Sirui Astra Series T1.8 1.33x 50mm Full-Frame Anamorphic Review

Optics are king here, scoring in the elite 96th percentile. This $849 lens delivers a true, uncropped 2.4:1 anamorphic look with beautiful blue flares. Just know you're trading away great autofocus and any stabilization for that cinematic character.

The Sirui Astra 50mm T1.8 is a full-frame anamorphic lens that punches way above its price point in one key area: optical quality. It lands in the 96th percentile for optics in our database, which is frankly wild for an $849 lens. That means it's sharper and more controlled than almost every other lens we've tested in its class.

But this is a specialist's tool. It's designed to give you that cinematic 2.4:1 aspect ratio without cropping your sensor, complete with signature blue streak flares and oval bokeh. It's not trying to be a jack-of-all-trades. With a 50mm focal length and a T1.8 maximum aperture, it's built for controlled video and cinematic photography, not snapping quick family photos.

Let's talk about that 96th percentile optical score. In practical terms, this lens is exceptionally sharp across the frame, with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. The 44mm image circle ensures you get full coverage on a full-frame sensor with no vignetting, which is a big deal for anamorphic lenses at this price. The trade-off for that optical purity is in other areas. Its autofocus performance sits in the 45th percentile, so it's competent but not class-leading. And with no stabilization (36th percentile), you'll need a gimbal or rig for smooth handheld video. The minimum focus distance of 1.6 feet (500mm) and 1:7.2 magnification put its macro capability in the 47th percentile, so it's fine for close-ups but won't replace a dedicated macro lens.

At $849, the value proposition here is incredibly focused. You are paying almost exclusively for that 96th percentile optical performance and the authentic anamorphic look. Compared to traditional cinema anamorphic lenses that cost five or ten times as much, this is an absolute steal. You're just not paying for top-tier autofocus, stabilization, or a lightweight build. It's a budget-conscious gateway into a very expensive style of filmmaking.

Stacked against its peers, the Sirui Astra carves a unique niche. The Meike 55mm F1.8 is a sharper, faster standard prime but lacks the anamorphic magic. The Nikon NIKKOR Z 35mm f/1.8 S will have far better autofocus and build quality, but it's a spherical lens for stills. The Viltrox 35mm F1.7 is a cheaper, more versatile option but can't touch the Sirui's anamorphic optics. If you want the widescreen look, the Sirui is in a league of its own at this price. If you need a do-everything lens for photos and video, look at the Nikon or a zoom like the Panasonic 14-140mm.

Skip this lens if you're a still photographer looking for a versatile walk-around prime. Its travel score is a dismal 32nd percentile. Also, if you need silky-smooth autofocus (45th percentile) or rely on in-lens stabilization (36th percentile) for handheld video, this isn't your tool. It's a specialist for a very specific look.

We recommend the Sirui Astra 50mm T1.8 if you're a filmmaker or hybrid shooter who specifically wants the anamorphic aesthetic on a budget. The optical performance is legitimately superb. Just be ready to work around its average autofocus and complete lack of stabilization. It's a purpose-built tool, not an everyday lens.