Laowa vs TTARTISAN AF

Price Comparison

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens is priced at $799.00, while the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens is significantly more affordable at $159.99. This makes the TTARTISAN lens about 80% cheaper than its counterpart. The substantial price difference may appeal to budget-conscious photographers who are looking for a reliable lens without breaking the bank. However, the Laowa lens justifies its higher price with advanced features and superior optical performance, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking high-quality images.

Design and Portability

In terms of design, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens is ultra-compact, often referred to as a pancake lens, which makes it especially portable for travel and street photography. Weighing less than the Laowa lens, it is designed for ease of use without sacrificing quality. The Laowa 10mm lens, although slightly heavier and bulkier, remains portable at 7cm long and 0.93 lb. Its design prioritizes functionality for full-frame cameras, making it an excellent choice for landscape and architecture photography. While both lenses emphasize portability, the TTARTISAN stands out for those prioritizing a lightweight setup.

Optical Performance

The Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens boasts remarkable optical performance with a 130.4-degree angle of view, allowing photographers to capture expansive landscapes dramatically. It features a zero distortion design, maintaining straight lines in images from corner to corner. Conversely, while the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens offers decent optical quality, it does not match the Laowa's capabilities in terms of wide-angle performance and control over distortion. The Laowa's advanced optical design, including 15 elements in 9 groups, ensures outstanding image sharpness and clarity, making it a superior choice for those seeking high-end imagery.

Focusing Capabilities

Focusing capabilities vary significantly between the two lenses. The Laowa 10mm lens has a close focusing distance of just 12cm, allowing for unique wide-angle macro-style shots. This feature is particularly beneficial for photographers who want to explore creative compositions. In contrast, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens features an STM (Stepping Motor) for smooth and quiet focusing, along with eye recognition focus for accurate tracking. This makes it a great choice for capturing moving subjects, especially in portrait photography. While the TTARTISAN lens provides a reliable focusing system, the Laowa lens offers more versatility in terms of close-up shots.

Compatibility

When considering compatibility, the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 lens is designed for full-frame Sony FE cameras, making it suitable for professional photographers using high-end equipment. On the other hand, the TTARTISAN AF 27mm lens is specifically designed for Fuji X mount cameras, which limits its use to Fujifilm models like the X-S10 and X-E4. This distinction may influence a buyer's decision based on their camera system. Photographers invested in the Sony ecosystem might find the Laowa lens a more practical option, while Fujifilm users will appreciate the tailored design of the TTARTISAN lens.

User Experience

The user experience can differ greatly between these two lenses. The Laowa 10mm lens is built with features that enhance creative shooting, including a minimum focusing distance for macro photography and a filter thread for easy attachment of accessories. In contrast, the TTARTISAN lens includes an independent clicked aperture ring for quick adjustments, which can be a significant advantage for those who value speed and efficiency in changing shooting conditions. Additionally, the TTARTISAN lens offers a USB-C interface for firmware upgrades, improving performance over time. This focus on user-centric design makes the TTARTISAN lens appealing for casual shooters looking for convenience.

Brand Reputation

LAOWA is known for producing high-quality, specialized lenses, particularly in the realm of wide-angle photography, which is evident in the Laowa 10mm lens's impressive specifications. TTARTISAN, while gaining popularity, is relatively newer and focuses on delivering compact, affordable options for a wide range of photographers. Depending on your preference for brand legacy and established performance, this distinction may sway your choice. For professional and serious hobbyist photographers, the reputation of LAOWA might lead them to favor the Laowa lens, while more casual users might be inclined toward the budget-friendly TTARTISAN option.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Laowa 10mm f/2.8 Zero-D lens and the TTARTISAN AF 27mm f/2.8 lens ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are a professional photographer seeking high optical performance for landscape or architectural photography, the Laowa lens, with its advanced features and superior image quality, is a strong choice, albeit at a higher price of $799. On the other hand, if you are a Fujifilm user looking for a compact, affordable lens for daily use, the TTARTISAN lens at $159.99 offers excellent value without sacrificing essential functionality. Consider your camera system and photography style to make the best decision for your needs.