LAOWA vs AstrHori: Mirrorless Lens Compared by Specs
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This LAOWA vs AstrHori mirrorless lens comparison examines two distinct 2X macro probe lenses. Both tools allow you to shoot extreme close-ups in tight spaces with adjustable lighting. The primary difference lies in their mounting systems and sensor support. The Laowa model targets Sony FE cameras, while the AstrHori option is designed for Canon RF mounts. You must select the version that matches your camera body to ensure proper fit and functionality.
Key differences
| Aspect | Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe | AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Sony FE | Canon RF |
| Focal Length | 24mm | 28mm |
| Sensor Format | not listed | Full Frame |
| Maximum Aperture | f/14 | F13 |
| Illumination | USB powered ring light | 5V/1A Type-C ring light |
| Waterproofing | not listed | Waterproof to 20cm |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe if
- You own a Sony FE mirrorless camera
- You need a slightly wider 24mm field of view for macro work
- You prefer a lens that does not require separate waterproofing considerations
Choose AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens if
- You own a Canon RF mirrorless camera
- You need to shoot underwater or in wet environments up to 20cm deep
- You want a lens explicitly rated for Full Frame sensors
Verdict: The Laowa 24mm f/14 is the correct choice for Sony FE users who want a dedicated macro probe. The AstrHori 28mm F13 is the necessary option for Canon RF users, especially those requiring waterproof capabilities for unique shooting environments.
Probe Lens Specs Compared
sensor format
The AstrHori lens is explicitly designed for full-frame sensors, as stated in its attributes and key specifications. This makes it suitable for modern full-frame mirrorless cameras like the Canon EOS R5 or R6. The Laowa lens lists Sony FE as its mount, which also supports full-frame sensors, but the data does not explicitly state the sensor format in the attributes. If you are using a full-frame body, both lenses will cover the image circle, but the AstrHori documentation is clearer on this point. For APS-C users, the Laowa lens will also work, but the coverage is not detailed in the provided data.
mount compatibility
Mount compatibility is a strict divider here. The Laowa lens is built for Sony E-Mount cameras, specifically the Sony FE mount. The AstrHori lens is built for Canon RF Mount cameras. You cannot use either lens on a camera system that does not match its specific mount without an adapter, and even then, functionality may be limited. If you shoot with Sony, the Laowa is your only option. If you shoot with Canon, the AstrHori is your only option. The AstrHori data also lists variations for other mounts like Nikon Z and Fuji X, but the specific product compared here is for Canon RF. You must choose based on your camera brand.
built-in lighting
Both lenses feature built-in ring lights for illumination in tight spaces. The AstrHori lens includes a ten-level adjustable high-power fill light with a Type-C interface, using 5V and 1A power. It offers precise control over brightness for various environments. The Laowa lens also has a built-in ring light that is USB powered. However, the data for the Laowa lens does not specify the number of brightness levels or the power interface type. The AstrHori provides more detailed specifications for its lighting system, allowing for more predictable adjustments in the field.
physical design
The physical design of these probe lenses differs in portability and construction. The AstrHori lens is slender, with a width of 2.36 inches, and can be detached into two sections for separate storage, enhancing portability. It also features a waterproof front section made of sapphire glass, allowing it to go underwater up to 20cm. The Laowa lens weighs 5.11 pounds, which is quite heavy for a lens. The data does not mention if the Laowa lens is detachable or waterproof. The AstrHori design offers more versatility for travel and harsh environments.
focus type
Both lenses rely on manual focus, which is standard for this type of macro probe lens. The Laowa lens features a precise focus ring for accurate focusing, essential for macro work where autofocus is often unreliable. The AstrHori lens also uses manual focus and includes movie focusing gears on the aperture and focus rings, which is convenient for follow focus systems if you are shooting video. The data does not indicate that either lens has autofocus capabilities. You will need to focus manually for both, but the AstrHori offers additional gear compatibility for video production.
Which Lens Fits Your Setup
Sony FE users needing macro
This Laowa lens is built specifically for Sony FE mounts. Its 24mm focal length and f/14 aperture provide a wide field of view with deep depth of field. The 0.7-inch working distance and built-in USB ring light help you illuminate tight spaces. Manual focus ensures precision for detailed macro work.
Canon RF users wanting portability
This AstrHori lens fits Canon RF cameras and features a detachable design for easier storage. It includes a ten-level adjustable ring light powered by USB-C. The waterproof front and sapphire glass allow for unique shooting angles and protection. Its 28mm focal length offers a slightly wider perspective for full-frame sensor users.
Shooters needing waterproof capabilities
The AstrHori lens allows you to submerge the front 20cm into water. This feature is ideal for underwater macro or wet environments. The sapphire glass front protects against scratches and wear. This durability expands your shooting scenarios beyond standard indoor or dry conditions, offering versatility that the Laowa model does not specify.
The products compared
Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe
Best for: extreme macro photography in tight spaces
- 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
The Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe is a specialized manual focus lens for Sony FE cameras. It features a 24mm focal length and 2x magnification, allowing you to capture unique wide-angle macro perspectives. The lens offers a minimum working distance of just 0.7 inches and includes a built-in, USB-powered ring light for illumination. Its f/14 aperture maximizes depth of field, ensuring more of your subject stays in focus during detailed macro work.
Pros
- 2x magnification with a 24mm focal length
- 0.7-inch minimum working distance
- Built-in USB-powered ring light
- f/14 aperture for deep depth of field
- Manual focus for precise control
Cons
- Heavy at 5.11 pounds
- Requires manual focusing only
- Narrow f/14 maximum aperture
Good fit if
- You need extreme close-up details on small subjects
- You shoot macro photography in tight spaces
- You want adjustable built-in lighting
Skip if
- You require autofocus capability
- You prefer lightweight gear
- You need a wider maximum aperture
Verdict: Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe Lens suits macro photographers who need precise, close-range illumination and deep focus, despite its significant weight and manual operation.
AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens
Best for: shooting in narrow, wet, or confined 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 AstrHori lens is a 28mm macro probe designed for Canon RF full-frame cameras. It offers 2x magnification with a minimum aperture of f/13. The front 20cm section is waterproof and includes a ten-level adjustable LED fill light. The body is slender, measuring 2.36 inches wide, and detaches for storage. It is built for shooting in narrow spaces like animal caves or miniature models.
Pros
- 2x magnification macro capability
- Waterproof front section up to 20cm
- Built-in ten-level adjustable LED fill light
- Detachable body for portable storage
- Sapphire glass protective lens
Cons
- Very narrow aperture range of f/13 to f/40
- Extremely long length of 18 inches
- Heavy and bulky for general photography
Good fit if
- You need to shoot inside narrow spaces like pipes or caves
- You require macro details with a working distance
- You want to photograph subjects in wet environments
Skip if
- You need a fast aperture for low light
- You prefer a compact lens for travel
- You want to use this on Sony E mount cameras
Verdict: AstrHori 28mm f/13 2X Macro Probe Lens for Canon RF is a specialized tool for macro photography in tight or wet spaces. It suits you if you need to shoot inside pipes, animal burrows, or miniature sets where standard lenses cannot reach.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe | AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens |
|---|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Sony FE | Canon RF |
| Focal Length | 24mm | 28mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/14 | F13 |
| Sensor Format | not stated | Full Frame |
| Focus Type | Manual Focus | not stated |
| Lens Type | Macro | Macro |
| Weight | 5.11 pounds | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 18 × 2.36 × 2.36 inches |
| Model | VE2414FE | not stated |
| Size | not stated | for Canon RF |
| Color | not stated | Direct View |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Laowa lens on Canon cameras?
No, this specific Laowa model is built for Sony E-Mount systems. The product data lists the lens mount as Sony E-Mount only. You must have a Sony mirrorless camera to attach it. It will not fit Canon RF or other mounts without an adapter that may not support the probe design.
Is the AstrHori lens compatible with Sony E-Mount?
No, this AstrHori lens is designed for Canon RF Mount cameras. The specifications clearly state the size is for Canon RF. You need a Canon mirrorless body to use it. It is not listed as compatible with Sony E-Mount or other camera systems in the provided data.
How heavy is the Laowa 24mm Probe Lens?
The Laowa 24mm f/14 2X Macro Probe weighs 5.11 pounds. This is a significant weight for a manual macro lens. You should consider your camera support needs. The heavy build may require a sturdy tripod or monopod to maintain stability during extreme close-up shots in tight spaces.
What is the length of the AstrHori probe lens?
The AstrHori 28mm F13 2X Macro Probe Lens is 18 inches long. It has a width and height of 2.36 inches each. This long, slender design allows you to reach into narrow pipes or burrows. The size helps you capture macro images where standard lenses cannot physically fit.
Which lens is better for full-frame sensors?
The AstrHori 28mm F13 is explicitly designed for full-frame sensors. Its attributes confirm it supports full-frame mirrorless cameras like the Canon EOS R5 or R6. The Laowa lens lists Sony FE mount but does not specify full-frame support in the provided data. Check your sensor format carefully before buying.
Do these lenses require manual focus?
Yes, both lenses are manual focus macro probe tools. The Laowa verdict notes manual operation as a key feature. You must adjust focus and aperture manually. The AstrHori design also implies manual control for precise macro work. Neither lens offers autofocus capabilities in the provided specifications.
Can I shoot macro inside animal burrows with these lenses?
Yes, both lenses are designed for tight spaces like animal burrows. The AstrHori description mentions shooting inside pipes and burrows. The Laowa probe is also suited for extreme macro photography in confined areas. Their long, thin bodies allow you to reach subjects that standard lenses cannot access.