7Artisans Launches Wallet-Friendly Wide-Angle for APS-C Users

APS-C photographers often feel neglected. While there are fewer buyers of full-frame cameras, this segment continues to be the most important one for manufacturers. As a result, APS-C shooters get a second-hand treatment, with many flagship features often trickling down from full frames. Similarly, the best lenses are for full-frame users, with APS-C getting the shorter end of the bargain. While first-party manufacturers are trying to ease this, third-party lens makers are already the support for many. An example is 7Artisans, a company that offers various exceptional lenses for various mounts. Their recent wide-angle prime is a perfect pancake lens for beginners and semi-professionals. Here’s why.

According to 7Artisans’ website, the new lens is 10mm f3.5, designed for street, architecture, and landscape shooters. The lens is available for Sony (E), Nikon, Fujifilm (X), Panasonic (4/3), and even OM System mounts. Here is a look at its specifications:

• Focal Length: 10mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/3.5
• Minimum Aperture: f/22
• Aperture Blades: 5
• Aperture Ring: Clicked
• Angle of View: 108°
• Optical Structure: 9 elements in 7 groups
• Focus Range: 0.2m – ∞
• Lens Material: Metal
• Lens Dimensions: 59mm (diameter) × 34mm (length)
• Filter Size: 37mm
• Weight: Approx. 125.5g (Sony E mount, excluding front and rear caps)
• Price: $99

The lens does not give a fish-eye perspective, making it ideal for various scenarios. In fact, this 10mm would be 15mm equivalent on APS-C cameras and 20mm equivalent on Micro Four Thirds. While $99 may not seem much, other companies such as Bright Star do make an offering for just $56. However, the challenge would be a higher aperture of 5.6, which means you need to push your ISO in low-light situations. However, Laowa and TTArtisans do have a 10mm offering, but they cost a lot more, with the TTArtisan version having a much larger build.

Considering the factors, 7Artisans does have something unique here, where you do have a great price tag, along with a smaller build and brighter aperture, making it an ideal lens for various photographers. APS-C shooters, especially those who are hybrid shooters, can gain a lot with this. Of course, it will not feature weather sealing, but our experience with 7Artisans has been positive. For instance, lenses such as 9mm f5.6, 28mm f1.4, 35mm f2, and 50mm f1.1 have largely received five stars in our tests. This provides the image quality for the price is great. Keeping this in mind, this one could also showcase similar results. Until then, you keep an eye out for our reviews.