Summary
- The Laowa ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 1X Macro APO combines full-frame coverage, a 35mm focal length and 1:1 magnification.
- Sony E, Nikon Z and Canon EF versions provide autofocus from 0.5m to infinity, while Canon RF and L-mount are manual focus.
- The optical design uses 13 elements in 10 groups and the maximum aperture is f/2.8.
- The official price is $449, with no official European price found.
Venus Optics has introduced the Laowa ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 1X Macro APO, a full-frame 35mm lens that reaches true 1:1 magnification and is offered with autofocus for Sony E, Nikon Z and Canon EF.
Laowa describes it as the first full-frame autofocus 35mm lens with true 1:1 magnification. For Canon RF and L-mount, the ACRIS is available as a manual-focus version.
The 35mm focal length takes a different approach from a conventional tele-macro lens: it keeps more of the surroundings in the frame, but at 1:1 the minimum working distance is only 48.6mm, which requires care with insects and lighting.
35mm with true 1:1 magnification
The ACRIS covers full-frame sensors, has a 63.4° angle of view and reaches a maximum 1:1 magnification. Minimum focusing distance is 180mm, while minimum working distance is reduced to 48.6mm.
This combination lets a small subject occupy a significant part of the frame without removing its surroundings. It is an approach that is particularly suitable for environmental macro, products, food and small objects where the context around the subject is part of the image.
Autofocus from 0.5m and assistance at macro distances
The Sony E, Nikon Z and Canon EF versions provide autofocus from 0.5m to infinity. At closer distances, Laowa uses a Macro Focus Assistance mode for fine focus adjustments and focus stacking rather than full autofocus throughout the range down to 1:1.
The Canon RF and L-mount versions are manual focus. This distinction matters because the “AF macro” designation does not mean that conventional autofocus remains active in the extreme close-focus range where maximum magnification is achieved.
Optical design, f/2.8 aperture and build
The optical design uses 13 elements in 10 groups and carries the APO designation, with the goal of reducing chromatic aberration and color fringing. The aperture range is f/2.8–f/22, with 9 blades on the AF versions and 13 on the MF versions.
The lens uses internal focusing so its external length does not change while focusing, and it features a metal, weather-resistant construction. Weight ranges from about 530 to 570 grams depending on the mount. AF versions use 72mm filters, while MF versions use 67mm filters.
Price and availability
Laowa’s official page lists the ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 1X Macro APO at $449. No official European price was found in the Laowa check for the European market.
More information here.
What we think
The most interesting aspect of the ACRIS is the combination of a 35mm perspective with true 1:1 magnification while retaining autofocus for normal distances on the three AF mounts. The main limitation is the very short working distance and the fact that full AF stops at 0.5m, before the range where maximum macro magnification is reached. For creators who want to show a subject together with its environment, this approach has clear practical appeal, while a longer macro lens remains easier to use with skittish insects.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Laowa ACRIS 35mm really reach 1:1 magnification?
Yes. Maximum magnification is 1:1, with a minimum focusing distance of 180mm and a minimum working distance of 48.6mm.
Which mounts offer autofocus?
Autofocus is offered for Sony E, Nikon Z and Canon EF. The Canon RF and L-mount versions are manual focus.
Does autofocus work all the way to 1:1?
Not as full autofocus. Normal AF operates from 0.5m to infinity, while closer distances use Macro Focus Assistance for fine adjustments and focus stacking.
How much does the Laowa ACRIS 35mm f/2.8 cost?
The official Laowa store price is $449. No official European price was found.
