Venus Optics Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
The Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO is a 85mm f/5.6 lens designed for Leica M mount cameras. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Venus Optics Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
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Lens Overview — Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
Key Features — Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
2x Ultra Macro Magnification: Achieves 2:1 reproduction ratio, rendering subjects twice their actual size on the sensor for extreme close-up detail.
APO Optical Design: Apochromatic correction minimizes chromatic aberration and color fringing, producing sharp, color-accurate images across the frame.
85mm Full-Frame Prime: Covers the full 35mm image circle, making it compatible with all full-frame Leica M-mount bodies.
Leica M Mount: Designed specifically for the Leica M rangefinder ecosystem, integrating natively with M-mount mirrorless bodies.
Exceptionally Lightweight Build: Weighing just 252g, it is one of the lightest 2x macro lenses available, well-suited for travel and handheld shooting.
Manual Focus Design: Fully manual focus operation gives photographers precise, deliberate control essential for accurate macro focusing.
Lens Specifications — Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Macro, Studio |
| Lens Type | Macro |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 85mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/5.6 |
| Camera System | Mirrorless |
| Lens Mount | Leica M |
| Autofocus | No |
| Focus Type | Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 46mm |
Description — Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
The Venus Optics Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO is a manual-focus prime lens built around the Leica M mount, offering full-frame coverage for mirrorless camera systems. With a focal length of 85mm and a maximum aperture of f/5.6, it sits in the standard focal length range while being classified as a dedicated macro type lens. One of its most practical attributes is its weight — at just 252g, it is exceptionally light for a macro-capable prime, making it easy to carry for extended shoots or travel.
The 46mm filter thread further underscores its compact design, accommodating standard accessories without adding bulk. As a prime lens with manual focus only and no image stabilization, it demands a considered, hands-on approach to shooting. This lens is purpose-built for photographers working within the Leica M ecosystem who want a lightweight, dedicated macro prime at the 85mm focal length.
Pros — Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
- ✓Exceptionally lightweight at only 252g, making it one of the more portable macro prime options available
- ✓Full-frame coverage (lensFormat: Full Frame) ensures compatibility with full-frame Leica M-mount bodies
- ✓Compact 46mm filter thread keeps accessory costs low and the overall lens profile slim
Cons — Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
- ✗Maximum aperture of f/5.6 is relatively modest, which can limit light-gathering in challenging shooting conditions
- ✗No autofocus (autoFocus: false) requires manual focusing discipline, which may not suit all shooting styles or fast-moving subjects
- ✗No image stabilization (imageStabilization: None) means camera shake must be managed through technique or support equipment
Videos — Venus Optics 85mm f/5.6 2X Ultra Macro APO
Laowa 85mm f/5.6 2x Ultra Macro APO lens review with samples — Christopher Frost