7Artisans AF 25mm F1.8 Lite

The 7Artisans AF 25mm F1.8 Lite is a compact autofocus lens intended for APS-C format mirrorless camera systems, including Sony E, Fujifilm X, and Nikon Z mounts. On an APS-C camera, it offers an angle of view equivalent to that of a 37.5mm lens on a full-frame camera, making it suitable as a general-purpose lens for street, travel, environmental portraits, and everyday shooting where just a bit more scope than the standard 50mm equivalent lens is desired.

The lens’ portability is clearly an important consideration, with the lens measuring just 67 mm in diameter and 51 mm in length, weighing in at just 183 g (approximately 6.5 oz). It’s clearly one of the lightest autofocus primes in its category, perfectly suited to the compact dimensions of most APS-C format mirrorless camera systems, without adding undue bulk or unbalancing the camera during extended use or travel. The lens’ build quality focuses on the small size of the lens’ body, constructed from metal for basic durability, and its straightforward design, featuring an aperture control ring (covering the range from f/1.8 through to 16, with clicked aperture detents), focus mode switch (AF/MF), and STM autofocus motor that allows for quiet, fairly quick autofocus with eye detection and tracking on supported camera systems, as well as a close focusing capability of 0.25 m (9.8 in) for environmental portraits, 58 mm filter thread, and petal-shaped lens hood.

The lens is designed with simplicity and cost-effectiveness in mind, rather than features, with no weather sealing beyond basic gasketing, no customizable buttons, nor a de-clickable aperture for video shooters, nor a USB firmware update port on this "Lite" version. The lens has good autofocus capabilities but may not be as quick as other lenses in action situations. The lens is generally available in the range of $125-$150, depending on mount type, with a focus on new users, those on a tight budget, or those building a lightweight kit wanting autofocus convenience without premium prices.

The lens is a good value for casual users, but it has decent optical quality that is consistent with being an entry-level lens, with good sharpness in the center when wide open but soft edges that sharpen up when stopped down.

Purchase

Purchase the 7Artisans Lite Series 25mm f/1.8 AF Lens for Fujifilm X or Sony E

Lens Construction and Optics

The optical design has eight elements in five groups, with the inclusion of high refractive index glass to help manage the aberrations while keeping the lens small, light, and portable. The lens has multi-coatings that help minimize flare and ghosting, especially when the lens is used in brighter conditions. The lens has a nine-blade diaphragm, which helps create smooth bokeh, especially when the lens is closed down, as is the case with this entry-level lens. The lens has an STM motor that helps with autofocus, allowing the lens to focus internally without extending the length of the lens. The lens has a metal barrel, which gives the lens a premium feel despite its light weight, along with a basic gasket that helps with dust protection.

The lens is effective at f/1.8, with good center sharpness, contrast, and color, especially when the lens is used with an APS-C sensor, making it an ideal lens for general-purpose photography. The lens is soft in the corners when wide open, with improvement at f/4–f/5.6, making the lens suitable for general-purpose photography.

Specifications