Moment Macro 10x Mobile Lens II review: A tiny lens that reveals a whole new world of smartphone photography

The Moment Macro 10x Mobile Lens II offers a unique perspective on smartphone photography, enabling users to capture astonishingly detailed images of the world around them. By attaching this tiny optical accessory to a smartphone's main camera, photographers can magnify subjects up to 10 times their original size. This allows even the most ordinary objects, such as leaves, fabrics, and insects, to be transformed into captivating subjects worthy of close examination.

While modern smartphones are capable of capturing close-up photos, their macro modes often rely on ultra-wide cameras with smaller sensors and limited focusing capabilities. The Moment Macro 10x aims to overcome these limitations by providing an optical attachment that pushes the boundaries of smartphone macro photography. Unlike Moment's Macro 75mm lens, which offers a longer working distance and more natural subject separation, the Macro 10x is all about getting as close as possible to the subject.

One of the key advantages of the Macro 10x is its compact and lightweight design, weighing only 35.5g without the included diffuser hood. The lens is constructed from an aluminum housing with optical glass, and features a black finish that complements Moment's other T-Series accessories. Despite its small size, the Macro 10x delivers exceptional optical performance, with a magnification ratio of 10x and an equivalent focal length of 34.8mm. This enables users to focus on subjects as close as approximately 15mm from the camera.

However, the close focusing distance of the Macro 10x also presents some challenges. The minimum focus distance of approximately 15mm requires careful positioning of the phone and lens, particularly when photographing moving subjects such as insects. Additionally, lighting can become a significant issue at such close distances, as the phone and lens can easily block available light sources, creating harsh shadows and inconsistent illumination.

The included diffuser hood helps to soften and distribute light more evenly, reducing harsh shadows and maintaining consistent exposure.

Overall, the Moment Macro 10x Mobile Lens II is a valuable tool for photographers seeking to explore the fascinating world of extreme close-up photography. While the investment of $150 is significant, especially when compared to the macro capabilities of modern smartphones, the Macro 10x offers a relatively accessible way to capture extreme details and textures that would otherwise be inaccessible.

By combining this lens with a compatible T-Series mounting system, photographers can unlock a new level of creativity and capture captivating images that reveal a whole new world through the lens of their smartphone.