AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro vs AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro: Spec Comparison
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When comparing the astrhori 18mm f8 aps c macro vs 28mm f13 2x macro, you face two distinct probe lenses. Both offer 2x magnification and a 90-degree viewing angle for detailed macro work. The main difference lies in their sensor compatibility and lighting. The 18mm model is designed for APS-C sensors and includes a built-in ring light. The 28mm model supports full-frame sensors and features a corner light instead. Your choice depends on your camera body and lighting needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens | AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Format | APS-C | Full Frame |
| Focal Length | 18mm | 28mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F8 | F13 |
| Built-in Lighting | Ring light | Corner light |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.05m | not listed |
| Length | 18 inches | 18.5 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens if
- You use an APS-C mirrorless camera and need a wider field of view.
- You require a built-in ring light for even illumination in tight spaces.
- You want a lens with a specified minimum focusing distance of 0.05m.
Choose AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens if
- You shoot with a full-frame mirrorless camera.
- You prefer a corner light for directional lighting effects.
- You need a slightly longer focal length for more working distance.
Verdict: Choose the 18mm model if you are on an APS-C system and value the ring light for general macro tasks. Pick the 28mm model if you have a full-frame body or prefer corner lighting. Both lenses provide 2x magnification for detailed close-up photography.
Probe Lens Spec Showdown
Sensor compatibility
The AstrHori 18mm F8 is designed specifically for APS-C sensors, as stated in its key specifications. This means it projects an image circle that covers smaller sensors efficiently. In contrast, the AstrHori 28mm F13 is built for full-frame cameras. This distinction is critical for your setup. If you shoot with an APS-C body, the 18mm lens will utilize the sensor area without cropping the image unnecessarily. The 28mm lens, however, is intended for larger sensors. Using the 28mm on an APS-C body would result in significant vignetting or a cropped field of view. Choose the 18mm for APS-C bodies and the 28mm for full-frame bodies to ensure proper coverage.
Field of view
Focal length determines how much of your subject fits into the frame. The 18mm lens offers a wider field of view compared to the 28mm lens. This wider angle allows you to capture more of the surrounding environment while maintaining the 2x magnification. It is useful when you need to include context around a small subject. The 28mm lens provides a tighter perspective. This narrower view isolates the subject more effectively, which is often preferred for detailed product shots or specific insect features. The difference in focal length changes how you compose your macro images, with the 18mm being more expansive and the 28mm being more focused.
Lighting system
Both lenses include built-in lighting, but the configuration differs. The 18mm F8 features a ring light that surrounds the lens barrel. This design provides even, shadow-free illumination directly onto the subject. It has ten levels of brightness adjustment via a Type-C interface. The 28mm F13 uses a corner light setup. This type of lighting is positioned to the side, which can create directional shadows and highlight textures differently. The ring light on the 18mm is generally better for flat, evenly lit macro work, while the corner light on the 28mm offers a different artistic effect. Your choice depends on whether you prefer uniform lighting or textured, directional light.
Physical dimensions
Size matters when navigating tight spaces. The 18mm lens is slightly shorter at 18 inches in length, while the 28mm lens extends to 18.5 inches. Both are slender probe lenses designed to fit into narrow gaps. The 18mm lens has a width and height of 2.36 inches, whereas the 28mm lens is thinner at 1.18 inches in both width and height. The 28mm is more compact in diameter, which might make it easier to maneuver in extremely confined areas. However, the 18mm is slightly shorter overall. Both designs prioritize portability and the ability to reach into small spaces, such as pipes or miniature models.
Waterproofing
The 18mm F8 lens explicitly mentions waterproof capabilities. The front 20cm of the lens is waterproof, allowing you to submerge it in water for underwater macro photography. This feature expands its utility to aquatic environments. The data for the 28mm F13 does not mention any waterproofing specifications. While it is a probe lens, you should assume it is not designed for submersion unless stated otherwise. If you plan to shoot in wet conditions or underwater, the 18mm is the only viable option between the two. For dry land macro work, this feature is less relevant, but it adds significant versatility to the 18mm lens.
Choose your probe lens
APS-C Fuji X shooter
This lens matches your APS-C sensor format. The 18mm focal length offers a wider field of view for environmental macro shots. You get a built-in ring light with ten brightness levels and waterproofing for the front 20cm. The detachable design helps in tight spaces like insect caves or miniature models.
Full-frame macro user
This model is built for full-frame sensors. The 28mm focal length provides a different perspective on your subject. It features a 90-degree corner light, which differs from the ring light on the other model. The longer 18.5-inch length allows for precise positioning in narrow gaps without casting shadows on your subject.
Product and jewelry photographer
The 2x magnification and wide-angle view capture more of the subject and its environment. The built-in ring light ensures even illumination for shiny surfaces like jewelry. The movie focusing gear on the aperture and focus rings allows for smooth adjustments during video recording, making it versatile for commercial close-ups.
The products compared
AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens
Best for: APS-C macro photography in tight spaces
- Lens Mount
- Fuji X
- Focal Length
- 18mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F8
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- about 0.05m
- Lens Type
- Macro
View on Amazon: AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens Affiliate link
This AstrHori lens is a 2x macro probe designed for Fuji X mount APS-C cameras. It features an 18mm focal length and an F8 maximum aperture. The slender body detaches for narrow spaces. A built-in ring light with ten brightness levels aids dark shots. The front section is waterproof. It suits macro photographers needing reach and illumination in tight areas.
Pros
- 2x magnification ratio for detailed close-ups
- Built-in ring light with ten adjustable levels
- Detachable front lens group for narrow spaces
- Waterproof front section for special environments
Cons
- Maximum aperture of F8 limits light intake
- APS-C sensor format restricts full-frame use
- Fixed focal length reduces compositional flexibility
Good fit if
- You need to shoot in tight, dark spaces
- You require 2x magnification for small subjects
- You use Fuji X mount APS-C cameras
Skip if
- You shoot with full-frame cameras
- You need a fast aperture for low light
- You prefer standard zoom lenses
Verdict: AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens fits photographers who need to explore tight, dark spaces with high magnification. It is a specialized tool for macro work on APS-C bodies.
AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens
Best for: full-frame macro photography with integrated lighting
- Lens Mount
- Fuji X Mount
- Focal Length
- 28mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F13
- Sensor Format
- Full Frame
- Dimensions
- 18.5 × 1.18 × 1.18 inches
View on Amazon: AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens Affiliate link
This is a 28mm macro probe lens designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras. It features a fixed F13 aperture and a 2X magnification ratio. The body is 18.5 inches long with a 1.18-inch diameter. It includes a built-in corner light for illumination. You will find it suitable for detailed close-up work where reach and specific lighting are required.
Pros
- 28mm focal length
- 2X macro magnification
- Built-in corner light
- Full-frame sensor format support
- Available in Fuji X, Nikon Z, and Sony E mounts
Cons
- Fixed F13 maximum aperture limits light gathering
- 18.5-inch length makes it bulky for handheld use
- No variable zoom or aperture control
Good fit if
- You need high magnification for small subjects
- You shoot with a full-frame mirrorless camera
- You require integrated lighting for macro shots
Skip if
- You need a standard zoom lens
- You require a fast aperture for low light
- You prefer a compact, portable lens design
Verdict: AstrHori 28mm F13 Probe Lens is a specialized tool for full-frame users needing 2X magnification and built-in lighting. It fits photographers who prioritize reach and illumination over portability and speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens | AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Fuji X | Fuji X Mount |
| Focal Length | 18mm | 28mm |
| Maximum Aperture | F8 | F13 |
| Sensor Format | APS-C | Full Frame |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | about 0.05m | not stated |
| Lens Type | Macro | not stated |
| Dimensions | 18 × 2.36 × 2.36 inches | 18.5 × 1.18 × 1.18 inches |
| Size | for Fuji X | not stated |
| Color | Direct-view | not stated |
| Model | WDJT-18F8-FX | For Fuji X Mount |
Frequently asked questions
Which AstrHori probe lens is best for APS-C cameras?
The AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens is the correct choice for APS-C bodies. It is explicitly designed for the smaller sensor format. This ensures the image circle covers your sensor efficiently without vignetting. The 18mm focal length provides a slightly wider view than the 28mm alternative.
Can I use the 28mm F13 lens on a full-frame camera?
Yes, the AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens is built for full-frame cameras. Its specifications list Full Frame as the sensor format. This allows you to utilize the larger sensor area for high-resolution macro details. It is not optimized for APS-C sensors, which may result in black corners.
How long are these probe lenses?
Both lenses are designed to reach into tight spaces. The 18mm F8 model is 18 inches long. The 28mm F13 model is slightly longer at 18.5 inches. This length allows you to get close to subjects while keeping the camera body at a safe distance.
What mount do these lenses use?
Both the AstrHori 18mm F8 and the 28mm F13 models use the Fujifilm X Mount. You must have a Fujifilm camera with this mount type to attach them. The specifications confirm they are compatible with Fuji X bodies for direct viewing.
Are these lenses waterproof?
The provided specifications do not explicitly state waterproof ratings for either lens. However, the 18mm model is noted for waterproofing the front element in its description. You should assume the front optical surface is protected against moisture. Do not submerge either lens without verifying specific IP ratings elsewhere.
What is the magnification ratio of these lenses?
Both lenses offer 2X magnification. This high ratio allows you to capture extreme close-up details of small subjects. The 28mm model is specifically labeled as a 2X Macro Probe Lens. The 18mm model also provides this level of enlargement for detailed macro photography.