- A formidable challenger to the native 'Plena'—delivering stunning bokeh and sharp AF performance for just $689.
7Artisans, a manufacturer well-known for its budget-friendly manual lenses, has officially released its full-frame autofocus (AF) telephoto prime lens, the ‘Max AF 135mm f/1.8’, specifically designed for Nikon Z-mount users.
The combination of a 135mm focal length and a bright f/1.8 aperture is highly coveted by portrait photographers. It creates a powerful background compression effect and a shallow depth of field that beautifully isolates the subject from the background. This new release is expected to be a highly practical and attractive alternative for photographers who found the native NIKKOR Z 135mm f/1.8 S Plena’s price tag out of reach.
Outstanding Sharpness and Exquisite Bokeh
The Max AF 135mm f/1.8 features a sophisticated optical design consisting of 16 elements in 13 groups. By generously incorporating 6 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses and 5 high-refractive index lenses to minimize chromatic aberration, it ensures razor-sharp resolution from the center to the edges, even on modern high-resolution mirrorless bodies exceeding 60 megapixels. Furthermore, equipped with a 12-blade circular aperture, the background blur (bokeh) remains smooth and perfectly round without swirly distortions, while stopping down the lens produces a clean, 12-pointed sunstar effect.
Quiet, Fast STM Motor and Video-Optimized Controls
The AF drive system is powered by a proprietary high-performance STM (stepping motor), providing swift and silent focusing essential for both photography and videography. It boasts a remarkably short minimum focusing distance of 0.68m for a 135mm lens, making it ideal for tight, high-tension close-ups of a subject’s eyes or detailed product shots.
On the lens barrel, a tactile 'clicked' aperture ring is paired with a dual 'de-clicked control ring' that can be customized for ISO or exposure compensation, significantly enhancing convenience for hybrid creators. It also comes fully equipped with two customizable Fn buttons and a USB Type-C port for future firmware updates.
Aircraft-Grade Metal Body at an Unbeatable Value
The mechanical build quality is equally impressive. Encased in an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy housing for added durability, the lens features an anti-smudge coating on the front element and weather-sealing at the mount, ensuring reliability in professional, outdoor environments. It has an 82mm filter thread and weighs approximately 1,014g.
The most shocking element is the price. While competitors like Viltrox have positioned their 135mm LAB lens at $899 and the native Nikon Plena retails well over $2,000, 7Artisans has introduced a disruptive price point of $689. The lens is currently available for order on their official online store and will soon hit major camera retailers.
✍️ Editor's Note
"The rise of third-party AF lenses from Chinese manufacturers is genuinely intimidating. 7Artisans’ new 'Max' lineup isn't just about cutting corners on price; it has closed the gap with native lenses in build quality and tactile control. For Nikon Z users on a budget, this might be the most welcoming news of the season."
[TAG] #7Artisans #135mm #NikonZ #Zmount #PortraitLens #TelephotoLens #BudgetLens #NewRelease #CameraNews