Canon TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro Review

Canon TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro Performance

Central sharpness is excellent from f/4 through to f/8, very good from f/11 to f/16 and still good at f/22. Beyond that, diffraction takes its toll and the lens rapidly softens at f/32 and f/45. It is always debatable whether or not these very small apertures have value, but we do at least have the choice.

The edges are excellent from f/4 to f/8, very good from f/11 to f/16, good at f/22 and again deteriorate into softness at f/32 and f/45. The evenness of results is remarkable, with the actual figures centre and edge being within a whisker of each other.

CA (Chromatic Aberration) is highly corrected both centre and edge and is unlikely to be an issue. Further correction seems pointless for most subjects, but could, of course, be handled in software if desired.

Barrel distortion of -0.02% can be measured, interestingly an identical value to the 90mm version recently reviewed. As with the previous lens, it is so close to being perfectly rectilinear as makes little difference.

In the most challenging conditions, some loss of contrast to flare can be induced, but we have to work at it to achieve that. Generally, there is an almost total resistance to flare.

Bokeh, the smoothness and aesthetic quality of the out of focus areas, is quite gentle and pleasant and the busiest of backgrounds can be rendered with good gradation and smooth transitions.

In summary, a very strong performance indeed.

Value For Money

The Canon TS-E 135mm f/4L Macro lens is priced at £2499. This is the same price as the previously reviewed 90mm, the lens with which it shares the most in common. This is the only competition really, although in a sense it isn't competition at all. This is because the two lenses will be appropriate for different users and applications and the buying decision will invariably be a commercial one, with a specific need in mind.

As such, the price seems fair considering the features and quality of construction offered.

For more options have a look at the Top 15 Best Canon EOS lenses, Top 13 Best Macro Lenses, Top 30 Best Third Party Canon EF/EF-S Fit Lenses 2018.

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