KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III

Sony E

Review

The KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III is a unique lens designed for the Sony E mount that offers photographers an exciting option for low-light shooting and a shallow depth of field. With its fast f/0.85 aperture, it stands out as one of the fastest lenses available for this system, making it particularly appealing for portrait, street, and nighttime photography.

Design and Build Quality

The Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 features a sturdy and elegant design with a metal body that exudes craftsmanship. The focus ring is smooth and dampened, allowing for precise manual focusing, which is essential when working with such a shallow depth of field. It has a relatively compact form factor considering its large aperture, making it easy to handle on a variety of camera bodies. However, it is heavier than most standard prime lenses in this focal range, which may concern some photographers looking for lightweight gear.

Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, the Ibelux excels. At its maximum aperture, it produces stunning images with excellent sharpness and contrast. While the lens can be susceptible to chromatic aberration, particularly at wider apertures, stopping down to f/2 or f/2.8 significantly reduces this issue. The bokeh produced by this lens is pleasing, making it ideal for isolating subjects against beautifully blurred backgrounds. However, some users may find that corners can be a bit softer when shooting wide open, which is common for fast lenses.

Autofocus and Compatibility

One of the standout attributes of the KIPON Ibelux is that it is a completely manual lens; hence, it lacks autofocus functionality, which might not suit everyone. While this allows for sharper and more deliberate focus at f/0.85, it does require practice, particularly in fast-paced shooting environments where quick focus adjustment is crucial. The lens is also compatible with other Sony E mount cameras, making it a versatile option for users who enjoy the manual focus approach.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Extremely fast aperture of f/0.85, ideal for low-light conditions.
• Excellent image quality with sharpness and contrast.
• Beautiful bokeh for portrait and subject isolation.
• Well-built and compact design.

Cons

• Not suitable for those who rely on autofocus.
• Heavier than typical 40mm lenses.
• Corner sharpness can suffer when wide open.

Verdict

The KIPON Ibelux 40mm f/0.85 Mark III offers photographers a distinctive tool with its ultra-fast aperture and impressive image quality. It's an excellent choice for those passionate about manual focusing and looking to capture images in challenging light conditions or with an artistic bokeh effect. However, its weight, lack of autofocus, and potential corner softness at wide apertures may deter some users. If you're comfortable with manual focus techniques and seek a lens for specialized low-light photography, the Ibelux is likely to exceed your expectations.