Choosing the right cine lenses for your DSLR or mirrorless camera can significantly enhance the quality and style of your filmmaking. With a variety of cine lens manufacturers offering lenses that cater to different needs and budgets, finding the perfect match can be challenging.
Whether you’re a budget-conscious indie filmmaker or a professional seeking high-end optics, understanding the nuances of these brands will help you make an informed decision.
Cover photo by octavian rosca
Other Cine Lens Manufacturers for DSLR Users
Viltrox
Viltrox, founded in 2007, offers cine lenses under the Viltrox Cine series for EF, Sony E, and MFT mounts. Known for affordability and decent optical performance, Viltrox lenses are popular. Especially among budget-conscious filmmakers and beginners.
Autofocus can be unreliable, and build quality may not match higher-end brands. Lenses typically range from $300 to $1,500.
Meike
Meike, founded in 2005, offers budget-friendly cine lenses under the Meike Cinema series. They use EF, Sony E, and MFT mounts. These lenses deliver good optical performance for their price. due to this, they appeal to indie filmmakers and those on a tight budget.
Build quality can vary, and they lack high-end features compared to premium brands. Lenses typically range from $300 to $1,200.
Lensbaby
Lensbaby, founded in 2004, offers creative cine lenses under the Lensbaby Composer Pro series. This range uses EF, Sony E, and MFT mounts. These lenses provide unique effects like tilt-shift and selective focus. They are favored for artistic and experimental video work.
You’ll find they are not suitable for all types of cinematography due to their specialized effects. Lenses typically range from $300 to $1,500.
ZY Optics (Mitakon)
ZY Optics (Mitakon), established in 2013, offers cine lenses under the Mitakon Cine series. This range is constructed with EF, Sony E, and MFT mounts. They are recognized for fast apertures and unique focal lengths. They also excel in low-light conditions and creating shallow depth of field.
Their range is limited, and build quality can vary. These lenses typically range from $500 to $2,000.
Laowa (Venus Optics)
Laowa (Venus Optics), established in 2013, offers cine lenses under the Laowa Cine series. These use EF, PL, Sony E, and MFT mounts. Known for their innovative designs, including ultra-wide angles and macro capabilities. Laowa lenses provide unique perspectives difficult to find in other brands.
Availability can be limited, and build quality may vary. These lenses typically range from $500 to $3,000.
Kipon
Kipon, founded in 1992, offers cine lenses under the Kipon Elegance series for EF, Sony E, and MFT mounts. These lenses provide a good balance between affordability and performance. They are known for their lightweight design and ease of use on gimbals and handheld rigs.
Their range is limited, and they are less well-known, which might affect resale value and accessory availability. Lenses typically range from $500 to $2,000.
Sirui
Sirui, established in 2001, is renowned for its affordable anamorphic lenses. The Sirui Anamorphic series is compatible with EF, Sony E, and MFT mounts. These lenses provide a cinematic look. Expect distinctive flares and oval bokeh, ideal for mirrorless systems.
Their offerings are primarily limited to anamorphic options. Lenses typically range from $700 to $2,000.
Irix
Irix, founded in 2016, produces the Irix Cine series for EF, PL, Sony E, and MFT mounts. These lenses are known for their durability and precision. They feature weather-sealed construction and a consistent focus throw across the range. They are particularly strong in wide-angle options.
Being a newer company, their range and availability are limited. Lenses typically range from $1,000 to $2,500.
SLR Magic
SLR Magic, established in 2009, produces unique and specialized cine lenses. The SLR Magic APO HyperPrime series works with EF, Sony E, and MFT mounts. They are known for anamorphic and low-light lenses. These are popular among experimental filmmakers for their distinct look.
They have niche appeal, affecting resale possibilities, and quality control can vary. Lenses typically range from $800 to $4,000.
Schneider Kreuznach
Schneider Kreuznach, established in 1913, produces the Xenon FF-Prime series. these are compatible with EF and PL mounts. Known for high optical quality and robust construction, these lenses offer a classic cinematic look. They come with excellent sharpness and color rendition.
They are higher cost and heavier, which may be less suitable for handheld work. Lenses typically range from $3,000 to $6,000 per lens.
Final Words
When choosing cine lenses, it’s crucial to consider what types of films you want to create. From this, you’ll understand which features are most important to you.
Whether you prioritize budget, optical quality, build durability, unique lens effects, or specific focal lengths, there is a wide range of options available to meet your needs.
