Does using a lens adapter reduce image quality on a Sony NEX-7?
Asked 5/19/2012
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I'm considering a Sony NEX-7, but the native lens selection seems limited. If I use non-native lenses with an adapter, will that affect image quality or lens functionality? I'm mainly wondering whether simple mount adapters are fine, and whether adapters with optical elements have downsides.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
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If the adapter is a glassless one and used only to adjust the lens to sensor plane distance then you may get little or no quality loss. Even without glass you can get effects due to different geometry.
If the adaptor contains a lens or lenses to allow for an otherwise unattainable lens to sensor distance then some quality loss will occur. A $2000 adaptor or one branded "Carl Zeiss" will have little quality loss. Practical reality says that a $100 or less will have noticeable quality loss.
As well as optical quality loss you want to check re possible partial or complete focus and aperture functionality loss. Also, lenses with inbuilt IC's need to be correctly dealt with if functionality is not to be lost.
Originally by user6263. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user6263
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
It depends on the adapter type, the lens, and how well the adapter is made.
A simple mechanical adapter with no glass—used only to place the lens at the correct distance from the sensor—usually causes little to no image-quality loss if it is well made. However, poor tolerances or alignment can still introduce issues.
Adapters that include optical elements are different: adding extra glass can reduce image quality, sometimes noticeably, depending on the design and quality of the adapter.
Also watch for functional limitations. With adapted lenses you may lose some or all autofocus, electronic aperture control, or other lens-camera communication unless the adapter properly supports those features.
So in practice:
- glassless adapter: usually fine if high quality
- optical adapter: more risk of image degradation
- electronic features: may be partially or fully lost
On a NEX-7, adapting lenses can be a practical way to expand your options, but choose the adapter carefully and confirm what functions will still work with the specific lens mount.
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