AstrHori 120mm f/2.8 2X Macro

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The AstrHori 120mm f/2.8 2X Macro lens for Nikon Z mounts offers photographers a unique combination of versatility and quality specifically designed for macro photography. This lens allows for a remarkable 2:1 magnification ratio, giving you the ability to capture intricate details of your subjects that most standard macro lenses simply cannot. It’s ideal for capturing everything from tiny insects to delicate flowers, making it a fantastic choice for nature and product photography.

One of the standout features of the AstrHori 120mm is its impressive optical design. It boasts high-quality glass elements that are fully multi-coated to minimize flare and ensure maximum light transmission, which is beneficial when shooting in varying lighting conditions. The lens is also designed with a floating elements system, which helps maintain image quality at close focusing distances. This results in excellent sharpness and clarity across the entire frame, which is essential when capturing fine details.

The build quality of the lens feels solid and reliable. It has a metal body that contributes to its durability while remaining relatively lightweight, making it manageable during long shooting sessions. The focus ring is smooth and well-dampened, providing a satisfying experience when manually focusing on those precise details. Additionally, the lens features a 62mm filter thread, which means you can easily add filters for creative effects or protection.

However, the lens does have some limitations that potential buyers should consider. Notably, its relatively narrow aperture of f/2.8, while adequate for most macro work, may not provide the same level of depth-of-field control as some faster macro lenses. This could pose challenges for certain types of macro photography, particularly if you want to isolate your subject more effectively in a busy environment. Furthermore, autofocus speed is somewhat slower compared to more mainstream competitors, as the lens is primarily designed for manual focus. This might be a drawback for photographers who require quick focusing for dynamic subjects.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent 2:1 magnification for detailed close-ups
• High-quality optical construction with multi-coated glass
• Solid build quality with a lightweight design
• Smooth and precise manual focusing

Cons

• Relatively narrow maximum aperture of f/2.8
• Slower autofocus compared to competitors
• More suited for controlled environments given the manual focus design

Verdict

The AstrHori 120mm f/2.8 2X Macro lens for Nikon Z mounts stands out as a compelling choice for serious macro enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and detail. Its robust build and impressive optical performance make it an excellent tool for capturing stunning macro images. While it may have certain limitations, such as its narrow aperture and slower autofocus, many photographers will find that the positives outweigh the negatives, especially those who enjoy the art of manual focus. If macro photography is your passion, this lens is definitely worth considering.