You’ll get a compact, fast 40mm T1.8 1.33x anamorphic that gives authentic widescreen character on Nikon Z Super‑35 bodies. It’s engineered with aspheric and cylindrical elements to control chromatic aberration, limit breathing, and deliver high resolution. Expect horizontal streak flares, creamy mid‑tone rolloff, and elliptical‑to‑oval bokeh with strong low‑light performance. STM autofocus is swift and reliable with Z‑menu integration, though there’s no stabilization or weather sealing. Keep going and you’ll find detailed tests, handling notes, and buying guidance.
Some Key Takeaways
- Compact, fast T1.8 40mm anamorphic for Super 35 delivers ~2.35:1 widescreen with 1.33x squeeze.
- Optical design uses aspherics and cylindrical elements for high resolution and reduced chromatic aberration.
- Characteristic horizontal streak flares, creamy bokeh, and smooth mid-tone rolloff create a cinematic look.
- STM autofocus integrates well with Nikon Z bodies, offering reliable eye/subject tracking and minimal hunting.
- Limitations: no OSS or weather sealing and limited close-focus—recommended to rent or test before buying.
What the SIRUI 40mm T1.8 1.33x Is and Who It’s For
What makes the SIRUI 40mm T1.8 1.33x unique is that it brings a compact, autofocus anamorphic option to Nikon Z users shooting Super 35; it's a fixed 40mm T1.8 lens that squeezes 1.33x to yield a 2.35:1 widescreen look on 16:9 sensors. You get an autofocus anamorphic optimized for Nikon Z bodies, offering run and gun shooters a lightweight tool for quick setups and reliable AF. Indie filmmakers benefit from a cinematic widescreen aesthetic without heavy rigs. You’ll appreciate the compact form, fast aperture for low light, and anamorphic character that simplifies achieving cinematic framing and shallow depth-of-field. It's an excellent match for mirrorless photographers and videographers who need essential gear that balances portability and cinematic capability.
Key Specs and Optical Characteristics You Need to Know
Because the 40mm T1.8 1.33x is built for Super 35 Nikon Z bodies, you get a compact, autofocus anamorphic that delivers a 1.33x squeeze (yielding ~2.35:1 from a 16:9 sensor), a true 40 mm focal length with a 55° diagonal field of view, and a fast T1.8 maximum aperture (stops to T22) for low‑light work and shallow depth of field. You’ll note the aperture range T1.8–T22, a 55° angle of view, and optical elements including aspherical and cylindrical pieces. Design targets reduced chromatic aberration, minimal focus breathing, and high resolution across the frame. Perfect Portrait Lenses focuses on helping photographers choose the right lens for portrait work.
Real-World Image Results: Flare, Bokeh, Low-Light and Resolution
When you test the SIRUI 40mm T1.8 1.33x in practical shooting conditions, its flare behavior, bokeh character, low‑light sensitivity, and resolving power become immediately apparent. You’ll see controlled blue and neutral flare modes creating long cinematic streaks with manageable veiling; point sources stretch horizontally without obliterating contrast. Bokeh shifts from hexagonal elliptical at T1.8 to classic 1.33x anamorphic ovals by T2.4, producing creamy highlights and smooth mid‑tone rolloff. At T1.8 low‑light capability is strong for its class, retaining usable shadow detail and color. Resolution is high on S35, with aspheric elements keeping edges crisp and minimizing chromatic aberration. This lens is an excellent choice for photographers and filmmakers focused on prime lenses who want cinematic anamorphic looks without a large budget.
Autofocus, Handling and Practical Performance on Nikon Z Bodies
Mount the SIRUI 40mm T1.8 on a Nikon Z body and you’ll get swift, reliable AF performance thanks to its STM motor, with eye-detect and subject-tracking working smoothly for both stills and video. You’ll notice strong AF responsiveness in single and continuous modes; acquisition is rapid and hunting is minimal. Menu integration is straightforward: the Z cameras recognize the lens and expose aperture and AF options without extra setup. Handling is compact and balanced on Z5–Z8 bodies; manual override is tactile and precise. Expect reduced focus breathing and predictable behavior for run-and-gun and controlled production work. This lens is also a good match for photographers using lens mount adapters to expand compatibility and creative options.
Buying Verdict: Strengths, Limitations and Who Should Buy/Rent
Having seen how the lens behaves on Nikon Z bodies, you can now judge its practical value: the SIRUI 40mm T1.8 1.33x delivers a clear set of strengths—lightweight, fast T1.8 aperture, reliable STM autofocus with eye and subject tracking, reduced focus breathing, and authentic anamorphic character—while also carrying limitations such as no image stabilization, limited close-focus range inherent to its fixed 40mm focal length, and lack of weather sealing. You should buy if you need compact anamorphic looks, low-light speed, and autofocus on a budget. Consider rental considerations for one-off projects or test against budget alternatives before committing. This lens is a solid option for photographers exploring zoom lens techniques and anamorphic aesthetics.
Some Questions Answered
Does It Come With Lens Caps and a Protective Case?
No — it typically ships without a protective hard case. You’ll get a basic lens cap, but dedicated case padding and thorough storage solutions aren’t included. You should plan to buy a padded camera bag or aftermarket hard case with customizable foam. Also get a cleaning kit for optics and lens cap replacements if needed. Check the retailer’s package details and warranty/return policy before purchase to confirm any bundled accessories.
Is There an Optional De-Clicked Aperture or Cine-Style Gearing?
No, there isn’t an optional de clicked aperture or dedicated cine gearing for this model. You’ll get a standard click-aperture and a focus ring without integrated 0.8M gear; aperture de-clicking would require aftermarket modification. If you need cine-style gearing or a de clicked aperture, you should plan to use a third-party service or add external follow-focus/gear rings. The lens remains compact and autofocus-capable but lacks built-in cine controls.
Can I Use This Lens on Non-Z Nikon Bodies With an Adapter?
Yes — you can, but with limitations. You’ll need appropriate adapter options to fit the Nikon Z mount lens to F-mount or other Nikon DSLR bodies; check mount compatibility for electronic contacts and flange distance. Passive mechanical adapters may allow manual aperture and focus only; active adapters can preserve AF and communication but are rare. Expect potential loss of autofocus, metering quirks, and limited warranty support when adapting across mounts.
Are There Firmware Updates Available for the AF STM Motor?
Yes — you can get firmware updates for the AF STM motor via the manufacturer. Check SIRUI’s firmware timeline on their support site to see release dates and changelogs. Updates address motor compatibility with new camera bodies and AF features like eye focus or tracking. You’ll download a package, copy it to the lens or adapter per instructions, and run the installer. Contact SIRUI support if you hit issues.
What Is the Exact Filter Thread Size for Matte Boxes/Adapters?
The filter thread size is 46mm, so you'll need a 46mm adapter for matte box compatibility. Use a 46mm adapter ring to mount step-up or quick-release matte box trays and to attach 46mm screw-on filters. Confirm your matte box supports 46mm or use a 46mm-to-plate adapter for square tray systems. Since the lens lacks built-in threads for large matte boxes, rely on compatible adapters and follow matte box weight limits to avoid stress.
