Photo: Diego Delso (CC BY-SA 4.0)
MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x Macro
- 65mm
- f/2.8
- Macro
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Quick answer
A specialist macro lens that works only between 1x and 5x life-size magnification. Manual focus, with no infinity setting.
Pros
- 1x to 5x magnification
- Sharp
- Unique capability
Cons
- Manual focus only
- Cannot focus to infinity
- Needs flash or strong light and a stable support
Verdict
A niche tool for experienced macro shooters, not a general-purpose lens.
About this lens
This 65mm f/2.8 macro lens from Canon fits Canon EF mount cameras. A specialist manual-focus macro lens that magnifies from 1x to 5x life size.
Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x Macro specifications
What can you shoot with the Canon MP-E 65mm f/2.8 1-5x Macro?
- Extreme macro
- Insects and small subjects
- Scientific photography
Its bright maximum aperture handles indoor and evening light reasonably well.
Full-frame equivalent and field of view
Calculated from the focal length and crop factor. Not measured.
| Sensor | Crop | Equivalent | Horizontal FOV | Diagonal FOV |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full frame | 1.0x | 65mm | 31° | 36.8° |
| APS-C | 1.6x | 104mm | 19.6° | 23.5° |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Canon MP-E 65mm focus to infinity?
No. It focuses only within its 1x to 5x range, so it cannot be used for normal photography.
Does the MP-E 65mm have autofocus?
No. It is manual focus, and focusing is usually done by moving the camera toward the subject or by using a focusing rail.
Is MP-E 65mm good for beginners?
It is challenging. Working at 5x magnification means very thin depth of field and strong demands on lighting and stability. A 100mm macro is easier to learn on.
Alternatives for Canon EF from other brands
All Canon EF lensesSame mount, overlapping focal range, closest maximum aperture first.
