Metabones is a brand that produces adapters that allow different camera lenses to be used on cameras from different brands. Their products also include speed boosters that increase the maximum aperture of lenses and reduce the crop factor of camera sensors.
Founded in 2010 by Caldwell Photographic Inc.
Launched their first product, the EF to E mount smart adapter, in 2011.
In 2013, they released the Speed Booster adapter which increases the lens's maximum aperture by 1 stop and reduces the crop factor of the camera sensor.
In 2016, they began producing the Cine Speed Booster adapters, specifically designed for cinema lenses.
Metabones continues to innovate and expand their product line, offering adapters for a variety of camera brands and lens mounts.
Viltrox produces lens adapters and speed boosters that are often more affordable than Metabones, but may not have the same level of quality or compatibility with certain lenses.
Fotodiox offers a range of lens adapters, including some with unique features such as built-in ND filters. However, their products may not be as widely compatible with lenses as Metabones.
Allows different brand lenses to be mounted onto cameras, while retaining electronic communication between the lens and camera.
Reduces the crop factor of camera sensors and increases the maximum aperture of lenses by 1 stop.
A variation of the Speed Booster designed specifically for cinema lenses.
Metabones produces adapters for a variety of camera brands and lens mounts, including Canon EF, Sony E, Micro Four Thirds, and more. The compatibility of a specific lens with a Metabones adapter may vary, so it is best to check the product details for more information.
A regular adapter simply allows a lens from one brand to be mounted onto a camera from a different brand. A speed booster not only provides that functionality, but also reduces the camera's crop factor and increases the maximum aperture of the lens by 1 stop.
The autofocus performance with a Metabones adapter may vary depending on the specific camera and lens being used. Some combinations may result in slower autofocus or even manual focus only. It is best to check the compatibility of a specific combination before making a purchase.
The Cine Speed Booster is designed specifically for use with cinema lenses, and includes features such as a clickless aperture ring and geared focus and aperture rings for easier use with follow focus systems. It also has a larger image circle to accommodate larger sensors and avoid vignetting.
Viltrox and Fotodiox are two popular alternatives to Metabones that offer similar functionality at a lower price point. However, the quality and compatibility with certain lenses may not be the same as with Metabones, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase.