Laowa Venus Optics Laowa Sunlight 2x Anamorphic Zoom Review

The Laowa Sunlight bundle delivers real 2x anamorphic cinema look in a relatively compact zoom package for under $11k. Optical sharpness is top-tier, but build quality is basic and the T4.5 aperture is slow. Worth it only if you need anamorphic zooms and can't spend six figures.

The Laowa Sunlight 2x Anamorphic Zoom bundle is a pair of cinema lenses designed to give you that classic widescreen look without breaking the bank—at least, not as much as some other options. You get two zooms (40-80mm and 70-135mm) that cover a full-frame sensor, with a constant T4.5 aperture and that signature 2x anamorphic squeeze for cinematic flares and oval bokeh.

It's built for filmmakers who want anamorphic character but need the flexibility of a zoom. The lenses are relatively compact for what they are, and they come with interchangeable ARRI PL mounts. Just know going in: this is a manual focus, manual everything setup. You're the director of photography here.

Optically, these lenses are sharp. Our data puts them in the 99th percentile for optical quality in their category, which is impressive for a more affordable anamorphic set. The trade-off is in the build quality, which lands in the 7th percentile. They get the job done, but they don't feel like a tank. The constant T4.5 aperture is fine for controlled lighting, but it's not particularly fast (29th percentile), so you'll need good light or a well-lit set. The bokeh and macro scores are just average, which is typical for anamorphic zooms focused on the squeeze and flares.

At just under $11,000 for the two-lens bundle, this is a serious investment. But in the world of anamorphic cinema glass, it's actually on the more accessible side. You're paying for the anamorphic optical design and the zoom convenience. If you need that specific look and the flexibility of zooms for run-and-gun or documentary work, this bundle can save you a fortune compared to renting or buying premium anamorphic primes. If you don't need the anamorphic look, this price tag makes zero sense.

This sits in a weird spot. It's not competing with the listed stills lenses like the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.8 or Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8—those are for photography. Its real competition is other anamorphic options. Compared to single anamorphic primes, you get zoom flexibility but sacrifice the faster apertures (often T2.8 or faster) and sometimes build quality. Compared to much more expensive anamorphic zoom sets from brands like ARRI or Cooke, you get maybe 80% of the look for 20% of the price, but you give up that bulletproof build and legendary lens character.

If you're a photographer, a vlogger, or a filmmaker who doesn't specifically want or need the stretched, flared anamorphic look, skip this immediately. You can get incredible autofocus stills lenses or faster, more versatile cinema zooms for a fraction of this price. This is a highly specialized tool.

Buy this if you're a indie filmmaker, documentarian, or corporate video pro who specifically needs the anamorphic widescreen look and the practical flexibility of zoom lenses on a budget that's big, but not Hollywood big. It's a tool that lets you achieve a high-end look without a high-end crew or budget.