Canon Brightin Star 35mm F1.7 Lens for Canon EOS-M Mount Review

The Brightin Star 35mm F1.7 is a $70 manual focus prime lens for Canon's EOS-M mount. Its core numbers are simple: a 35mm focal length, a fast f/1.7 aperture, and a tiny 323g weight. That's a specific recipe for a specific shooter. It scores a 71.6 out of 100 overall, with its best performance in macro (76.2) and its weakest in travel versatility (43.7). Think of it as a pocketable tool for creative control, not a do-everything walkaround lens.

This lens is a specialist. Its f/1.7 aperture lands in the 79th percentile, which means it lets in a lot of light for the price. That's great for low-light shots and shallow depth of field. Its macro score is in the 94th percentile, so it can focus surprisingly close for a 35mm lens, right down to 35mm from the sensor. But the autofocus percentile is 47th, because it doesn't have any. You're focusing manually every time. The optical score is in the 33rd percentile, so while the center can be sharp at f/1.7, expect softer edges and some chromatic aberration wide open. It's about character, not clinical perfection.

At $70, you're paying for the aperture and the macro trick, not for polish. You get a fast, close-focusing metal lens for less than the cost of a typical filter. The trade-off is manual focus and optical compromises. Compared to native Canon glass, it's a fraction of the price, but you lose autofocus and optical correction. It's a value play for photographers who want to slow down and don't mind turning a focus ring.

Stack it up against the Meike 55mm F1.8 Pro, and you trade the Brightin Star's macro strength and lighter weight for the Meike's better overall optics and build. The Viltrox 35mm f/1.7 for Z-Mount offers autofocus, which is a huge functional upgrade, but for a different camera system and more money. For EOS-M shooters, the real question is this: is saving money and gaining macro worth losing autofocus? If you shoot still subjects and like manual control, the Brightin Star wins. If you chase kids or pets, the lack of AF is a dealbreaker.

This lens is a niche pick. If you're an EOS-M shooter who loves manual focus, wants to experiment with macro, and needs a fast aperture for under $100, it's a compelling oddity. The 94th percentile macro score is legit. But if you need reliable autofocus, sharp corners, or a versatile travel lens, its low scores in those areas (38th percentile versatility, 33rd percentile optics) make it hard to recommend. It's a tool for a specific job, not a daily driver.