KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III

Canon RF

Review

The KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III is an intriguing addition to the Canon RF mount lineup, designed for photographers looking for ultra-fast apertures combined with excellent optical performance. As a manual focus lens with a wide f/0.85 maximum aperture, this lens caters especially to portrait photographers, low-light enthusiasts, and bokeh lovers.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III is robust and sturdy. The lens body is made from a combination of metal and high-quality plastics, which gives it a premium feel without being overly heavy. The focusing ring is smooth and well-damped, allowing for precise adjustments, which is crucial when dealing with such a shallow depth of field. The lens also features a sleek aesthetic, complete with a nice matte finish and well-marked aperture rings.

Optical Performance

The optical performance of the Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 is impressive, particularly when it comes to creating beautiful bokeh thanks to its large aperture. Images are sharp and detailed in the center, with good control over chromatic aberrations. However, it does experience some softness at the edges when shot wide open. Stopping down to f/1.2 or f/1.4 greatly improves this edge performance, making it a versatile option for varying shooting situations.

Low-light Performance

One of the biggest advantages of this lens is its low-light capability. The f/0.85 aperture allows for exceptional light-gathering, enabling shooting in challenging lighting conditions, such as dimly lit environments or indoor settings. This makes it ideal for event photography or intimate portraits. The lens also produces a pleasingly creamy background blur, isolating subjects beautifully.

Manual Focus Challenges

While many photographers appreciate the manual focus experience, it can be a double-edged sword. The shallow depth of field at f/0.85 demands precise focusing, which may be challenging for beginners or those used to autofocus systems. Additionally, the lack of autofocus may deter some users, especially in fast-paced shooting scenarios where split-second decisions are critical.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Ultra-fast f/0.85 aperture for low-light capabilities and beautiful bokeh.
• Solid build quality with a premium feel.
• Excellent sharpness and detail in the center.
• Smooth focusing ring for precise manual control.

Cons

• Softness at the edges when shot wide open.
• Manual focus may not be ideal for all photographers.
• Lack of autofocus may limit its use in fast-moving situations.

Verdict

The KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III is a unique lens that excels in low-light situations and offers stunning aesthetic qualities thanks to its wide aperture. While it does come with its challenges, especially regarding manual focusing and edge performance at f/0.85, it remains an outstanding option for photographers dedicated to capturing beautiful and intimate images. If you are willing to work with manual focus and can manage the potential softness at wide apertures, the Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III can be a fantastic addition to your Canon RF camera system.