DZOFilm has expanded its X-tract lineup with a new addition: the X-tract 90° 18-28mm T8 FF Probe Zoom. Unlike the original straight probe model, this version features a 90-degree bend, allowing for different shooting angles without requiring elaborate rigging. While the overall design and optical formula remain similar, the angled approach introduces some key differences that may be useful for certain applications.
What’s Different About This Lens?
The most obvious distinction in the new 90° version of DZOFilm’s X-tract Probe Zoom is its angled optical path. By bending the lens at a right angle, it allows operators to shoot around corners, in tight environments, or from top-down and lateral perspectives without needing to tilt or reposition the camera body. This can streamline setups in confined or unconventional shooting locations.
In comparison to the Laowa 24mm Pro2be T8, another specialty probe lens with a 90-degree module, the X-tract stands out by offering a zoom range of 18–28mm. This variable focal length adds flexibility in framing and composition without physically moving the camera—an advantage in tabletop and macro environments. Laowa’s Pro2be provides three interchangeable tubes (0°, 35°, and 90°), but each has a fixed focal length and requires swapping out components to change perspective. The DZOFilm solution trades modularity for continuous zoom and a unified build, simplifying operation and rigging in dynamic setups.
That said, the Laowa Pro2be system offers a longer, slimmer profile, and is submersible, which may be preferred for very specific applications such as underwater inserts or delicate maneuvering in tight product sets. Both lenses share a T8 maximum aperture, close minimum focusing distance, and full-frame coverage, but their handling, ergonomics, and control methods differ significantly.
Like its DZOFilm X-tract predecessor, this lens offers:
- Full-frame coverage
- 18-28mm zoom range
- T8 aperture throughout the zoom range
The minimum focus distance remains at 6mm from the lens front, making it well-suited for extreme close-ups of small subjects. However, this close focus capability also means extremely shallow depth of field, which may require careful lighting and focus pulling.
Build and Optical Performance
DZOFilm has maintained a similar optical construction, but with a slight modification:
- 26 elements in 19 groups (compared to 25 elements in 18 groups on the straight version)
- Metal construction for durability
- Water and dust resistance
The front diameter has increased to 37.7-30.58mm, up from 29.6mm on the straight probe. This may affect compatibility with existing accessories, particularly if a production is already using support brackets or filters designed for the original version. The lens length has also increased slightly to 421mm (compared to 415.15mm). In terms of image quality, the original X-tract probe delivered reasonably sharp results with minimal chromatic aberration for a specialty lens, but with some inherent optical compromises due to its extreme design. The same is expected with this model.
Usability and Control
Similar to the original Probe Zoom, the new model features fully manual controls and no meta data. The focus has a 300° rotation, 100° zoom rotation, and 72.1° iris rotation. As with any cine lens, it also features 0.8 mod gear pitch on all control rings for compatibility with standard follow-focus systems.
Who Might Find This Lens Useful?
This lens is designed for cinematographers working in tabletop, commercial, and macro cinematography, as well as automotive and industrial applications. The angled probe design may be beneficial for capturing top-down, side, or hard-to-reach angles without moving an entire camera system. However, the trade-offs—such as its T8 aperture, large physical footprint, and specialized use case—mean it won’t be an all-purpose solution. Those already using the straight X-tract probe may need to evaluate whether the angled version provides a significant advantage for their specific workflow. If you’ve ever found yourself using the standard DZOFilm Probe Zoom and couldn’t quite get the shot you wanted, this might be the solution for you!
Pricing and Availability
List price for the X-tract 90° 18-28mm T8 FF Probe Zoom will be $3,799 and is expected to begin shipping late March or early April. For additional information or to pre-order yours today, visit the Duclos Lenses website.