Carl Zeiss Jena Biotar 58mm f/2 vs KMZ MC Helios-44M-4 58mm 1:2
Side-by-side comparison from our catalogue data. Better values are highlighted only where a clear difference exists.
Carl Zeiss
Jena Biotar 58mm f/2
| Spec | Jena Biotar 58mm f/2 | MC Helios-44M-4 58mm 1:2 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Carl Zeiss | KMZ |
| Mount | M42 | M42 |
| Type | Prime | Prime |
| Focal length | 58mm | 58mm |
| Max aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.0 |
| Blades | n/a | 6 |
| Format | n/a | full-frame |
| Groups | n/a | 4 |
| Af motor | n/a | none |
| Elements | n/a | 6 |
| Weight g | n/a | 300 |
| Filter mm | n/a | 52 |
| Length mm | n/a | 42 |
| Diameter mm | n/a | 64 |
| Min focus m | n/a | 0.5 |
Carl Zeiss Jena Biotar 58mm f/2
A Zeiss Jena 58mm f/2 in M42 mount from the Biotar family, the design that inspired the Helios lenses. It is known for swirly bokeh.
Pros
- Characterful bokeh
- Good build
- Easy to adapt
Cons
- Soft wide open
- Sample quality varies
KMZ MC Helios-44M-4 58mm 1:2
A later multi-coated version of the Soviet 58mm f/2 Helios in M42 mount. It keeps the swirly bokeh character of the Biotar-style design.
Pros
- Multi-coating improves contrast
- Strong, recognizable bokeh
- Easy to adapt
Cons
- Soft at f/2
- Copy quality varies