OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED vs TTArtisan AF

Overview of the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro

The OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro is designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras, featuring a bright f2.8 aperture and a 60mm focal length. It is priced at $549.99, making it a premium option for macro photography enthusiasts. This lens excels in close-up photography, with a minimum focusing distance of approximately 7.4 inches, allowing for 1:1 life-size magnification. Its dust and splash-proof design adds a layer of durability, making it suitable for outdoor use.

The lens is engineered with 13 elements in 10 groups, which helps in minimizing chromatic aberrations and delivering high-quality images. The ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating enhances image clarity by reducing lens flare and ghosting. Overall, this lens is a robust choice for serious photographers looking to capture intricate details in their subjects.

Overview of the TTArtisan AF 56mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens

The TTArtisan AF 56mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens is a versatile and more budget-friendly option for Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, priced at $129.00. This lens boasts an impressive f1.8 aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and soft bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography. It supports eye recognition focus, which enhances the ease of capturing sharp images of subjects, especially when shooting moving objects.

Constructed from aviation aluminum, the lens offers a robust build quality while maintaining a lightweight feel, which is perfect for photographers on the go. Additionally, it features a unique interface for firmware upgrades located on the back cap, improving the aesthetics and usability of the lens. Overall, this lens is well-suited for both amateur and professional photographers looking for quality and functionality at a lower price point.

Price Comparison

The OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro is significantly more expensive than the TTArtisan AF 56mm F1.8, with a price difference of $420.99. The Olympus lens retails at $549.99, while the TTArtisan is available for just $129.00. This pricing indicates that the TTArtisan is about 76% cheaper than the Olympus lens, making it a more accessible choice for those who are budget-conscious or just starting in photography.

While the OM SYSTEM lens justifies its higher price with specialized features aimed at macro photography, the TTArtisan offers a compelling alternative for general use, particularly for portrait and everyday photography. The price difference is a significant factor for many consumers, especially those looking to get quality without breaking the bank.

Build Quality and Design

In terms of build quality, both lenses offer solid construction, but they cater to different needs. The OM SYSTEM Olympus lens is built to withstand the elements with a weather-sealed design, making it suitable for outdoor macro photography. It features a focus limit switch that enhances focusing speed, especially beneficial in close-up shots.

On the other hand, the TTArtisan lens sports a metal barrel made from aviation aluminum, providing durability while keeping the lens lightweight. Its design is aesthetically pleasing, particularly for users of retro-styled cameras. While the Olympus lens is more rugged and functional for specific conditions, the TTArtisan lens balances durability with a stylish look, appealing to photographers who value both form and function.

Focusing and Performance

The focusing systems of both lenses are tailored to different photography styles. The OM SYSTEM lens incorporates a High-Speed Imager AF (MSC) mechanism, which ensures quick and accurate focusing, essential for capturing fine details in macro photography. Its internal focusing system allows the lens length to remain unchanged during focusing, which is crucial when working at close distances to avoid casting shadows on the subject.

Conversely, the TTArtisan lens employs a stepping motor (STM) for smooth and quiet autofocus, which is beneficial for both photography and videography. The eye recognition focus feature allows for precise focus on subjects’ eyes, making it an excellent choice for portrait photographers. While the OM SYSTEM lens excels in macro applications, the TTArtisan offers versatility for a wider range of photography scenarios.

Optical Quality

Optical performance is one of the most critical aspects of any lens. The OM SYSTEM Olympus lens is engineered with advanced optical elements that include 13 elements in 10 groups, designed to minimize chromatic aberrations and enhance image quality. The ZERO coating further improves clarity by reducing reflections, ensuring that images are sharp and vibrant, even in challenging lighting conditions.

In comparison, while the TTArtisan lens does not specify the number of elements, it does feature a large f1.8 aperture that allows for a significant amount of light, which is advantageous for low-light photography. The bokeh produced by this lens can create beautiful separation between the subject and the background, making it ideal for portrait work. While the Olympus lens may have the edge in macro-specific optical quality, the TTArtisan lens provides excellent results for general photography.

Versatility and Use Cases

In terms of versatility, the TTArtisan AF 56mm F1.8 lens shines as it is compatible with a range of Sony E-mount mirrorless cameras, making it suitable for various photography styles, from portraits to street photography. Its lightweight design and compact size make it easy to carry around, encouraging spontaneous shooting opportunities.

The OM SYSTEM Olympus lens, while specialized for macro photography, can also serve general photography needs, but its true potential shines when used for close-up shots. Its focus limit switch and internal focusing system are tailored for intricate details that less specialized lenses might miss. Overall, both lenses cater to different types of photographers, with the Olympus lens being ideal for those focused on macro work, while the TTArtisan provides broader usage.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro and the TTArtisan AF 56mm F1.8 Auto Focus Lens ultimately depends on your photography needs and budget. If you are primarily interested in macro photography and require a lens that can withstand various environmental conditions, then the Olympus lens is worth the investment at $549.99. However, if you are a photographer seeking a versatile, budget-friendly option that excels in portraits and everyday shooting, the TTArtisan lens at $129.00 provides excellent value. Each lens has its strengths, so your choice should align with your specific photographic goals.