Summary
7Artisans is now offering the AF Max 135mm f/1.8 for Sony E and L-Mount full-frame cameras, priced at $689.
The company introduced this prime telephoto lens in May for Nikon Z, but it is now expanding availability to Sony E and L-Mount systems while keeping the same aggressive price.
Its arrival matters because it brings a bright 135mm f/1.8 autofocus lens at a significantly lower price than several established options, especially for portrait photographers looking for strong subject separation and pronounced bokeh.
A 135mm f/1.8 With Aggressive Pricing
The 7Artisans AF Max 135mm f/1.8 enters a category traditionally associated with expensive high-performance lenses. On Sony E-mount, the comparison with Sony’s 135mm f/1.8 G Master is unavoidable, as Sony’s lens costs more than three times as much.
There are also closer competitors in terms of price, including the Viltrox AF 135mm f/1.8 LAB and the Samyang and Rokinon 135mm f/1.8 lenses. Even so, at $689, the new 7Artisans lens appears to be the most affordable 135mm f/1.8 autofocus option for Sony E.
On L-Mount, the case is even more interesting, as the 7Artisans lens is effectively the only available 135mm f/1.8 autofocus option for the system.
Optical Design and Features
The lens uses an optical construction of 16 elements in 13 groups. 7Artisans says it includes five HR elements and six ED elements, aiming to reduce aberrations and maintain high clarity across the frame.
The aperture has 12 blades, a feature designed to help produce smooth bokeh, which is particularly important for a portrait lens at this focal length.
The bright f/1.8 maximum aperture enables shallow depth-of-field shooting, while the 135mm focal length makes the lens suitable for portraits, detail shots, scenes with compressed perspective, and strong subject isolation.
Autofocus, Close Focusing and Handling
Autofocus is driven by a quiet stepping motor, while the minimum focus distance is 0.68 meters. This gives the lens reasonable flexibility for close-up work, although it is not a macro lens.
The lens weighs about 1,014 grams, measures 136 millimeters in length, and accepts 82mm filters. It is not a small or especially lightweight lens, which is expected for a full-frame 135mm f/1.8.
The Sony E and L-Mount versions feature a clicked aperture ring, an AF/MF switch, two function buttons, and a USB-C port in the mount for firmware updates. The mount is also weather-sealed.
Availability
The 7Artisans AF Max 135mm f/1.8 is available now for Sony E and L-Mount at $689. The Nikon Z version, introduced earlier, is also available at the same price.
More here.
What We Think
7Artisans’ move shows how quickly the third-party lens market is changing. A 135mm f/1.8 autofocus lens at this price is not just a budget alternative, but a product that could seriously pressure the competition, especially if real-world performance matches the company’s claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mounts is the 7Artisans AF Max 135mm f/1.8 available for?
The lens is available for Sony E, L-Mount, and Nikon Z.
How much does the lens cost?
It is priced at $689.
Is it a full-frame lens?
Yes, it is designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras.
Does it have autofocus?
Yes, it uses a stepping motor for autofocus.
What filter size does it use?
The lens accepts 82mm filters.
