| Image: Laowa |
Laowa has officially launched its 200mm F2 AF lens for full-frame cameras. The new telephoto prime for Sony E, Nikon Z and Canon EF mounts promises pro-level quality and features yet comes in at nearly half the price of the recently released Sigma 200mm F2 DG OS Sports, and does so with a more compact build.
Long telephoto lenses tend to be bulky and heavy, including the small selection of 200mm primes on the market. However, Laowa’s 200mm F2 AF is relatively compact and lightweight. The Sony E and Nikon Z mount versions weigh 1.71 kg (3.74 lb), while the Canon EF mount version weighs 1.59 kg (3.51 lb). The Nikon Z version is the longest model, coming in at 176.8mm (6.9″), with the Canon EF version the shortest at 148.3mm (5.8″). For comparison, Sigma’s new 200mm F2 lens weighs 1.80 kg (3.97 lb) and is 203mm (7.99″) long.
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| Image: Laowa |
Laowa promises “flagship-level results” from its latest lens. It features 11 elements in 9 groups, including two extra-low dispersion elements, one anomalous dispersion element and one ultra-high refraction element. Laowa says it offers well-controlled chromatic aberration with “razor-sharp clarity” for sharp images edge-to-edge with accurate colors. It also promises large bokeh.
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| Photo: Bastian Kratzke / Laowa |
Laowa also says the lens provides precise and fast autofocus, making it well-suited for capturing sports and wildlife. It can focus as close as 150 cm (4.92′), slightly closer than the Sigma offering. It is compatible with 105mm front filters, and the Sony E and Nikon Z mount versions feature a built-in 43mm rear filter holder as well.
There are plenty of on-lens controls, including an aperture ring, focus limiter switch, AF/MF switch, FN button and a knob to quickly adjust the position of the lens support when changing orientation. Laowa also designed the lens with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture.
The Laowa 200mm F2 AF lens is available for pre-order for $1799 for Canon EF and $1999 for Nikon Z and Sony E. It will ship in November 2025.
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Laowa 200mm F2 specifications:
| Principal specifications | |
|---|---|
| Lens type | Prime lens |
| Max Format size | 35mm FF |
| Focal length | 200 mm |
| Image stabilization | No |
| Lens mount | Canon EF, Canon EF-S, Nikon Z, Sony E, Sony FE |
| Aperture | |
| Maximum aperture | F2 |
| Minimum aperture | F22 |
| Aperture ring | No |
| Number of diaphragm blades | 9 |
| Optics | |
| Elements | 11 |
| Groups | 9 |
| Special elements / coatings | 2 ED, 1 AD, 1 UHR |
| Focus | |
| Minimum focus | 1.50 m (59.06″) |
| Maximum magnification | 0.15× |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus method | Internal |
| Distance scale | No |
| DoF scale | No |
| Physical | |
| Weight | 1588 g (3.50 lb) |
| Diameter | 118 mm (4.65″) |
| Length | 175 mm (6.89″) |
| Sealing | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Filter thread | 105 mm |
| Filter notes | 105mm front filter, 43mm rear filter |
| Hood supplied | Yes |
| Tripod collar | Yes |