Canon Powershot SX50 HS 10x High Definition +10 Close-Up Lens - Macro

In this review of the Canon Powershot SX50 HS 10x High Definition +10 Close-Up Lens, the reviewer finds it best suited for photographers who need fast, simple close-up capability without changing main lenses. The bottom line: this threaded close-up lens delivers a clear, easy way to shoot macro-style photos by screwing onto the front of an existing lens, preserving native optical performance while adding a +10 diopter effect. It is most useful when quick attachment and reliable color correction are priorities rather than extreme magnification or microscope-level detail.

Key Features

• High Definition Beveled Design: Provides improved edge-to-edge sharpness so subjects remain well defined near the frame edges when shooting close.
• 2 Element Optical Glass: The two achromatic elements reduce chromatic aberration for truer color and fewer color fringes in close-up shots.
• Fully Multi-Coated Surface: Anti-reflection coatings increase transmission and reduce flare for higher contrast in backlit or bright conditions.
• Threaded Attachment: Screws directly onto the front of a compatible lens for quick on-camera use and reliable alignment.
• Infrared Compatible Autofocus: Maintains high speed auto-focus performance and works with IR assist systems that some cameras use.

Who It's For

The close-up lens is aimed at hobbyists and travel photographers using the Canon Powershot SX50 HS or similar superzoom setups who want a fast, low-cost way to get tighter framing and macro-like images without switching to a dedicated macro lens. Its ease of use makes it a good option for field work where swapping lenses is inconvenient.

Photographers seeking extreme magnification, working at millimeter-level focus distances, or requiring weather sealing and professional-grade optics should look elsewhere; this accessory is designed as a convenient optical diopter rather than a substitute for specialized macro objectives.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy screw-on installation gives immediate close-up capability without tools or lens changes.
• Two-element achromatic design minimizes color fringing compared with single-element diopters.
• Multi-coatings and anti-reflection treatment improve contrast and reduce ghosting in strong light.
• Compatible with auto-focus and infrared assist for practical handheld use.

Cons

• As a diopter it adds magnification but cannot match the working distance or resolution of a dedicated macro lens.
• Optical performance still depends on the camera's native lens; it does not upgrade the base lens beyond its inherent limits.

Specifications

Product Type	Close-up (diopter) lens
Diopter Power	+10
Optical Elements	2 achromatic elements
Coating	Fully multi-coated, anti-reflection
Mount	Threaded screw-on attachment
Compatibility Notes	Designed for Canon Powershot SX50 HS style lenses and similar front threads
Autofocus	High-speed AF compatible, infrared compatible

Our Verdict

The Canon Powershot SX50 HS +10 close-up lens is a practical, economical accessory for photographers who want convenient macro-style results without investing in a dedicated macro lens. It preserves native lens performance through an achromatic, multi-coated two-element design and keeps autofocus usable, making it good value for casual and travel shooters who prioritize portability and ease of use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work on other lenses?
Yes, it screws onto compatible front threads of other lenses, but final performance depends on the host lens optical quality.

Does it affect autofocus?
No, it is designed to remain compatible with high speed auto-focus and infrared assist on supported cameras.

Will it eliminate chromatic aberration?
The two achromatic elements reduce color fringing compared with single-element diopters, but they do not fully eliminate all aberrations present in extreme close-ups.