7Artisans AF 35mm F1.8 LITE

The 7Artisans AF 35mm f/1.8 LITE is a compact autofocus prime for APS-C mirrorless cameras, sold for Sony E, Fujifilm X and Nikon Z. It belongs to the LITE series, which also includes 25 mm and 50 mm lenses with the same f/1.8 aperture and the same body size. On APS-C the 35 mm focal length gives a field of view similar to about 52 mm on full frame, which is a classic normal perspective.

Optical design

7Artisans specifies 7 elements in 6 groups and lists high-refractive elements in the optical diagram. The aperture range is f/1.8 to f/16 with 9 diaphragm blades, and the angle of view is 44 degrees. The minimum focus distance is 0.35 m, and the filter thread is 58 mm.

Autofocus and handling

An STM stepping motor handles focusing, and the lens supports eye and face detection through the camera. The product material mentions firmware upgrades. We have no manufacturer statement about an AF/MF switch or an aperture ring for this model, and the lens has no stabilization.

Build and size

The body is made of metal. For the Sony E version 7Artisans gives about 181 g, and the dimensions are shown as 67 mm in diameter and 51 mm in length for the series. We have no manufacturer weights for the Fujifilm X and Nikon Z versions.

Where it fits

There is no predecessor in our database. For APS-C autofocus 35 mm lenses the Sony E 35mm F1.8 OSS weighs 155 g and adds optical stabilization, the Fujifilm XF 35mm F2 R WR weighs 170 g, the Fujifilm XC 35mm F2 130 g and the XF 35mm F1.4 R 187 g. The 7Artisans LITE sits in the same weight class as these lenses.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Light at about 181 g and only 51 mm long
• f/1.8 aperture with 9 diaphragm blades
• Autofocus with eye and face detection
• Close focus of 0.35 m
• Available for three APS-C mounts
• Metal body

Cons

• No stabilization, unlike the Sony E 35mm F1.8 OSS
• No manufacturer data on controls such as an AF/MF switch
• Missing weights for Fujifilm X and Nikon Z versions
• APS-C only, so it does not cover full frame

Verdict

The 7Artisans AF 35mm f/1.8 LITE is aimed at users who want a small, bright normal lens for APS-C. Its size, weight and aperture are competitive with the first-party offers, and the data sheet gives a clean picture of what to expect. The lack of stabilization and the limited control information are the main points to weigh against alternatives such as the Sony E 35mm F1.8 OSS.