7Artisans AF 10mm F2.8

The 7Artisans AF 10mm F2.8 is an autofocus ultra wide angle lens with a rectilinear design for APS-C mirrorless cameras, offered for Sony E, Fujifilm X and Nikon Z. On an APS-C sensor 10 mm corresponds to about 15 mm in full frame terms. According to 7Artisans, the lens delivers an ultra wide view with straight architectural lines in a single shot, without the heavy distortion of a fisheye.

Optical design

The optical construction has 11 elements in 10 groups and includes extra low dispersion, high refraction and aspherical elements. The maximum aperture is F2.8, and the lens stops down to F16 with 7 diaphragm blades. The angle of view is 105.3 degrees on the diagonal. The closest focusing distance is 0.3 m, and 7Artisans suggests using the lens close to the ground or to foreground objects for dramatic perspective.

Autofocus and handling

The lens has autofocus with electronic contacts and an AF/MF switch, and the EXIF data are passed on to the camera. A USB port on the lens is provided for firmware updates. 7Artisans also lists a water and stain resistant coating. The lens has a bayonet mount for a hood that locks with a press and a turn and can be fitted in reverse. The filter thread measures 62 mm and accepts standard filters.

Build and size

The metal body is 69 mm in diameter and 72 mm long. On Sony E the weight is about 232 g without covers, which 7Artisans highlights as easy to carry for travel and outdoor use.

Where it fits

Among the APS-C ultra wide options in the database, the Viltrox AF 13mm F1.4 is a longer and faster autofocus prime, while the Sigma 10-18mm F2.8 DC DN, the Tamron 11-20mm F/2.8 Di III-A RXD and the Sony E 10-18mm F4 OSS are zooms. For Fujifilm X the Fujifilm XF 10-24mm F4 R OIS WR is the system zoom, and for Nikon Z the NIKKOR Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR. The manual 7Artisans 10mm F3.5 from the same maker is smaller and lighter, and the Venus Laowa 9mm F2.8 Zero-D is a manual alternative with a similar angle of view.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Autofocus ultra wide with a 105.3 degree angle of view
• F2.8 maximum aperture in an ultra wide prime
• Closest focusing distance of 0.3 m
• 62 mm filter thread and a mount for a lens hood
• Light at about 232 g, metal body

Cons

• Larger and heavier than the manual 7Artisans 10mm F3.5, about 232 g against 126 g on Sony E
• Offered only for APS-C systems

Verdict

The AF 10mm F2.8 is a compact ultra wide prime for APS-C cameras that combines autofocus, a bright aperture and a low weight. It suits architecture, interiors and landscapes. Photographers who want flexibility in framing may prefer a wide zoom, while those who want a fast fixed ultra wide will find this lens a straightforward option.