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Lens extension tubes are an affordable way to explore macro photography without investing in specialized macro lenses. By increasing the distance between the lens and the camera sensor, they enable closer focusing and magnify subjects. Choosing the right set is crucial for achieving the desired magnification and ensuring compatibility with your camera system.
COMPATIBILITY: Designed for Canon EF and EF-S mount lenses, works with various Canon DSLR camera models including 2000D, 1300D, 800D, 70D, 7D, 6D, 5D series
EXTENSION TUBES: Includes three tubes of different lengths - 12mm, 20mm, and 36mm, allowing for various magnification levels in macro photography
AUTO FOCUS: Maintains electronic communication between camera and lens, preserving autofocus and automatic exposure functions
VERSATILITY: Can be used individually or in any combination to achieve different magnification ratios for close-up photography
VILTROX DG-C lens extension tube adapter is designed to compatibly work with Canon EF / EF-S series lens and DSLR Camera, expanding the compatibility and combination of related lens and camera
68mm of tube diameter and designed with 3 tubes in different length: 12mm, 20mm, 36mm. They can be used individually or in 4 combinations to obtain different magnification (7 methods): 12mm, 20mm, 36mm, 12+20, 12+36, 20+36, 12+20+36 combination
If the focal length is less than 70mm, it is not recommended to combine 2 or 3 rings at same time. It is easy to get AUTO FOCUS function when using single ring, while combine 2 or 3 rings, we suggest to set your camera in MANUAL FOCUS
The part of camera mount is made of Aluminum, the part of lens mount is made of high quality brass, while the tube is made of high quality ABS plastic
Shortens minimum focusing distance of lens for macro photography, convert almost any lens into a macro lens, save your cost of buying an expensive macro lens
Full Autofocus and auto exposure Compatibility
Extension tubes of 11mm and 16mm lengths can be used individually or in combination for greater magnification
The extension tube is designed for Fuji X-Mount lens mounting at a higher magnification at a closer distance
It enables you to use all shooting modes of the camera, exposure compensation is required. Getting closer has the effect of magnifying your subject (making it appear larger in the viewfinder and in your pictures)
When using a macro extension tube, it is recommended to use the manual mode to change the shutter speed directly to control the exposure level
Macro extension tube can be used alone or in superimposed，When using the extension tubes alone (10 mm or 16 mm) or combination (10mm+16mm=26mm), the focal length of lens should be greater than the length (10mm 16mm or 26mm ) of the tube
The part of camera mount and lens mount are both made of high quality brass, while the tube is made of high quality ABS plastic
Shortens minimum focusing distance of lens for macro photography, convert almost any lens into a macro lens, save your cost of buying an expensive macro lens
Full Autofocus and auto exposure Compatibility
Extension tubes of 12mm, 20mm and 36mm lengths can be used individually or in any combination of the three for greater magnification
The part of camera mount is made of Aluminum, the part of lens mount is made of high quality brass, while the tube is made of high quality ABS plastic
Shortens minimum focusing distance of lens for macro photography, convert almost any lens into a macro lens, save your cost of buying an expensive macro lens
Full Autofocus and auto exposure Compatibility
Extension tubes of 10mm and 16mm lengths can be used individually or in combination for greater magnification
Last update on 2026-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Choose the Best Lens Extension Tubes
Understanding Extension Tubes
Lens extension tubes are hollow cylinders that fit between your camera body and lens. They contain no optical elements, meaning they don't alter image quality in terms of sharpness or distortion. Their sole purpose is to move the lens further away from the sensor, which effectively reduces the minimum focusing distance and increases magnification. This allows you to get closer to small subjects, revealing intricate details often missed by standard lenses.
Types of Extension Tubes
Extension tubes come in two main configurations: single tubes and sets. Single tubes offer a fixed magnification, while sets typically include multiple tubes of varying lengths (e.g., 7mm, 14mm, 21mm). Using them individually or in combination allows for a range of magnification possibilities. Some tubes are electronic, meaning they transmit lens aperture and autofocus information to the camera, while others are purely mechanical. Electronic tubes are generally preferred for their convenience and versatility.
Compatibility and Features
When selecting extension tubes, compatibility with your camera mount is paramount. Ensure the tubes are designed for your specific camera brand (e.g., Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E-mount). Electronic contacts are a significant feature, enabling full control over aperture and autofocus, which is essential for practical shooting. Look for tubes made from durable materials like metal alloys for longevity. Some sets may also include lens caps for protection when not in use.
Magnification and Use Cases
The magnification achieved depends on the length of the extension tube(s) used and the focal length of your lens. Longer tubes and shorter focal length lenses result in higher magnification. These tubes are ideal for capturing extreme close-ups of insects, flowers, textures, and small objects. They are a cost-effective entry point into the world of macro photography, offering creative possibilities for nature and product photography.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do extension tubes affect image quality?
Extension tubes themselves do not contain glass elements, so they do not inherently degrade image quality in terms of sharpness or introduce optical aberrations. However, using them can sometimes lead to softer images if autofocus struggles or if the lens's optimal performance range is pushed too far.
What is the difference between electronic and manual extension tubes?
Electronic extension tubes feature electrical contacts that communicate with the camera and lens. This allows for control over aperture settings and enables autofocus functionality. Manual tubes lack these contacts, requiring you to set the aperture on the lens (if possible) and focus manually.
How do I determine the magnification I will get?
Magnification is calculated by dividing the total extension length by the lens's focal length. For example, using a 50mm lens with a 25mm extension tube will provide a 0.5x magnification. Combining multiple tubes increases the total extension and thus the magnification.
Can I use extension tubes with any lens?
You can use extension tubes with most lenses, but they are most effective with prime lenses or zoom lenses set to their longest focal length. Using them with telephoto lenses generally yields less dramatic magnification increases compared to standard or wide-angle lenses.
Will autofocus work with extension tubes?
Autofocus will work with electronic extension tubes, provided your camera and lens support it. However, autofocus may be slower and less reliable, especially in low light or with small subjects, due to the reduced depth of field and increased magnification.
Are extension tubes a good alternative to macro lenses?
Yes, for many photographers, extension tubes are an excellent and affordable way to experiment with macro photography. They offer significant magnification increases, allowing for close-up shots that would otherwise require expensive dedicated macro lenses.
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