TTArtisan has launched a new 85mm prime lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras. The Neo prime lens has a fast maximum aperture of F1.8. You can pick it up with either a Sony E mount or Nikon Z mount.
Design
The TTArtisan 85mm Neo prime lens is compact, measuring just 3.6 inches (92mm) in length and 2.6 inches (70mm) in diameter. It’s also relatively lightweight, coming in at under 12 ounces (338g). Don’t be fooled by the wide ridged ring around the body of the lens. That’s just a grip, not a focus ring. In fact, there are no buttons, switches or controls at all on the lens. However, there is a 62mm filter thread at the front.
Optical construction
The TTArtisan 85mm Neo prime lens is constructed with 12 lens elements in 8 groups. These include two ED (extra-low dispersion) and two high-index lens elements. The lens also has a fast maximum aperture of F1.8. This should deliver good low-light performance and a shallow depth of field. With 11 iris blades, you should get a smooth bokeh in the out-of-focus parts of your images as well.
Autofocus only
The TTArtisan 85mm Neo prime lens is an autofocus-only lens. It features an optimized STM stepping motor, which the company says delivers smooth and fast autofocus performance for both stills and video. The lens also supports eye and face detection for accurate subject tracking. In addition, the close-focus distance is 31.5 inches (0.8 meters). With an 85mm focal length, this means that you can get some great close-up images.
Other features
The TTArtisan 85mm Neo prime lens comes with a lens hood, as well as front and rear lens caps. Interestingly, the rear lens cap has a USB-C port, presumably for firmware updates. In addition, you can customize the lens with 3D-printed shells for a unique look.
What we think
The TTArtisan 85mm Neo is by far the cheapest 85mm prime lens you can get for Sony E and Nikon Z mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. 85mm is an ideal focal length for portrait work on a full-frame camera. With the wide maximum aperture of F1.8, you will also find it easy to achieve a shallow depth of field for great background separation. You have to be prepared to work without manual focus, but for many users that won’t be an issue. When you consider the very low price point as well, the TTArtisan 85mm Neo is a good option for anyone looking to get their first telephoto prime lens.
Availability
The TTArtisan AF 85mm F1.8 Neo full-frame prime lens is available to order from the company’s website now for $99 plus shipping.
