Canon EOS R5 II Macro Lens: Laowa 180mm vs RF Dual Fisheye
By Foto Erhardt | Kameras, Objektive & Zubehör ► günstig kaufen | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Macro and Canon RF-S 3.9mm Dual Fisheye for the EOS R5 II. Discover which lens fits your creative goals and budget.
Quick Answer
For extreme macro detail on a full-frame EOS R5 II, choose the Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Macro. If you want to create immersive 3D VR content, the Canon RF-S 3.9mm Dual Fisheye is the better fit.
Macro vs VR: Two Different Lenses for the Same Mount
The Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO is a full-frame lens designed for extreme close-ups, offering 1.5x magnification. The Canon RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye is an APS-C lens that captures 3D VR content with a 144° angle of view. They share the RF mount but serve completely different purposes.
The Laowa is manual focus only and built for stills, while the Canon Dual Fisheye features a fast, quiet STM autofocus for video and VR capture. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize macro detail or immersive 3D experiences.
Budget and Compatibility Considerations
The Laowa 180mm is priced at $358.98, significantly lower than the Canon RF-S 3.9mm at $792.39. However, the Canon lens is designed for APS-C sensors, so on the full-frame EOS R5 II you would use it in crop mode or with a compatible adapter—something to factor into your decision.
The Laowa is a full-frame lens, so it covers the entire sensor of the EOS R5 II without cropping. This makes it a straightforward choice for macro photographers who want to use the full resolution of the camera.
Trade-Offs at a Glance
- Magnification vs. VR capability: The Laowa offers 1.5x macro magnification for extreme detail; the Canon Dual Fisheye provides 144° 3D VR capture. Choose based on your primary output: stills or immersive video. If you need both, consider renting or owning both lenses for different projects.
- Autofocus vs. manual control: The Canon has fast, quiet STM autofocus, while the Laowa is manual focus only. For video and quick shooting, autofocus helps; for precise macro control, manual focus is often preferred. Practice manual focusing with the Laowa if you're new to macro photography.
- Full-frame vs. APS-C coverage: The Laowa is designed for full-frame sensors, using the entire EOS R5 II sensor. The Canon RF-S lens is for APS-C, so you'll shoot in crop mode on the R5 II, reducing effective resolution. If you want maximum resolution, the Laowa is the better match for the R5 II.
- Price difference: The Laowa is $358.98, while the Canon is $792.39. The Canon costs more than double, reflecting its specialized VR technology. Budget-conscious macro shooters will find the Laowa a more accessible entry point.
Product Facts
- LAOWA MF 180mm f4,5 1,5X Macro für Canon RF: The Laowa 180mm f/4.5 1.5X Ultra Macro APO offers 1.5x magnification and a telephoto focal length for full-frame cameras. This lets you capture extreme close-ups with working distance, ideal for insects or small details without disturbing your subject.
LAOWA MF 180mm f4,5 1,5X Macro für Canon RF - Canon RF-S 3,9mm f3,5 STM Dual Fisheye: The Canon RF-S 3.9mm f/3.5 STM Dual Fisheye provides a 144° angle of view and fast, quiet STM autofocus for 3D VR content. It simplifies VR creation for beginners, allowing you to shoot immersive 3D footage straight from your camera.
Canon RF-S 3,9mm f3,5 STM Dual Fisheye
Which Lens Fits You?
Best for
- Macro photographers who want extreme 1.5x magnification on full-frame without breaking the bank
- Creators who want to dive into 3D VR content with an easy-to-use, autofocus lens
Not for
- VR enthusiasts who need full-frame coverage—the Canon RF-S is APS-C only
- Photographers who require autofocus for macro work—the Laowa is manual focus only
