects with minimal blur, making it a top choice for action shots and vlogging.
Despite the overall positive feedback, a few users experienced occasional delays when tracking subjects in very low-light conditions. Some reviewers also noted that in specific scenarios, such as with fast-moving objects or in extreme conditions, the autofocus struggled slightly to keep up, though this seems to be rare.
Image Quality
91%
This lens excels in delivering sharp and clear images with excellent contrast and color accuracy. The wide 11mm focal length and F1.8 aperture contribute to vibrant, crisp photos with beautiful bokeh. Photographers and vloggers alike enjoy the impressive clarity, even in moderately challenging lighting conditions.
Some users found the image quality to be slightly softer at the edges, especially when shooting at wide apertures. A few reviewers also noted that the lens can exhibit some chromatic aberration in high-contrast situations, though this can often be corrected in post-processing.
Portability
89%
Many buyers love how compact and lightweight this lens is. Weighing only 11.2 ounces, it's an excellent choice for travel and everyday use. Vloggers, in particular, appreciate how easy it is to carry around without adding significant bulk to their gear, making it a perfect lens for spontaneous shooting on the go.
Though lightweight, the compact design might not be ideal for users who prefer a more robust, professional feel. Some people mentioned that the smaller size made it feel less durable than they would like, though the lens remains sturdy enough for typical use.
Low-Light Performance
74%
26%
The large F1.8 aperture of this lens certainly helps in low-light environments, providing enough light to capture decent shots. It performs well in moderately dim conditions, allowing users to shoot without relying heavily on artificial lighting, making it suitable for indoor or evening use in typical settings.
However, a few users pointed out that the lens does struggle in extremely low-light environments. The wide aperture, while useful, also limits the lens's ability to gather light in darker scenarios, which can result in more noise or softer images when compared to faster lenses with even larger apertures.
Build Quality
88%
The build quality of this lens is generally considered solid, with a well-constructed design that feels reliable in hand. It is a prime example of a product that balances portability and durability, offering a premium feel despite its compact size. Users have noted its well-placed controls and comfortable handling.
While the build is solid, some users mentioned that it feels somewhat lightweight, which can give the impression of being more fragile than expected. A few reviewers also expressed concerns about the plastic construction, particularly regarding long-term durability when exposed to rough handling or outdoor conditions.
Ease of Use
85%
This lens is simple to operate, even for beginners. The autofocus system is quick and intuitive, and the internal focusing mechanism ensures that the lens does not extend or retract while focusing, making it easier to use. The smooth, wide focus ring further adds to its usability for both video and stills.
While generally easy to use, some users found the manual focus ring to be slightly less precise than expected. In very fast-paced shooting environments, a few reviewers felt that the lack of a more pronounced focus control made it harder to dial in exact focus during video shoots.
Price-to-Value Ratio
90%
For the quality and performance it offers, this lens provides great value. Users consider it a solid investment for vloggers, photographers, and content creators, especially given its premium features like fast autofocus, image quality, and compactness. The price is deemed reasonable considering its versatility and performance across multiple use cases.
A handful of buyers felt that the lens was on the higher end of the price spectrum for an APS-C lens, particularly when compared to other budget options. Though the lens offers great performance, some reviewers believed that the price could deter casual photographers who don't need all its advanced features.
Vlogging Suitability
92%
This lens is particularly praised by vloggers for its wide-angle field of view and smooth, fast autofocus. The 11mm focal length gives users a generous wide perspective without introducing distortion, making it ideal for self-shooting at arm's length. The lightweight design also makes it very portable for vloggers on the move.
A few users felt that the lens could be slightly too wide for certain types of vlogging, especially in tight indoor spaces where it may introduce some unwanted distortion. Additionally, although the lens is great for most scenarios, the low-light performance could be a limitation for some vloggers filming at night or in dimly lit environments.
Sharpness
90%
The lens delivers excellent sharpness across most of the frame. Users appreciate the clarity in both stills and video, especially at the center of the frame. Many buyers were impressed by how well it holds up even at wide-open apertures, providing sharp detail that is often difficult to achieve in other lenses at this price point.
However, some users noticed a slight decline in sharpness at the edges of the frame, especially when shooting wide open at F1.8. While the center remains sharp, the peripheral areas can become soft, which may be noticeable in certain types of photography, particularly landscape shots.
Lens Flexibility
80%
20%
The lens offers good versatility for a variety of shots, from wide-angle landscapes to dynamic vlogging perspectives. Its compact size also makes it more adaptable than larger lenses, allowing users to shoot in tighter spaces and take the lens on the go without much hassle.
While it's versatile in some ways, the wide 11mm focal length may not be ideal for all situations. Users looking for a lens that can zoom or offer more focal range for different scenarios may find this lens less flexible, particularly for portrait or telephoto shots.
Size and Weight
87%
The size and weight of this lens are frequently praised, especially by those who need to travel light. At just 11.2 ounces, it’s easy to carry around, making it a fantastic choice for photographers or content creators who are constantly on the move. It doesn’t weigh down your camera, which is especially important for long shooting sessions.
While the lightweight design is generally seen as a positive, some users found that the lens feels a bit too light for their liking, particularly for more serious photographers who prefer heavier, more substantial lenses. This can give the impression that it might not be as durable as heavier counterparts.
Customer Support
80%
20%
Customer support for this lens has been generally helpful according to most users. Many buyers mentioned they received timely responses to their inquiries, and replacement services were handled efficiently for those who needed it. Support seems reliable for any manufacturing issues or troubleshooting.
Some users felt that the customer support experience could have been more responsive, especially regarding more complex or technical queries. A few negative reviews mentioned that it took a bit longer than expected to get help for issues related to product defects or returns.

Suitable for:

The Sony E 11mm F1.8 APS-C Ultra-Wide-Angle Prime Lens is ideal for vloggers and content creators who need a portable, lightweight lens that delivers excellent performance without sacrificing image quality. Its compact size makes it perfect for travel and everyday shooting, allowing photographers to carry it around easily without adding extra bulk. Additionally, the fast autofocus system, paired with its wide field of view, makes it a strong choice for capturing dynamic, fast-moving subjects, particularly for action shots or video work. Whether you're shooting landscapes, close-ups, or vlogging at arm’s length, this lens offers versatility and ease of use, making it a great option for those looking to improve their photography and videography with a reliable, high-quality lens.

Not suitable for:

While this lens excels in many areas, it may not be the best choice for users who require exceptional performance in extremely low-light conditions. Despite its large F1.8 aperture, some users have noted that it struggles to gather enough light in very dark settings, leading to softer images or more noise than expected. Additionally, its ultra-wide 11mm focal length may not be versatile enough for users who need a lens with zoom capabilities or a more varied focal range. Photographers focused on portraiture or users who prefer a more robust, professional-grade lens may find this wide-angle lens less suited to their needs, especially if they prioritize durability and a more substantial build.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens has an 11mm focal length, ideal for wide-angle photography and videography.
  • Aperture: It features a large F1.8 aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and creative depth of field.
  • Lens Type: This is a prime lens, offering a fixed focal length for sharper images and better light gathering.
  • Mounting: The lens is designed for Sony E-mount cameras, compatible with both APS-C and Super35 formats.
  • Auto Focus: Equipped with linear motors, it provides fast, precise, and quiet autofocus for both stills and video.
  • Internal Focus Mechanism: The lens uses an internal focus mechanism, ensuring the lens length does not change while focusing.
  • Weight: The lens weighs 11.2 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to carry for travel and outdoor shoots.
  • Field of View: With its ultra-wide 11mm focal length, the lens offers an expansive field of view, perfect for wide-angle shots.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: The lens has a close minimum focus distance, allowing for dynamic, up-close shots with sharp detail.
  • Bokeh: The lens produces smooth, aesthetically pleasing background blur (bokeh), ideal for portrait and creative photography.
  • Dimensions: The lens measures 12.64 x 11.65 x 7.28 inches, compact for its class and easily portable.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Sony APS-C and Super35 cameras, offering versatility across multiple formats.
  • Design: Its compact and lightweight design is ideal for vloggers and content creators looking for a portable solution.
  • Video Performance: The lens excels in video production, providing smooth autofocus transitions and minimal focus breathing.
  • Durability: The lens is designed for everyday use but lacks full weather-sealing, making it less suitable for extreme conditions.

FAQ

This lens offers a wide 11mm focal length, which provides an expansive field of view perfect for vlogging, especially when holding the camera at arm’s length. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry during shoots, while the large F1.8 aperture ensures a great background blur and strong low-light performance.

No, this lens is specifically designed for Sony APS-C and Super35 E-mount cameras. It will work on full-frame cameras, but you’ll only get a cropped image due to its APS-C design.

The autofocus on this lens is fast and precise, thanks to its dual linear motors. It’s especially praised for its smooth and silent performance, making it an excellent choice for both stills and video, ensuring smooth focus transitions without distracting noise.

Yes, this wide-angle lens is perfect for landscape photography. Its ultra-wide 11mm focal length captures expansive vistas, and the large aperture allows for creative depth of field effects, giving landscape shots a dynamic and professional look.

While the lens features a large F1.8 aperture for improved low-light performance, some users report that it’s not ideal for extremely low-light situations. In darker environments, you may need to rely on a higher ISO or external lighting to achieve the best results.

The lens is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it convenient for travel and frequent use. However, it lacks weather-sealing, so it may not be the best option for harsh outdoor conditions. It's sturdy but not built for extreme durability.

This lens excels in wide-field photography, making it great for vlogging, architecture, and creative shots. It’s ideal for capturing expansive landscapes and offering dynamic perspectives with a unique wide-angle view. It's also good for street photography, where you need to capture a lot of the environment.

Yes, this lens is very user-friendly for beginners. Its lightweight design and fast autofocus make it easy to handle, and it doesn’t require advanced technical skills to achieve beautiful shots. The wide aperture also allows for creative depth of field effects without complex settings.

This lens is notably compact and lightweight, weighing just 11.2 ounces. It’s smaller and lighter than many other wide-angle lenses, making it a convenient choice for travel and daily use, without compromising on image quality.

The lens comes with a front lens cap and a rear cap, but it does not include a lens hood. However, you can purchase a compatible lens hood separately if needed to reduce lens flare or provide extra protection.