Laowa vs TTartisan

Overview

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D FF Ultra-Wide Angle Lens and the TTartisan 27mm F2.8 Autofocus Lens serve distinct purposes in the world of photography, appealing to different user bases and preferences. The Laowa lens, priced at $699.00, is designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras with a focus on ultra-wide-angle photography, while the TTartisan lens, at a more accessible $159.99, is built for Fujifilm's X-mount APS-C cameras, making it a versatile choice for everyday shooting.

Intended Use

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 is ideal for landscape and architectural photography, providing a stunning 122° field of view that captures expansive scenes with virtually zero distortion. This lens excels in situations where wide vistas are desired, making it a favorite among landscape photographers. Conversely, the TTartisan 27mm F2.8 offers a 41mm equivalent focal length on APS-C cameras, making it suitable for a variety of genres, including street and travel photography. Its compact design enhances portability, allowing photographers to carry it anywhere for spontaneous shooting.

Aperture and Low-Light Performance

The Laowa lens features a fast f/2.8 maximum aperture, which enhances its low-light performance and allows for creative depth control. This is particularly beneficial for photographers looking to capture stunning images in challenging lighting conditions. The TTartisan lens also sports a maximum aperture of f/2.8, allowing for good low-light capabilities. However, its slightly narrower angle of view may limit its effectiveness in wide landscape shots compared to the Laowa.

Design and Build Quality

Weighing only 377 grams, the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 is designed for portability, making it a practical choice for extended shooting sessions. Its robust build quality is evident in its construction of 16 elements in 9 groups, ensuring exceptional image quality. The TTartisan 27mm F2.8 is even more compact, with a pancake design that measures less than 3cm in thickness, enhancing its portability. This lens is also built with 6 elements in 5 groups, ensuring sharp images while effectively controlling chromatic aberrations.

Autofocus Capabilities

Both lenses offer autofocus features, which enhance their usability and convenience. The Laowa lens is equipped with autofocus that is particularly beneficial for capturing dynamic scenes in landscapes or architecture. On the other hand, the TTartisan lens also supports autofocus but includes a manual focus override, giving photographers greater control over their shots. This feature may appeal to those who enjoy manual adjustments in their photography.

Price Comparison

The Laowa 12mm f/2.8 is priced at $699.00, while the TTartisan 27mm F2.8 is significantly more budget-friendly at $159.99. This makes the TTartisan lens about 77% cheaper than the Laowa, providing an attractive option for photographers who may be just starting or looking for a versatile everyday lens without breaking the bank. The price difference highlights the differing target markets for each lens, with the Laowa aimed at enthusiasts and professionals willing to invest more in specialized equipment.

Image Quality

Image quality is a critical factor for any lens, and both the Laowa and TTartisan lenses deliver in their respective categories. The Laowa lens is designed to maintain virtually zero distortion, which is crucial for architectural photography, while its 122° field of view allows for dramatic compositions. The TTartisan lens, with its 7-blade diaphragm, offers smooth bokeh and sharp images, particularly suited for street and portrait photography. Each lens excels in its intended use, ensuring high-quality outputs for their specific applications.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Laowa 12mm f/2.8 Lite Zero-D and the TTartisan 27mm F2.8 ultimately depends on your specific needs as a photographer. If your focus is on ultra-wide-angle photography, particularly in landscapes and architecture, the Laowa is the superior choice with its expansive field of view and specialized design. However, if you seek a versatile, compact lens for everyday photography, the TTartisan offers excellent performance at a fraction of the price. With its lower cost and portability, the TTartisan lens could be more appealing for photographers looking for convenience and flexibility.