Gear Reviews

Fstoppers gear reviews are written by photographers who actually use the equipment — not benchmark testers looking at spec sheets. This section covers cameras, lenses, lighting, accessories, bags, software, and everything else in a working photographer's kit. The goal is always the same: give you an accurate picture of whether something is worth your money before you spend it.

A Review of the Top 10 Best-Selling Lenses for Under $100

In this video, Arthur R buys the top 10 best-selling lenses on Amazon that cost under $100 and pits them against one another. So, if you're looking for something affordable to play with, perhaps this is exactly what you need! 

Important Things to Look For When You Choose a Camera Bag

There is a bamboozling range of different camera bags on the market, and deciding which to buy is a veritable minefield. Here are some explanations of the various bags, their purposes, and what to look for when choosing yours. 

Canon EOS R5 Mark II Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

The Canon EOS R5 Mark II has been a highly anticipated update, and if you’re considering upgrading, there are a few things you should know. The original R5 set a high standard for image quality, but the Mark II promises some key improvements that might make it worth the jump, especially for those who shoot both photos and videos. 

Is the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 the Best Wide-Angle Zoom for Canon APS-C?

If you’re looking for a wide-angle zoom that delivers sharp images, fast performance, and durable construction, the Sigma 10-18mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary might be worth a closer look. This lens aims to fill a gap in Canon’s APS-C lineup with impressive features for a variety of users.  

Insta360 Ace Pro 2: A New Contender To The Action Cam Throne?

When it comes to action cameras, this time of year seems to be when all the main players release their latest and greatest iterations to the market, each promising to be better than before and better than the rest. Enter the ring, Insta360 and the Ace Pro 2, which promises to shake things up quite considerably. 

Is Medium Format Worth It? Breaking Down the Hype

Photographers often get caught up in the technical details of their gear, especially when it comes to sensor size. The debate around whether bigger is always better can lead to hefty investments in medium format cameras, but are they really worth the cost?

Leica M11: A Unique Blend of Old and New in Photography

For those who appreciate the tactile nature of photography, where the feel of the camera and the process matters as much as the final image, the Leica M11 is intriguing. But this blend of old-school charm and new technology comes with its share of quirks. 

How a Tiny Camera Beat the Larger Options on a Major Trip

Traveling with the right camera is essential, especially when shooting across multiple locations. Whether you’re trying to keep things light or aiming for the highest image quality, your gear needs to fit the conditions you’re working in.   

ProMaster Chroma TL9RGB Tube LED Light Review

There are rare occasions when I need a lightweight lighting setup for on-location portraits. I have several kits pre-packed for this sort of thing—Nikon flashes with radio triggers, Flashpoint portable strobes, and once in a while, LED panels. 

The Hasselblad X2D: A Medium Format Dream for Landscape Photography

If you're into landscape and portrait photography, finding the right camera for your needs can make all the difference. While fast-action shooting and convenience matter in many situations, there’s also something to be said for slowing down, being intentional, and capturing the perfect shot. The Hasselblad X2D might just be the camera to help you do that. 

A Compact Powerhouse: Introducing the Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 Lens

Viltrox, as you know, has established itself as a go-to brand for photographers looking for quality glass at a more affordable price. The Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 takes that ethos a step further, offering a compact, lightweight option that seems tailored for street photographers and travelers.

Can the iPhone Compete With the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro and the GoPro 13 Black?

For the last few weeks, I have been filming with the brand new GoPro Hero 13 Black and the new DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro action cameras. To mix things up a bit, I also tested them against and Apple iPhone. Can your older "professional" model iPhone produce video that competes with these new state of the art action cameras? Let's find out. 

Is the Canon PRO-1100 the Right Choice for Your First Printer?

Choosing the right printer can be overwhelming, especially when you’re considering a professional-grade model. This printer is designed for those who want to create gallery-quality prints, but it comes with a learning curve and a significant investment in both time and money. 

The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

The Sony FE 85mm f/1.4 GM II lens has a lot to offer its predecessor. Lens upgrades can mean sharper images, better handling, and improved usability. But with the steep cost of new lenses, you want to make sure you’re getting value before making a switch. 

Portrait Magic With Medium Format

The Fujifilm GFX 100S II offers the allure of medium format imaging in tandem with a 102-megapixel sensor. A camera like this provides features that can elevate your portrait game, but it comes at a significant investment. So, what sets it apart? 

Review of the New Amaran App for Remote Light Control

On August 20, 2024, Amaran released a brand-new app for wireless light control on mobile devices and desktops. It offers an interface for controlling an ecosystem of multiple lights at once and promises simpler, more intuitive, yet powerful control of lights that support wireless connections. 

A Close Look at the Stunning Fujifilm Fujinon GF 500mm f/5.6 Lens

Using medium format cameras for wildlife and bird photography might seem unconventional, but the Fujifilm Fujinon GF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR lens changes the game. This long telephoto lens offers excellent image quality, strong stabilization, and a surprisingly lightweight build—all while retaining the detail and resolution that make medium format so appealing. 

The 7artisans 60mm f/2.8 Macro Lens: An Extremely Affordable Lens With Trade-offs

The 7artisans Photoelectric 60mm f/2.8 Macro lens is a budget-friendly option that aims to provide macro enthusiasts with impressive close-up shots. This lens, unlike some of its predecessors, offers a full frame image circle, making it more versatile for those who want to experiment with extreme magnification.

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH.: A High-Quality Lens with Some Drawbacks

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens has been highly anticipated by users who want quality optics without the bulk of larger telephoto options. For sports and wildlife shooting, it’s essential to have a lens that not only delivers sharp images but also handles well during fast-paced action. But does this lens really meet those needs?  

Sony vs. Nikon: Which 85mm Lens is Best for Portraits?

The Sony 85mm f/1.4 GM II and Nikon NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.2 S are two of the most impressive lenses out there. Whether you’re chasing the perfect bokeh or prioritizing weight and size, it's hard to go wrong.  

Is the 7artisans 85mm f/1.8 AF a Good Budget Portrait Lens for Nikon Users?

A quality 85mm lens with a fast aperture is a go-to option for portrait work, offering a balance of image quality and background separation. But getting those features with autofocus at a budget-friendly price is rare. The 7artisans Photoelectric 85mm f/1.8 AF aims to do just that, delivering solid performance at just $299.  

Rollei 35AF: A Compact Film Camera With Retro Charm

If you want a compact film camera that mixes classic style with modern convenience, the Rollei 35AF could be the perfect fit. As a modern take on the original Rollei 35, it retains the compact size and design while introducing autofocus, making it more practical for everyday use.

Why the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS Is Worth the Investment

Finding the right lens for sports or wildlife photography often comes down to speed, clarity, and performance in tough conditions. With a fast f/2.8 aperture, the Sony FE 300mm f/2.8 GM OSS offers all of these qualities in a surprisingly compact package.

A Review of the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens

The Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary is a compact, lightweight lens designed for Fujifilm users looking to keep their gear portable without sacrificing versatility. While Fujifilm’s own lenses are known for their excellent build quality and performance, they tend to be heavy, making them less suitable for travel. That’s where the Sigma 18-50mm comes in.

Which Nikon 50mm Lens Is Right for You?

The right lens can change the way your images look and feel. This comparison between the Nikon NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.4 S and the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 S breaks down what makes each option stand out for your shooting style. 

A Review of the Tamron 50-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD Lens

Tamron’s 50-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD offers an interesting option for those seeking a versatile zoom lens. It expands the standard range of 70-300mm telephoto lenses to start at 50mm, making it more flexible for a variety of shooting scenarios. Whether you’re capturing landscapes at wider angles or zooming in for distant details, this lens aims to cover it all.

Tiny Lens, Big Value: The Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 Pancake

Compact, affordable, and surprisingly capable—pancake lenses are a popular choice for their lightweight design and versatility. The new Viltrox 28mm f/4.5 pancake lens is no exception. With its ultra-slim build, this lens is ideal for travel, street photography, and situations where you need to keep a low profile without sacrificing image quality. 

We Review the Zhiyun Cinepeer C100 RGB Light

As a landscape photographer, my passion is usually capturing the natural beauty of the outdoors. However, having versatile and powerful lighting is crucial when working in controlled environments, like in my studio or during indoor shoots. 

We Review the Viltrox 40mm f/2.5 Lens

Quite recently, Viltrox introduced the AF 40mm f/2.5 lens from the “Air” series at a very budget-friendly price, considering the quality of images the lens produces. Viltrox is known for their glass quality and as a budget-friendly third-party manufacturer, and again they haven’t disappointed with this lens for both. 

Is the TTArtisan AF 75mm f/2 the Best Budget Portrait Lens?

If you’ve been on the lookout for a low-cost portrait lens for your Sony or Nikon camera, the TTArtisan AF 75mm f/2 could be worth your attention. With its f/2 aperture, it offers a combination of smooth background blur and sharp image quality, perfect for portraits.  

We Review the Sigma 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art Lens

Sigma’s new 28-105mm f/2.8 DG DN Art is the latest addition to the Art lens series. It's a wide angle to medium telephoto lens, making it an ideal choice for a variety of shooting styles and genres. Thanks to its constant f/2.8 aperture, you’ll get consistent brightness no matter how much you zoom, offering both flexibility and great image quality.