6
\$\begingroup\$

I'm planning to buy extension tubes for my Canon 50mm f1.8 lens. I found Kenko for about $150 but then again there are the others which are going for about $10 or less which does not mention of a brand name or anything. Any particular difference or disadvantage to using the no-name brand to the lens or camera? I find it pointless to spend lots because for sure I know that there are no optics and hence image quality should not be a problem.

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$

3 Answers 3

Reset to default
8
\$\begingroup\$

The more expensive Kenko tubes have contacts that allow the lens to pass metering and aperture information to the camera, and the necessary mechanics to work the aperture, so you can use the lens as normal.

The cheap ones lack these, so you have to meter manually and your aperture will be fixed at its smallest diameter - ideally you need a lens with a manual aperture ring, which I believe is not the case with your Canon.

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$
3
  • 2
    \$\begingroup\$ I've used the cheap tubes with that lens - what you need to do is put the lens on the camera, dial in the aperture you want (e.g. in aperture priority or manual mode), then hold down the Depth-of-field preview button. While holding it, detach the lens which will retain the aperture you want. \$\endgroup\$
    – Paul Dixon
    May 25, 2011 at 11:49
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ Interesting. Don't think that would work with Nikon lenses as they are all sprung; they automatically close up when you take them off the camera or let go of the aperture lever. \$\endgroup\$
    – ElendilTheTall
    May 25, 2011 at 12:23
  • \$\begingroup\$ I got tubes at a third of the price of Kenko, with electrical contacts. $30 rather than $90. They're stamped Meike, but idk how generic that really is. They work just fine, a tad stiffer than my usual lens attachments, but perfectly serviceable. \$\endgroup\$
    – Tetsujin
    Jun 13 at 18:18
2
\$\begingroup\$

Canon has extension tubes as well, for almost the same price I believe. Google for "Canon EF 25II".

One thing to mention, extension tubes has no optics inside, its all air. Apart from Canon tubes, all have AF issues reported in various reviews. So, I dont think one should pay more money just for the air inside the tube. And also, be prepared to use MF if you buy anything other than Canon.

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$
2
\$\begingroup\$

For 10 bucks, surely it's worth trying the cheap ones?

That's what I've done, and the results are quite acceptable.

I used @Paul Dixon's method to set the aperture (I'm using Canon).

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.