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 Impressive Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM Lens

Ultra-wide angle lenses are beloved for their ability to capture expansive scenes. One standout option is the Canon RF 10-20mm F4 L IS STM lens, and this great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from it.  

Fuji XF 56mm f/1.2 vs. Viltrox Pro AF 75mm f/1.2: Which Is Right for You?

Comparing lenses can be a challenging task, especially when both options are excellent. This great video review makes a detailed comparison of the Fuji XF 56mm f/1.2 and the Viltrox Pro AF 75mm f/1.2. Both lenses are impressive, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. 

Why the M2 iPad Air Stands Out in 2024

The M2 iPad Air combines intriguing specs and hardware in Apple's iPad lineup. This device is particularly compelling for those who want a high-performance tablet without opting for the more expensive Pro models. 

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

The Tamron 50-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III VC VXD offers a lot of versatility at quite an affordable price. How does it hold up in practice? This great video review takes a look at the performance and image quality you can expect from it in practice. 

The Sony 300mm f/2.8 G Master: A Lightweight Powerhouse

The Sony 300mm f/2.8 G Master lens is one of the best in the company's lineup. The standout feature is its remarkably light weight. However, there's a lot more to the lens than that, and this great video review takes a look at what you can expect. 

Sigma Shakes Up the Full Frame Game With Revolutionary 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN Art Lens

Sigma is known for making high-quality lenses, and they’ve just added another world’s first to their lineup: the Sigma 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN Art lens. This new full frame lens not only delivers a constant f/1.8 aperture throughout the entire zoom range, but it also delivers incredible sharpness and clarity throughout, similar to a high-quality prime lens.

Is the Leica SL3 Worth the Investment? A Comprehensive Review

When it comes to high-end cameras, the Leica SL3 stands out due to its cutting-edge features and impressive build quality. This new flagship model from Leica aims to cater to professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of advanced technology and the classic Leica feel.  

The 13-Inch iPad Pro: A Viable Laptop Alternative?

The new 13-inch iPad Pro M4, paired with the Apple Magic Keyboard and the new Pencil Pro, offers a compelling package for users considering it as their primary computer. Priced at nearly $2,500, it prompts the question: Can the iPad Pro finally replace a traditional computer in 2024? 

This Might Be the Best Lens That $80 Can Get You

You don’t really expect so much out of ridiculously cheap lenses. However, every once in a while, a budget lens comes along that may surprise you. This might be one of those lenses. 

How the Sony RX100 Changed Compact Cameras

Compact cameras have been fighting for relevance in a market dominated by smartphones. One camera that made a significant impact is the Sony RX100. Why did it leave such a mark on the industry?  

The Lenovo Legion 7i Laptop: A Deep Dive Into Its Design and Capabilities

The Lenovo Legion 7i, touted as Lenovo's best-looking laptop, has garnered attention for its sleek design and performance capabilities. This model stands out with its white color and brushed aluminum edges, offering a premium feel that sets it apart from its predecessors in tandem with the power creatives demand. 

The Viltrox AF 16mm f/1.8: A Hidden Gem of a Lens

Wide angle prime lenses are a must-have for many photographers, offering a useful perspective for landscape, architectural, and even portrait photography. Finding a lens that delivers both quality and value can be challenging, but this lens seems to check all the right boxes. 

An In-Depth Review of Top Standard Zoom Lenses for Sony Cameras

Sony’s decision to open their full-frame E-mount mirrorless cameras to third-party lens manufacturers has led to a thriving market with a variety of options. Among these, three standard zoom lenses stand out: the Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN Art II, and the Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2.

Kodak Gold 200: A Budget-Friendly Film for Stunning Results

Getting the most out of your film photography endeavors often means striking a balance between quality and cost. Kodak Gold 200 is a film stock that offers a compelling combination of affordability and pleasing results, particularly when shooting in 120 format.  

A Review of the New Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN ART II

A fast standard zoom lens can be one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in a photographer's kit. Covering a popular zoom range and offering a wide maximum aperture, lenses like the new Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN ART II are ideal for a variety of photographic applications.  

If You Shoot Sony, You've Got To Try This Lens

Sigma has built a solid reputation for its commitment to innovation and excellence in its ever-increasing range of photography lenses. The Contemporary series offers a very high-quality glass and price-friendly option for all photographers.  

Expanding Dynamic Range With Auto Exposure Bracketing

Expanding your camera’s dynamic range with Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB) can drastically improve image quality. Human eyes can see a wider dynamic range than cameras, so we need to use techniques like AEB to capture more detail in high-contrast scenes. 

Fujifilm Has Just Announced The GFX 100S II and We've Used It for a Week!

Fujifilm has just announced its sixth medium format mirrorless camera. The 102-megapixel GFX 100S II is a successor to the wildly popular, compact GFX 100S. Along with the body, Fujifilm has released the GF 500mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR, an incredibly long medium format telephoto perfect for wildlife! 

Our First Look at the New Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless APS-C Camera

Fujifilm has announced a couple of new products, one of which is the Fujifilm X-T50 mirrorless APS-C camera. It features the same 40-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor as the popular X100VI. The X-T50 is promised to be a game-changer for the professional and serious amateur photographer. 

How Good Is This Ultra-Affordable Tilt-Shift Lens?

Tilt-shift lenses are a powerful tool for photographers, offering control over perspective and depth of field for creative and technical applications. However, professional tilt-shift lenses are often prohibitively expensive, which makes this lens an intriguing option. 

All the Power You Need: We Review the Mango Power E

We've already reviewed several power stations that allow you to power your gear on the road or even your office at home. The solar generator we show you today goes beyond that. The Mango Power E has sufficient power and capacity for energy-hungry studios and demanding productions. 

Viltrox's Budget-Friendly Ultrawide Lens Delivers Impressive Performance

Viltrox has stepped up to the plate with their affordable AF 16mm f/1.8 autofocus lens, now available for Nikon Z and Sony E mount cameras. This full-frame lens offers a compelling combination of features, making it an attractive option for a variety of photographic applications. 

The Fujifilm X100VI: Is It Worth Hype?**

The Fujifilm X100 series has garnered a cult following, and the X100VI is the latest iteration to capture the hearts of photography enthusiasts. But is it all hype, or does this camera truly live up to its reputation? 

A Deep Dive into the Leica M11 Monochrom

Truly harnessing the power of monochrome requires intention and a deep understanding of light and shadow. The Leica M11 Monochrom, a dedicated black and white camera, presents a compelling option for photographers seeking to explore this art form, albeit at a very high price. Is it worth that cost? 

Nik Collection 7 Released: Faster and Newer, But Loses A Bit Along the Way

The Nik Collection, a set of seven photo editing tools, has just received a version number update. Version 7 brings with it primarily speed and workflow improvements, but is that enough to justify a whole new upgrade? In this review, I’ll discuss the new features, improvements, and even a surprise missing feature of this venerable editing suite. 

The Proven Classic: A Long-Term Review of The Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 R

Every once in a while, a piece of gear becomes an instant classic. The Fujifilm XF 56mm f/1.2 R carries that title with pride and deservedly so! I have been using it for nearly a decade and cannot recommend it enough. It's a brilliant lens with flaws that are easy to ignore. 

A Review of the New Viltrox AF 75mm f/1.2 XF Lens

Viltrox is rapidly gaining a reputation as the photography world's champion of affordability, consistently delivering lenses that defy their price tags with impressive performance. One of their latest offerings, the AF 75mm f/1.2 XF, specifically designed for Fujifilm X Series cameras, is no exception.