Tokina SZX 400mm f/8 Reflex MF 400mm
Weighing just 355g, this catadioptric lens delivers 400mm full-frame coverage with a fixed f/8 aperture and includes a 2x extender for 800mm reach. Its 1:2.5 maximum magnification at 45.3 inches enables near-macro close-ups, while the mirror design produces distinctive ring-shaped out-of-focus highlights. Best for budget-conscious hobbyists shooting portraits or video who want an ultralight manual-focus super-telephoto with creative bokeh and extended reach.
How owner sentiment changed over time
ExclusiveBased on when customers actually wrote their reviews - so you can see whether early praise held up.
- Q1 202447/100
Mixed Q1 2024 reviews: affordable, compact lens with good handling, but significant focus and light transmission issues, especially on DSLRs.
- Unusable on DSLR handheld; dark viewfinder and focus challenges.
- Better on mirrorless Z50 but still ~50% handheld hit rate.
- Lightweight, well-balanced lens; good for hiking trips.
- Low light transmission (T/11) requires high ISO, dark photos for birding.
- Q1 202260/100
Buyers praised the lens for its compact size, light weight, and fun character, but noted moderate sharpness, muted contrast, and a learning curve.
- Compact and lightweight, ideal for travel and mirrorless cameras.
- Sharpness and contrast are decent but not top-tier.
- Learning curve needed for focusing; works best with tripod or support.
- Good value for the price and fun for outdoor nature photography.
Based on 28 dated customer reviews, grouped by calendar quarter. Period analysis is in English.
A full written review is coming soon. The specs, scores, prices and charts above are always up to date.