Laowa's manual focus 2:1 macro — twice life-size without accessories — with APO correction for zero CA.
The Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO is a manual-focus full-frame macro prime providing 2:1 maximum magnification — twice life size — with APO (apochromatic) correction for minimised chromatic aberration across the focus range. The 90mm focal length provides more subject clearance at 2:1 than shorter macro alternatives. At 619g (Canon RF version) the lens is moderate for a 2:1 full-frame macro. Focus is entirely manual via a fine-thread focus ring suited to close-up increments.
The optical design uses 13 elements in 10 groups including 3 ELD (Extra-Low Dispersion) elements for APO correction. Thirteen rounded aperture blades produce smooth bokeh. The 67mm filter thread is standard for mid-aperture primes. At 619g (Canon RF) the lens is moderate. Minimum focus distance of 0.2m. No autofocus — manual focus only. f/2.8 maximum aperture. APO correction minimises chromatic aberration at high magnifications where standard macro lenses show colour fringing.
The 2:1 magnification combined with APO correction is the defining capability for scientific and product macro photography: at 2x life size, subject rendering is substantially larger than 1:1, enabling detail photography of small insects, stamps, and product surfaces that a 1:1 macro cannot achieve without post-capture cropping. APO correction minimises colour fringing at the focus point at high magnification. The 0.2m MFD at 2x provides approximately 24cm between lens front and subject — useful working clearance for lighting setups.
On the used market the Laowa 90mm f/2.8 2x Ultra Macro APO is available at manual-focus macro prime pricing. Condition checks: focus ring smoothness across the full focus range — particularly the close-focus region — front element for marks, and aperture blade operation. The lens is available in Canon RF, Sony FE, L-mount, Nikon Z, Canon EF, and Nikon F versions — confirm the mount matches the body. Compatible with full-frame and APS-C bodies in the specified mount.