AstrHori has unveiled a new 18mm f/8 2x Macro Probe Lens for APS-C cameras that is compatible with Sony E, Nikon Z, Fujifilm X, Canon RF, Canon EF, and Micro Four Thirds as a follow-up to their 28mm f/13 macro probe lens from 2022.

According to the producer, the new 18mm f/8 lens boasts a built-in front-mounted LED, a waterproof design, and exceptional magnification, just like its earlier probing lens, which was made to compete with the Laowa product but at big savings. With 23 elements grouped in 17 groups and a seven-bladed diaphragm, the AstrHori 18mm f/8 2x Macro Probe Lens has an aperture range of f/8 to f/28. The lens’s stated working distance is 5mm, and its reported focusing range is 0.474 meters.

Although the focusing range doesn’t appear to be very close, anticipate to be able to set the front of the lens quite close to subjects because the close focusing distance is typically defined by the distance from the focal plane while working distance relates to the distance between the front element and a subject.

It is a fully manual focusing optic with a 76-degree field of view. To make transport simpler, the lens can be separated into two halves. The front 20 centimeters of the lens are completely sealed, and there is a mark on the lens that indicates when water protection ends. This makes the lens semi-waterproof. Since the lens is long and not particularly fast, it can be challenging to light subjects without creating a shadow from the lens itself. The front LED, which does require external USB power to operate, can illuminate the area immediately in front of the optic. This feature is useful in studio settings.

In terms of size, the lens is 457mm long overall for mirrorless mounts and 432mm long for EF mounts. The complete lens is 716 grams in weight.