Zeiss has introduced the Otus ML series, a new line of manual focus prime lenses designed for professional photographers and high-end visual creators. The Otus ML family brings Zeiss’s signature optical quality to mirrorless mounts, launching with the 50mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.4 lenses in 2025.
Overview of the Otus ML Series
The Otus ML line continues the legacy of Zeiss’ Otus lenses, known for their optical precision and build quality. Unlike the original Otus lenses, which were designed for DSLRs, the Otus ML lenses are specifically engineered for mirrorless cameras. The series will be available for Sony E, Canon RF, and Nikon Z mounts.
The Otus ML lenses feature an apochromatic design to minimize chromatic aberrations and an aspherical lens construction to reduce distortion. Zeiss’s T* anti-reflective coating is applied to improve contrast and reduce flare.
Build and Handling
The lenses have a full metal construction designed to withstand professional use. The manual focus system includes a precision helicoid drive, and the lenses incorporate a de-click function for smooth aperture adjustments during video recording. A blue sealing ring at the mount protects against dust and moisture, and additional weather sealing enhances durability.
Technical Specifications
Otus ML 50mm f/1.4
- Focal length: 50mm
- Maximum aperture: f/1.4
- Mounts: Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z
- Manual focus
- Apochromatic design to minimize chromatic aberrations
- Aspherical elements for distortion control
- Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating
- Weather-sealing with dust and moisture protection
- Weight: 677 g
- Price: $2,500
- Release: Spring 2025
Otus ML 85mm f/1.4
- Focal length: 85mm
- Maximum aperture: f/1.4
- Mounts: Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z
- Manual focus
- Apochromatic design to minimize chromatic aberrations
- Aspherical elements for distortion control
- Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating
- Weather-sealing with dust and moisture protection
- Weight: 1,040 g
- Price: $2,999
- Release: Late 2025
Performance and Target Audience
The Otus ML lenses are aimed at professionals who prioritize optical performance and precise manual focusing. Zeiss claims the lenses will deliver exceptional sharpness, color fidelity, and a three-dimensional rendering characteristic of the Otus series.
The lenses are designed for photographers who require fine control over focus and depth of field, such as portrait, commercial, and still-life photographers. The inclusion of a de-clicked aperture makes them suitable for high-end video applications as well.
Availability and Pricing
The Otus ML 85mm f/1.4 will follow later in 2025, priced at $2,999, and is available for preorder now.
