7Artisans 60mm F2.8 Macro 2x

Reviewers confirm it delivers true 2:1 magnification and that central sharpness is good, especially between f/4 and f/11, with minimal chromatic aberration. The long, silky focus ring is singled out as ideal for macro work, and the metal barrel and mount feel solid.

The downsides are a working distance of only about 5cm at 2:1, which makes lighting and skittish subjects difficult, and pincushion distortion that is stronger than expected for a macro prime and cannot be corrected in-camera. With no autofocus or electronics, overall image quality is judged good rather than great.

Owners enjoy the extra magnification for insects, jewellery, watches and textures, and the price for a 2x lens. The focus ring and solid feel get frequent praise, as does the 67mm thread for adding filters or ring lights.

Common complaints are the very short working distance, the lack of a hood and EXIF data, the slip-on metal front cap, and the need for focus magnification and good light when shooting handheld at 2:1.