It looks like TTArtisan is trying to capture the budget end of the 85mm market, as the Chinese lens manufacturer has just released the most affordable full-frame 85mm prime lens available to consumers.
While the TTArtisan AF 85mm f/1.8 Neo – currently available for Nikon Z-mount and Sony E-mount – might be as basic as they come, at just $99 (approximately £72 / AU$138) this lens could be a tantalizing prospect for anyone looking to pick up a fast yet highly affordable prime.
The new Neo combines a fast f/1.8 aperture with a light telephoto focal length – becoming effectively even longer on an APS-C camera, with an equivalent 127.5mm length – making it an ideal portrait lens that's able to achieve subject separation while flattering features.
With 12 optical elements arranged in 8 groups – including 2 extra-low-dispersion optics as well as 2 high-refractive-index elements – for a cheap lens it boasts a promising formula. However, where you don’t get as much bang for your buck is in the focus.
ABOVE: Watch the promotional video
The 85mm f/1.8 Neo AF is powered by a stepping motor (STM), which is near-silent but not as fast as the magnetic linear motors powering the AF in premium primes such as the Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II.
But there's also no manual focus – nor any lens barrel switches or weather sealing, so there are no bells or whistles here. However, the Neo’s basic design means it’s customizable – and you’re able to personalize the exterior with stickers, paint or 3D-printed shells.
Does any of this bolster performance? No, but it’ll probably appeal to youngsters and collectors who want a quirky piece of kit where the price is more important than pixel-peeping. If you want to add a fast 85mm to your kit bag without breaking the bank, at $99 this makes a lot of sense.
The TTArtisan 85mm AF f/1.8 Neo is available now at B&H Photo, Amazon and from TTArtisan directly.
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