Minolta AF 100 F2  reviews

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: bcerrr   review date: November-11-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

135mm/F2.8
24-105mm/F3.5-3.5

price paid:

700 USD(used)

positive:

very sharp across all aperture
smooth boken
rich Minolta color
good contrast
compact but solid build
distortion is small

negative:

AF a bit noisy and slow
flare control
highly priced as an old lens

comment:

This is a very good lens with a distinctive old Minolta style back in the 1980s. The image quality is superb, as well as the solid build with metal and glass. The only drawback is the slow and noisy AF. I wish that Sony will reproduce this lens with a SSM motor inside, then it will qualify a "G" mark on the front cap.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: dinadan   review date: October-23-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50mm f1.7 RS
Minolta 50mm f2.8 Macro

price paid:

850 EUR

positive:

very sharp even wide open
nice bokeh
focal length on ff
light and small
perfect focus w/o micro adjust

negative:

some flare

comment:

i recently upgraded from my trusted old a700 to a a850. since 50mm is now too short for portrait shooting, i needed a new lens. after reading the reviews and looking at sample images, i decided to go for the 100mm f2. this lens is rightly legendary, the images are stunning! well worth the high price i paid.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: lifeispixels   review date: January-16-12  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

870 USD (mint)

positive:

Sweet, rich, true classic Minolta colors. Deep 3D contrast. Smooth and nice transition bokeh. Amazing sharpness at f2 to extremely sharp at f2.8.

negative:

CA can be a bit strong in high contrast scene at f2. Stopped down to f2.8 gets rid of most CA. Minimum focus distance is quite long. Not suitable for macro.

comment:

Tried with both A850 and A77, my copy back focuses a bit and requires -10 adjustment on the camera body. First impression with images taken with this lens is beyond expected sharpness at f2 and extremely sharp with micro details at f2.8. I can clearly see very fine thin hair and pores on the face of the model in natural light without flash and that photo is already downsized to 1024 pixels width!! If it's not sharp to you, it's more likely your copy back or front focuses, since DOF at f2 is very narrow, and back/front focus is very common for legacy glasses on newer camera bodies. Don't return this lens if you haven't checked this yet. Only A850 A900 and A77 can do focus adjustment so you should consider upgrading your body then selling this fine gems and regret later.

The colors of this lens are very classic Minolta style which can be described as sweet, deep, and richly saturated. But this lens takes it further and produce the kind of uniquely rich, deep colors I haven't found in other classic Minolta lens I have. The first instance I tried this lens made me WOW. The contrast is brilliant and almost 3D like. The subject in focus just pops up from the background. No need for post processing at all.

The other outstanding feature is the creamy and smooth transition of the out of focus background (bokeh). A lot of photographers asked me after seeing my photos if I used the lens with smooth focus feature. It's really just beautiful. I love the bokeh and sharpness at f2 and will not hesitate to shoot wide open. CA can be a bit strong so you should be careful in high contrast scenes and stop down to f2.8 to avoid the problem.

I'd prefer this one over the 135mm f1.8za for street candid, photojournalism, and travels for its portable size and weight that's half of that ZA. I wouldn't want to lug around 1.8 kilo of camera + lens with me on my trips. This lens is very hard to find, especially in mint conditions, and expect the price to keep rising.

If you come across one, just grab it while you can! You won't be disappointed. This is one of the best portrait/candid lens available in A mount.

See my photos with 100mm f2 on my Flickr collection at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/lifeispixels/collections/72157628204412995/

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: gouldina   review date: August-04-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony Zeiss 85ZA,
Minolta 135 f2.8
Minolta 100 macro
CZJ Sonnar 135 f3.5
Sony 70-200G

positive:

Sharp
Contrasty
Beautiful rendition and colour
Not too big

negative:

mfd could be shorter

comment:

A pretty rare lens this and very high quality. Build is great and focussing is reasonably quick. Minimal focus could be shorter but it's not atypical for a lens of this length. I love its rendering of light and smooth bokeh. It's extremely contrasty which is a characteristic I like although the contrast is not so much at the micro-contrast level as the Zeiss 85 and it's not quite so sharp (although it is my sharpest lenses, ZA aside). Nonetheless, it renders texture, colour and light beautifully in a very Minolta way. Think of the 135 f2.8's rendering but with far less CA (at least in my experience) and you'll get the idea.
Despite owning both the 85ZA and the 100f2 and despite their similar focal lengths, I intend to keep both. The 100 is much less bulky for one thing and has a different look.

Update after more use:

Initially I used the 85mm in preference (I bought them both around the same time) but lately it's the other way round or at least where people shots are concerned. I love the way it renders people and it has brilliant colour and I also prefer the slightly longer focal length. I'd say the Zeiss was a tad sharper and has better micro-contrast if you pixel peep but unless you do so, you won't notice and in practice in prints they are equally razor sharp. Definitely the best portrait/people lens I've ever used.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: ibordas   review date: March-29-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

ZA 85/1.4
ZA 135/1.8
ZM 50/2
Sony 70-200/2.8 G

positive:

Sharpness
Color
Compact for this range and aperture

negative:

Not reproduced by Sony
Noisy focus

comment:

I prefered this gem vs both of the ZA primes, for colors and rendition(sharpness is the same league).

I use it mainly between f2 and f4 and when need sharpness all over the frame f5.6 to f8 (landscapes & other details).

It's a shame that Sony don't have this lens on actual catalogue.

Highly recommended lens.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: N.Terrell   review date: January-27-11  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

100 Can

positive:

Tack sharp
Silky bokeh
Majestic colours
and everything else anyone has ever said.

negative:

nothing at all

comment:

This was a great steal for me. I bought this off of Kijiji with a Maxxum 7000 a 70-210 f4 a 35-70 and so on for $350. Anyways, this lens was the deal breaker a chance to own my second copy of this lens and it was in mint condition. Of all the pictures I have taken over the past 15 years those taken with this lens on my Maxxum 7 are some of my favorites.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Roadkill   review date: December-31-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28mm f2.8 minolta
50mm f1.7 minolta
35-70mm f4.0 minolta
100-200mm f4.5 minolta
75-300mm Big Beercan

price paid:

$811 mint shape

positive:

VERY sharp
Contrast
LOVE the color
Overall OUTSTANDING!

negative:

Hunts a little in some low light suitations.

comment:

This is my first G-quality lens. Nothing eles I have comes close. Was going to get an 85 1.4 for portraits and happened to come across this and didn't blink an eye. Nice compact size, and weight is fine on my KM-5D. Hunts a little inside on low constrat subjects somtimes (sure my 5-D doesn't help there) but locks quicker than my 28 or 50. In good light this baby locks on FAST. Build is old school minolta. Solid, heavy, feels like it'll last forever. The colors just POP with this lens compared to my others. This lens on my 5-D is sharp wide open. I've been shooting mostly at f2.2 and loving it. It's what everyone of the other reviews say. I like my portraits a little sharper with nice bokeh to boot and I can't see it getting any better than this. This is one lens I can't ever see me selling. I can't hardley take it off even when I need something wider (35mm f2.0 here I come!). I can't recommend this lens highly enough, sharp, fast, compact, creamy bokeh and colors to die for! Get it if you can.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: glina   review date: December-04-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

70-300G
100-200/4.5
70-200/4
80-200G

positive:

Good contrast
Perfect sharpness
Light and bright
Tough build

negative:

none really, but AF speed could be better

comment:

The ultimate resolving machine. No zoom even comes close in sharpness. Color and contrast are great. Lens hood is adequate for avoiding flare. A good alternative for the heavy and much more expensive Zeiss primes. Highly recommended for both FF and APS-C.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: tuanle   review date: November-23-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 90mm
Minolta 100mm
Tokina 100mm
Minolta 135mm 2.8
Minolta 85mm GD

price paid:

880 USD (caps, hood)

positive:

Sharp, very sharp
Bokeh (f2 bokeh!)
small size

negative:

A little bit back focus on my Sony A500 and A200.

comment:

Great for portrait!
I used to own a Minolta 85 G D. The 85 G D is not very sharp at f1.4. Stop down to f2, it's wonderful.
When I received this lens, I am very surprised how sharp it is at f2. I think this lens is sharper than the 85 GD at f2.
The bokeh is very good. It does make the 3D look for the pictures.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: lomitamike   review date: November-19-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100 f/2.8 D Macro
Sony 50 f/1,4
Minolta 28 f/2
Sony 70-200 f/2.8 G

price paid:

$700 (used)

positive:

Sharpness
Color
Build
Size
I got one

negative:

Price
Availability
focus speed (not too bad)

comment:

I bought this lens about two and a half years ago and I've used it with the Minolta 5D, Sony A700 and the Sony A550. I have not used it with a full frame so this review is for APS cameras users only. Although I would bet it performs just as good with full frame.

If I had to choose the one lens that was the closest lens to being perfect this would be the lens. For starters it's f/2. Secondly it's tack sharp at f/2, it's rare that any lens can be so sharp wide open.

Although 100mm is a bit longer then I normally shoot with, when I need something in the 100mm area other then macro this is the lens I go to.

I recently did a photo shoot with a model and used both the Sony 70-200 G and the 100 f/2. I preferred the 100 f/2 photo's. You don't need as much correction in post processing if at all with this lens. The sharpness and color are as close to perfect as you can get. And yes, for portraits it's better then the 70-200 G.

I also have used this lens to shoot indoor basketball and it works OK. It's focusing is a little slow for fast sports in dimly lit gyms. Fortunately the first gym I was shooting in was very well lit so the 100 f/2 focused decently. The second gym I shot in was terribly lit and focusing was very challenging, although that probably would have been the case for any lens to be honest. The great thing about this lens for indoor sports is of course the ability to use f/2 and double you shutter speeds in comparison to any f/2.8 lens.

This is an incredible lens and a pleasure to work with and gets my highest recommendation.

Unfortunately this lens is almost impossible to find, and if you do find one you better have a lot of money.

Update: On Full Frame, all the great points I wrote about are only better.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: AlphaMan   review date: October-10-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100/2.8
Minolta 85/1.4
Minolta 135/2.8
Zeiss 135/1.8

positive:

Sharpness
Size
Construction

negative:

price
Availability

comment:

This is now an amended review based on a second sample of the lens.

The first sample of this lens was very good but required careful handling to get the best from it. It was very sharp but mis-focused quite easily using the A700 but was much better on my A900. As this lens seemed to be problematic on my A700 which was the camera I had brought it for I decided to sell it. This was something I grew to regret and so I got another when the opportunity presented itself.

I have subsequently learned how to calibrate the focus on an A700 (3 screw method) and now enjoy sharper pictures with all my lenses.

My second 100/2 is actually better than the first, not just because of my calibrated A700 but also because it seems sharper - much more in line with some of the rave reviews you can read here.

It is very sharp at f2 without micro-adjust on my A900, also on my A700 (where no micro-adjust is possible) and with a -8 micro adjust on my NEX7 via the LA-EA2 adapter.

The lens is simply quite stunning; sharp, lovely Minolta colours and a pleasing 3D feel to the images. I just wish Sony would bring one out so that more people could enjoy this little Minolta gem is a delight!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: pcarmalt   review date: August-28-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ135, CZ85, Minolta 135/2.8, Minolta 100 macro, Beercan, 70-300G, Minolta 200/2.8 HS.

positive:

- Sharp
- Compact

negative:

- Bokeh is good, but not fantastic.
- Some colour fringing
- Focus is a bit loud and not fast
- Overpriced due to rarity

comment:

This is a very good lens. Nice and compact, with excellent sharpness. Good sharpness wide open though NOT as sharp as CZ85 at f/2 or C135 at f/2.

Didn't quite have the "wow" factor for me, when compared to the CZ85, CZ135 or Minolta 200/2.8 HS. I think mainly due to the bokeh which is not as creamy.

I feel it's a bit overpriced. If I didn't have enough money to get a CZ85, I would still take a Minolta 85/1.4 over this one. f/1.4 is a whole stop wider than f/2 and this can make a big difference for portraits and really shallow DOF effects.

The 100/2 is also quite heavy for it's small size and doesn't balance that well (a bit front-heavy). It's not that much smaller or lighter than a 85/1.4. (Compare with 135/2.8 which is very noticeably lighter and smaller).

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: DaveJonT   review date: August-23-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Leica 90MM Summicron.

price paid:

129.00

positive:

Sharp at full aperture. Accurate dark interior focusing, especially with my Maxxum 9.

negative:

Rarity: while I got mine incredibly cheap, I doubt I will ever buy another one.

The focusing ring: I just don't like the ring on any of the AF lenses.

comment:

This is a great lens, no doubt about it. The largest print I have ever made came from a negative shot with this lens. Neopan 1600 printed at 12X18. Grainy as all heck, but not too grainy for my tastes, with a nice amount of vignetting as well. Still very sharp, and likely could have withstood a greater enlargement.

Yes, I actually paid 129 Canadian for it too. I cannot remember who it was, but there was someone who was collecting information for a website, prices paid, where you bought it, etc. I actually scanned my receipt and sent it to him. I bought it at a store that knew what it was and what it was worth, but felt that someone who knew would get a heck of a deal, but the thing was, they had to know. I knew. Too darn bad that I had to sell it. It was great.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Bahudda   review date: July-01-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

135mm f1.8 ZA
100mm f2.8 Macro Minolta
85mm f1.4 Minolta
50mm f1.4 Sony & Sigma
35mm f2.0 Minolta

price paid:

850 USD

positive:

Good focal length for portraits
Sharpness, color & contrast are outstanding

negative:

Hunts on occassion/ low light and low contrast targets

comment:

At first blush I was not sure that this lens was all that it was hyped to be. With better technique and patience I found that the problem was me and not the lens. It marries up well with the 35mm f2.0 in color, contrast and sharpness (with the 35f2 just a hint sharper wide open). It is almost as sharp as the Zeiss 135f1.8 but with a totally different color rendition; where the 100f2 has true Minolta color and the Zeiss is brighter and less contrasty.

Compared to the 85mm f1.4 this lens is similar in color, more contrasty and equally sharp. The 100f2 might be considered the Yang to the 85f1.4's Yin, where the DOF from the 85f1.4 presents an ever so slightly lighter rendition.

I would place the 100mm Macro slightly ahead of the 100f2 in resolving power and bokeh (this is to be expected). However, the 100f2 is much better for portraits and focuses faster.

The 100f2, in my opinion, is a tele 50mm f1.4 as far as color, contrast and sharpness. I would use the 50f1.4, 35f2 and the 100f2 if I wanted all of the images from a shoot to look seamless one from the other.

More to come as I get more opportunity to learn how to get the most this lens has to offer.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Mayhem   review date: April-25-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

500 USD (NEW)

positive:

Sharp !!

negative:

comment:

every thing I've heard about this lens is true and more !!

it's sharp from f2 with beautiful bokeh

it's a must have lens and make me wonder is the 135mm cz worth the upgrade ..

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: PeteMag   review date: March-31-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28-135
80-200G HS

price paid:

L400

positive:

Bokeh
Sharp
Lightweight
Cheap

negative:

nothing really but rare

comment:

This is a very nice lens.

In 1987 a crack commando lens unit was sent to prison by a military court for a crime it didn't commit. This lens promptly escaped from a maximum security stockade to the Los Angeles underground. Today, still wanted by the government (and collectors), it survives as a soldier of fortune. If you have a problem, if no one else can help, and if you can find them, maybe you can hire the 100mm f2.

So yes, they are rare as hens teeth. But cheaper than a 135mm 1.8 by some margin, and there's not a great deal else. Worth finding one if you can because its SHARP all the way and produces lovely creamy bokeh. Perfect for portraits. I go to this lens more than any other I have owned.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Ovas   review date: March-27-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

NIKON 105 f2.5 + NIKON D700 it is clearly sharper wide open, stepped down they seems to be equally sharp and gives good colors. (On A900).

price paid:

650US$

positive:

High performance lens. Sharp wide open. Better than any zoom I have.

negative:

(Very expensive if found used. (Sony does not make them))

comment:

This one was very expensive though it is a specially good performer. The vignetting is there at f2 but goes all away at f2.8, where it is as sharp as stepped further down. This is a gem. If you can find it buy it.

Compared to my NIKON 105 f2.5

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: bonapart5   review date: January-11-10  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100mm 2.8 macro
Minolta 100mm 2.8 soft
Minolta 28-135 4-4.5
Minolta Beercan
Sony 50mm 1.4.
Zeiss 16-80

price paid:

USD 590

positive:

Compact,very sharp wide open,bokeh

negative:

none except for slight flare

comment:

Another of the classic Minolta lens,great walk around lens which focus quickly in low light,great for rainy day and winter photograpgy.

Can be overpriced due to it's rarity but can be purchased below US 600 for mint condition if you search long enough

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Mr_Canuck   review date: December-17-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

135/2.8
200/2.8
beercan
70-300G
28-135

positive:

Small, sharp, smooth bokeh, fast, sexy.

negative:

rare, therefore expensive

comment:

This lens rocks. Period. I loved the little 135/2.8 for its stealth and small size. But this ups the ante with sharper, smoother photos in a preferable length for my use. Great for portraits and indoor events. I like that it's smaller than the 85/1.4s. At f2, it provides beautiful bokeh, wonderful colours and minimal CA though it's there. It's the most I've paid for a lens used. If you can get a decent price, it's very worth it for either apsc or full-frame.

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: seevve   review date: July-20-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- 85za
- 135 STF
- 135za
- 85G
- 100 Macro

price paid:

700$ (used)

positive:

+ Compact
+ filter size: 55mm
+ sharp stopped down

negative:

- Very expensive for this IQ
- Slow AF
- sometimes nervous bokeh
- Not sharp wide open
- non SSM
- extends on focusing
- Hard to get

comment:

Use this lens in parallel with Zeiis portratit primes (85ZA and 135ZA, STF) I walk some days with this lens only and i can say that it is definitly good, very good but not great lens. It sharp stopped down to F4 only, compact and lightweight. At f2-F2.8 sharpness is goog, but no perfect. Focal length usefull on APS-C and Full Frame. Only some minor issues:
not fats AF (but faster than 100 macro with limiter) and comparable with 85za\135za. Bokeh: on my taste it's far from excellent for portrait work. In my taste STF, 135za, 85za and 85G have much better bokeh. 100/2 have only 'good' bokeh comparable may be with 100 macro. Now usual price for this lens is 900$ and i can say that 85 G for ~ same money much better choice IMHO. But if You can get lens for resonable price (i suppose 400-500$ i near MINT condition): get it.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: terrylloydsmith   review date: July-09-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

80-200/2.8 Maxxum APO
100/2.8 Maxxum macro

price paid:

$850 USD mint

positive:

Super Sharp
Build Quality
Classic Glass

negative:

Price

comment:

What can you say? One of the very best. Just a beautiful lens and what a performer! Rare.
This is a quality lens that any Minolta/Sony owner should try at least once in your life.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: 4paperi   review date: March-26-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Beercan, Minolta Md 100 / 2,5

price paid:

350 EUR (used)

positive:

Very sharp. No distortion. Very compact

negative:

None

comment:

This lens is the reason why I'll never switch to another brand. 3D effect is spectacular. My copy is almost as new.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: dekie   review date: March-26-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

85 1.4, SP 90 2.8

price paid:

400 €

positive:

everything

negative:

none

comment:

Must be one of the best lenses ever made.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: petesidewalk   review date: March-24-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

K/M 50 1.7
K/M 50 3.5 Macro
K/M 28 2.8
K/M 85 1.4

price paid:

650 USD

positive:

UBERSHARP
Light
Compact
Colors
Contrast
Bokeh

negative:

none

comment:

I can easily say this is one of the sharpest lenses I have owned. The bokeh is amazing as is the DOF control. It makes the colors and figures "pop off the page". I took some shots yesterday of a car parked in the lot where I work, under a very cloudy sky with bunk natural light. I took a picture about 20 feet away and loaded the picture to the computer. My collegue remarked that we could blow it up sufficiently to read the SAE stamping on the inside of the cornering lamp. This was done with an A100, ISO 400. I am floored by the performance of this lens. I have a Zeiss 135 now and the 100 still holds its own. I took some shots on my porch on my of some glass decorations. After dialing in the micro adjust, the photos were hard to tell which lens was used, except for the amazing Minolta colors. It's small and light and delivers the goods.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Pochmahone   review date: March-12-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

70-400G SSM
24-70mm CZ
50mm f/1.4

price paid:

500GBP

positive:

Incredibly sharp
Light and unobtrusive

negative:

None yet

comment:

Sharper than the Sony G lenses. Incredible colour. Best lens I own.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: josj   review date: March-07-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

-excelent sharpness
-sharpness wide open
-bokeh!
-build quality
-compact

negative:

Minimum focus distance

comment:

a great lens to have.
it has the WOW thing.
it,s a keeper.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: cruiser   review date: February-27-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100-300 APO D
Beercan 70-210

price paid:

~500 € new

positive:

The best lens I have

negative:

none

comment:

I have bought this in 1993. Actually I exchanged some old Makinas. This is the lens I will never sell! The picture quality is amazing. The bokeh makes this lens perfect for portraits. I always get good results indoor and outdoor. Colors are warm. The build quality is very good. I like lenses with a weight around 500 gr. most. I always use the lens shade so I don't have any issues with flare.

I never understood why Minolta stopped producing this lens. Maybe it just missed good competition :-) as you may see it for 85mm portrait lenses.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: lulkos   review date: February-13-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

MAF 50/1.7
Sony 50/1.4

price paid:

400 USD

positive:

-excelent sharpness
-sharpness wide open
-bokeh!
-build quality

negative:

-a bit slow AF

comment:

This lens is absolutely brilliant. It has got great sharpness at all apertures ( at 3.5 is razor sharp ). Great for portraits, bokeh is marvelous! Also the coolour is very nice. Build is 'beercan' alike - only glass and metal. AF could be a bit more faster.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: ilipin   review date: February-02-09  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 35-70mm F4
Minolta 28mm F2
Minolta 70-210 F4
Minolta 50mm F1.7

price paid:

900 USD (used)

positive:

Bokeh
Sharp from wide open
Fast AF
Excellent color

negative:

Manual focus ring

comment:

Excellent portrait lens. Nice bokeh, 3D effect.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: sarapata1   review date: November-17-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100mm 2.8 Macro
Minolta 135mm 2.8

positive:

excellent sharpness
beautiful bokeh
build quality
relativly compact and 55mm filter thread

negative:

occasional flare from strong light sources
MFD

comment:

true masterpiece :-)
whoever engineered this lens within Minolta company was real lens Maker
it is just joy to use, for portraits, snapshots, landscapes or candits - all the time delivers stunning results

negatives:
- I have experienced some flare which occured while shooting during night into some intesivly lit areas (e.g. from a street lamp)
- I feel sometimes limited by its MFD, especially for facial portraits, however it is easily overcome by mounting 12mm extension tube (although you loose temporarily infinity focus which you don`t need for portraits anyway)

all in all: HIGHLY RECOMMENDED !

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: fute77   review date: October-25-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50/1.7
35/2
24/2.8
100-300 APO
70-210/4 beercan

price paid:

very cheap

positive:

AF impressive
great bokeh
SHARP

negative:

nothing ;)

comment:

a must of minolta lens

I have been able to test it on an Alpha 900. It was also wonderfull

I think I am going to keep it as my precious ;-)

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: tobyjay   review date: October-01-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 85mm f/1.4 G RS
Minolta 135mm f/2.8
Tamron 90mm f/2.8
Beercan

price paid:

L600 in case, hood

positive:

A1 sharpness/resolution
A1 colour/contrast
A1 autofocus accuracy
Satisfying build
Compact & discrete

negative:

Minimum focus distance is a pretty long number

comment:

I've had this lens less than 48 hours and already know it is everything it's cracked up to be.

Sharper wide open than an 85 G. But still gives the option of a very slightly softer picture (for portraiture) at f/2. It's about as sharp at f/2 as the 85 is at f/2.2, I'd say. Much sharper than the lovely 135 is at f/2.8, but at the expense of bokeh. The out-of-focus is very attractive though, if less abundant than in the 85 and 135. This is subjective, of course, and could be down to minimum focus distances being different, or it could be down to the natural compositions I found for different focal lengths. I haven't ever used a 100mm macro, but compared to the Tamron 90, this is a cigarette paper less sharp at 2.8, in my opinion. The Tamron gives a less artistic rendition in some way.

Contrast is sensational under artificial light. Reflective surfaces like glass, water, cellophane wrapping etc look liquid and glossy beyond belief. Colours are vivid Minolta but retain plenty of microcontrast and only the reds begin to look too solid in some (rare) cases. All this can be controlled in camera of course.

Autofocus on the A700 is fairly quiet and absolutely instant, as rapid as a 35 f/1.4 and very much quieter and faster than when shifting the 85mm glass. Much more accurate than either in achieving lock too. It gives the most accurate autofocus of any tele lens I've tried - down to good build or just down to accurate contrast transmision?

It's the same size and weight (near-as-dammit) as a 35 f/1.4G so they can swap case, filters, caps, screw-in hood, and take up the same spot in a bag - they make a great duo.

It's very discrete next to a beercan or shrieking macro but not quite as inconspicuous as a 135/2.8. Either way it packs a punch for its size and is very nicely built indeed.

Conclusion: I miss the creative possibilities of the 85 and 135 I once had, but this is a nice focal length for me and its sharpness, speed, focus accuracy and image character all conspire to seal the deal.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: ricardovaste   review date: August-26-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

100/2.8 macro, 105 macro, 70-210/4, 24-105,

positive:

+Relatively small & compact
+Fast max aperture
+Good amount of "reach"
+Good build quality
+Great "minolta" optical qualities
+Its a sharp lens

negative:

-Small/bad MF ring
-MFD isn't great, though not awful
-Didn't offer me anything over the macro
-It's generally expensive to buy and also very hard to find

comment:

My assessment on this lens was done only over a few days as I intended to sell it, but I hope my thoughts are helpful non the less.

It's bokeh, while is very good, it isn't anything over the Macro lens, even though it has 9 rounded blades (my original macro lens does not). I posted some sample photos and no1 could really tell the difference. At max aperture, yeah, it blurs a bit more but it the quality of the bokeh does not change.

Its focusing speed is good. But, you must make sure you're cameras AF is up to it (no BF/FF issues) otherwise its not going to be worth using it in AF really.

It did offer a more oompact, lighter and faster package over my 100/2.8 macro. But did I need that? No. The macro is far more versitile for my use. The sharpness between the two lenses? Couldn't really tell, if you can, you're probably standing too close to the print or you've got your nose up against the screen. I though the macro had the edge at 2.8, but i could be wrong. I think the 100/2 has better CA control, marginally.

But, if you're not intersted in macro and want a fast tele, i would definately say this is THE lens to get. Its small and discrete, unlike the 135/1.8, 200/2.8, 80-200/2.8, 70-200/2.8. A very handy lens to have at your disposal in that regard.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: madtownkeith   review date: August-14-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ16-80, Tamron 17-50, 85mm 1.4, 80-200 HS G, Beercan, 50mm 1.7

price paid:

675 USD

positive:

Very sharp, wide open
Great color
Bokeh is top notch
Solid build, but not too big/heavy

negative:

None so far

comment:

Simply the best lens I've owned to date. A joy to use, and the results are fantastic. Hopefully, Sony will bring this one back into production. If you can find one, get it.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: planeshooter72   review date: August-14-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100mm 2.8 (D)
Any Minolta/Sony G lens!
Any Zeiss lens!

price paid:

675 USD

positive:

Sick colors, and bokeh with unparalleled sharpness!

negative:

None that come to mind! Perfect lens in my opinion!

comment:

This lens is unbelievably good. It makes any picture stand out! The bokeh - is amazing! Tack sharp! This beauty is very rare, and only appears about once or twice a year on Ebay. This year, so far, there were 4. I got one at a steal. Average price nears $1000.00 USD If any lens is worth that much - this one is!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: zdenek.falar   review date: May-16-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

CZ Planar T* 1,4/85mm
Σ 2,8/90mm Macro
CZ Sonnar T* 1,8/135mm
Σ 2,8/70mm-210mm

price paid:

10k CZK

positive:

nice bokeh
sharp on f:2 in corners with full frame
very good colour and contrast transmission
small, but strong
long running of manual focusing ring (~120°)

negative:

small manual focusing ring
min. focusing distance 1m

comment:

http://www.photodo.com/product_766_p4.html

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: wross   review date: April-28-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50mm/1.7
28-135/4-4.5
35-105mm/3.5-4.5 (original)
70-210/4
200mm/2.8

price paid:

690 USD

positive:

Sharpness
Bokeh
Color

negative:

Price

comment:

Believe every good thing you read about this lens.

I've never used a sharper lens. It may soften up just a fraction when it's wide open, but it's only very slight, and still it's sharper than just about anything else would be when stopped down.

The bokeh unbeatable. You'll start dreaming up shots for the bokeh, and then looking for a subject to compliment the bokeh!

Color is classic early Minolta: rich, saturated... "Minolta color".

My list of "compared to" lenses are the ones I own or have recently owned, and feel are top performers. The 200/2.8 is the only one on the list that compares equally to the 100/2 in terms of sharpness and color, and not quite as well on bokeh.

The price is painful, but it does vary greatly. More than a few are selling over $1000 USD right now, but you can still find them in the $700 with patience. Is it worth $700? Any lens is worth whatever you're willing to pay for it. If I had to keep only one lens, this would be the one.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: silversurfer   review date: April-27-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

85 F1.4 G D
135 F2.8
100 Macro D
100 Macro RS

price paid:

$200 USD NIB

positive:

Very sharp
Price (for me)
Bokeh
Size

negative:

Have not found 1 thing

comment:

The sharpest lens in this range that I own. At F2, subject is very sharp, and with the creamy bokeh, it has a 3D effect. I honestly can't see much difference in sharpness stopping down. The AF is pretty fast, even on the A100. It's such that I'm practicing shooting insects that hover with this lens. This is a small lens, considerably smaller than the 100 Macros. I always have a place for it in my bag.

Lucky me to find this lens at a somewhat local TV/Camera shop last summer. The owner knew what he had, but was willing to sell anyway. Is it worth the $1000 I've seen lately? I wouldn't pay that much, but it's certainly worth more than what I paid.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: eyesthruthelens   review date: March-13-08  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

28mm f2, 85mm f1.4G, 100mm f2.8 macro

price paid:

560 USD

positive:

Sharp
Great Minolta color

negative:

Rare.. very difficult to find one

comment:

This should be one of the sharpest (even at f2.0 wide open) minolta lens around.. with great minolta color + bokeh.
I do not need to do any color adjustment on photos captured with this lens. It's one of the rare and great lens from Minolta. Do not hesitate to get it if you can find one.
Nowadays, I'm using this lens more than the 85mm f1.4 G.

Photos from this lens - http://www.flickr.com/photos/eyesthruthelens/sets/72157603956406039/detail/

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: bender21   review date: November-30-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

100/2.8 Macro
135/2.8
SMC Takumar 85/1.9
Leica 90/2 Summicron v2

price paid:

350 USD (new)

positive:

Size/Weight
Quick AF with no hunting
Razor sharp wide open
Fantastic Bokeh
Everything?

negative:

Hmmm... Nothing?

comment:

I couldn't say enough good things about this lens. It is absolutely fantastic. It looks very unassuming for its speed and performance. This is easily the one lens I would always keep. I have used alot of lenses, and I can say this is my absolute favorite. It is so sharp, even at f2, and the bokeh is unrivalled. I wouldn't change a single thing about it.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: DaveK   review date: November-22-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- 100mm 2.8 (macro)
- 135mm 2.8
- 200mm 2.8 APO HS

price paid:

415 Euro

positive:

- Sharp!!
- Small
- Colours
- Dof
- Bokeh!!

negative:

- hard to find (therefore expensive)
- Can't get the cap on when the hood is on

comment:

What makes a lens a lens? I think this is one of te most beloved lenses I use. I was lucky enough to find one.

On the A700 it's fast enough. Gives beautiful pictures which are very, very sharp. But very special is the beautiful bokeh... awesome..

It's small. Just a great lens. Use it also for portraits and street photography.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: ja   review date: November-21-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Cejes   review date: September-29-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

AF 135mm f2.8
Tamron SP 90mm f2.8
MC Rokkor 100mm f2.5
Sonnar 100mm f2
Nikkor 105 f2.8

positive:

Almost EVERYTHING!

negative:

Minimum focus distance

comment:

Terrific on APS-C and Ultra-Terrific on film.
Sharpness, contrast, bokeh...
Perfect for reportage, street and obviously portraits.

BE CAREFUL! In feminine portraits DO NOT STOP over f4. It could cause girls to damage YOUR person! :)

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Girello   review date: March-31-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50 f1.7
Sigma - 24-70 F2.8 EX DG Macro

price paid:

L220 (used)

positive:

Shaaaaarp.
Solid build.
Perfectly balanced on my 5D.
Fantastic for portraits.

negative:

Hard to find.
Some problems with Cromatic Aberration and flare.

comment:

Fantastic lens!
Build quality is excellent, this lens is much heavier than what I was expecting!
I love it so much, especially for portraits and for isolating particulars with selective focus, thanks to its focal length and its max aperture f2!
It is tack sharp, even wide open!
The only problems I found with this lens are some Cromatic Aberrations, I don't know if it is a problem of this lens or if it is only mine.
Anyway, I could not recommend it more!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: zekewhipper   review date: March-28-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

550 USD (new)

positive:

I agree that this lens produces excellent results.

negative:

The AF may be slow, but I think that that has more to do with driving the sheer weight of the lens than anything else.

comment:

I bought this lens brand new when it was still being produced. I had to specifically order it through a camera dealer I once dealt with. I have probably only used it about four times during the last ten years (for indoor portrait work lasting probably no more than two hours time), so it is still in mint condition. (Most of my camera equipment I pamper terribly.) I even still have all the original documentation and packaging placed in storage. Right now I keep it carefully tucked away in the best camera bag I have that I also keep my Maxxum 7 in. After reading about how these lenses are now so sought after, I may have to dig out the original box, and keep the lens stashed away in a drawer somewhere with a desicant carefully placed with it.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: tsg_   review date: March-27-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 105 2.8
50 1.7

price paid:

$280

positive:

Sharp, fast, Minolta metal construction. Great glass, and at f/2, really nice DOF and Bokeh

negative:

Some flare issues, but well controlled if you use the hood. Also, you can't find them easily, and people covet (and probably hoard) them.

comment:

Minolta's 100 f/2 is yet another great piece of glass that has become a standout in my collection. It is an interesting range with the 1.5 crop factor of the sony a100 (and I can't wait til I get it on a FF model), and really makes for standout portraits and pictures that need a little pop.

The f/2 allows for a lot more flexibility, including use of a t/c to jump to 140 f/2.8 or 200 f/4.

As everyone says, "If you come across one, buy it." I did... much to the dismay of three other people who went to Adorama that same day to get it for themsleves.

The f/2 models (28, 35, 100) are sadly one of the areas we wont see again. Sony seems happy to make the 1.4s and 1.8s... They don't seem interested in the majority of users that may not be able to throw $1000 + at a lens.

35 f/2 $300 vs. 35 f/1.4 $1300

Ho hum. Love the 100 f/2.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: d4nie   review date: February-07-07  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

85/1.4, 135/2.8, 100/2.8 macro, 80-200G HS

positive:

Sharp, even wide open..
Beautiful color..

negative:

Rare..
Quite expensive..

comment:

Love this lens very much.. I sold my 85/1.4 coz i prefer to keep this lens.
Sharpness is comparable to 100 macro, 85/1.4.
Color is very nice... close to 85/1.4

I wish it has buit in hood like the 135/2.8

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: RobY   review date: November-05-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

KM 100 2.8 Macro D
Beercan
100-300 APO D

price paid:

L169

positive:

Razor sharp
Great colours
AF OK

negative:

Being picky, narrow MF ring, minimum focus distance, and speed of focusing compared to SSM lens.

comment:

Only had it for two weeks but I love it. This is the lens I didn't want to buy, it was my third purchase in one week! But with both caps, hood and boxed with full documentation I had to have it!

Without doubt it is the sharpest lens I have ever used and retains detail even when enlarged enough to pixalate; on a Film or FF body it would be amazing - can't wait.

As a portrait lens it is just fabulous, almost TOO sharp. Haven't noticed the AF hunting - unlike the macro so I guess its fine, it's excellent on the A700 and awesome on the A900!

If you are lucky enough to find one BUY IT, you know you want to!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: trondeh   review date: October-22-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50/1.4, 70-210/4, Sigma 90/2.8,

price paid:

$235 EX+

positive:

Sharp, even wide open
Great colors and contrast
Nice bokeh
VERY precise AF, does not hunt

negative:

A 100mm on a 1.5 crop is a bit limiting. Else, nothing!

comment:

This is an extraordinary lens. It seems that it is almost impossible to get a bad picture with this.
The first time I loaded the pictures on to my PC, my wife passed by and asked what I had done with these pictures. They where so sharp and had so great colors. Well, nothing I said, it was only the new old lens I got the other day :-)

Get it if you can. I would easily pay 2-3 times the price I got it for if this sample should be broken.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Janvb   review date: October-21-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

100-300 APO, beercan, Tamron 90 di, 100/2.8 macro

positive:

sharp, very 'clean' picture, bookeh

negative:

150 mm APS seize

comment:

Best lens I've got, I love to use this lens, even at F2 it can be very sharp and professional looking.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Kiklop   review date: August-02-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- 100/2.8 macro
- CZ 135

price paid:

350 USD (used)

positive:

- sharp
- light
- bokeh
- af speed

negative:

- small focus ring
- not produced anymore

comment:

An absolute beauty. Despite being an very old lens, it is one of the best performing glass I ever had the chance to use and has not lost any of it's quality on digital sensors.
What makes this lens apart from most others is that is sharp even wide open .
Contrast and bokeh are in the best Minolta manner and I certainly miss this on newer lenses.
CA could be better controlled but still above the average performance for older lenses.
AF is just great and the only shortcoming I can really describe as such is that tinny focusing barrel typical for old Minolta lenses.
**Full frame**
Excellent even on 25MP sensor. It is not up to CZ 135/1.8 level but considering its compact size and weight it is still a vital part of my lineup.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: coffeebean   review date: August-02-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

No lens specifically...

price paid:

385.00 AU

positive:

Build (like a tank)
Image quality
Bokeh

negative:

None

comment:

I have read a few reviews regarding this lens. This is a premium lens, great bokeh, great at all stops. I haven't found the AF that slow on the 7 or 5D. The colours, bokeh, sharpness and overall saturation are wonderful. I use the KM 28-75mm (D) generally as it is a versatile zoom however this lens will certainly get a workout. I have taken a few studio shots with great results. The 1 meter focus is not an issue with me as I use the Tamron 90mm (dI) for that. I would recommend this lens, hard to get and a little pricey but worth it for a 'Prime' of this quality...

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Jose de Luna   review date: July-08-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Built like a tank, incomparable sharpness and detail-capture, even the smallest blemish in your face will appear very very sharp.

negative:

A bit expensive, keeping in mind it's a very old lens

comment:

Minolta made a mistake with this lens, they should have included this in their G-class lineup. There's no doubt that it will always give you that detailed sharpness you'll ever want. An excellent performer in the mid-telephoto range (~150mm). I use mine a lot in various concerts and stage-performances in available light.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: duprey26   review date: July-07-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min 135 f/2.8
Sigma 70-300 f/4.5-5.6

positive:

Magnificently Sharp Lens.

negative:

Maybe too sharp for its intended use - portraits.

comment:

Every time I view an image made with this lens, I'm blown away with the detail and contrast. This is G-glass quality without the price. I was lucky to find a used one at Adorama before the price and availability of Minolta glass went crazy. Best investment I ever made. Under controlled studio lighting, this lens makes me look like a pro (I'm definitely not). I rated the flare control at 4, but only on impression (older coatings). I've never experienced bad flare, but I haven't really pushed it by pointing at a light source or creating a high-key portrait. It may help that I always use the hood. Do not hesitate to pick one up if you're lucky enough to find one.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: ISO3200   review date: July-06-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

135/2.8

positive:

Sharp at F2. Smooth manual focus. Beautiful bokeh. Wow.

negative:

Poor auto-focus. 1m closest focus.

comment:

I thoroughly expected this lens to fail miserably. It couldn't to live up to the hype, surely.

Wrong.

One of the sharpest lenses I've used, and I mean from F2 onwards, which is exactly why it's so brilliant and why everyone loves it so, I suppose. I'm a lover of a good sharp subject against a clean bokeh and this lens is one of the best in the field. From F2 to F5 or so you can get a sharp subject and a perfect background; a rare feat.

The AF is poor, simple as that. It's ponderously slow, laboured, dithering, even wildily innacurate at times. You can use the 100/2's AF on anything that moves as slow as it does... which isn't much.

Okay, you can use AF, but if you're planning to shoot an indoor basketball game or something then think again. The 100/2 will get you nowhere fast. Think snooker instead, or curling... Chess?

Manual focus is easy and smooth and the ring is quite wide for an old-style Minolta lens, making this an ideal candidate for the careful, manual-focus-loving, detail-seeking photographer. It also makes for excellent macro work, provided you attach extension tubes to cancel out the poor 1M closest focus.

The main weakness is purple fringing. It happens a lot in the right situations; backlit, sunny, etc. Does that come under colour, or flare-control?

If you can get it, keep it. I think I will.

ISO

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: The Shoeman   review date: May-19-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 135mm f2.8

positive:

This is super sharp. I've had if for about a week now and I don't think I've taken a bad shot yet. This is everything that everyone has said about it.

negative:

The only problem is they didn't make enough of them and it is very hard to find one.

comment:

All you see are great reviews about this lens and all of them are right. I got lucky in finding one in very good condition complete with hood and caps (all like new) and I am so happy. I have the Minolta 100mm f2.8 Macro and the 135mm f2.8 which are both very nice lenses. This one blows the 135 away and the speed of the AF, the size of the lens makes it better in my mind than the Macro. The Macro is very sharp once it focuses.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: damian.bradley   review date: May-16-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

- 135/2.8
- 100mm macro (original)

price paid:

425

positive:

- ssssharp, open to close
- very, very accurate AF
- great bokeh
- good MF

negative:

- not much

comment:

First...I'll address those comments about slow AF speed. Although the AF speed may not be lightning fast, it is among the msot accurate of any lens I have tried. The time it takes to shift focus distanecs may be marginally slower than other lenses, but I have found that it rarely hunts, and requires no 'secondary focal adjustment' like some other lenses which tend to have to think about focus lock after making the initial guess.

Otherwise, the lens is a fantastic performer. I would like to compare it to an 85/1.4 but haven't had the chance to do so. The contrast, colours, sharpness are all top notch, and the bokeh is superb (although maybe not quite best in class). MF is good due to a long focus throw.

It doesn't have the built-in lens hood of the 135/2.8 which I miss, and it doesn't have the macro of the 100/2.8, but my preference is for low-light shooting and sharpness, and the ability to open up to f2 for selective focus. The 135 is better for candids and street shooting, while the macro is better for...well macro. Assuming you can get the lenses, pick what is most important to your shooting style and go with that lens. They all excel in different areas!

So this is one of the sharpest lenses at f2 you can find...if you can find it. Another highly recommended lens.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: JimCockfield   review date: January-04-06  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

This lens compares nicely to just about any other similar lens I've owned (including Nikkor glass like their 85mm f/2 MF lens)

positive:

Bright and Sharp with Good Bokeh, usable wide open.

Stunningly sharp by about f/3.5 (even compared to other lenses stopped down).

negative:

What negatives? ;-)

OK... there is always room for improvement. LOL

Sure, they could probably increase the contrast a bit via improved coatings when shooting in harsher lighting.

But, I have no real complaints. It's a nice lens.

comment:

If they ever restart production of a lens using the same optics, they should put a sticker on the box:

"No Post Processing Required"

With a lens this sharp, who needs USM?! ;-)

sharpness: 4 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: lifephoto.it   review date: December-17-05  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Color, no distortion and built

negative:

AF very Slow

comment:

Better with film than 7d

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Maffe   review date: November-29-05  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Nikkor 180/2,8
Pentax SMC takumar 135/3,5

positive:

Image and buil quality

negative:

Slow AF

comment:

Got this second-hand for 200€.
This is the best lens I ever ownd/used!
Have it on my camera as often I can

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: 2manycamera   review date: November-14-05  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

24-105/3.5-4.5, 28-135/4-4.5, 100/2.8 MD, Tamron 90/2.5, 85/1.7 MD

price paid:

300 USD

positive:

Excellent feel, blow-me-away sharpness and great bokeh.

negative:

Will flare with digital due to lack of rear element multi-coating (what lens makers say is actually true!)

comment:

I had wanted an 85/1.4 for awhile to take the place of my older MF 85/1.7, but couldn't afford it. Finally found this 100/2 on e-bay for about $300 and thought it would do until I could find what I thought I really wanted. WOW! What a lens!
I have used this lens constantly and it never lets me down. F2 is very usable in low light, especially center, and excellent edge to edge at infinity by 3.5. I find when I want minimum weight and am not worried about dust on the sensor, all I carry is this lens and the 28/2. I use zooms alot for general picture taking, but I work dance , gymnastis and equestrian for pay and need lenses that are great wide open and focus fast. Fixed focal lengths still do this better, although less convenient.

The only negative is flare with the 7D. It is true about the rear multi-coating on digital lenses, it makes a difference IF you shoot into a bright light source.

I've been using Minolta since my first SR-T in 1970 and I stay with them for one reason more than any-the glass.

I now own the a850 and love this combo.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: former member   review date: February-18-05  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Very nice and well built, Tack sharp from edge to edge. No distortion

negative:

minimum focus distance of 1 meter

comment:

I bought this lens 9 years ago for 1.000 Guilders (453 Euro's) and I never used it on my Dynax film camera's. I got my 7D and then I started to use it and it is excellent!
I almost sold it 2 weeks ago, but thank God I changed my mind :-) It works very well in low light situations. If you can find one, buy it! Although for portrait situations an 85mm 1.4 is better...

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: former member   review date: January-27-05  

tested on film camera:

tested on APS-C:6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP:; 16MP:; 24MP:

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

- Excellent sharpness and contrast
- Bright (f/2 aperture very well usable)
- Solid build quality
- Front lens does not rotate

negative:

- Closest focusing distance
- Discontinued

comment:

This lens is just amazingly sharp... f/2 and f/2.8 are already very usable, stopped down to f/4 it is tack sharp from corner to corner. Also the flare is very well controlled, shooting against the sun is a great pleasure when compared to shooting with zoom lenses. The closest focusing distance of only 1 m is a pity, it makes that the lens is not fit for close-up portraits. Build quality is very good, and the front lens does not rotate when focusing (which is practical if you use filters). Unfortunately this lens has been discontinued so it can only be obtained from the second-hand market. Get one if you can!