Looking Beyond the LAOWA 24mm f/14 2X Macro? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe offers unique wide-angle macro capabilities with a built-in ring light. If you are looking for laowa 24mm f 14 2x macro alternatives, you might want a different focal length or weight. This probe lens weighs 5.11 pounds and has a fixed f/14 aperture. You may prefer a lighter lens or one with autofocus for general shooting. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specs overlap with the original, covering similar macro needs.
The list includes options from Sony, Sigma, Tamron, and AstrHori. You can find a 90mm macro lens with image stabilization or a 70mm manual focus option. There are also probe lenses in 18mm and 28mm for tight spaces. Each product serves a specific purpose, from full-frame macro to APS-C manual control. You should compare the focal lengths, sensor formats, and focus types to find the right fit. These choices provide different approaches to macro photography while maintaining compatibility with Sony E-mount cameras. Review the detailed specs below to see which lens matches your workflow.
How Each Alternative Compares
Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS
The Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS shifts you from wide-angle macro to standard telephoto macro. It offers 1.0x magnification compared to the Laowa 2x, providing a more natural perspective for many subjects. You gain autofocus and optical stabilization, which the Laowa lacks. The Sony lens weighs only 1.33 pounds, making it significantly lighter than the 5.11-pound Laowa. This option suits full-frame users who prioritize sharpness and ease of use over extreme close-up capabilities and built-in lighting.
Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens
The Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro replaces the Laowa’s fixed 24mm focal length with a 70mm option. It provides manual focus only, similar to the Laowa, but lacks the probe design and built-in ring light. The Sigma is much lighter at 1.1 pounds and more compact. It delivers true 1:1 magnification on full-frame sensors. You choose this if you want high image quality and a traditional macro experience without the bulk or specialized illumination of the Laowa probe lens.
Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD Lens
The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD is a telephoto zoom, not a macro lens. It offers significant reach rather than close focusing. You sacrifice macro capabilities entirely for long-distance shooting. It weighs 6 pounds, heavier than the Laowa. This lens fits Sony full-frame users seeking magnification for wildlife or sports, not detailed macro work. It lacks the Laowa’s unique wide-angle perspective and built-in lighting, serving a completely different photographic need.
AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens
The AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens is the closest alternative to the Laowa. It also offers 2x magnification and a probe design for tight spaces. The 28mm focal length is slightly wider than the Laowa’s 24mm. It shares the manual focus and lack of autofocus. You might choose it for specific access needs or price differences. It lacks the Laowa’s established brand presence but offers similar specialized macro capabilities for full-frame Sony cameras in dark or confined environments.
7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens
The 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens targets APS-C sensors, not full-frame. It offers 1:1 macro magnification with manual focus. It is compact and lightweight compared to the heavy Laowa probe. You give up the wide-angle perspective and built-in lighting. This lens suits APS-C users who want true macro capabilities without the bulk. It is a simpler tool for general macro photography rather than specialized probe work in tight spaces.
AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens
The AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens is another probe option, but for APS-C sensors. It offers an ultra-wide 18mm focal length and 2x magnification. Like the Laowa, it is designed for tight, dark, or wet spaces. It weighs less but is specialized for APS-C bodies. You choose this if you need even wider coverage than the Laowa. It lacks autofocus and built-in specs beyond the probe design, serving a niche macro audience.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe
Best for: wide-angle macro photography with built-in lighting
- Lens Mount
- Sony FE
- Focal Length
- 24mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/14
- Focus Type
- Manual Focus
- Lens Type
- Macro
- Weight
- 5.11 pounds
View on Amazon: Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe Affiliate link
This Laowa lens offers 2x magnification with a 24mm focal length for wide-angle macro work on Sony FE cameras. It features a built-in USB-powered ring light and an f/14 aperture for deep depth of field. The lens relies on manual focus. It weighs 5.11 pounds. It suits photographers needing close working distance and unique perspectives for small subjects.
Pros
- 2x magnification with 24mm focal length
- Built-in USB-powered ring light
- f/14 aperture for maximum depth of field
- 0.7-inch minimum working distance
Cons
- Manual focus only
- Heavy at 5.11 pounds
- No autofocus capability
Good fit if
- You need extreme close-up detail on small subjects
- You want a wide-angle perspective for macro shots
- You work in tight spaces needing built-in lighting
Skip if
- You require autofocus for fast-moving subjects
- You prefer lightweight gear for handheld shooting
- You need a standard macro perspective without wide-angle distortion
Verdict: Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe delivers unique wide-angle macro capabilities with integrated lighting. It fits photographers prioritizing depth of field and close working distance over speed and weight.
Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS
Best for: full-frame macro photography
- 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 Sony lens is a 90mm full-frame macro optic designed for E-mount cameras. It offers 1.0x magnification and focuses as close as 0.28 meters. The bright f/2.8 aperture helps in low light, while Optical Steady Shot stabilizes handheld shots. You get quiet Direct Drive SSM focusing and dust-resistant construction. It suits photographers who need sharp, close-up detail on full-frame bodies.
Pros
- 1.0x maximum magnification ratio
- f/2.8 maximum aperture
- Optical Steady Shot stabilization
- Dust and moisture resistant design
- Direct Drive SSM quiet focusing
Cons
- Fixed 90mm focal length
- Heavier at 602 grams
- No power zoom or autofocus motor for video
Good fit if
- You shoot macro on full-frame Sony E-mount cameras
- You need 1.0x life-size magnification
- You value optical stabilization for handheld work
Skip if
- You use APS-C or Micro Four Thirds bodies
- You need a zoom lens for versatility
- You require a lighter lens under 500 grams
Verdict: Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS delivers precise 1.0x magnification and stabilization for full-frame users. It fits photographers who prioritize sharp macro detail and quiet focusing on Sony E-mount bodies.
Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD Lens
Best for: Sony full-frame telephoto reach
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 150-500mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/5-6.7
- Sensor Format
- Full-Frame
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 8.3 × 3.7 × 3.7 inches
View on Amazon: Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD Lens Affiliate link
This Tamron lens offers a 150-500mm focal range for Sony E-mount full-frame cameras. It includes VC image stabilization with three modes for handheld shooting. The optical design uses XLD, LD, and GM elements to reduce color fringing. It weighs 6 pounds and measures 8.3 inches long. This tool suits photographers needing reach for distant subjects.
Pros
- 150-500mm versatile ultra-telephoto zoom range
- VC image stabilization with three modes
- XLD, LD, and GM glass elements reduce aberrations
- Rotating Arca-type tripod mount included
Cons
- Heavy at 6 pounds
- Maximum aperture narrows to f/6.7 at 500mm
- No weather sealing mentioned in specifications
Good fit if
- You need extreme reach for wildlife or sports
- You shoot with Sony E-mount full-frame bodies
- You prioritize image stabilization for handheld telephoto work
Skip if
- You require a compact, lightweight travel lens
- You need fast autofocus or wide apertures
- You shoot with APS-C only and want lighter gear
Verdict: Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Telephoto Zoom delivers significant reach and stabilization for Sony users. It fits those prioritizing magnification over portability and low-light speed.
Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens
Best for: manual macro photography on full-frame Sony cameras
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 70mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F2.8
- Sensor Format
- Full-frame
- Color
- Black
- Lens Type
- Macro
View on Amazon: Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens Affiliate link
This is a full-frame macro lens for Sony E-mount cameras. It features a 70mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. The lens delivers 1:1 magnification for true macro work. It uses a focus-by-wire system for precise manual focusing. The build is black and weighs 1.1 pounds. It suits photographers who need high resolution and clarity in their close-up shots.
Pros
- 1:1 macro magnification for detailed close-ups
- f/2.8 maximum aperture for better light gathering
- Focus-by-wire system for precise manual control
- Compatible with Canon lens aberration correction
Cons
- Fixed 70mm focal length limits versatility
- Heavier at 1.1 pounds than some alternatives
- Manual focus only lacks autofocus speed
Good fit if
- You need true 1:1 macro magnification
- You shoot with full-frame Sony E-mount cameras
- You prefer manual focus precision for macro work
Skip if
- You require autofocus for fast-moving subjects
- You need a zoom lens for varied framing
- You prefer lighter gear for travel
Verdict: Sigma 70mm F2.8 Art DG Macro is a solid choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and manual control in macro photography. It fits those who value resolution over speed.
7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens
Best for: APS-C manual macro photography
- Lens Mount
- Sony E-Mount
- Focal Length
- 60mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/2.8
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Focus Type
- Manual Focus
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- 0.175m
View on Amazon: 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens Affiliate link
This 7artisans lens is a manual focus macro option for Sony E-mount APS-C cameras. It offers a 1:1 magnification ratio and a bright f/2.8 maximum aperture. The internal focusing design keeps the lens compact at 80.5mm long and 342g. An ED element helps reduce aberrations for clearer images. It features a de-clicked aperture ring, making it suitable for video work as well as still photography.
Pros
- 1:1 true macro magnification ratio
- Bright f/2.8 maximum aperture
- De-clicked aperture ring for silent video
- Compact 342g weight and 80.5mm length
Cons
- APS-C sensor format limits full-frame use
- Manual focus only requires practice
- No image stabilization listed in specs
Good fit if
- You shoot with APS-C mirrorless cameras
- You prefer manual control for precise focus
- You need a lightweight macro lens for travel
Skip if
- You use full-frame cameras exclusively
- You require autofocus for fast action
- You need optical image stabilization
Verdict: The 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Mark II APS-C Macro is a compact, manual focus lens ideal for APS-C users seeking true 1:1 macro capabilities. It suits photographers who value portability and manual control over autofocus speed.
AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens
Best for: shooting in tight, dark, or wet spaces
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 28mm
- Maximum Aperture
- F13-F40
- Sensor Format
- Full Frame
- Focus Type
- Manual Focus
- Lens Type
- Macro
View on Amazon: AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens Affiliate link
This AstrHori lens offers 2x magnification for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras. It features a slender 2.36-inch body that extends to 18 inches, allowing access to tight spaces. A built-in ring light with ten brightness levels illuminates subjects in dark areas like animal caves or product displays. The front 20cm is waterproof with sapphire glass, making it suitable for shallow water shooting. It includes movie focusing gears for smooth operation.
Pros
- 2x magnification macro capability
- Built-in ten-level adjustable ring light
- Waterproof front with sapphire glass
- Detachable design for narrow spaces
- Movie focusing gear compatibility
Cons
- Fixed aperture range of f/13 to f/40
- Manual focus only
- No autofocus motor
Good fit if
- You need to shoot in confined spaces like model sets
- You require illumination in dark environments
- You want to shoot underwater at shallow depths
Skip if
- You require autofocus for fast-moving subjects
- You need a wider aperture than f/13
- You prefer a compact lens without extension
Verdict: AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens is ideal for photographers who need to explore tight, dark, or wet environments with high magnification. It suits those willing to trade autofocus and wide apertures for unique access and lighting.
AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens
Best for: Wide-angle macro in tight spaces
- Lens Mount
- Sony E
- Focal Length
- 18mm
- Maximum Aperture
- f/8
- Sensor Format
- APS-C
- Focus Type
- Manual Focus
- Minimum Focusing Distance
- 0.05m
View on Amazon: AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens Affiliate link
This is an 18mm F8 APS-C macro lens for Sony E-mount cameras. It offers 2x magnification with a 0.05m minimum working distance. The design includes a detachable structure for narrow spaces and a built-in ring light with ten brightness levels. The front section is waterproof. It suits you if you need wide-angle macro details in tight or dark environments.
Pros
- 18mm focal length with 2x magnification
- Detachable lens body for narrow spaces
- Built-in ring light with ten-level adjustment
- Waterproof front section for special environments
Cons
- APS-C sensor format limits full-frame use
- Fixed maximum aperture of F8
- No autofocus capability
Good fit if
- You need to shoot in narrow gaps or animal caves
- You require a wide field of view for macro subjects
- You work in low-light conditions needing built-in illumination
Skip if
- You shoot with full-frame cameras
- You require autofocus for fast-moving subjects
- You need a standard aperture range for general photography
Verdict: AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens fits you if you need wide-angle macro access in tight, dark, or wet spaces. It is a specialized tool for specific macro scenarios, not a general-purpose lens.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe | Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS | Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD Lens | Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens | 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens | AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens | AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Sony FE | E-mount | Sony E | Sony E | Sony E-Mount | Sony E | Sony E |
| Focal Length | 24mm | 90 mm | 150-500mm | 70mm | 60mm | 28mm | 18mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/14 | F2.8 | f/5-6.7 | F2.8 | f/2.8 | F13-F40 | f/8 |
| Sensor Format | not stated | 35mm full-frame | Full-Frame | Full-frame | APS-C | Full Frame | APS-C |
| Focus Type | Manual Focus | Manual/auto focus, DDSSM | not stated | not stated | Manual Focus | Manual Focus | Manual Focus |
| Image Stabilization | not stated | Optical Steady Shot | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | not stated | 0.92 ft (0.28 m) | not stated | not stated | 0.175m | not stated | 0.05m |
| Color | not stated | Black | Black | Black | not stated | Direct View | Direct-view |
| Aperture | not stated | f/2.8 | not stated | f/2.8 | f/2.8 | not stated | not stated |
| Lens Type | Macro | Macro | not stated | Macro | Macro | Macro | Macro |
| Weight | 5.11 pounds | 1.33 pounds | 6 pounds | 1.1 pounds | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 5.16 × 3.11 × 3.11 inches | 8.3 × 3.7 × 3.7 inches | 4.2 × 2.8 × 2.8 inches | not stated | 18 × 2.36 × 2.36 inches | 18 × 2.36 × 2.36 inches |
| Model | VE2414FE | SEL90M28G | AFA057S-700 | 271965 | 6028EBC | 2813-SE | not stated |
| Size | not stated | 4.70 | not stated | 70mm | not stated | for Sony E | for Sony E |
Frequently asked questions
Which Sony E-mount macro lens is the lightest?
The Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens is the lightest option on this list. It weighs 1.1 pounds. This makes it significantly more portable than the Laowa Probe, which weighs 5.11 pounds. The Sigma offers manual focus control and fits full-frame Sony cameras.
What is the best manual focus macro lens for APS-C sensors?
The 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Manual Macro Lens is designed for APS-C cameras. It provides true 1:1 macro capabilities without autofocus. This lens suits users who prioritize compact size and manual control over speed. It mounts directly to Sony E-mount bodies for direct use.
Is there a wide-angle macro lens similar to the Laowa Probe?
Yes, the AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens offers similar wide-angle macro capabilities. It also features a probe design for tight spaces. However, it weighs less than the Laowa 24mm. This lens is ideal for exploring dark or wet environments with high magnification.
Which lens provides the most telephoto reach for macro work?
The Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD Lens offers the longest reach. It is a telephoto zoom lens for Sony full-frame cameras. While not a dedicated macro lens, its focal length allows for significant subject magnification. It weighs 6 pounds and includes stabilization features.
What is the smallest macro lens for Sony E-mount?
The AstrHori 18mm F8 APS-C Macro Probe Lens is quite compact in width and height. It measures 2.36 inches in diameter. However, it is 18 inches long due to its probe design. This specialized tool is best for wide-angle macro in tight, dark, or wet spaces.
Which lens includes optical stabilization for macro photography?
The Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS includes Optical SteadyShot stabilization. This helps reduce camera shake during handheld macro shots. It delivers 1.0x magnification on full-frame sensors. The lens weighs 1.33 pounds and offers quiet autofocus performance for Sony E-mount users.
Are there any full-frame macro lenses under 2 pounds?
Yes, the Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS weighs 1.33 pounds. The Sigma 70mm F2.8 DG Art Macro Lens weighs 1.1 pounds. Both are designed for full-frame Sony cameras. The Sigma requires manual focus, while the Sony offers autofocus and image stabilization.