AstrHori 50mm f/2

Canon EF-M

Review

The AstrHori 50mm f/2 for Canon EF-M mount is an interesting offering in the realm of compact primes. It has caught the attention of many photographers due to its unique features and budget-friendly pricing. Designed for mirrorless systems, this lens balances portability with a decent optical performance, making it a versatile choice for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Build Quality and Design

One of the standout features of the AstrHori 50mm f/2 is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing in at just around 180g, it is incredibly easy to carry, complementing the small form factor of Canon's mirrorless camera bodies. The lens is constructed from a mix of metal and high-quality plastic, delivering a solid feel despite its lightweight nature. The focus ring has a smooth, precise action which is particularly pleasing for manual focusing enthusiasts.

Optical Performance

Optically, the lens performs well, offering sharp images across most of the frame even wide open at f/2. You can expect decent contrast and color rendition, which is important for those looking to deliver vibrant images. While sharpness is impressive, there is some noticeable vignetting and barrel distortion at wider apertures. However, these can be corrected in post-processing, making them less of a significant concern for most photographers.

Potential Use Cases

The 50mm focal length provides a natural perspective that is ideal for portraits, street photography, and general-purpose shooting. The f/2 aperture allows for good performance in low-light conditions while still providing pleasing background blur, or bokeh, which is a bonus for portraiture. That being said, for critical portrait work, the slight softness at the edges could be an issue.

Autofocus and Manual Focus

It's important to note that the AstrHori 50mm f/2 is a fully manual lens. This means that it lacks autofocus, requiring users to either adapt their shooting habits or invest time in honing their manual focusing skills. While some photographers appreciate the control that manual focus provides, it may be a drawback for those used to faster, more automated systems.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design, perfect for travel.
• Sharp images at f/2 across most of the frame.
• Smooth manual focus action.
• Affordable pricing relative to other high-quality primes.

Cons

• Fully manual operation may deter some users.
• Noticeable vignetting and barrel distortion, especially at wider apertures.
• Slight edge softness, potentially an issue for certain types of photography.

Verdict

The AstrHori 50mm f/2 is a commendable choice for Canon EF-M users, especially those who enjoy the artistry of manual focus photography. It delivers a good balance of size, performance, and price, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to add a 50mm prime to their kit. While its manual focus operation can be a hurdle for some, the optical performance and overall value make it a lens worth considering for both beginners and seasoned photographers alike.