Introduction

As an amateur street photographer who has been using this lens for the past few weeks, I want to share my sincere experience with the TTArtisan AF 23mm f/1.8. In street photography, 35mm (equivalent to 23mm in APS-C) has always been a reference focal length. TTArtisan has entered this space with their new AF 23mm f/1.8, a lens that promises to make this classic focal length more accessible to photographers on a limited budget at €127. My expectations were moderate, especially coming from using the Fujinon XF 23mm f/2. However, this small lens has pleasantly surprised me in several aspects, though it also has some limitations worth mentioning.

Build Quality and Ergonomics (4/5)

The metal construction of the lens offers a sense of solidity that exceeds expectations for its price range. Its compact design and light weight of 210g make it an ideal companion for street photography and daily use. The absence of an aperture ring is the most negative point I find with this lens, as it can be an adjustment point for users accustomed to Fujifilm lenses, but this helps maintain a more contained price.

The included lens hood, although I initially liked it less than the TTArtisan AF 56mm f/1.8’s hood, adequately fulfills its protective function. The 52mm filter diameter is a good choice, allowing filter sharing with other lenses from the brand like the AF 56mm f/1.8.

Focus System (4/5)

During my walks through the cities of Guangzhou and Macau, the autofocus has proven to be more than competent, perhaps slightly below the TTArtisan AF 56mm F1.8. It’s clear that it doesn’t reach the level of native Fujifilm lenses but is precise and very quiet, important if you want to try to go unnoticed on the street. I’ve lost some moments due to focus occasionally failing in low-light situations, but this happens less than I initially expected.

Optical Performance (4/5)

Regarding optical performance, the TTArtisan 23mm f/1.8 offers notable results, especially considering its price. The images it produces have a special character. Center sharpness is very good even at the maximum aperture of f/1.8. However, the corners of the image tend to be softer at wide apertures but improve significantly when stopping down to f/5.6 or f/8, though honestly, in street photography, corners are rarely crucial.

BOKEH

It has a peculiar character, being somewhat “nervous,” which can add an artistic touch to images, similar to vintage lenses.

Vignetting and Aberrations

Vignetting is noticeable at f/1.8, which many consider a limitation; however, I personally like this effect that can be used creatively in street photography or environmental portraits. In any case, vignetting decreases when stopping down. Chromatic aberration is very well controlled, with little to no visible color fringing in images. Performance against backlight is acceptable, with some controlled flare and reflections, which is a very positive point for a lens in this price range.

What I Like

• The price is unbeatable for what it offers

• The metal construction gives me confidence in daily use

• The autofocus is quiet, perfect for discrete photography

• Center sharpness is more than sufficient for my use

What Could Improve

• Autofocus can hesitate in low-light conditions

• The corners are notably softer than the center

• I miss having a physical aperture ring

Final Thoughts

I can say that the TTArtisan 23mm f/1.8 has changed my perspective on budget lenses. No, it’s not perfect - it has its limitations and particular characteristics. But for €127, it offers a photographic experience that was previously only possible with much more expensive lenses.

For beginning street photographers or those looking for a second lens without spending much, this lens is a very valid option. Its flaws are manageable and, in some cases, can even give your photos a different aesthetic. Can it replace a premium lens like the XF23mm? No. But I don’t think that’s its purpose since the XF23 costs almost 4 times more. What it does is allow more people to explore this classic focal length without mortgaging their equipment. And for that, I think it deserves serious consideration.