Chinese lens manufacturer, Zhong Yi Optics, has announced the launch of the L-mount Mitakon Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 Lens, on top of Sony FE, Canon R, Nikon Z, and Leica M mount currently available. Read more about this manual, full-frame, sturdy yet affordable fast lens.

Mitakon Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III (L-mount)

According to Zhong Yi Optics, this is the first-ever f/0.95 lens for L mount camera users in the market and the price is very much affordable. The lens is designed for a full-frame mirrorless system and is compatible with Sigma FP, Panasonic S1, and S1H, Leica SL, SL2, supporting the complete line of L-mount cameras.

Built for filmmakers

The company says that videographers can take advantage of the de-clicked aperture ring for a smooth transition of exposure control. Close-to-360-degree Long Focus throw allows great precision in the adjustment of the focus point. With a 67mm popular filter thread size, screw-in photography filters can be fit in with ease.

Structure

The lens is made from metal with delicate workmanship enable high durability as well as excellent operability to photographers and filmmakers. Zhong Yi Optics emphasizes that the lens is characterized by a solid feel of precision in hand (All-metal lens barrel).

50mm f/0.95 III (L-mount) Specifications

1. Focal Length: 50mm
2. Aperture: f/0.95-16
3. Camera Mount Type: L mount
4. Format Compatibility: 5mm Full-frame sensors
5. Angle of View: 45°
6. Lens Structure: 10 elements in 7 groups
7. Aperture Blades: 9
8. Min. Focusing Distance: 50cm
9. Focus Method: Manual
10. Colors Available: Black
11. Filter Thread Front: 67mm
12. Dimensions Approx.: Ф 75 x 88mm (Ф 2.95 x 3.46”)
13. Weight: 675g / 1.49lbs

Price and availability

The new Mitakon Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 for L mount is available now on the Zhong Yi Optics website and other authorized resellers. The US retail price is $799 which is quite affordable.

Here’s a comprehensive review of the lens (for Nikon Z):

Final thoughts

First, it’s an affordable piece of decent glass. It is well built, and with a smooth 360-degree long focus throw which is a huge advantage in filmmaking. However, although it’s fast (“first-ever f/0.95 lens for L mount camera”), reviewers are saying that below f2, there’s no practical imagery to be utilized. That means, below f2 the lens suffers from an ultra-soft and inaccurate image which is not so good. Nevertheless, it’s getting better in the f2-f8 range. To sum it up, the ability for the wide aperture is useless here, since you most probably won’t be shooting wide-open with it. Thus, think of it as it was an f2 lens, which is not so fast. Anyway, it’s a beautiful lens, with some pros for videographers.

Product List

Here’re the products mentioned in the article, and the links to purchase them from authorized dealers. 

• Mitakon Zhongyi Speedmaster 50mm f/0.95 III Lens (Nikon Z, Sony, Canon RF mounts)
  • Buy on B&H
  • BUY on ADORAMA