I just bought this lens. My copy has problems. Starting from less severe to more severe: 1) There is some field curvature. Focus in middle, and all corners are soft at all aperture settings. Focus in corner, then center is soft. 2) My copy has very poor contrast from f/1.8 to f/2. 3) And my copy has extreme center softness (only right in the center) at f/8 to f/16. Off center, it is much sharper, so this isn't just diffraction. Conclusion: Basically, the lens is usable from only f/2.8 to f/5.6. There is no sign of damage. And the focus and aperture rings both turn butter smooth. Perhaps I have a bad copy, but I'm recommending to avoid it.
I can't trust your lens reviews. Back in 2016 you reviewed the 23 f2 and sang its praises over and over, absolute necessity, exquisite, the sharpness, oh my god the sharpness, insanely sharp. Now today, "you have to stop down to 5.6 to get any sharpness out of that sucker." I think you fall in love with new releases and out again later on. That's ok, just qualify your remarks, you hold yourself up as an expert and there is no consistency in your comments. Which is it?
I found the remark about the 23mm f/2 odd as well. Funnily enough, he explicitly says he doesn't suffer from NTS - New Toy Syndrome - on that particular video.
I use to own the 23mm f2. Not on Ken’s recommendation, I just like the 35mm equivalent focal length. After 9 months of ownership I sold it. Very disappointing from f2-f4, specially at close focus distance. Other than that, I found it extremely sharp from 5.6-f11. As for the 7artisan lens, Luckily for me, I got one on amazon today that offers free returns and one day shipping. Funny enough, there were 16 left this morning and now it’s about a 2-6 week wait to receive one....🤔
@@MrRoyGS my experience with it has generally been very good. I usually look at lenstip for reviews and my experience with the 23 f2 mirrors their's. Great sharpness wide open (relatively speaking) peaking at f4. Close up is an issue before 5.6, but I don't use it that way very often so yes, I could see it if that is how you use it. I now have the 16-55 2.8 and will probably be selling it as I don't see the need for both. I've been really impressed with the 50mm f2.
@@MrRoyGS You probably had bad copy .Mini 23 is razor sharp at any aperture , except some softness at f2 only at minimum focus distance, for which this lens is also not made.
@@eagleeyephoto8715 Or maybe you and Ken got anomalously great copies. Either way, Ken now offhandedly saying the 23 F2 needs to be stopped down to 5.6 to get any sharpness, after touting it as a must buy due to SHARPNESS, needs some further clarification. Otherwise, the only difference between Ken and the other photog reviewers is that he hoards more lenses. My harshness is a measure of my trust in Ken's expertise. He is normally spot on, so when he gets it wrong, it is glaring.
This is my first manual lens which taught me a lot about manual focusing. After that I bought the 7artisans 55mm and 35mm which is equally great. You should review the 55mm
On more great moment with this lens: look to the distance scale ring - there is a mark 5m. Its mean you can set it fast and clear. And at F8 you will get hyper focal from 2.2m to infinity, and even at F5.6 you have a sharp area from 2.63m to 50.3m, which is more then enough for shoot at street. Unfortunately, 99% of modern zooms or fix lenses doesn't give us this.
Hi Koba. I was enthusiastic about the depth of focus scale but have found it to be completely false on my copy. At the hyperfocal f8 setting which it claims gives 2.2 feet (not metres!) to infinity in focus I get approximately 1.5 feet to 4 feet! Obviously mine is out of whack but even so compared to the markings on a Zeiss Distagon 25mm the 7 Artisans lens is ridiculously optimistic in how much would be in focus. I'd be interested to know how you get on with a real world test of the lens. I am not complaining about the lens. I am loving the rendering. Compared to the Fuji 27mm f2.8 the out of focus areas are dreamy. That lens is sharp (cue Ken's parrot) but with lower image fidelity than the 7artisans. I am beginning to understand what Ken has been banging on about all these years... I think.
Bought the lens and love it. Incredibly sharp (almost a magnifying glass), great colors, and that little something extra. But the flaring really messes up a lot of pictures. I have many lenses and none have such harsh flares. All it takes is a small light source around the subject, and boom. A lens hood only helps occasionally. Still, it's a lot of fun with fantastic results when everything is just right.
But what about compared to the 27mm Fuji pancake that’s glued on my x-e3? Still worth trying out? More character? Surprised you didn’t compare to the pancake.
This was my first lens for my fuji. I just got my xpro1 last year and bought the 7artisans 25mm, its been great! I also just recently got the fuji 50mm f2. But I love that 25mm focal length though. The . focus peaking works great with it.
The 22mm is a different lens... they actually have a 25mm version identical to this one. I've read the 22m is actually a better lens, but it's more pricey.
The Zonlai is super sharp, has very close focusing and is also a superb black and white lens. I think I prefer it to the Fuji 23 f2 which is three times more expensive.
Seen some reports about the light transmission of this lens being way off (about -1 EV) compared to Fujinon lenses and even the 7artisans 25mm. Can you confirm this?
Is Pergear same as 7artisans or its two different things? (You telling about Pergear but link goes to 7 artisans) And would be great to see those photos you showing on your screen on our screens too ))
Hi Theoria if you already own a 35mm is 25mm really a good idea? I wanted something wider but this seems quite close to the 35mm? And have you heard about the Zonlai 22mm 1.8 and the Kamlan 21mm 1.8? Hope you can try and review these as well.
Yours looks different than mine...Mine is all black and has an issue where you turn the focusing ring until it stops, it then produces a “click” and turns about 1mm more. Other than that I’ve always been happy with it.
Just recieved this lense this morning, OMG its actually quite amazing. Purchased the 50mm purely on your recommendation and am more than happy. Thank you, fantastic lense on my XT2.
I received this lens this week. But it looks like there is an error on the focus ring. The values of FT and M do not seem to correspond to reality. For example, I focus on a subject 1 FT (30cm) away from the camera, then the focus ring indicates a higher value of 2.5 ft (76cm) Or do i mis something here.
Got one coming... I am new to the Fujifilm ecosystem, and have been having fun fitting vintage lenses, but I had decided I wanted a 25mm... Your review and the current price of the Pergear made me push the shutter button on this one.
I got one of these along with an X-E2S that I bought a while back. I really have to agree with everything that you said about it - much sharper than I might have expected, great feel, and focus peaking is flawless! Oh - and I bought the $6.49 lens hood. :)
Ken, Just got my 25mm Pergear today. Put it on my xPro2 switched to Manual and set the lens mount adapter to 25mm. The focus peak is working, seems fine but the camera will not fire. Put my 35mm back on and all works fine. Any ideas?
I bought one a few weeks ago off Amazon, and apart from quite a bit of barrel distortion when focused close - hey! It’s not a macro lens, ok?- I have been very pleased with the results and have to ask, why are Voigtlander (Cosina) lenses as expensive as they are? 1. Leica would get very pissed with them if they were any cheaper, and 2. Profit. The Chinese have made a range of lenses that should make the Japanese and Germans worry a bit.
The Raynox macro adapters will directly screw into this lens making it into a handy little macro lens also. The excellent focus peaking really helps to dial in the focus with such a limited depth of field also.
Hello dear sir! Could you help me please? I need to know if there was anyway I could combine these lens with my cropped Canon 800D. I really hope I could! Regards from Greece! Thank you!
Hi Ken, thank you for another fun review. This lens isn't the same lens with a different name as the 7artisans' version, no? The one sold by Amazon has 5 elements in 3 groups, and 7artisans' copy has 7 elements in 6. I found other Web sites which support this. Which one are you reviewing? The 5-element 3-group one; or the 7-element 6-group?
Got the lens today. Amazon delivered in one day! So I know it has a clickless aperture ring. Just curious, is there any way to make it click? I really only shoot stills so I prefer that. Either way its a cute little lens and when I enable focus peaking it works great. Stuck it on my X-E3. Will compare it to the XF 27/2.8 that I have. Ken, so have you looked at any of their other lenses to see what you like?
Some factual errors here -- it's 5 elements in 3 groups (not 7), and it's 12 aperture blades (not 10). You should check out Dustin Abbot's review if you want to know more about the actual optical performance. It seems that everyone agrees that this is a great lens though, and much better than the Meike/Neewer/7Artisans offerings at the same focal length and speed.
Just ordered a used version + a hood and uv filter.. $77 normally I wouldn’t trust these cheap lenses but if you give a 10/10 I’ll buy it and the vid hasn’t even finished yet lmao
Got mine on Amazon 8% off courtesy of a digital coupon. Comes in on Thursday. This is my first off of one of Ken’s recommendations and it comes at a good time because I’ve been getting ready to buy a Fujinon 23 f2. Looking forward to this one.
Hi Ken,you've had so many lenses pass through your hands and you buy the ones you recommend. How do you decide which ones to try out before making the purchase? Probably not MTF charts. What do you look for when considering if it's even worth your time to test it out?
Ken...I see them online. One is labeled with Pergear and another 7Artisans. Is there a difference? I noticed in video you said it was made by 7Artisans...but is it the same as the one labeled as Pergear on front of lens?
Thanks. No need for sassy. Cause the specs you gave on UA-cam didn’t match. You said 7 elements also 10 blades. The link you added to you UA-cam directs us to the “7Artisans” marked lens. When I looked up the pergear marked lens on Amazon it says 5 elements and 3 groups with 12 blades. That’s why I asked you to be sure. Sorry.
Hi Ken, in China it (7artisans 25mm 1.8) cost 62 USD, and people say its an expensive price for lens by chinese manufacturer, but its a popular lens inside China, as I can see by sales statistic of it. I also have one for my Fujifilm camera, but we never say something good about it because of its a chinese lens and now if you say something good about anything from China, people will attack you. But its give me very artistic results in some situations, very artistic bokeh too (it has 12 blades and just 18cm minimum focus distance). Its possible to buy for x-mount, for 4/3, Sony E-mount and Canon M-mount. And in China all that versions cost same - 62 USD. Some people inside CHina say it also has 1 or 2 cristal glass inside.
Can I ask you about these 3 lenses. Basically the same lens but from 3 different sellers/manufacturers. Samyang 24 mm F1.4 Manual Focus Lens for Sony-E $454.00... Rokinon 24mm F1.4 ED AS IF UMC Wide Angle Lens for Sony E-Mount (NEX) Cameras (RK24M-E)... $499. The Sigma lens is like $300.00 more. For the price and manufacturer which one would be the best bet. I have the Sony-Zeiss 24-70mm F4... great lens for my needs. I need a 24mm F1.4 for doing live streaming meteor showers. I want to bring the ISO down.
I could see myself getting this only because its small and could easily fit in the nooks and crannies of a bag. But since I regularly carry my 23 f/1.4 I doubt this would get much use.
Hi Ken, thanks for the review. I looked this bad boy up online and retailer claims the optics are 5 elements in 3 groups while the 7ARTISANS versions listed on Amazon are apparently ''7 elements in 5 groups''. But they do look similar, very strange. I bought one listed on ebay for 55 bucks brand new, CHEAAAAP
Hi,Ken! This one is my first lens bought by your recomendation, and seems it works good for me. You shown Pergear 25 1.8 in your video and i went straight for it because 7artisans is a different lens with many build quality issues stated. Focuse peaking is great comparing to different soviet trash like Helois 44-whatever Industar 50 or 26, or Jupiter 8 that has a great boke but you have no fkn clue if you hit the eye with lenses DOF or not. Only Jupiter-37 135 do have good peaking out of my humble collection. So yeah, thanks alot for that lens, even my wife did the manual ficusing right with peaking on that little gem. I can shoot it wide open, sharp in 70%of the frame, dont care about extreme corners. And bokeh/picture is like those old good lenses with caracter, but sharp, easy peaking, no adapters, compact, light... You are right, thanks man!
Hello. Because of this review, I bought this lens for Fuji XT20. You are correct on all accounts about this lens! It is an absolute gem! It's easy to use, built well (tough), produces incredible images, and is cheap! Thank you again for an excellent review.
Is the 7artisan actually the same lens? You mentioned a 43mm cap. Pergear has 43mm filter size. 7artisan has 46mm. There’s also a Neewer branded 25mm/1.8 with the same 46mm filter.
Theoria Apophasis isn’t the cap the same size as the filter size? All these lens are 25mm/1.8 but clearly showing different filter sizes so it doesn’t seem like the Pergear is identical to the 7artisan. This looks more like the one in your video www.pergear.com/collections/lens/products/pergear-25mm-f1-8-manual-focus-prime-fixed-lens?variant=31263903449186
Also, the physical design of the Pergear-labelled 25mm f/1.8 lens is quite different than the 7artisans. It actually looks far more like the 7artisans 35mm f/1.2. The 7artisans 25mm f1.8 listes on the Pregear web site looks identical to my 7artisans copy. I believe they're different lenses, and actually, I wasn't all that impressed by the 7artisans. The 35mm and 55mm are better.
The 50mm is crap so soft. F2 is good up to F4 then it’s just horrible the centre is so soft and it gets worse the smaller the aperture. Christopher Frost said the same.
I'm an idiot who lost his X-E2 recently, this is just adding salt to the wound :( I loved to use cheap manual focus lenses like this on it! Did you ever try the Zonlai 22mm f/1.8? It was another fantastic little lens for the system that I used almost all the time!
I came across this review when viewing another one of your reviews. When I saw the "$70 must own" I knew it must be the 25mm Pergear. I heard about Pergear and thought I would investigate it further. I found the 25mm lens on eBay for about $60 and ordered it. I especially like the 25mm range since it sits between 23mm and 28mm. Ironically, the filter used for it costs about half as much as the lens itself. This lens is one of five "go to" lenses when traveling. It has a small footprint, takes amazing photos, and fills a niche in terms of focal range. It is a keeper.
Several years ago, I took XT20 with Fuji 23mm f/2, a small package, preset manually at f8 and onward. I walked around Hong Kong and did street photography. The photos are insanely sharp. The way I see it, 23mm/f2 is a street photographers haven especially when you don't want to be noticed. It is a good buy. I wouldn't take 23mm/1.4 with me.
Now I think we must call to 7artisans and ask them to make same quality lens but 16mm, maybe F2.0 or even F2.8, but for 100 USD, 150 will be also OK. With wide distannce scale ring and marks for 1m, 2m and 3 meters...
@@KenTheoriaApophasis I cheked it now, I live in China long time... 7artisans is a Shenzhen company, very small company, they order the glasses for lenses to one Shanghai optical glass manufacturer, and another company polishing that glasses, and guys from 7artisans just assembling them in their really small factory. Now there working about 20 workers. If you see, some their lenses have a yellow MC, in that lenses they use crystal glasses, but that lenses cost 135 USD or more.
I have the 35mm f1.2 and it’s pretty good too, it’s got character, nice swirly bokeh wide open with a lot of vignetting. Have you tried it yet, if yes then please share your thoughts on it I’d love to hear your opinion because I value your insight and trust your knowledge and experience base as you’ve proven time and time again you know your shit and you speak the truth
ARE YOU SURE THAT THE PERGEAR IS THE SAME AS THE 7ARTISANS? it looks different to me and since also Meike etc have a 25mm f1.8 that is also unequal to the 7artisans I guess the pergear is also not the same as the 7artisans? Would appreciate feedback.
Hi Barney, I just bought a XPro1 and looking to buy a fist lense for it. Did you get yours? I am looking at the 35mm as I already have a X100T with the 23(eqv 35). Cheers from Switzerland
Ken, that is really amazing. I use my old Fujinons with the old X-mount on my X-T1. Have you ever tried the EBC X-Fujinon 1:1.6 f=50 mm DM and if so, what do you think of it?
You should try to review voigtlander 50mm apo f/2. Read and heard that it is superb. Know it's available in Sony mount, but don't know if they make it in other mounts as well
My experience, having purchased more than a few things on AliExpress over the last ~5 years is that with some research one can often find some real gems at incredible value. However, it does require some UA-cam sleuthing, beforehand. For instance, I have purchased some very nice every-day carry knives on AliEx, from certain manufacturers (i.e. CH, Y-start, Kizer) that are of high precision, quality materials, and original design; from being centered, smooth, with quality (well sharpened) steel (M390, D2), machined pocket clips made of Ti, frames of quality Ti, steel on steel locking inserts, ceramic ball bearings...all the bells and whistles one would expect from US or EU knives costing 3-4x the price. It does not surprise me that China is entering the lens market with some quality products at compelling prices. They certainly have demonstrated the manufacturing knowledge and quality systems to do this properly...after all, it was western companies that invested heavily to get them there...at the cost of jobs in the USA and EU, of course. Frankly, under Biden and the Great Reset, this trend will only accelerate.
Have you tried using M42 lenses on a bayer sensor like the X-T100? Im looking at getting the X-T200 to suppliment my X-T100 for on the go vlogging. The new additions to that camera answers a lot of the deficiencies of the X-T100 when trying to do run and gun vlogging. Will you be reviewing the X-T200 soon?
This one: www.pergear.com/collections/lens/products/pergear-25mm-f1-8-manual-focus-prime-fixed-lens versus this one: www.pergear.com/collections/lens/products/7artisans-25mm-f1-8-for-fujifilm-black
Its a shame you did not mention that the quality control is all over the place, if you get one that does not fall apart after a few months you are lucky, most good reviews will agree.
I've noticed you've made various contradictions in your lens reviews. Here's another: You claimed 4 years ago that the Fuji 23 f2 was an "EPIC" lens, now in this video you say one has to "stop it down to 5.6 to get any sharpness out of that sucker." Is a lens that requires stopping down to 5.6 to get sharpness an EPIC lens?🤔
@@lr5367 I have the xf 27 also. there are some reasons why i would buy the 25 1.8 though, namely: faster aperature, aperture ring, better for video, better bokeh at higher f-values because of more blades and close focusing (18 cm vs i believe about 34). @ Ken: I see a version with 7 elements in 5 groups and one with 5 elements in 3 groups. What one is the best?
I guess I had a bad copy... the corners were so bad, it looked like there was grease on the corners. I traded it for a meike 35mm f1.7 love that one! You should try that one to :-)
Guys, mine flares like a mofo. I have 5 types of lens hoods, none make any difference. Has a sort of ghosting effect while used :/. I wonder if I got a bad copy. It is sharp, has nice rendition, great built quality, smooth focus and looks amazing on the XE2. But the flaring, hot spot in the center ruins the contrast. And no, I'm not pointing it at the sun...
I literally just sold mine yesterday. The ghosting was simply too much for me to handle (lens hoods didn't help). Mine also started to experience crazing. If you take a look under bright light from the rear of the lens, you'll see straight lines etched in the glass. That is the cheap lens coating cracking. The lens did well indoors with controlled lighting like a flash but outside it was hit or miss with the flare/ghosting.
@@parranoic Yeah, I experienced indoors as well but I made a conscious decision to check for ghosting first and to shoot above f5.6 indoors. Anything below that had a good chance of ghosting.
I always look on line at photos taken with a lens before purchase. Looks good, especially the B and W. However I already own a Voitlander in that size and it is one of my favorites.
Purchased it based on your review. The lens arrived with a fairly large shard (of metal?) inside. Focusing feels like grinding. Unacceptable, even for a lens within this price range. Quality control subpar. Returning it straight away. Lesson learned.
@@KenTheoriaApophasis The second lens I just received has a dent on the inside barrel. Second bad copy. Still proves nothing I guess. Frustrating though ;)
I owned the 7artisans which has 7 elements in 6 groups, PerGear says 5 Elements in 3 Groups, so I don't think they are the same. Build quality on the 7artisans was not impressive, and it seemed to enhance midtones, which made it look more punchy in b/w images, but kinda off in color. The focus was VERY grindy. But yes, it was very sharp in the center. And what's with the Fujinon 23mm f2 not being sharp until 5.6, in your review of that lens you said it was exquisite.
Can't wait to buy one, someone stole my 23mm f2...thanks as always, you are the man! I would much rather take a chance on this lens than buy six friends burger king.
I ordered a used tx1 then was looking for a small lense. Saw it and looked up your vision. Great. I'm ordering one. Thanks so much for all your wisdom. I nailed it on eBay for $55
@@KenTheoriaApophasis You eBay code references the Pergear labelled lens, which the Pergear site itself claims is a different lens than the 7artisans labelled lens. They also don't look anything alike.
This is my favorite lens for my xt3 I almost have all the lenses for x mount and this one if on 80% of the time.. I am also doing a review on the 7 artisan line soon.. the only thing I notice about 7 artisan lenses is the screws for the mount get loose... Happened like 4 times so far
Great value lens, can be very sharp. Agree, does really well for black and white.. But please check for fungus and unidentified gunk straight out the box..
Ken, Fujifilm have made a XC 35mm f2 and it doesn't have close focus. I personally need a 35mm macro. Cannot believe they made another 35 f2 not macro. Who thought they would make another 35 f2? Supposed to be as good as the XF 35 f2. Supposed to have the same optics. Is it a nifty fifty for Fuji?
ORrdered from AliExpress for 50 Euro's. I usually don't order there, but since it's a chinese lens anyway, why not. Really curious about how it performs :)
Currently sold out on B&H. Will have to wait until they re-stock. Update: I finally bought one off of B&H. Fingers crossed on getting a good copy of this lens.
www.amazon.com/7artisans-25mm-F1-8-Fujifilm-Fuji/dp/B073F81XWF
I just bought this lens. My copy has problems. Starting from less severe to more severe: 1) There is some field curvature. Focus in middle, and all corners are soft at all aperture settings. Focus in corner, then center is soft. 2) My copy has very poor contrast from f/1.8 to f/2. 3) And my copy has extreme center softness (only right in the center) at f/8 to f/16. Off center, it is much sharper, so this isn't just diffraction. Conclusion: Basically, the lens is usable from only f/2.8 to f/5.6. There is no sign of damage. And the focus and aperture rings both turn butter smooth. Perhaps I have a bad copy, but I'm recommending to avoid it.
I can't trust your lens reviews. Back in 2016 you reviewed the 23 f2 and sang its praises over and over, absolute necessity, exquisite, the sharpness, oh my god the sharpness, insanely sharp. Now today, "you have to stop down to 5.6 to get any sharpness out of that sucker." I think you fall in love with new releases and out again later on. That's ok, just qualify your remarks, you hold yourself up as an expert and there is no consistency in your comments. Which is it?
I found the remark about the 23mm f/2 odd as well. Funnily enough, he explicitly says he doesn't suffer from NTS - New Toy Syndrome - on that particular video.
I use to own the 23mm f2. Not on Ken’s recommendation, I just like the 35mm equivalent focal length. After 9 months of ownership I sold it. Very disappointing from f2-f4, specially at close focus distance. Other than that, I found it extremely sharp from 5.6-f11.
As for the 7artisan lens, Luckily for me, I got one on amazon today that offers free returns and one day shipping. Funny enough, there were 16 left this morning and now it’s about a 2-6 week wait to receive one....🤔
@@MrRoyGS my experience with it has generally been very good. I usually look at lenstip for reviews and my experience with the 23 f2 mirrors their's. Great sharpness wide open (relatively speaking) peaking at f4. Close up is an issue before 5.6, but I don't use it that way very often so yes, I could see it if that is how you use it. I now have the 16-55 2.8 and will probably be selling it as I don't see the need for both. I've been really impressed with the 50mm f2.
@@MrRoyGS You probably had bad copy .Mini 23 is razor sharp at any aperture , except some softness at f2 only at minimum focus distance, for which this lens is also not made.
@@eagleeyephoto8715 Or maybe you and Ken got anomalously great copies. Either way, Ken now offhandedly saying the 23 F2 needs to be stopped down to 5.6 to get any sharpness, after touting it as a must buy due to SHARPNESS, needs some further clarification. Otherwise, the only difference between Ken and the other photog reviewers is that he hoards more lenses. My harshness is a measure of my trust in Ken's expertise. He is normally spot on, so when he gets it wrong, it is glaring.
This is my first manual lens which taught me a lot about manual focusing. After that I bought the 7artisans 55mm and 35mm which is equally great. You should review the 55mm
On more great moment with this lens: look to the distance scale ring - there is a mark 5m. Its mean you can set it fast and clear. And at F8 you will get hyper focal from 2.2m to infinity, and even at F5.6 you have a sharp area from 2.63m to 50.3m, which is more then enough for shoot at street. Unfortunately, 99% of modern zooms or fix lenses doesn't give us this.
Hi Koba. I was enthusiastic about the depth of focus scale but have found it to be completely false on my copy. At the hyperfocal f8 setting which it claims gives 2.2 feet (not metres!) to infinity in focus I get approximately 1.5 feet to 4 feet! Obviously mine is out of whack but even so compared to the markings on a Zeiss Distagon 25mm the 7 Artisans lens is ridiculously optimistic in how much would be in focus. I'd be interested to know how you get on with a real world test of the lens.
I am not complaining about the lens. I am loving the rendering. Compared to the Fuji 27mm f2.8 the out of focus areas are dreamy. That lens is sharp (cue Ken's parrot) but with lower image fidelity than the 7artisans. I am beginning to understand what Ken has been banging on about all these years... I think.
Thanks for info!
Bought the lens and love it. Incredibly sharp (almost a magnifying glass), great colors, and that little something extra. But the flaring really messes up a lot of pictures. I have many lenses and none have such harsh flares. All it takes is a small light source around the subject, and boom. A lens hood only helps occasionally. Still, it's a lot of fun with fantastic results when everything is just right.
Bro, do you expect us to see the image samples on your mac screen? Also, why is everything so messed up?
But what about compared to the 27mm Fuji pancake that’s glued on my x-e3? Still worth trying out? More character? Surprised you didn’t compare to the pancake.
the fuji lens,that one is sharper for sure, but its sloooow AF and noisy when doing same,....but thats also nearly $300 MORE $$$$$$
Theoria Apophasis the slooow AF of the 27 is still faster than manual focus xD
Theoria Apophasis you can get the Fuji lens new for $150 shipped on eBay.
This was my first lens for my fuji. I just got my xpro1 last year and bought the 7artisans 25mm, its been great! I also just recently got the fuji 50mm f2. But I love that 25mm focal length though. The . focus peaking works great with it.
How does this compare to the Zonlai 22mm F1.8?
The 22mm is a different lens... they actually have a 25mm version identical to this one. I've read the 22m is actually a better lens, but it's more pricey.
The Zonlai is super sharp, has very close focusing and is also a superb black and white lens. I think I prefer it to the Fuji 23 f2 which is three times more expensive.
Seen some reports about the light transmission of this lens being way off (about -1 EV) compared to Fujinon lenses and even the 7artisans 25mm. Can you confirm this?
Like the ol’ days: Secret lens that saves you money :)
My Pergear version is better than my 7Artisans version. But, why do they both “focus” beyond infinity? Are the distance markings just off? 🤷🏻♂️
Does the front element rotate when focusing?
Is Pergear same as 7artisans or its two different things? (You telling about Pergear but link goes to 7 artisans) And would be great to see those photos you showing on your screen on our screens too ))
Hi Theoria if you already own a 35mm is 25mm really a good idea? I wanted something wider but this seems quite close to the 35mm? And have you heard about the Zonlai 22mm 1.8 and the Kamlan 21mm 1.8? Hope you can try and review these as well.
Yours looks different than mine...Mine is all black and has an issue where you turn the focusing ring until it stops, it then produces a “click” and turns about 1mm more. Other than that I’ve always been happy with it.
SAME lens goes under 2 diff names, Pergear is apparently the actual MFG name from all i can tell.
eBay item number: 193302979061
12 blades on the 7artisans and yes this lens is a freak. Im still wondering why they sell for 70 bucks
Just recieved this lense this morning, OMG its actually quite amazing. Purchased the 50mm purely on your recommendation and am more than happy. Thank you, fantastic lense on my XT2.
I received this lens this week. But it looks like there is an error on the focus ring. The values of FT and M do not seem to correspond to reality. For example, I focus on a subject 1 FT (30cm) away from the camera, then the focus ring indicates a higher value of 2.5 ft (76cm) Or do i mis something here.
Got one coming... I am new to the Fujifilm ecosystem, and have been having fun fitting vintage lenses, but I had decided I wanted a 25mm... Your review and the current price of the Pergear made me push the shutter button on this one.
I've owned it for around 6 months, and it is amazing! Love everything about it, and everything you say is correct.
There is a meike 25mm f/1.8 ... Does that use the same formula? I couldn't find a good comparison between that and the 7artisans version.
SAME lens goes under 2 diff names or more, Pergear is apparently the actual MFG name from all i can tell.
eBay item number: 193302979061
@@KenTheoriaApophasis The Meike has a much better barrel design. Optically they say it's different but I am not so sure about that.
I got one of these along with an X-E2S that I bought a while back. I really have to agree with everything that you said about it - much sharper than I might have expected, great feel, and focus peaking is flawless! Oh - and I bought the $6.49 lens hood. :)
Ken, Just got my 25mm Pergear today. Put it on my xPro2 switched to Manual and set the lens mount adapter to 25mm. The focus peak is working, seems fine but the camera will not fire. Put my 35mm back on and all works fine. Any ideas?
Disregard- I forgot about turning on the "shoot without lens" in menu. Good stuff on your channel. THanks
I bought one a few weeks ago off Amazon, and apart from quite a bit of barrel distortion when focused close - hey! It’s not a macro lens, ok?- I have been very pleased with the results and have to ask, why are Voigtlander (Cosina) lenses as expensive as they are? 1. Leica would get very pissed with them if they were any cheaper, and 2. Profit. The Chinese have made a range of lenses that should make the Japanese and Germans worry a bit.
The Raynox macro adapters will directly screw into this lens making it into a handy little macro lens also. The excellent focus peaking really helps to dial in the focus with such a limited depth of field also.
Hello dear sir! Could you help me please? I need to know if there was anyway I could combine these lens with my cropped Canon 800D. I really hope I could! Regards from Greece! Thank you!
Hi Ken, thank you for another fun review. This lens isn't the same lens with a different name as the 7artisans' version, no? The one sold by Amazon has 5 elements in 3 groups, and 7artisans' copy has 7 elements in 6. I found other Web sites which support this. Which one are you reviewing? The 5-element 3-group one; or the 7-element 6-group?
He says it's the 7 element one.
@@ldyrtdyrt8872 yet he wants you to shop for the 5-element one
Got the lens today. Amazon delivered in one day! So I know it has a clickless aperture ring. Just curious, is there any way to make it click? I really only shoot stills so I prefer that. Either way its a cute little lens and when I enable focus peaking it works great. Stuck it on my X-E3. Will compare it to the XF 27/2.8 that I have. Ken, so have you looked at any of their other lenses to see what you like?
Some factual errors here -- it's 5 elements in 3 groups (not 7), and it's 12 aperture blades (not 10). You should check out Dustin Abbot's review if you want to know more about the actual optical performance. It seems that everyone agrees that this is a great lens though, and much better than the Meike/Neewer/7Artisans offerings at the same focal length and speed.
Does yours have aperature ring detents? My own does not.
Just ordered a used version + a hood and uv filter.. $77 normally I wouldn’t trust these cheap lenses but if you give a 10/10 I’ll buy it and the vid hasn’t even finished yet lmao
www.pergear.com/products/7artisans-25mm-f1-8-for-olympus-black-1
Got mine on Amazon 8% off courtesy of a digital coupon. Comes in on Thursday. This is my first off of one of Ken’s recommendations and it comes at a good time because I’ve been getting ready to buy a Fujinon 23 f2. Looking forward to this one.
Now it’s $179 on Amazon. On eBay it isn’t much cheaper either. Too bad cause now I won’t buy it.
Hi Ken,you've had so many lenses pass through your hands and you buy the ones you recommend. How do you decide which ones to try out before making the purchase? Probably not MTF charts. What do you look for when considering if it's even worth your time to test it out?
Ken...I see them online. One is labeled with Pergear and another 7Artisans. Is there a difference? I noticed in video you said it was made by 7Artisans...but is it the same as the one labeled as Pergear on front of lens?
the maker said yes, but i doubt thats true,.......NOT that i know of no
@@KenTheoriaApophasis And you have the one thats says Pergear?
yes, i said that i did
Thanks. No need for sassy. Cause the specs you gave on UA-cam didn’t match. You said 7 elements also 10 blades. The link you added to you UA-cam directs us to the “7Artisans” marked lens. When I looked up the pergear marked lens on Amazon it says 5 elements and 3 groups with 12 blades. That’s why I asked you to be sure. Sorry.
Anywhere to order one that has been screened for corona virus?
Better to hang fire on orders until Corona Virus has petered out.
Just let the package sit a day or 2 b4 you open it.
your link is a 7artisan at b&h? Should it be pergear?
Anybody with a MFT camera needs this lens. Its just amazing.
If you're on mft, you're still over spending. Got a 25mm f1.8 for 6 bucks +4€ shipping. $ ≈ € right now so yea. 10 bucks. Or get a proper one.
Hi Ken, in China it (7artisans 25mm 1.8) cost 62 USD, and people say its an expensive price for lens by chinese manufacturer, but its a popular lens inside China, as I can see by sales statistic of it. I also have one for my Fujifilm camera, but we never say something good about it because of its a chinese lens and now if you say something good about anything from China, people will attack you. But its give me very artistic results in some situations, very artistic bokeh too (it has 12 blades and just 18cm minimum focus distance). Its possible to buy for x-mount, for 4/3, Sony E-mount and Canon M-mount. And in China all that versions cost same - 62 USD. Some people inside CHina say it also has 1 or 2 cristal glass inside.
SAME lens goes under 2 diff names, Pergear is apparently the actual MFG name from all i can tell.
eBay item number: 193302979061
Can I ask you about these 3 lenses. Basically the same lens but from 3 different sellers/manufacturers. Samyang 24 mm F1.4 Manual Focus Lens for Sony-E $454.00... Rokinon 24mm F1.4 ED AS IF UMC Wide Angle Lens for Sony E-Mount (NEX) Cameras (RK24M-E)... $499. The Sigma lens is like $300.00 more. For the price and manufacturer which one would be the best bet. I have the Sony-Zeiss 24-70mm F4... great lens for my needs. I need a 24mm F1.4 for doing live streaming meteor showers. I want to bring the ISO down.
I could see myself getting this only because its small and could easily fit in the nooks and crannies of a bag. But since I regularly carry my 23 f/1.4 I doubt this would get much use.
when shooting in low light does it have that glow affect with lights, i know some voitlander lenses have that
Hi Ken, thanks for the review. I looked this bad boy up online and retailer claims the optics are 5 elements in 3 groups while the 7ARTISANS versions listed on Amazon are apparently ''7 elements in 5 groups''. But they do look similar, very strange. I bought one listed on ebay for 55 bucks brand new, CHEAAAAP
Hi,Ken! This one is my first lens bought by your recomendation, and seems it works good for me. You shown Pergear 25 1.8 in your video and i went straight for it because 7artisans is a different lens with many build quality issues stated. Focuse peaking is great comparing to different soviet trash like Helois 44-whatever Industar 50 or 26, or Jupiter 8 that has a great boke but you have no fkn clue if you hit the eye with lenses DOF or not. Only Jupiter-37 135 do have good peaking out of my humble collection. So yeah, thanks alot for that lens, even my wife did the manual ficusing right with peaking on that little gem. I can shoot it wide open, sharp in 70%of the frame, dont care about extreme corners. And bokeh/picture is like those old good lenses with caracter, but sharp, easy peaking, no adapters, compact, light... You are right, thanks man!
I need to order this lens now. What are your thoughts on the new CX35mm f2 Ken ?
Hello. Because of this review, I bought this lens for Fuji XT20. You are correct on all accounts about this lens! It is an absolute gem! It's easy to use, built well (tough), produces incredible images, and is cheap! Thank you again for an excellent review.
Hi buddy. Any thoughts on the Pergear 35 f1.2? over the artisans 35 f1.2? :D Thanks
Is the 7artisan actually the same lens? You mentioned a 43mm cap. Pergear has 43mm filter size. 7artisan has 46mm. There’s also a Neewer branded 25mm/1.8 with the same 46mm filter.
thats just the cap, not the focal length
Theoria Apophasis isn’t the cap the same size as the filter size? All these lens are 25mm/1.8 but clearly showing different filter sizes so it doesn’t seem like the Pergear is identical to the 7artisan. This looks more like the one in your video www.pergear.com/collections/lens/products/pergear-25mm-f1-8-manual-focus-prime-fixed-lens?variant=31263903449186
Also, the physical design of the Pergear-labelled 25mm f/1.8 lens is quite different than the 7artisans. It actually looks far more like the 7artisans 35mm f/1.2. The 7artisans 25mm f1.8 listes on the Pregear web site looks identical to my 7artisans copy. I believe they're different lenses, and actually, I wasn't all that impressed by the 7artisans. The 35mm and 55mm are better.
The 50mm is crap so soft. F2 is good up to F4 then it’s just horrible the centre is so soft and it gets worse the smaller the aperture. Christopher Frost said the same.
I'm an idiot who lost his X-E2 recently, this is just adding salt to the wound :( I loved to use cheap manual focus lenses like this on it! Did you ever try the Zonlai 22mm f/1.8? It was another fantastic little lens for the system that I used almost all the time!
I came across this review when viewing another one of your reviews. When I saw the "$70 must own" I knew it must be the 25mm Pergear. I heard about Pergear and thought I would investigate it further. I found the 25mm lens on eBay for about $60 and ordered it. I especially like the 25mm range since it sits between 23mm and 28mm. Ironically, the filter used for it costs about half as much as the lens itself. This lens is one of five "go to" lenses when traveling. It has a small footprint, takes amazing photos, and fills a niche in terms of focal range. It is a keeper.
Several years ago, I took XT20 with Fuji 23mm f/2, a small package, preset manually at f8 and onward. I walked around Hong Kong and did street photography. The photos are insanely sharp. The way I see it, 23mm/f2 is a street photographers haven especially when you don't want to be noticed. It is a good buy. I wouldn't take 23mm/1.4 with me.
Now I think we must call to 7artisans and ask them to make same quality lens but 16mm, maybe F2.0 or even F2.8, but for 100 USD, 150 will be also OK. With wide distannce scale ring and marks for 1m, 2m and 3 meters...
7artisans is just a name, theyre not the actual maker
@@KenTheoriaApophasis I cheked it now, I live in China long time... 7artisans is a Shenzhen company, very small company, they order the glasses for lenses to one Shanghai optical glass manufacturer, and another company polishing that glasses, and guys from 7artisans just assembling them in their really small factory. Now there working about 20 workers. If you see, some their lenses have a yellow MC, in that lenses they use crystal glasses, but that lenses cost 135 USD or more.
Will this lens work with the X-Pro 2's focus peaking?
ohhh yessssss
I have the 35mm f1.2 and it’s pretty good too, it’s got character, nice swirly bokeh wide open with a lot of vignetting. Have you tried it yet, if yes then please share your thoughts on it I’d love to hear your opinion because I value your insight and trust your knowledge and experience base as you’ve proven time and time again you know your shit and you speak the truth
ARE YOU SURE THAT THE PERGEAR IS THE SAME AS THE 7ARTISANS? it looks different to me and since also Meike etc have a 25mm f1.8 that is also unequal to the 7artisans I guess the pergear is also not the same as the 7artisans? Would appreciate feedback.
This lens on a old x-pro 1.
What do you think?...the character of the old sensor an the character of this lens with b/w on street!?🤔
Hi Barney, I just bought a XPro1 and looking to buy a fist lense for it. Did you get yours? I am looking at the 35mm as I already have a X100T with the 23(eqv 35).
Cheers from Switzerland
@@michel559 no...other lenses are in focus..at the moment...
I use the 35/1.4 for street and the new 18/1.4 by Fuji comes in 2021 !?
Ken, that is really amazing. I use my old Fujinons with the old X-mount on my X-T1. Have you ever tried the EBC X-Fujinon 1:1.6 f=50 mm DM and if so, what do you think of it?
You should try to review voigtlander 50mm apo f/2. Read and heard that it is superb. Know it's available in Sony mount, but don't know if they make it in other mounts as well
Here in europe it has 12 blades.... are you sure it's 10 ken?
It says so to in the BH link you posted....below
My experience, having purchased more than a few things on AliExpress over the last ~5 years is that with some research one can often find some real gems at incredible value. However, it does require some UA-cam sleuthing, beforehand. For instance, I have purchased some very nice every-day carry knives on AliEx, from certain manufacturers (i.e. CH, Y-start, Kizer) that are of high precision, quality materials, and original design; from being centered, smooth, with quality (well sharpened) steel (M390, D2), machined pocket clips made of Ti, frames of quality Ti, steel on steel locking inserts, ceramic ball bearings...all the bells and whistles one would expect from US or EU knives costing 3-4x the price. It does not surprise me that China is entering the lens market with some quality products at compelling prices. They certainly have demonstrated the manufacturing knowledge and quality systems to do this properly...after all, it was western companies that invested heavily to get them there...at the cost of jobs in the USA and EU, of course. Frankly, under Biden and the Great Reset, this trend will only accelerate.
is it Peargear or Artisans ?
Just noticed B&H is now out of stock on the black version.
cant blame me ROFL
Have you tried using M42 lenses on a bayer sensor like the X-T100? Im looking at getting the X-T200 to suppliment my X-T100 for on the go vlogging. The new additions to that camera answers a lot of the deficiencies of the X-T100 when trying to do run and gun vlogging. Will you be reviewing the X-T200 soon?
its not out yet, how im i gonna review it?
"Helicoid." Helicoil is what you fix damaged threads with.
Bored much
@@unbroken1010 Nah. More irritated by incompetence and laziness. Like people that are too lazy to use punctuation.
Ken just want to say a SMALL thank you for videos on magnetism and counterspace thank you kind sir thank you for teaching me
The 7 artisans version says 7 elements in 5 groups and the lens marked Pergear have 5 elements in 3 groups. Which one to purchase?
www.pergear.com/products/7artisans-25mm-f1-8-for-olympus-black-1
you read a misprint somewhere
This one: www.pergear.com/collections/lens/products/pergear-25mm-f1-8-manual-focus-prime-fixed-lens versus this one: www.pergear.com/collections/lens/products/7artisans-25mm-f1-8-for-fujifilm-black
Its a shame you did not mention that the quality control is all over the place, if you get one that does not fall apart after a few months you are lucky, most good reviews will agree.
Just ordered this for £53! on Pergear site. I have the 35m version love that one so hoping for the same on this 25m. Thanks for review.
I've noticed you've made various contradictions in your lens reviews. Here's another: You claimed 4 years ago that the Fuji 23 f2 was an "EPIC" lens, now in this video you say one has to "stop it down to 5.6 to get any sharpness out of that sucker." Is a lens that requires stopping down to 5.6 to get sharpness an EPIC lens?🤔
😂 You better behave, dude's looking like a vicious judoka.
How does it compare to the XF 27mm?
27mm is sharper and sharper corners, and is of course AF.........hey this is $70 dude
@@KenTheoriaApophasis already own the 27mm so I guess I'll stick to that for now then. But when I do have some extra cash I'd love to try this one out
@@lr5367 I have the xf 27 also. there are some reasons why i would buy the 25 1.8 though, namely: faster aperature, aperture ring, better for video, better bokeh at higher f-values because of more blades and close focusing (18 cm vs i believe about 34). @ Ken: I see a version with 7 elements in 5 groups and one with 5 elements in 3 groups. What one is the best?
I guess I had a bad copy... the corners were so bad, it looked like there was grease on the corners. I traded it for a meike 35mm f1.7 love that one! You should try that one to :-)
Guys, mine flares like a mofo. I have 5 types of lens hoods, none make any difference. Has a sort of ghosting effect while used :/. I wonder if I got a bad copy. It is sharp, has nice rendition, great built quality, smooth focus and looks amazing on the XE2. But the flaring, hot spot in the center ruins the contrast. And no, I'm not pointing it at the sun...
I literally just sold mine yesterday. The ghosting was simply too much for me to handle (lens hoods didn't help). Mine also started to experience crazing. If you take a look under bright light from the rear of the lens, you'll see straight lines etched in the glass. That is the cheap lens coating cracking. The lens did well indoors with controlled lighting like a flash but outside it was hit or miss with the flare/ghosting.
@@eugenegirshtel even in controlled lighting, any source of light made it haze...
@@parranoic Yeah, I experienced indoors as well but I made a conscious decision to check for ghosting first and to shoot above f5.6 indoors. Anything below that had a good chance of ghosting.
I always look on line at photos taken with a lens before purchase. Looks good, especially the B and W. However I already own a Voitlander in that size and it is one of my favorites.
Purchased it based on your review. The lens arrived with a fairly large shard (of metal?) inside. Focusing feels like grinding. Unacceptable, even for a lens within this price range. Quality control subpar. Returning it straight away. Lesson learned.
that happens rarely even in Zeiss lenses, you got a bad copy proves nothing
@@KenTheoriaApophasis Yes, bad luck I guess. But hesitate to order again.
@@KenTheoriaApophasis The second lens I just received has a dent on the inside barrel. Second bad copy. Still proves nothing I guess. Frustrating though ;)
VARYS ?
I owned the 7artisans which has 7 elements in 6 groups, PerGear says 5 Elements in 3 Groups, so I don't think they are the same.
Build quality on the 7artisans was not impressive, and it seemed to enhance midtones, which made it look more punchy in b/w images, but kinda off in color. The focus was VERY grindy. But yes, it was very sharp in the center.
And what's with the Fujinon 23mm f2 not being sharp until 5.6, in your review of that lens you said it was exquisite.
took a gamble on the pergear 25mm f1.8 as the 7artisan version looked different to the one you are showing in this video fingersx its a keeper 👍
Can't wait to buy one, someone stole my 23mm f2...thanks as always, you are the man! I would much rather take a chance on this lens than buy six friends burger king.
so what's the brand and focal length ? :D
sherif el kadi did he ever mention the focal length?!?
www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1387933-REG/7artisans_photoelectric_7a25f18bkfj_25mm_f1_8_aps_c_for.html/reviews
@@KenTheoriaApophasis thx Ken..but i was under the impression from what you said, it was some diff. brand.
2 diff names, SAME DAMN LENS :)
@@KenTheoriaApophasis ok...lool :)
I ordered a used tx1 then was looking for a small lense. Saw it and looked up your vision. Great. I'm ordering one. Thanks so much for all your wisdom. I nailed it on eBay for $55
Well, is it even better than the xf27 2.8 fuji pancake lens?
no, that fuji lens is sharper, but it also costs a lot more
Ken, thanks. Jumped into the pool on this one. I'm sure it will be fun to try.
SAME lens goes under 2 diff names, Pergear is apparently the actual MFG name from all i can tell.
eBay item number: 193302979061
i found a lens called Neewer 25mm f/1.8 at amazon germany, is this the same lens?
No that is the same as Meike.. this is 7 artisans.. they are two different Chinese manufacturers
@@diptajit ok thanks!
SAME lens goes under 2 diff names, Pergear is apparently the actual MFG name from all i can tell.
eBay item number: 193302979061
@@KenTheoriaApophasis You eBay code references the Pergear labelled lens, which the Pergear site itself claims is a different lens than the 7artisans labelled lens. They also don't look anything alike.
Neewer is trash - front rotated right off and all th elements came out. I found a pergear copy on amazon and I am waiting a few weeks for it
Some say the 7artisans 54 1.4 is very good. Have you tried that one?
not tried that one.
OMG I didn't even wait for you to finish explaining. I already ordered 🤣🤣🤣 really needed a fast wide lens
$78 bro
@@KenTheoriaApophasis yeah I noticed but still worth it. I really needed a fast wide high quality lens like this. Thanks a million
i know, thats my point
Your review prompted me to get one. Waiting for it to arrive. Thanks for the great review!!
This is my favorite lens for my xt3 I almost have all the lenses for x mount and this one if on 80% of the time.. I am also doing a review on the 7 artisan line soon.. the only thing I notice about 7 artisan lenses is the screws for the mount get loose... Happened like 4 times so far
Great value lens, can be very sharp. Agree, does really well for black and white.. But please check for fungus and unidentified gunk straight out the box..
Try that 60mm artisan macro
Ken, Fujifilm have made a XC 35mm f2 and it doesn't have close focus. I personally need a 35mm macro. Cannot believe they made another 35 f2 not macro. Who thought they would make another 35 f2? Supposed to be as good as the XF 35 f2. Supposed to have the same optics. Is it a nifty fifty for Fuji?
Yes. I have owned one for about a month. Great value.
I have this same lens for M4/3 and I love it.
You should try the Brightin star 12mm F2 lens. it's a freak
It's the same lens as the Rokinon 12mm F2
ORrdered from AliExpress for 50 Euro's. I usually don't order there, but since it's a chinese lens anyway, why not. Really curious about how it performs :)
really wish you edited the test shots into the video
Well done review..... Got to order this!
How is this for real estate photography?
soft corners, but plenty sharp, its a MF lens of course , hey its $70
Thank you for your service in bringing this to my attention.
Currently sold out on B&H. Will have to wait until they re-stock.
Update: I finally bought one off of B&H. Fingers crossed on getting a good copy of this lens.