pergear announced an upgraded version of its fast 12mm f/2 wide-angle prime lens for APS-C mirrorless cameras. The new manual focus lens is significantly lighter than its predecessor, while still promising strong optical performance and good value.
Since the Purgear 12mm f/2 Mark II lens is designed for APS-C cameras, it is actually equivalent to an 18mm lens on most APS-C cameras and slightly longer on specific models. With its 97-degree angle of view, the lens is suitable for images of landscapes, architecture, and even the night sky due to its fast f/2 aperture. Since the lens focuses manually, it’s not optimal for any fast-paced action scenarios. This may work for environmental portraits but is likely to struggle with candid landscapes.
Regarding focusing, the lens can focus out to 0.18 meters (7.1 in), which is reasonably close. However, given the focal length, the maximum magnification, about 0.2x, does not reach anywhere near the macro area.
The lens consists of a dozen elements arranged in nine groups, including two extra-low dispersion and a pair of aspherical elements. The lens promises clear images from edge to edge as well as good control over aberrations and distortions.
As far as its aperture is concerned, the lens has a 10-bladed aperture diaphragm and Pergier says it provides “pleasing Bokeh”. The lens has a clicky aperture ring, so it may not work well for videographers, at least not those who expect to change the aperture during active recording.
The lens differs from its predecessor primarily in terms of its materials and weight. The new Mark II version is made using aluminum alloy, reducing its weight by 70 grams (2.5 oz) and reducing overall weight to just 230 grams (8.1 oz). The lens is 63 millimeters (2.5 in) long, and has a maximum diameter of 65 millimeters (2.6 in). There is no mention of filter threads in the specifications and no obvious markings on the lens, so the jury is out on whether the lens accepts filters or not. It appears there are threads, and given the maximum diameter of the lens, a 62mm thread is the most likely option if the lens accepts filters.
sample images
Pricing and Availability
The Pergear 12mm f/2 II lens is now available for purchase for $169The lens is available for Canon RF, Fujifilm
Image Credit: pergear
