Laowa Argus 35mm f/0.95 FF
Announced October 26, 2021
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Good
The Laowa Argus 35mm f/0.95 FF offers a unique, ultra-fast aperture that produces distinctive bokeh and creative rendering, yet it requires users to navigate significant optical compromises and manual-only operation. While the lens is heavy and lacks electronic connectivity, it remains a compelling, cost-effective tool for photographers seeking a specific look that other lenses cannot replicate.
Weighted from 10 reviewer scores
Pros
- Smooth manual focus and de-clickable aperture
- High-quality all-metal construction
- Creamy, distinctive bokeh rendering
- Unique ultra-fast f/0.95 aperture
Cons
- Optical issues including vignetting, coma, and chromatic aberration
- Soft corner sharpness and low contrast at wide apertures
- Heavy and bulky physical design
- Manual focus only with no electronic contacts
- Susceptibility to flare
- Launch price $899 (USD)
- Focal length & aperture 35mm f/0.95
- Mount & coverage Sony E, Nikon Z, Canon RF Full-Frame
- Stabilization None
- Close focus 50 cm (0.1x)
- Filter thread 72mm
- Autofocus motor Manual focus only
- Weight & size 755g · 76.8 x 103 mm (3.02 x 4.06 in)
What the Reviewers Say
All 10 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 7.5/10
Given its unique look that is not currently offered by anyone else and the image quality largely holding up when you know how to use it, it’s going to be worth it for those interested in the wide-angle shallow depth of field look.
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[T]he way this lens renders the out-of-focus areas can be truly stunning and very unique, and so that might absolutely justify the extra price point and the uniqueness of this lens for you.
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All in all, the Argus 35mm f/0.95 lens is a unique lens. Yes, it has its limitations, yet, it’s truly fun to work with.
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This is the kind of lens that opens up a lot of creative options for the right kind of photographer.
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If you're happy with getting a really fun one though which can bag you some beautiful and unique results, then this Laowa Argus 35mm f/0.95 FF is right up your street, and if you're happy to work around some of its optical issues, then it does come recommended.
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So far f/0.95 fullframe lenses have been special purpose lenses for shallow depth of field photography with plenty of compromises, too many compromises for myself to consider using them on an everyday basis.
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Here's a lens that's not perfect through the entire range, but it has a look and a character that other lenses just don't give you, and I kind of like that.
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If you don't mind the extra weight in your bag, this would be a welcome addition whether you're a portrait, product or landscape photographer.
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[...] I think Laowa did a very good job as this lens delivers overall quite decent image quality even when you are shooting at the maximum aperture.
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This is the world's only 35mm f/0.95 full-frame lens. If you absolutely, positively need f/0.95 at 35mm on full-frame, there is no competition.
