Minolta AF 50 F2.8 Macro  reviews

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: tekwizard   review date: June-18-13  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 60 F2 Di II
Minolta 50 F1.4
Zeiss Tessar 45 F2.8

price paid:

140€ (used)

positive:

Sharp
Minolta Colours
Build
Size
Price

negative:

object distance at 1:1

comment:

The lens is very sharp and very affordable. I prefer it over the Tamron 60 F2 for macro work as it has better contrast and I prefer the slightly more vibrant Minolta colours. Auto focus of both lenses is comparable but the Minolta hunts much less.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Milan33m   review date: May-31-13  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

MAF 50 3,5, MAF 50 1,4 and MAF 50 1,7

price paid:

135 EUR (used)

positive:

Extremly sharp! Very useful every scale Macro lens. All metal Prime build,

negative:

Discontihued, a bit rare, a bit expensive!

comment:

Mine best Macro Lens. Best liked, very often on body. Great for flowers and otrher small objects,. Good for portraits, indoor photography, as lowest light is 2.8 fixed focus. Very versatile lens, worth of every cent. A must have in experienced Minolta-Sony user!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: joestealthmode   review date: May-14-13  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

85mm f/1.4 ZA
24mm f/2 SSM ZA

price paid:

$150 USD (used)

positive:

Sharp!!
Beautiful colors
Stands the test of time

negative:

Slow motor
1-1 is dangerously close to glass
Lens extends weird

comment:

Picked up a very good copy of this lens on eBay. Let me tell you, this is a very sharp lens. I was peeping pixels on a shot I took and I couldn't believe what I was seeing.

The 1-1 magnification is hard to achieve without help from a steady subject and a tripod or remote (or both). If you put a filter on the lens, you're an inch or so away from hitting the glass. It is sharp in the center wide open and once stopped to f/4 you're peeping corners if your depth of field is right.

The lens is very small, in fact, it is my smallest lens. I find it easier to hold steady than my other lenses, which is an asset with Macro work. I get decent results at 1/10s I would be nervous to shoot with my 85mm f/1.4 or even my 24mm f/2 that slow.

The colors this lenses reproduces are on par with my best color lens, which is the 24mm f/2 SSM ZA. I would venture to this lens has the edge.

The motor is slow as molasses. I have to use DMF or Manual focus with peaking on the A77/A99.

This lens is ancient. It has stood the test of time. It is good for portraits and macros. A bargain if you find one in excellent shape for under $200.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: karinaeija   review date: February-21-13  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100mm F2.8

price paid:

185 euro

positive:

Amazingly sharp
well build
good price compared to the new sony macro lens
beautiful colors
1:1 macro

negative:

This lens has nothing negative

comment:

This was the first real macro lens i bought and wow it just blew me away. What a fantastic lens, so incredibly sharp and even when the seller told me it was 28 years old it looks new. It is my all time favorite, maybe the negative part is that it made all my other lenses look less good. Later on i managed to find the Minolta 100mm f2.8 macro too but i have to say i think the 50mm is a bit sharper and still my favorite. Ofcourse the 100mm is more useable for insects and also incredibly sharp. Last week i found a second 50mm one in a secondhand store,it was in an old bag with camera gear. That one i got for 50 euro's so if you keep your eyes open you can find them out there for a good price. I am glad to have a spare because it is just a fantastic lens.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: OG903   review date: December-17-12  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

sony 50mm 1.8
tamron 90mm macro

price paid:

180 usd

positive:

sharp, very sharp

negative:

mmm...

comment:

really enjoying this lens, reignited my passion for 50mm. good for portraits too. actually for all types of shots! i like to use manual mode, and peaking feature in the a65 really helps with accuracy. as good as my tammy 90mm macro. metal body feels like it would last another 20 yrs!!!

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: streets   review date: November-21-12  

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

price paid:

200 USD (used)

positive:

Sharp at all stops
Color
Price
1:1 macro

negative:

Not a thing

comment:

When I took my first shots, I thought I had a new improved camera. What amazing sharpness! I hate to take it off the camera because none of my other lenses can match it. Macro shots at 1:1.5 with flash are amazing and 100% lit.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: JBM12G   review date: November-03-12  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 18-70 Kit
Tamron 70-300 LD Macro

price paid:

180 USD

positive:

Very very sharp
Nice bokeh
Good build quality
1:1 magnification
Great color

negative:

Small focus ring
Slow AF

comment:

This is the first real lens that I bought for my a200. It is very sharp, even at F2.8. 1:1 magnification opens up a whole new world of macro photography. The focal length on APS-C makes it pretty nice for macro photography while still being able to used as a general purpose lens. The bokeh is very nice , but I don't really have any good lenses to compare it too. The build quality is nice and solid, but I gave it a 4 for it's small focus ring. I recommend that anyone looking to try macro photography pick up this lens.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: berlin steve   review date: October-14-12  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

KM 50 1.7 & 1.4
Sigma 50mm 2.8 macro

price paid:

EUR 188

positive:

sharp
great Minolta colours

negative:

slow focus (although what do you expect from a macro?)

comment:

I had a sharp older Sigma 50mm macro which is nearest to compare to. This had compatibility problems on SLT- and had horribly noisy gears and very slow focusing.

The Minolta macro is like a swiss watch in comparison. It may not focus fast, but which macros do? Focus is smooth in MF and AF without the noise of the Sigma, The Sigma was also tack sharp- but lacked the KM colours, so came across pretty cold.

The Minolta 50 is a gem to use and has a justified reputation.

If you don't need macro, then the 50 1.7 or 1.4 is better all rounder- but if you want sharp, and don't need the fast focus of the other faster 50mm lenses, then this one wins on all round IQ.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: milav   review date: July-08-12  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 50 1.8

positive:

Excellent sharp
Macro 1:1
Color, bokeh, contrast
F 2.8
Build

negative:

Slow focus

comment:

Highly reccommended! Must have this lens!
This is perfect lens for macro and portrait.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: mattsonylover   review date: March-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
Sigma 18-125mm
Sigma 75-200mm f2.8-3.5
Minolta 70-210mm f4
sigma 400mm
sony 18-55mm

price paid:

£60

positive:

Sharp
1:1 Macro
f2.8
solid build

negative:

stiff focus though it can be repaired easily

comment:

highly recommended !!
worth every penny, very sharp, and lovely colour.
the stiff focus issue is well known problem with this lens, however, if you have the skills, its easy to fix and bring it back to life.
when you try it first time, you would be surprised for the meaning of 1:1, no zoom lens would give you such a magnification and of course such amazing pictures.
I think its must have lens in your bag.

Update:
Now after using this lens for a while, I wish that I have bought it long time ago !!! its really a great piece of kit and its really highly recommended for anyone, must have lens !

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: dinadan   review date: February-24-12  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 50mm f1.4

price paid:

135 EUR (used)

positive:

sharp at all apertures, beautiful colours

negative:

flare

comment:

I got this lens in mint condition from Ebay. After a few shots i think this nice lens will replace my Sony 50mm f1.4. It it much sharper, Macro is incredible. For portraits f2.8 already has nice DOF.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: jakubh70   review date: January-01-12  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 16-105

price paid:

240 EUR

positive:

Excellent sharpness, color, contrast and bokeh

negative:

Flare, ghosting appears

comment:

This lens is exceptional and almost perfect macro. Maybe even more useful for APS-C sensor than on 35mm. The only issues are low usability when shooting directly into the sun - horrible flare appears, and when there is a large light area in the frame it can cause ghosting effect (similar to this of 50/1,4 lens). This lens is really worth buying for general purpose, portrait, and nature macro shots, but mind that it's not the best lens for product shots on plain white background.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: JimmyMelbourne   review date: November-12-11  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sigma 50 1.4
Tamron 17-50 2.8

price paid:

180 CHF

positive:

Sharp as hell
Beautiful colours
Excellent portraits
Typical minolta build - solid as a rock

negative:

Slow to focus, but not a big deal considering it is macro

comment:

This lens is a real surprise. I bought it o take macro photos of my newborn son, and I have to say I am blown away by its macro capabilities. It also doubles well as a portrait lens. It is light, portable, and very versatile. I am very happy I chose the minolta rather than paying more money for macro lenses I do not really need. If you are on a budget and want quality, get this.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: kevan   review date: September-12-11  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta beercan
Manual macro lens on NEX
Sony 30mm Macro f2.8

price paid:

200

positive:

Razor sharp. Great value. Works really well handheld

negative:

None

comment:

I love the creative opportunities this lens provides. I really like the length as I can handhold quite well while doing macros.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: shidairyproduct   review date: July-30-11  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50mm f/1.7

price paid:

275 (used)

positive:

Sharpest lens I've owned. Color is unmatched.

negative:

Hard to put it down and use another lens.

comment:

I bought this lens a couple of years ago before thanksgiving and it hasn't left my camera since. The short focus distance meant that, even as a 50mm lens, I can focus closer and take some very nice close up photos. It's built like a chunk of a tank. I baby it, but I don't doubt its ability to take a beating. If you were ever curious about what a macro lens would do for your photography, just try this one. A good copy is less than $300 nowadays. I loved it so much, I had to get another lens so that I could stop using this. That expression "when all you have is a hammer, everything else looks like a nail," totally applies to this lens.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: chriseen   review date: May-26-11  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 35-70 mm f4 Babybeercan
Minolta 100mm f2.8 macro Beercan
Minolta 50mm f1.7 Beercan
Minolta 50mm f/1.4 Beercan
Minolta 75-300mm f4,5-5,6 Beercan
Tamron SP 90 Macro
Minolta 28-135 f4.0-4.5 Beercan
Minolta 80-200mm f2.8 Beercan( black)
Sigma 70-300 DL Macro Super
Sony kitlens 18-70

price paid:

260 euro (like new)

positive:

- Sharp, sharp, Very sharp! Razor Sharp !!
-Typical Minolta Colors’
- Good contrast
- Creamy, Smooth Bokeh
-good depth of field
at all distances,
-nice Bokeh
-Very nice contrast
-Low weight
- Build quality is superb
- Virtually no distortion
- Sharpest lens I own, Sharper than my Tamron 90(just)
- Versatile
- At Full Frame becomes 75mm
- Almost zero light falloff on APS-C
-Good dual purpose lens if you don't faster the F2.8
-Workable f2.8
1:1 max magnification
- The performance is excellent
- Sharpest lens I've ever owned, even wide open.
- hard to destroy
- images have
- a very good depth and
definition

negative:

euhhh, what ? none !

comment:

Bought second hand from a friend, I'm very impressed with the example I have.
It was completely cleaned before I bought it.(refurbished)
The image quality and sharpness is amazing.
This lens is very nicely built and the optics are first rate.
I liked how it felt and the build of it was pretty solid .
The weight and portable size make it a great travel lens.
Great value and utility, and not just for macro work.
On APS-C sensors it becomes a small tele (75mm equivalent).
This is by far the sharpest lens I've used, it's noticeably sharper than the 50mm 1.7 .
At 2.8 1:1 and no flash, DOF is razor thin, but what's in focus will be razor sharp.
Sharpness is excellent in all F-stops, colours are what you except from a minolta lens, just deep and lovely .
It's quality is unmatched, a fantastic lens, this lens is sharp, sharp, very sharp.
Thit I told that I adore this lens .

Highly recommended!
If you can buy a good copy,
just get one!!! Prices rising quickly .

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: derekw   review date: May-08-11  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 100mm f2.8 macro
Minolta 50mm f1.7

price paid:

179 GBP like new

positive:

Very sharp!
Typical Minolta Colour
Weight

negative:

None to speak of

comment:

Very useful lens. Very very sharp and good for portraita.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Leo Ferro   review date: May-06-11  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 50 MAcro RS

price paid:

200

positive:

negative:

Nada.

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Argote   review date: March-15-11  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony DT 30mm f/2.8 Macro SAM
Sony DT 50mm f/1.8 SAM
Minolta 50mm f/1.4

price paid:

~150 USD (used)

positive:

- Razor Sharp
- Very decent build
- Creamy Bokeh
- Virtually no distortion

negative:

- Hunts on AF
- Glossy finish does not match Sony camera styling

comment:

I bought this used for a very low price, my copy has stiff focus which strains the motor on my A200 a bit (and makes AF slower) so I'm not considering that in this review.

The lens is very sharp even compared to the 50/1.4, it is also well built (nice weight) though I wish the focus ring was a bit wider and the glossy styling looks a bit out of place on my Sony body.

The magnification scale is useful when using MF and overall it is nice to use for MF (my focus ring is stiff which helps with the precision).

The working distance is OK and does enable you to light objects properly even near 1:1 reproduction, something that cannot be said about the Sony 30/2.8 Macro.

Overall it is good optically and would recommend it, especially at a low price. I will update this as I use it more.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: SChurchill   review date: December-16-10  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron SP 90 Macro
Sony 50mm F1.4
Minolta 50mm F1.7

price paid:

150 GBP

positive:

Sharpest lens I own, Sharper than my Tamron 90(just)
Build quality is superb.
Versatile
Full Frame

negative:

No focus limiter
Manual focus ring a bit small

comment:

I bought this lens because I had money burning a hole in my pocket and this turned up at the right time. Considering I already own a Tamron 90mm macro I wasn't sure I really needed it.

I'm glad I did and I have found it incredibly sharp and versatile. I have now relegated the Sony 50 1.4 to low light work only as I use the 50mm macro instead.

The build quality is superb and it saved this lens from destruction at least once since I've owned it. Within the first week of owning it, it fell out of my bag on to concrete and rolled and bounced down a steep hill for about 30 metres before I managed to catch up with it. After expecting the worst, the initial inspection showed that there was only a few flattened ridges on the focus ring and some minor scratching. Once attached to my a700 it proved to be functionally unharmed by the whole experience and with no impairment to IQ whatsoever.

I love using on both the A700 and my film bodies, especially with ADOX pan 25 film.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Yugus   review date: November-03-10  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

$250 CAD (Used)

positive:

Cheap for a 1:1 macro
Very sharp
Smooth bokeh
Small+Lightweight
No distortion
Very little CA
Almost zero light falloff on APS-C
Good dual purpose lens if you don't need anything faster the F2.8

negative:

No focus limiter on this model
AF a little slow (As with all macros)

comment:

This is a very good multi purpose lens assuming you do not need anything faster then F2.8. There are very little issues with this lens as it has proven to be a very sharp lens with smooth bokeh even when used wide open. Even wide open this lens does not have a lot of issues, it does have a little CA wide open but not a lot, and doesn't suffer from any light falloff either on an APS-C sensor.

Overall this is a great lens for the money and if you don't like to carry around 2 50mm lenses (such as the macro and the F1.7/F1.4) and do not need anything faster then F2.8 you might be better off with this as it can serve 2 purposes.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: ghmcs   review date: August-19-10  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 90mm f/2.8 macro

price paid:

$175 USD

positive:

excellent image quality in all respects, easy to carry

negative:

none

comment:

We have high expectations for a prime, macro lens and this lens does not disappoint. Image quality is as good as you can get, in all respects. It is of a size and weight that makes it easy to carry around and it's a good focal length for macro photographs of flowers. Would I like it better if it was f/2? For film, sure, but f/2.8 plus digital high ISO still makes this a good lens for low-light photography. This is a lens that I find myself reaching for more and more.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: leung0323   review date: July-24-10  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

230 USD

positive:

negative:

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: cordyc   review date: July-12-10  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

35-70 w/ macro mode
Minolta 100 2.8 macro

price paid:

300 USD (used)

positive:

great macro with AF, also very sharp to general work

negative:

sometimes hunts for AF on a700

comment:

This was my first real macro and it blew away the old lens I used that got me hooked on flower photography.

Used this as a normal lens at 2.8 for capturing the seahorses at Monterey Aquarium and got a few super shape images.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: ThisIsIT   review date: April-27-10  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

KM 35-70/4

price paid:

250 USD (used)

positive:

Really sharp
Minolta colours
Workable f2.8
1:1 max magnification
Short MFD

negative:

comment:

50/2.8 Macro is a real macro lens. It was a bit slowly on my A200 while autofocusing, but now it's much faster with AF/MF-switch button on A850.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: AlphaMan   review date: February-26-10  

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
Tamron 90/2.8

price paid:

approx L135 (used)

positive:

Very Sharp
Compact
1:1 macro

negative:

comment:

The 100mm focal length is perhaps a little more useful for insects, etc, but the 50mm is great as a easy to carry macro (takes up very little space) and is great for product photography.

The 50mm is also a good portrait lens on APS-C.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Wombat37   review date: January-28-10  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Vivitar 100mm f/3.5
Minolta Beer-Can
Minolta 50mm f/1.7
Minolta 28mm f/2.8
Sony 18-250mm
Sony 70-300mm G

price paid:

$200 w camera kit

positive:

Surprisingly good. I was looking to get a 100mm macro lens to enable the subject to be kept at a distance for close macro work. I already have a Vivitar (plastic fantastic) but that is so ideosyncratic and I've not really got any pictures from it I liked. This lens turned out to be excellent for mid-closeup work with a tripod - objects a few inches across. A 100mm lens would not be very practical here.
The performance is excellent - very sharp, good depth of field at medium distances, Minolta colors, nice build etc.

negative:

I sometimes see blue-spots in the image when stopped down - it looks like flare but there's no light source present. I don't know if it's the lens or something I'm doing. I see someone mentioned in an earlier review that this lens reflects the sensor back into the image - this could explain things.

comment:

Highly recommended

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 3 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: REVENGE   review date: October-01-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta AF 35-70 F4
Sony 18-70 kitlens
Minolta 28-135 f4.0-4.5

price paid:

46 USD (Used)

positive:

Tack sharp
Great build and feel for an 80s period lens
Fairly sharp wide open

negative:

Flare control is average
1980s level CA control
Average - slow AF speed
Design flaw (READ BELOW)

comment:

This is a great lens, suitable for getting up close macros with mostly still subjects, or some general portrait work (beware of the sharpness!). It is a lens from 1985, so the AR coatings are typical of that period (average flare and CA control compared to modern Sony lenses). The AF speed is basically acceptable at all focal distance.

Overall, if you're looking for a "budget" macro lens to start with, then start your hunt for a used copy of this lens. At $150 - $250, it's an amazing value. But at $46 with a used camera body? An incredible find!

UPDATE: I've dropped my build rating due to the fact that many (possibly even the majority) of these older Minolta macro lenses have a fatal build flaw: aluminum tape dust seals on the inside of the housing. I was not aware of this issue until my own lens seized up while focusing, and refused to budge afterwards. A quick Google search revealed that degradation of the aluminum tape can cause a buildup of adhesive within the grooves of the inside metal housing. The lens may be repaired by following the teardown/repair guide at Michael Hohner's site, but beware that it is a delicate and time intensive process. I was lucky and narrowly avoided lens-fatal mistakes during the ordeal, and my lens is now back to normal.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: jay-pea   review date: September-05-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

KM and Sony 18-70mm kit lens
Sony 16-105mm
Sigma 105mm 2.8 macro

price paid:

100 EUR (used)

positive:

- Razor sharp
- Good contrast
- Solid build

negative:

- Slow AF
- My used copy has some play in the front element, but it doesn't affect the pictures.

comment:

I bought this lens second hand and it is extremely sharp, easily the sharpest lens I own. I've used it on a film camera, on KM 5D and on alpha 200. Since it is a macro lens, some AF hunting is evident as expected. On a crop-sized sensor this makes for a wonderful portrait lens, at least when the subjects are picture perfect - everything is reproduced with great precision so a close shave is needed before taking the portrait. Luckily the lens is razor sharp so it can be used for shaving as well.

The front lens is so recessed that to produce flare you have to shoot almost straight into the sun. It also keeps the glass pretty well protected.

My (quite old) copy has some play in the front element when extended fully but it doesn't seem to affect pictures in any way. Otherwise this lens is built like a tank and has withstood some severe conditions.

I can easily recommend this lens for everybody, since it can be found inexpensively and produces marvellous image quality.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: joel22484   review date: May-21-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

No other macros, but:
Minolta 50mm f1.7
Sigma 17-70mm

price paid:

$200 USD used

positive:

Sharp!
1:1 macro capability
Build
Not too expensive

negative:

50mm
Slow AF due to macro

comment:

I bought this lens just to try out a dedicated macro lens. I didn't really know what to expect.

When I got it, the first thing I noticed was the really long AF time. It makes sense, but I didn't realize that beforehand.

Perhaps it's just me, but the 50mm length seems too short to me to get the 1:1 macro shots. You have to be very very close to the subject to reproduce this. You have to be focused all the way out also, so if your goal is to get 1:1, then you will have to either move the camera or move the subject to get it in focus.

But aside from that, this lens is sharp. Very sharp. I liked how it felt and the build of it was pretty solid IMO.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: bhendjol   review date: April-12-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50/1.7

price paid:

246 USD (used)

positive:

Sharpest lens I've ever owned, even wide open.

negative:

none.
Well, the person behind the viewfinder needs to sharpen his manual focusing skill.

comment:

Perfect lens for taking pictures of blooming flowers.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: zifoo   review date: April-04-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

200€ (used)

positive:

- very sharp
- cheep
- hard to destroy

negative:

- quite slow AF

comment:

Very nice lens The sharpest I used before. If you use close macro its better to focus manualy (save time). With APS sensors also nice portrait lens.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: wahgongzai   review date: March-29-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 35-105 F3.5-4.5
Sigma 70-300 Super macro

price paid:

US$195

positive:

Sharp sharp
Solid Build

negative:

AF speed (depend on enviroment)

comment:

Bought second hand from a friend, despite the conition is 6/10, the image quality and sharpness is still amazing. My 1st true macro lens : >

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Hans Toom   review date: March-15-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Canon 100mm F2.8 Macro

price paid:

155USD

positive:

Sharp,compact and functions nicely with autofocus and IS on my A900.

negative:

None

comment:

I've used it for scenics and the results have been superb. I also did a few auto focus 1:1 macro shots and it works great.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 3 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: Mavida   review date: January-31-09  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

EUR 150 (used)

positive:

very sharp
nice colours
nice bokeh

negative:

very slow AF, overshoots easily

comment:

A fantastic lens, the sharpest I own. The only drawback is the very slow and often overshooting AF, so don't think of it as an allround lens or even a substitute for a 50/1.7 or 1.4. With manual focusing, it's probably *the* lens for food photography, if you don't want to spend a real fortune.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: cjlethal   review date: January-08-09  

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 2.8 VR Nikon

price paid:

300 CAD

positive:

very sharp lens
images have a very good depth and definition
amazing for art reproduction

negative:

a little slow to focus

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: johnbirch   review date: January-03-09  

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 D

price paid:

180 USD (used)

positive:

Sharp
1:1
Multipurpose

negative:

Slow and noisy AF
Small focus ring

comment:

The 50 2.8 macro is a very good macro lens. It is very sharp and also a versatile focal length which can be doubled as a portrait lens. The AF is pretty slow, but I rarely use AF for macro photos. The problem with manual focus is that the focus ring is very small. The RS and D version would solve these problems with the focus limiter and larger focus ring.

Overall this is a great lens, but I find 50mm too short for insect photography. For product photography and still life you can't beat it.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: flashgumby   review date: December-31-08  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50mm f/1.7 Original
Minolta 28-105 f/3.5-4.5 RS

price paid:

"free" with Maxxum 7

positive:

* So SHARP you could cut yourself with it!
* AF is reasonably quick most of the time
* Nice colours and contrast
* Not too heavy, or too light

negative:

* Focus ring is a bit small
* No focus limiter - not a big issue so far

comment:

I've only had this lens for a few months, got it for almost nothing with a few bodies and lenses on eBay.
This lens is as sharp as a tack! Even wide open it's a good performer.
It's mostly plastic, but the build seems quite good.
Autofocus in general usage is fine, but not as quick as the smaller 50/1.7, but that's expected.
I only use manual focus when shooting macro, so no problems found with AF at close range.
The focus ring is nicely weighted, but a bit small for my liking - not a big problem but worth mentioning.
I haven't noticed any flare or distortion - but I haven't deliberately tried to produce any either.
SUMMARY: A great lens - produces beautiful sharp images, has very good build and performance. Just get one!!!
Did I mention how sharp it is???

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: borjomi   review date: November-12-08  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 35/1.4G
Minolta 85/1.4G
Minolta 24-85/3.5-4.5 new

price paid:

175 EUR (like new)

positive:

1:1 macro
Very, very sharp
Good color

negative:

No distance limiter
Slow AF

comment:

Very good lens for macro and sharp landscapes. In macro mode I prefer to use it in manual focus mode on my A100 due to slow AF.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: madecov   review date: October-10-08  

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
Cosina 100mm f3.5 macro
Tamron 17-50 f.28

price paid:

150. USD used

positive:

Super sharp, Great color and contrast, reasonable maximum aperture. Metal lens mount. accurate AF in good light

negative:

No limit switch, small manual focus ring. Hunts occasionally. Loud AF, not the fastest focusing lens

comment:

This lens is really sharp if you use a tripod for macro work.
I almost couldn't tell the difference in a shot at f2.8 and f8.0, I like my images a bit more contrasty and this lens delivers. jpgs right out of my A-200 where very sharp without any PP. I wish the lens had a focus limit switch so it could be used easier for normal photo's

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: godsakes   review date: July-26-08  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

minolta 50mm 1.7, beercan, 24-50mm, tamron 17-50mm, tamron 90mm macro

price paid:

L125

positive:

Exceptionally sharp
1:1 macro
deep high contrast colour

negative:

very very slow AF often misses
no focus limiter
limited use

comment:

This is by far the sharpest lens i've used, it's noticeably sharper than the 50mm 1.7 without pixel peeping and even edges the tamron 90mm yet retains the lovely minolta colours. Contrast seems higher (possibly too high) although bokeh isn't quite as nice as the beercan's.

AF is very slow and hunts a lot in low light. It's not a lens for capturing spontaneous action, but for posed shots or non moving subjects it's quality is unmatched.

IQ is not an issue with this lens, it blows me away - the problem with this lens is it's usablity... it's AF is too slow to use as a walkabout prime like the 50/1.7 (however the newer versions with AF limiters might be better) and it's too short to be used for alot of macro work like inscets - but if you want to do product shots then this is an amazing lens

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: superx2won   review date: June-24-08  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50mm/1.7
T17-50/2.8

price paid:

175USD (Used)

positive:

Sharp, light weight, cheap

negative:

Slow AF
No focus limit switch
Not circular aperture blade
1:1 working distance is too short (~5cm)
Lought noise when AF

comment:

I buy this len on Sept 2007. Great value for money.Good for capturing non-movement object for macro. Great range for taking portrait in APS-C dSLR. ~75mm. Great Bokeh. Large aperture is good for indoor shot. I took lot of baby shot using this len with out using the external flash. This len deliver the sharpness that i need if compare to T17-50. But slow AF, sometime, you just miss out a lot of good opportunity to snap. No focus limiter. 50mm/3.5 will be a better choice, but you need a good dSLR body like A700 which deliver low noise @ high ISO, else it won't work.

For macro on insect, 100mm/2.8 will give a better range.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 3 

user: royd63uk   review date: May-18-08  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Tamron 90mm macro

price paid:

L120 used

positive:

Sharp as a knife
Light
Great colours

negative:

Slow af
not internal focussing

comment:

Love this lens,my first choice for floral photography.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: voets   review date: May-17-08  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

200 eur (used)

positive:

Sharp
excellent colors
nice build

negative:

Slow AF
Manual Focus ring

comment:

This is my underwater workhorse.
It gives a 1:1 magnification. Sharpness is excellent in all F-stops, colors are what you can except from a minolta lens, just lovely. I get awesome close-up shots with it.

On the negative side, the AF is terribly slow, if it overshoots in low light condition, it will backtrack the entire way and try again.
The manual focus ring (I hardly do manual focussing, AF beats my eyes most of the time) is very small and not useful.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Blunderstein   review date: January-07-08  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Sony 50/1.4
Cosina 100/3.5 macro

price paid:

$200 (used)

positive:

-Goes to 1:1 without an adapter
-Sharp
-Small and light

negative:

-Build doesn't feel all that solid

comment:

This is my walkabout lens, now that I have an A700 and have less need for really fast glass.
I would give the colour 4.5 if I could.
Note: I rarely shoot near strong light sources, and know very little about flare. I haven't seen any flare in my shots, but this might just be my lack of knowing what to look for.

sharpness: 5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: hieuhef   review date: September-22-07  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

beercan
28-85 w/ macro
canon a80?

price paid:

230.00 USD [used]

positive:

shaaaaaaarp
easy-cheesey-japanesey-focus
built like a tank
looks uber cool

negative:

af speed.. but it's a macro
no af limiter

comment:

i love this lens, almost use it as a walkaround.. but i carry all my lenses whenever i can :D on my point and shoot, i loved the ability to be able to capture the details of a subject, and when i got my a100, i had no macro ability so to speak. when i picked up a minolta xtsi, it came with a 28-85mm with macro, and that only drove me to get this lens.

at 2.8 1:1, you can bet your DOF is razor thin, but whats in focus will be razor sharp.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: levice   review date: September-21-07  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Sharpness
1:1 Magnification
Colours
Build

negative:

AutoFocus

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: Wakaluba   review date: March-18-07  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50/1.7
Minolta 100/2.8 macro D

positive:

Sharpness, Colours, Build

negative:

little bit slow AF

comment:

sharpness is outstanding

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: jakke   review date: March-18-07  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

AF 50 F1.7

price paid:

200€ sh

positive:

Sharpness

negative:

Sensor reflection from F11

comment:

I am disappointed because of the terrible sensor reflection,
but sharpness is outstanding.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: maxfarphoto   review date: December-09-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

price paid:

€ 200 (mint)

positive:

Sharpness
Build
Colours

negative:

Missing focus limiter

comment:

Excellent lens, sharp at all apertures, nice colours.
Light to be used as walk-around lens even on APS-C sensors it becomes a small tele (75mm equivalent). But I can't leave it behind if I go for some trekking: in my bag a small room is always available for it.
It misses a focus limiter (that's why I gave it only 4 on build)

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: kassandro   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:

Minolta 50mm/F1.7
Konica Minolta 28-75mm/F2.8
Cosina 100mm/F3.5 Macro

price paid:

150€

positive:

sharp, sharp, sharp
front lense well protected,
precise autofocus

negative:

there is white spot in the center, when a flash is used and aperture > 10.

comment:

With this lense one can shoot nice macros without a tripod, if AF-C and aperture 10 is selected. This method doesn't work as well with the Cosina macro.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: rhy7s   review date: November-04-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50mm f/1.4

price paid:

60 USD (used)

positive:

Sharp, colour, build, non-rotating focus.

negative:

Focus when you get close is obviously a little slow if you use autofocus.
Plastic "snoot", narrow focus ring, focus action could be a little smoother maybe.

comment:

The 1.4 is obviously great for low light but for ultimate sharpness and getting REALLY close the 50mm Macro is hard to beat. AF speed is fine at normal distances and though slow at macro working distances it is irrelevant at that range anyway.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: Ellisson   review date: November-04-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta Macro 100 F2.8
Minolta 28 MM F2
Minolta 50 MM F1.7

price paid:

215 USD (mint)

positive:

Sharp, great color
Versatile
Reasonable price for great quality

negative:

comment:

Great value and utility, and not just for macro work. The portable size and weight make it a great travel lens. I prefer it to the Minolta 50 mm F1.7, which is faster but not as sharp.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: kusa   review date: June-30-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Minolta 50/1.7
Minolta 24-50/4

price paid:

140 EUR (used)

positive:

impressive sharpness, robust build

negative:

lacks a focus limiter for general use

comment:

This lens is a very good performer in all optical aspects.
AF is a bit slow but this is not very important when used for macro. I wish it had a focus limiter for other uses (portraits, ...) though.
All in all a very good lens, get it if you can find a good bargain ! (I found mine on Ebay for ~140 euros).

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: gipper51   review date: June-21-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

-True 1:1 macro
-Very sharp at all aperatures

negative:

-Autofocus hunts alot

comment:

This is my first macro and I am impressed. My copy is a bit rough but still takes beautiful images. The 100mm would be better as you are only about 2" away from the subject at 1:1, but this can double as a standard 50mm, more useful than 100mm IMO. My only complaint is the AF hunts easily and will always zoom to infinity if it misses. I gave the build a 4 becuase mine has very slight play when the barrel is extended, but for its age and condition I guess it's expected. Havn't tested much for flare. A great lens that will always be in my bag.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: terrylloydsmith   review date: June-06-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

90 Tamron 2.8

price paid:

175 US E+

positive:

Quality build and very sharp.

negative:

Really none for me.

comment:

I'm very impressed with the example I have. Thought about this purchase for a long time even though I already owned the excellent Tamron 90/2.8 macro. I sold the Tamron and bought the Minolta 100/2.8 RS macro to supplement the 50mm. This lens is very nicely built and the optics are first rate. Highly recommended!

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: ronin   review date: May-11-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

tamron 90mm macro, Cosina/Vivitar 100mm macro

positive:

sharp, robust

negative:

slow AF

comment:

I won this lens on E-bay a long time ago but didn't really want it at the time. Its no one of the few lenses I always have in my camera bag. Everyone should own a good 50mm macro.

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: tko72   review date: April-26-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Compact and light. Very sharp and natural looking colours. No distortion.

negative:

Too light and plasticky feel. Autofocus is just okay. For macro 1:1, manual focus please.

comment:

Looking at dozens of tests, Minolta probably makes the best macro lenses in the industry. I have the 100mm F2.8 Macro as well, but both have their own special purpose. For the sake of weight (such as a camping or hiking trip), take the 50mm. It also stands in as a standard lens on a 35mm system. I used to just take this lens as my standard lens and use it to shoot above the waist portraits and children shots, and the macro ability was a bonus.

However, I hated it when it miss focused and had to go through the entire focus range (from 1 inch to infinity). This is where the 100 macro's focus range limiter came into play. Now with the 7D, this lens is a 75mm F2.8 and can work as a portrait lens (although I prefer the working distance of a 100mm for this type of work), but not a standard lens. If you don't mind having to get closer to the subject to get 1:1 macro, go for the 50mm and save some money. But if you need the working distance (because of using flash or because of subjects you don't want to be too close too such as bugs), then get the 100. Both are great lenses though. If I had to choose between the two, I'd pick my 50mm......

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 3 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: popoloni   review date: March-13-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

50/1.7

positive:

- sharp
- compact

negative:

- slow AF

comment:

Very nice macro lens with excellent sharpness but slow AF. I wish it had USM, like a canon lens. Very nice lens!

See my report on http://www.pophouse.it/minoltalenstest/

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 4 

user: PhotoManiac   review date: January-31-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Sharp, very sharp

negative:

AF is slow

comment:

The best 50mm macro you can get on the Minolta system. However most will find a 100mm macro more useful when taking pictures of insects and the like.

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 4 

build: 5 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: pmviana   review date: January-22-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

1:1 Magnification
Very well built

negative:

Autofocus
Normal lack of DOF in Macro Lens

comment:

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 5 

distortion: 4 

flare control: 4 

user: finnt   review date: January-22-06  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

AF 35-70 3,5-4,5

positive:

Very sharp, build quality

negative:

Focus a bit slow (but very precise)

comment:

Very nice lens. Bought it used for a reasonable price. Real "Minolta" feel. Focus a little bit slow compared to my other Minolta AF lenses, but not a problem for me.

sharpness: 5 

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:

All

negative:

maybe a little flare, but just a little.

comment:

FANTASTIC LENS

sharpness: 4.5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 5 

user: dCap   review date: November-10-05  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

Min AF 50/3.5. Tam SP 90, Sig 50 & 105 EX macros. Nikkor 55 micro

positive:

sharp, metal barrel

negative:

snoot when extended is 'fragile'
Would prefer circular aperture

comment:

Optically is wonderful. Can't fault it on sharpness.

Super performance. Ring is a little small when manual focusing but perfectly useable. And AF is good 'for a macro'.

Build gets a knock, I broke mine. As the lens extends to 1:1 the snoot that 'zooms' out is a bit wobbly, and if knocked will bend very easily. Watch for this when buying used. It if is not a snug/tight fit on return to infinity it may have been knocked

sharpness: 5 

color: 5 

build: 4 

distortion: 5 

flare control: 3 

user: former member   review date: May-07-05  

tested on film camera:

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

tested on full frame:24MP

compared to:

positive:

Very good image quality, massive build

negative:

AF practically does not work, tiny manual focusing ring

comment:

A great choice for macro photography, especially for shoting flowers & plants (if AF is not very important). In AF mode, D7 often looks for focus for long seconds, and fails at the end.
Lens flare can occur, when shooting relatively bright, homogenous surfaces.
Summa summarum, a very good (best?) lens for taking macros, but not for general purposes.