7artisans 14mm F2.8

The 7Artisans 14mm f/2.8 is a manual focus ultra-wide prime for full frame mirrorless cameras, sold for Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z and Leica L mount. Note that the lens is not an autofocus model: 7Artisans lists it as "MF 14mm f/2.8", and we found no autofocus 14 mm from the brand. It is a rectilinear lens with a 116 degree angle of view, aimed at landscape, architecture, interiors and astrophotography.

Optical design

7Artisans specifies 13 elements in 9 groups with two aspherical elements and the use of ED and high-index glass. A retailer listing mentions 2 aspherical, 5 high-refractive and 3 ED elements, which we have not confirmed with the manufacturer. The aperture range is f/2.8 to f/22 with 10 diaphragm blades, which the brand advertises as producing 10-point starbursts. The minimum focus distance is 0.43 m. The manufacturer claims near-zero distortion, which is a statement and not a measurement.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is fully manual. The aperture ring can be switched between a clicked and a declicked mode through a toggle on the barrel, which serves both photography and video. A depth-of-field scale is engraved on the barrel. The manufacturer pages we reviewed do not mention electronic contacts or EXIF transfer, so these should be verified for your camera body before buying.

Build and size

The lens is made of metal. For the Sony E version 7Artisans gives about 504 g, a diameter of 79 mm and a length of 87 mm. The lens carries a 77 mm front filter thread, which 7Artisans advertises as support for front filters. A detachable hood is included. We have no manufacturer weights for the Canon RF, Nikon Z and L versions.

Where it fits

There is no predecessor in our database. In the same field, the Samyang MF 14mm F2.8 for Canon RF and Nikon Z weighs 810 g, the Samyang AF 14mm F2.8 FE for Sony E weighs 505 g and the Artra Lab Latalumen 14mm f/2.8 V2 weighs 547 g. The 7Artisans is competitive in weight with the autofocus Samyang, but it has no autofocus.

Pros and cons

Pros

• 116 degree field of view in a rectilinear design
• 77 mm filter thread
• Switchable clicked and declicked aperture ring
• 10 diaphragm blades
• Metal build and four mounts

Cons

• Manual focus only
• About 504 g and 79 mm diameter
• Unconfirmed electronic features such as EXIF transfer
• No manufacturer weights for three of four mounts

Verdict

The 7Artisans 14mm f/2.8 is a manual wide-angle lens for photographers who work deliberately on a tripod or with focus peaking. The filter thread and the declicked aperture mode are practical features, and its weight is moderate for the class. Those who need autofocus should look at the Samyang AF 14mm F2.8 FE or the Canon RF equivalent.