Laowa has just announced a new version of their Ranger full-frame cinema zoom lenses: the Ranger Lite. Like Coke, the Ranger Lite versions have been slimmed down by 10% while maintaining the same features, focal length, and optical design. Also, they’ll come in a new Space Gray color. So, let’s take a closer look at these!
The Laowa Ranger lineup of full-frame cinema zoom lenses was first announced in June 2023. There are two zooms in the series: a 28-75mm and a 75-180mm, with a constant T2.9 maximum aperture. While these lenses are relatively lightweight at only 1.4kg/3.08 lbs per lens, Laowa took things one step further by releasing a new version: the Ranger Lite.
Laowa Ranger Lite – features
The main difference between the Laowa Ranger and the newer Ranger Lite zooms is that the latest are composed of magnesium instead of aluminum alloy. This means that the 28-75mm T2.9 will now weigh 1.3kg/2.8 lbs, and the 75-180mm T2.9 will come down to 1.2kg/2.7 lbs.
While this doesn’t sound like a lot, 100 grams on the scale can make a difference when it comes to balancing a gimbal, for example. The new Ranger Lite will also come in Space Gray instead of black for the “regular” Ranger.
Other than that, the lens design and specifications are alike for both the Laowa Ranger and Ranger Lite, including:
- An image circle diameter of 43.2mm which covers full-frame image sensors. The lenses are parfocal and feature a quick back-focus adjustment mechanism.
- The lenses have a user-interchangeable PL/Canon EF mount, but you can get an additional Sony E / Canon RF / Nikon Z / L mount if needed.
- The focus throw is 270°, and all focus/zoom/aperture rings have built-in M0.8 pitch gears. All the rings’ positions are identical between the 28-75mm and 75-180mm.
- The lens design of the 28-75mm consists of 22 elements in 18 groups. The 75-180mm lens design is simpler, with 14 elements in 14 groups.
- The front filter thread is 77mm, and the outside diameter is 80mm.
Pricing and availability
The Laowa Ranger Lite zoom lenses are available now for $3499 each, but you can also get them as a bundle for $6799.
For more information, please visit Laowa’s website here.
What do you think about these new Laowa Ranger Lite lenses? Have you already tried the regular Laowa Ranger? Do you think the 10% lighter design is worth the upgrade? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!
