7Artisans 60mm F2.8 2X Ultra-Macro

The 7Artisans 60mm F2.8 2X Ultra-Macro is a full frame manual focus macro lens for Sony E, Nikon Z and Canon RF cameras. Its main feature is the 2:1 reproduction ratio: a subject appears on the sensor at twice life size. It is meant for insects, flowers, jewellery and other small subjects.

Optical design

The construction has 14 elements in 12 groups, including extra low dispersion and high refraction glass. The aperture range is F2.8 to F22, and the diaphragm has 9 blades, which 7Artisans says gives a nearly circular blur of point light sources. The diagonal angle of view is 38.4 degrees, with 32.5 degrees horizontal and 22.2 degrees vertical. According to 7Artisans, the coating suppresses ghosting and flare.

Focusing and handling

Focusing is manual only. The lens uses internal focusing, so the length stays the same while focusing, which the manufacturer says reduces dust entering the barrel. The closest focusing distance is 0.17 m. The aperture ring has click stops. At 2:1 the working distance is very short, so camera support and lighting matter more than with a normal lens.

Build and size

The lens body is made of metal. It is 70 mm in diameter and 109 mm long, and the weight is about 550 g on Sony E. The filter thread is 67 mm.

Where it fits

For full frame, other 2:1 macro lenses in the database include the Venus Laowa 60mm F2.8 2X Ultra Macro, which has the same focal length and ratio, the Venus Laowa 65mm F2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO and the TTArtisan 100mm f/2.8 Macro 2X. Longer focal lengths such as the Venus Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO give more working distance at the same ratio. 7Artisans also lists the APS-C Photoelectric 60mm f/2.8 Macro Mark II, which is a different lens.

Pros and cons

Pros

• 2:1 magnification at a focal length of 60 mm
• Full frame coverage for Sony E, Nikon Z and Canon RF
• Internal focusing, the length does not change
• 9 diaphragm blades and a clicked aperture ring
• Metal construction and a 67 mm filter thread

Cons

• Manual focus only
• Around 550 g and 109 mm long, large for a 60 mm lens
• Working distance at 2:1 is very short

Verdict

The 60mm F2.8 2X is a specialist macro lens for those who want to go beyond life size on a full frame body. It offers 2:1 at F2.8 with a clean internal focusing design. For everyday close-ups, a 1:1 macro lens with autofocus is easier to use, but for small subjects at high magnification this lens covers the job with a compact focal length.