Laowa Acris 35mm f/2.8 1X AF Macro APO

The lens was announced on 30 September 2026, so independent testing is still sparse. Launch coverage repeats Laowa's description of the autofocus as quick and accurate in the normal range and makes clear that the 1:1 range relies on the assisted mode rather than continuous AF. Laowa's MTF data shows high, even contrast across the frame at infinity, with only a gentle drop in the far corners.

The caveats so far are the very short working distance at 1:1 (a consequence of 35mm), which can shade subjects and scare insects, and a two-stage focus system that takes some getting used to. Its value at $449 is the most common point in its favour.

Early buyers are drawn by the price and the novelty of a wide-angle 1:1 lens with autofocus on Sony E, and many plan to use it as a general 35mm as well as for macro.

First impressions mention the short working distance and lighting challenges at life size, and some confusion about switching between normal AF and the macro assistance mode. Long-term reliability and firmware maturity are still unknown.