Chinese lens maker Zhongyi Optics (ZY Optics) has released a new compact Super Macro Lens designed to cover full frame sensors. It is a 20mm f/2 4.5x that features a very high reproduction ratio up to 4.5:1. Usually macro lenses feature a 1:2 or 1:1 ratio and to achieve even closer focus you need to use either extension tubes or a bellows.
The lens is capable of creating 4x to 4.5x magnification macro images on its own. Zhongyi claim that the lens has been designed so that you no longer need to use tubes or bellows to enable high magnification shooting. The Super Macro incorporates 6 elements in a 4 group structure, which is said to deliver impressive resolution all the way out to the edges of the image.
The 20mm f/2 4.5x Super Macro Lens weighs in at just 0.5 lbs (230g) and is only 6cm (2.36″) long. Despite its light weight the barrel of the lens is made out of metal. The wide angle field of view coupled with the close focusing distance should allow users to capture some pretty unique images. If you require even greater magnification (up to 13:1), you can of course add extension tubes or bellows. The lens has a full manual aperture but no front filter thread.
The lens is available in Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony FE, Sony Alpha, Pentax K, Sony E, Micro Four Thirds, and Fuji X mounts. The Zhongyi Mitakon 20mm f/2 4.5X Super Macro Lens is now shipping and is available to purchase at ZY Optics authorized resellers or from their official website (http://www.zyoptics.net/). The Recommended Retail price is just $199US.
Given the very low price it is going to be interesting to see just how well the lens actually performs. If the images it produces turn out to be good this could well be a very interesting and unique lens to have sitting around in your kit bag.
