6 Best Alternatives to the AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro (2026)

How these alternatives compare

Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS

The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS differs significantly from the AstrHori probe lens. It uses a standard 90mm focal length rather than a 28mm probe design. This lens provides 1x magnification instead of the 2x macro capability found in the original. It includes Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, which the AstrHori lacks. The Sony lens is weather-sealed and weighs 1.33 pounds, making it heavier and bulkier than the slender AstrHori probe. You should choose this option if you prioritize sharpness and stabilization over extreme close-up access in tight or wet spaces. It is designed for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras, not Canon or Fujifilm systems.

Panasonic Lumix S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro Lens

The Panasonic Lumix S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro Lens offers a zoom range that the fixed 28mm AstrHori cannot match. It covers 70mm to 300mm, providing telephoto reach for macro work. This lens includes image stabilization and weather sealing, features absent in the AstrHori probe. It weighs 1 pound and measures 5.83 inches in length, making it more portable than the 18-inch AstrHori probe while still being substantial. The Panasonic lens is intended for full-frame L-mount cameras. You would pick this alternative if you need versatility for both telephoto and macro photography. It sacrifices the ability to enter narrow gaps in favor of a broader focal range and professional build quality.

AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe

The AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe shares the probe design with the original but targets APS-C sensors. It features an 18mm focal length and an F8 aperture, compared to the 28mm F13 of the full-frame model. This lens is also 18 inches long with a 2.36-inch width, maintaining the slender profile for tight spaces. It includes the same waterproof and lighting features as the original. You should select this version if you use an APS-C Canon RF camera. It provides a wider angle of view than the 28mm model, which may be better for larger subjects in confined areas. The trade-off is compatibility with full-frame sensors, as this lens is optimized for smaller APS-C image circles.

AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens

This AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens is identical in specification to the original but mounts to Fujifilm X systems. It retains the 28mm focal length, 2x magnification, and 18.5-inch length. The key difference is the mount, making it suitable for Fujifilm X-mount cameras rather than Canon RF. You would choose this alternative if you need the same probe capabilities on a Fujifilm body. The lens dimensions are nearly identical, with a width of 1.18 inches. It offers the same waterproofing and lighting features. This option allows Fujifilm users to access tight spaces with the same 2x macro performance as the Canon version, ensuring consistent results across different camera brands.

AstrHori 6mm f/2.8 Full Frame Fisheye

The AstrHori 6mm F2.8 Fisheye is a completely different type of lens compared to the 28mm macro probe. It features an ultra-wide 6mm focal length and an f/2.8 aperture, offering much faster light gathering than the F13 macro lens. This fisheye lens is compact, measuring only 2.4 inches in length, compared to the 18-inch probe. It is designed for creative distortion on full-frame Canon RF cameras. You should pick this option if you want extreme wide-angle shots rather than macro detail. It lacks the probe structure, waterproofing, and lighting features of the original. This lens is for photographers seeking unique visual styles and manual focus control in a small, portable package.

Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro Lens

The Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro Lens is a standard prime lens, unlike the specialized probe design of the AstrHori. It offers a 35mm focal length and an f/1.8 aperture, providing significantly faster shooting speeds. This lens includes image stabilization and weighs only 10.8 ounces, making it much lighter and more compact than the 18-inch probe. It delivers 1x macro magnification, which is less than the 2x capability of the original. You would choose this lens for general-purpose photography with occasional close-up capabilities. It is ideal for Canon RF users who need a versatile lens for everyday use rather than extreme macro access in confined or wet environments.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens

Best for: macro photography in confined or wet spaces

Lens Mount

Canon RF

Focal Length

28mm

Maximum Aperture

F13

Sensor Format

Full Frame

Lens Type

Macro

Dimensions

18 × 2.36 × 2.36 inches

View on Amazon: AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens Affiliate link

This specialty lens for Canon RF cameras features a 28mm focal length and full-frame sensor support. Its unique probe design allows for 2x macro magnification in tight spaces. The front 20cm section is waterproof with sapphire glass. It includes a ten-level adjustable ring fill light. This tool suits photographers needing access to narrow gaps or underwater shots.

Pros

• 2x magnification for detailed macro photography
• Waterproof front section with sapphire glass
• Built-in ten-level adjustable ring fill light
• Slender body detaches for narrow space access

Cons

• Maximum aperture is F13, limiting low-light use
• Length of 18 inches is bulky for travel
• Aperture range starts at F13, not wide

Good fit if

• You need to shoot inside animal caves or pipes
• You require waterproof macro capabilities for water subjects
• You photograph miniature models in confined settings

Skip if

• You need a wide maximum aperture for low light
• You prioritize compact portability for general travel
• You shoot standard portraits or landscapes

Verdict: AstrHori 28mm F1.3 Probe Lens for Canon RF is a specialized tool for accessing tight spaces. It fits photographers who need waterproof macro capabilities in narrow gaps.

2 Best sony e-mount

Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS

Best for: sharp macro photography on full-frame mirrorless

Lens Mount

E-mount

Focal Length

90 mm

Maximum Aperture

F2.8

Sensor Format

35mm full-frame

Focus Type

Manual/auto focus, DDSSM

Image Stabilization

Optical Steady Shot

View on Amazon: Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS Affiliate link

This is a 90mm macro lens for Sony E-mount full-frame cameras. It offers 1:1 magnification and a bright F2.8 aperture. Optical Steady Shot helps with handheld shots. The lens weighs 602 grams and features dust and moisture resistance. It suits photographers who need close-up detail and sharp corner-to-corner performance on their mirrorless bodies.

Pros

• 1.0x maximum magnification ratio for true macro work
• Optical Steady Shot image stabilization for handheld use
• Bright F2.8 maximum aperture for better low-light focus
• Dust and moisture resistant design for outdoor shooting

Cons

• Heavier at 1.33 pounds compared to standard primes
• Fixed focal length limits framing flexibility
• Minimum focus distance of 0.92 ft may be too close for some subjects

Good fit if

• You need 1:1 macro capability for detailed product or nature shots
• You shoot handheld in variable weather conditions
• You prioritize sharpness and bokeh quality in your images

Skip if

• You require a zoom lens for versatile framing
• You need a lightweight lens for travel or all-day carrying
• You prefer autofocus speeds faster than Direct Drive SSM

Verdict: Sony 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS Lens delivers professional macro results with stabilization. It fits photographers who value image quality and weather sealing over portability.

3 Best premium

Panasonic Lumix S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro Lens

Best for: L-mount telephoto and macro photography

Lens Mount

L Mount

Focal Length

70-300mm

Maximum Aperture

F4.5-5.6

Sensor Format

Full Frame

Color

Black

Lens Type

Macro

View on Amazon: Panasonic Lumix S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro Lens Affiliate link

The Panasonic LUMIX S 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 is a full-frame telephoto zoom for L-mount cameras. It reaches 300mm with 0.5x macro magnification at the long end. The lens includes 5.5-stop image stabilization to counteract hand shake. It features a rugged, dust- and splash-resistant design. This lens suits photographers who need reach and macro capability in a single, weather-sealed package.

Pros

• 70-300mm focal length with 0.5x macro magnification at 300mm
• 5.5-stop image stabilization for handheld telephoto shooting
• Dust, splash, and freeze-resistant rugged design
• Optimized for video with suppressed focus breathing

Cons

• Maximum aperture narrows to F5.6 at 300mm
• Weight of 1 pound adds bulk to the camera body
• Not compatible with Sony E-mount or other non-L-mount systems

Good fit if

• You shoot wildlife or sports and need telephoto reach
• You require macro details in nature photography
• You work in harsh outdoor environments

Skip if

• You use Sony E-mount cameras
• You need a constant wide aperture for low light
• You prefer compact prime lenses over zooms

Verdict: Panasonic LUMIX S 70-300mm Macro Lens delivers versatile reach and macro detail for L-mount users. It is the right tool for outdoor photographers who need weather sealing and stabilization.

4 Also great

AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe

Best for: APS-C Canon users needing tight space access

Lens Mount

Canon RF

Focal Length

18mm

Maximum Aperture

F8-F28

Sensor Format

APS-C

Focus Type

Manual Focus

Minimum Focusing Distance

0.05m

View on Amazon: AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Affiliate link

This AstrHori lens is an 18mm wide-angle macro designed for APS-C Canon RF mount cameras. It offers 2x magnification and a built-in ring light with ten brightness levels. The detachable structure allows for use in narrow spaces. The front section is waterproof for special environments. It includes movie focusing gear on the aperture and focus rings for video work.

Pros

• 2x magnification ratio for detailed macro shots
• Built-in ring light with ten-level brightness adjustment
• Detachable lens body for narrow space access
• Waterproof front section for special environments
• Movie focusing gear on aperture and focus rings

Cons

• APS-C sensor format limits full-frame compatibility
• 18-inch length is bulky for travel
• Fixed 18mm focal length restricts versatility

Good fit if

• You need to shoot in narrow or dark spaces
• You use APS-C Canon RF mount cameras
• You require a waterproof lens for special environments

Skip if

• You shoot with full-frame cameras
• You need a zoom lens for versatility
• You prioritize compact travel gear

Verdict: AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Probe Lens is a specialized tool for APS-C Canon users who need to explore tight or dark spaces. It suits those who value waterproofing and adjustable lighting over portability.

5 Best fujifilm x mount

AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens

Best for: Fujifilm X mount users needing 2X macro magnification

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 AstrHori lens is a 28mm manual focus macro tool designed for Fujifilm X mount cameras. It offers 2X magnification on full-frame sensors, allowing you to capture extreme close-ups. The 18.5-inch length extends far from your subject, which is ideal for delicate or distant objects. It includes a built-in corner light to illuminate your work area. You should use this if you need specialized macro capabilities beyond standard lenses.

Pros

• 2X magnification for extreme close-up photography
• 18.5-inch length keeps light and shadows off the subject
• Built-in corner light for better illumination
• Compatible with Fujifilm X mount cameras

Cons

• Fixed f/13 aperture limits light gathering
• Manual focus only
• Fixed 28mm focal length

Good fit if

• You need extreme magnification for small subjects
• You shoot with Fujifilm X mount cameras
• You require a long working distance to avoid disturbing subjects

Skip if

• You need autofocus for fast-moving subjects
• You prefer variable focal lengths for versatility
• You shoot in very low light without auxiliary lighting

Verdict: AstrHori 28mm F13 Probe Lens is a specialized tool for Fujifilm X mount users who need 2X macro magnification with a long working distance. It fits those who prioritize extreme close-up detail over speed and versatility.

6 Best budget

AstrHori 6mm f/2.8 Full Frame Fisheye

Best for: creative ultra-wide distortion on Canon RF

Lens Mount

Canon RF

Focal Length

6mm

Maximum Aperture

F2.8

Sensor Format

Full Frame

Focus Type

Manual Focus

Minimum Focusing Distance

0.08m

View on Amazon: AstrHori 6mm f/2.8 Full Frame Fisheye Affiliate link

This AstrHori 6mm F2.8 is a manual focus fisheye lens for Canon RF full-frame cameras. It offers a 220° circular diagonal viewing angle and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. The lens weighs 330g and features a metal body. It allows for close focusing at 0.08m. You will need to enable the release without lens setting. This lens suits creators who want extreme wide-angle distortion and creative portrait options.

Pros

• 220° circular diagonal viewing angle for exaggerated distortion
• f/2.8 maximum aperture for low-light performance
• 0.08m closest focusing distance for unique effects
• 330g lightweight full metal body construction

Cons

• Manual focus only requires manual operation
• Requires enabling release without lens setting on camera
• Circular image format does not fill the full frame

Good fit if

• You want a compact ultra-wide lens for Canon RF
• You need creative distortion for video or photography
• You prefer manual control over autofocus

Skip if

• You require autofocus for quick shooting
• You need a full-frame rectangular fisheye image
• You prefer automatic aperture control

Verdict: AstrHori 6mm F2.8 Fisheye for Canon RF provides extreme wide-angle distortion for creative projects. It fits photographers who enjoy manual focus and unique visual styles on full-frame Canon cameras.

7 Best 35mm

Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro Lens

Best for: Versatile macro and general shooting on Canon R

Lens Mount

Canon RF

Focal Length

35mm

Maximum Aperture

f/1.8

Focus Type

Autofocus STM

Image Stabilization

Optical Image Stabilization

Minimum Focusing Distance

0.17m

View on Amazon: Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro Lens Affiliate link

This Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro lens offers 0.5x magnification for close-up work on full-frame or APS-C Canon EOS R cameras. It features a wide f/1.8 maximum aperture and built-in optical image stabilization for up to 5 stops of correction. The compact design includes a control ring for quick adjustments. It suits photographers who need a versatile prime lens that handles both general shooting and macro details without bulk.

Pros

• 0.5x maximum magnification ratio
• f/1.8 wide maximum aperture
• Optical Image Stabilization up to 5 stops
• Control ring for direct setting changes

Cons

• Limited to 0.5x magnification, lower than 2X macro probes
• RF mount only, not compatible with Canon DSLRs
• Minimum focusing distance of 0.17m may be too close for some

Good fit if

• You shoot with Canon EOS R series cameras
• You need a compact lens for general use and macro
• You value image stabilization for handheld shooting

Skip if

• You require 2X or greater magnification for extreme macro
• You use Canon DSLR cameras with EF or EF-S mounts
• You need a dedicated probe lens for tight spaces

Verdict: Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro provides a versatile balance of speed and stabilization for Canon R users. It fits photographers who want a single lens for everyday shooting and moderate close-ups rather than extreme macro work.

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